The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Cat Food
Feline nutrition is very important for general cat health. However, the plethora of dietary options, brands, and formulas available to consumers can be confusing when deciding which kind of cat food is best for your feline friend’s health and wellness.
Unlike humans and various other creatures (dogs included), cats’ evolutionary process has resulted in no dietary need for carbohydrates. Just like their undomesticated, and much larger relatives, domesticated cats’ bodies have adapted to a protein- and fat-rich, carbohydrate-poor diet. In the wild, cats use plants, primarily tall and short grass, for digestive regulation and dental support. However, wild cats do not consume vegetable or plant matter for the purpose of energy or nutrition.
High-quality cat foods are formulated with this evolutionary platform and feline nutrition requirements in mind. The three main types of cat food are:
Kibble (dry)
- Pros: Usually inexpensive, convenient
- Cons: Higher in carbohydrates than desired
Canned (wet)
- Pros: Convenient, usually more nutritious than kibble
- Cons: Usually more expensive than kibble per serving
Fresh (uncooked/processed proteins)
- Pros: Optimal wellness cat food diet
- Cons: Most expensive option; most cats will not accept the change to fresh food
Cats are unique in their attachment to specific food textures, and it is often difficult to get them to accept changes in food form. For this reason, we recommend feeding kittens a mix of canned and dry food so they are more likely to accept both later in life.
At Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, Inc, we take pride in providing our patients and their human caretakers with the information needed to make educated decisions about feline nutrition. This is also why we work closely with a certified veterinary nutritionist.
Kitten Food
For the first month of a cat’s life, kitten food comes in the form of mother’s milk and/or commercial milk replacer formula given every 2–4 hours if the kitten has been separated from its mother. After this period, kitten food becomes a dietary staple in the following stages:
From 3–5 weeks of age: Offer milk replacer in a shallow dish to encourage weaning. Add a moist, easily chewable mixture of warm milk replacer and high-quality canned or dry kitten food 4–6 times daily.
By 5–8 weeks of age: Kittens should be able to chew food independently. Provide a protein-rich, energy-dense diet with feedings 3–4 times per day. We typically recommend canned kitten food, as it most closely mimics a natural diet, though a combination of canned and dry foods can also be appropriate.
After 6 months of age: Kittens should be fed twice daily.
Kitten food is high in protein, calories, and fats to support healthy growth and development. Feeding the right food in the proper amounts and frequency is essential. Our veterinary team is happy to discuss feeding schedules and food options at your next veterinary appointment.
Cat Foods
Although dry cat food is popular, it should generally be considered a secondary option due to its higher carbohydrate content and greater reliance on plant-based proteins.
High carbohydrate levels may contribute to weight gain and digestive issues, particularly in older or less active cats. That said, dry food can be convenient, and certain prescription or specialty formulas may be appropriate for cats with allergies or specific medical needs when used alongside canned or fresh food.
Wet cat food more closely mirrors a natural feline diet. It typically contains animal-based protein, low carbohydrates, and high moisture content, all of which align with a cat’s evolutionary and physiological needs.
Fresh cat food reflects what cats would consume in the wild—high in unprocessed proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water, and very low in carbohydrates. However, transitioning cats to fresh food can be challenging due to texture preferences.
Senior Cat Food
Around 7 years of age, cats begin transitioning into their senior years, which may affect:
- Weight
- Skin
- Joints
- Teeth
- Internal organs
If your cat is thriving on their current diet, a change may not be necessary. Some brands offer senior cat formulas designed for easier digestion and kidney or intestinal support, which may help slow disease progression.
Your veterinarian can help determine the best diet for your senior cat based on health status, medical conditions, and lifestyle.
Understanding Feline Nutritional Requirements
Cats require six classes of nutrients:
Water
The most critical nutrient for healthy cells and bodily function. Cats lose water through their lungs, skin, urine, milk, and feces.
- Lungs
- Skin
- Urine
- Milk
- Feces
Cats evolved to obtain most of their water through food. Canned cat food can contain up to 80% water per serving, supporting hydration.
Protein
Protein is essential for maintaining:
- Muscle
- Bone
- Ligaments
- Tendons
Proteins also form enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, and plasma proteins. Animal-based proteins such as poultry and fish are more digestible than plant-based proteins.
Of the 30 amino acids, cats require 10 essential amino acids from their diet. High-quality cat food typically provides more than 40% protein per serving.
Essential Fatty Acids
Fats are the primary energy source for cats and carry fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Stunted growth
- Dry hair or dandruff
- Listlessness
- Increased infection risk
A quality cat food contains 20–40% fat of total daily calories.
Vitamins
Vitamins regulate immunity, growth, and organ function. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in fat, while water-soluble vitamins must be replenished regularly.
- B Vitamins (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine, Pantothenic Acid, Niacin, B-12)
- Vitamin C
Fresh or minimally processed diets naturally provide vitamins, while dry foods rely on synthetic supplementation.
Minerals
Minerals regulate enzyme activity, tissue structure, and acid-base balance.
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Copper
- Zinc
- Iodine
Mineral balance is complex, so we recommend consulting a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before supplementing.