Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat food without falling for marketing traps: how to find the right wet food

Having a wide choice of cat food is useful, but it does not always make comparing products easy. Packaging often uses words such as “deluxe”, “natural” or “with chicken”, but these terms do not automatically mean that a product is suitable as a daily meal. With wet cat food in particular, it pays to read the small print.

When buying cat food, focus on three key points:

  • Is the product complete cat food or complementary food?
  • How much of the named ingredient does it actually contain?
  • Is the portion size right for your cat’s weight, age and activity level?

Common pitfalls when choosing cat food

1. A prominent ingredient is not necessarily the main ingredient

“With chicken” or “with fish” sounds clear, but the packaging may state that it contains just 4% chicken or tuna, for example. The rest may consist of other animal ingredients, vegetable protein extracts, minerals and sometimes sugars. So check the composition, rather than just the flavour shown on the front.

2. Complementary food is mistaken for a complete meal

Not all wet food is suitable as your cat’s only daily food. According to the product information, MjAMjAM Cat Cream Chicken and MjAMjAM Cat Cream Chicken & Salmon are labelled as complementary food. These portions are intended as a snack or treat alongside regular meals. Do not use them as a replacement for complete cat food.

3. A multipack is not automatically suitable for every cat

A large cat food multipack may seem good value, but your cat may refuse a particular texture or flavour. Portions may also be too large for a small eater. Cat food in 80 or 85-gram pouches is practical for individual meals, while cat food in tubs or tins may be better suited to cats that enjoy pâté or mousse. Also check the storage instructions after opening.

What should you look for when comparing products?

Complete or complementary cat food

For adult cats that receive wet food every day, look for the wording complete food for adult cats. This means that, according to the product information, the product is intended to be a complete meal when used in line with the stated feeding guidelines.

A complementary product may still be suitable for adding variety, but it should be given alongside a complete meal. This distinction is more important than luxury packaging or an appealing flavour name.

Ingredients and analytical constituents

At a minimum, check:

  • Protein and fat: the percentages provide a measurable indication of the nutritional composition.
  • Moisture content: wet food generally contains a lot of water, but always compare products on a like-for-like basis.
  • Animal ingredients: check which animal species are named and in what proportion.
  • Additives: look out for taurine, vitamins and minerals when these are listed on the label.
  • Sugars and plant-based ingredients: these may be included in the composition, even when the flavour name mainly refers to meat or fish.

Claims about omega-6 fatty acids or supporting healthy skin and coat come from the brand’s product information. According to Felix’s own information, certain foods contain omega-6 fatty acids and vitamins. Treat this as product information, not as a medical effect.

Portions and feeding advice

The feeding guideline on the packaging is a starting point. For example, Felix generally states that an adult cat weighing around 4 kg should have a maximum of three pouches per day for certain varieties; the recommendation may be lower for sterilised cats. Exact nutritional needs vary from cat to cat.

Ideally, divide the daily portion between several meals and adjust the amount according to your cat’s weight, age and activity level. Always provide fresh drinking water. Store opened pouches and tins according to the label, usually in the fridge and within the stated period.

Recommended cat food by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Delicious Strips Farm Selection 12 x 80g

Felix Delicious Strips Farm Selection 12 x 80g

Why it suits this profile: A convenient multipack with 80-gram portions and a range of flavours, including beef, chicken, duck and turkey. Ideal if you want to discover which varieties your cat will accept.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is complete cat food for adult cats. The feeding guideline also distinguishes between an adult cat and a sterilised cat.

Key benefit & highlights

12 individual pouches, 80 grams per portion, complete food and several meat flavours.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Gourmet Gold High Protein Canned Cat Food Sea Fish 85g

Gourmet Gold High Protein Canned Cat Food Sea Fish 85g

Why it suits this profile: This variety is intended for adult cats and combines a soft pâté texture with ocean fish. It is well suited to cats that are less keen on chunks in jelly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page explicitly states that this is complete food for adult cats. The flavour and texture are clearly described, helping you make a more informed choice.

Key benefit & highlights

85 grams per tin, complete food and soft fish pâté.

Suitable for: Specific use & frequent users
Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food 44x85g

Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food 44x85g

Why it suits this profile: The box contains 44 pouches of 85 grams in a range of flavours, including salmon, beef, chicken and tuna. Practical for households with several cats or cats that enjoy variety.

How this product avoids the pitfall

It is labelled as complete wet food for adult cats. The individual portions help minimise leftovers and make it easier to divide the daily amount.

Key benefit & highlights

44 pouches of 85 grams, several flavours and a jelly texture.

Suitable for: Cats that receive an extra treat
MjAMjAM Cat Cream Chicken & Salmon 2 x 80 g

MjAMjAM Cat Cream Chicken & Salmon 2 x 80 g

Why it suits this profile: For owners who want to offer a little variety alongside complete cat food. The combination of chicken and salmon has a pâté base with a topping.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is complementary food. This makes it immediately clear that it does not replace your cat’s main daily meal.

Key benefit & highlights

2 portions of 80 grams, chicken and salmon, pâté with topping.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about cat food

What is suitable cat food for adult cats?

Choose food that clearly states it is complete food for adult cats. Also check the feeding guideline, composition and portion size. For sterilised cats, the recommended amount may differ from that for cats with an average activity level.

Is wet food better for cats than dry food?

Wet and dry food have different characteristics. Wet food contains a high proportion of moisture and is available in pouches, tins, tubs, jelly and pâté. There is no single option that suits every cat. Consider what your cat eats, portion control and the information on the label. For specific dietary questions, it is best to seek advice from a vet.

How long does opened wet cat food keep?

Always follow the packaging instructions. Many products recommend keeping opened portions covered in the fridge and using them within 24 to 48 hours. Do not leave cat food at room temperature for extended periods, and discard any leftovers once the stated storage period has passed.