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Cat food: how to choose the right diet without falling for marketing

Choosing cat food is not simply a matter of comparing prices per kilo. Between dry cat food, wet food, recipes for sterilised pets and multipacks with a range of flavours, it is easy to get confused. Whether your adult cat lives indoors or is particularly active, a few simple checks can help you avoid unsuitable purchases.

Common pitfalls when buying

1. Confusing complete food with treats

Wet food or dry food labelled “complete food” is designed to form the daily basis of your cat’s diet, provided you follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Cat treats, on the other hand, are complementary foods. They should only be given occasionally and must be deducted from the daily allowance.

For example, WHISKAS Temptations Salmon, 360 g are presented as a complementary food. The recommendation allows up to 12 treats per day for an adult cat, while reducing the main food allowance to avoid excessive energy intake.

2. Relying solely on the flavour name

A recipe “with chicken”, “with salmon” or “with beef” does not necessarily mean that the highlighted ingredient makes up most of the product. Instead, check the stated percentage and the order of the ingredients. For Gourmet Gold products, recipes labelled “with chicken”, “with salmon”, “with rabbit” or “with kidney” indicate 4% of the relevant ingredient.

This check helps you avoid paying more for a description that ultimately refers to only a small part of the recipe.

3. Buying a large pack without checking how quickly it will be used

A 7 or 12 kg bag of dry cat food can reduce the cost per portion, but it must be properly resealed and stored in a dry place. Once opened, the aroma and texture may gradually deteriorate. For a household with just one cat, a smaller pack will often help avoid storing the food for too long.

For wet cat food, pouches and individual tins make portioning easier. Any opened portion should be stored in the fridge and used within the time stated on the packaging, usually within 24 to 48 hours depending on the product.

What to check before choosing

Your cat’s age and status

Kittens, adult cats and senior cats do not have the same nutritional needs. The products featured here are mainly intended as adult cat food, generally for cats aged 1 year and over. A sterilised-cat formula may be suitable if your cat tends to gain weight after sterilisation, but the portion should always be adjusted to its activity level and body condition.

An indoor-cat recipe may also take a less energy-demanding lifestyle into account. However, you should still monitor your cat’s weight and body shape regularly.

Energy density and portion size

The fat content alone is not enough to compare two foods. Also check the recommended daily allowance, given in grams or pouches, then calculate the actual cost per day.

As a guide, WHISKAS Adult Sterilized with Chicken, 7 kg contains 30% protein, 11.5% fat and 4.1% crude fibre. The product information recommends portions of 30 to 75 g per day for cats weighing between 2 and 6 kg, adjusted according to their activity level and metabolism.

Moisture, ingredients and storage

Wet foods naturally have a high moisture content. The Gourmet Gold Mousse, 12 × 85 g multipack, for example, states 82% moisture, 9% protein and 5% fat. Wet foods provide variety in texture and water intake, while dry food is easier to store and serve.

In all cases, check:

  • whether it is labelled complete food or complementary food;
  • the species and age it is intended for;
  • the ingredients and their percentages;
  • the analytical constituents;
  • the daily allowance;
  • the storage conditions;
  • that fresh water is available at all times.

If your cat has a food sensitivity, urinary problem, significant change in weight or digestive issue, ask a vet for advice before changing its allowance.

Our selection based on your cat’s needs

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
WHISKAS Adult Sterilized Dry Cat Food with Chicken 7kg

WHISKAS Adult Sterilized Cat Dry Food with Chicken 7kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This large bag of dry food for sterilised cats is ideal for households looking for a simple routine and a family-sized pack.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product information specifies the cat’s age, portions based on weight and storage conditions, rather than relying solely on a general claim about sterilisation.

Key benefit and highlights

7 kg pack, 30% protein, 11.5% fat and a gradual changeover recommended over 7 to 10 days.

Recommended for : Premium food enthusiasts
Gourmet Gold Mousse Cat Food Variety Pack - 12 x 85g

Gourmet Gold Mousse Cat Food Variety Pack - 12 x 85g

Why this choice suits this profile : Its mousse texture and four recipes add variety to mealtimes, which is ideal for households that value diversity in their cat’s bowl.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

Its complete-food status and analytical constituents are clearly stated, helping you distinguish a tasty meal from a simple treat.

Key benefit and highlights

12 × 85 g tins, 82% moisture and recipes with chicken, salmon, kidney and rabbit, depending on the variety.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
Purina One Bifensis Indoor Adult Cat Food with Turkey - 3kg

Purina One Bifensis Indoor Adult Cat Food Turkey - 3kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This indoor-cat formula is designed for owners who want dry food with features suited to a less active lifestyle.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

Its suitability for indoor cats is clearly stated, and the product information recommends a gradual dietary change over 7 days.

Key benefit and highlights

3 kg pack, 36% protein, 13% fat and 2% chicory root in the ingredients.

Recommended for : Sterilised cats and multi-pet households
ULTIMA Sterilised Cat Food - Digestive Health - Trout - 12 kg

ULTIMA Sterilized cat food - Digestive health - Trout - 12 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This large pack is well suited to regular consumption, particularly in households with several sterilised cats.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The ingredients and analytical values are detailed, with clear guidance to keep the product dry and ensure fresh water is always available.

Key benefit and highlights

12 kg, 35% protein, 12.5% fat and 16% trout according to the stated composition.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about cat food

Should you choose dry or wet cat food?

Both formats can easily be part of a complete diet. Dry food is easy to portion and store, while wet food provides a different texture and plenty of moisture. A mixed diet may suit some cats, provided you adjust the total quantity and follow the guidance given on the packaging.

How long can you keep a bag of dry cat food?

It depends on the date shown on the pack, the size chosen and the storage conditions. Reseal the bag after each use or transfer the dry food to a clean, airtight container, kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. There is no need to automatically buy the largest pack if your cat eats only small amounts.

How can you change your cat’s food without upsetting its digestion?

Plan a gradual changeover over around 7 days, mixing increasing amounts of the new recipe with the old one. Monitor your cat’s appetite, stools and behaviour. If a reaction persists or a particular problem develops, ask a vet for advice.