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

Choosing dry cat food isn’t just a matter of comparing the price per kilo or blindly trusting the big promise on the pack. Recipes for adult cats, formulas for neutered cats and foods for sensitive digestion can differ significantly.

Three common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Mistaking a highlighted ingredient for its actual proportion: “with chicken” or “with salmon” may simply mean that only a small amount is included. Some recipes contain 4% chicken, while others list 20%, 26% or 50%, depending on their composition.
• Assuming that “grain-free” automatically means better: a grain-free recipe may contain peas, potatoes or a high proportion of plant-based protein. It’s important to look at the full ingredient list.
• Underestimating the importance of portion size and pack format: a 10 kg bag brings the price per gram down, but it needs to be sealed properly and stored in a dry place to keep the food fresh. For a trial or an occasional need, a 300 g or 1.5 kg pack can help you avoid throwing any away.

What to check before buying dry cat food

1. Age, neutering status and activity level

A complete food for adult cats should be suited to your cat’s age and lifestyle. The needs of an active adult cat differ from those of a neutered cat, a senior cat or one that lives mainly indoors.

Product listings for neutered cats generally state an adjusted fat content or energy level. However, dry food designed for weight management still needs to be served in measured portions: even a suitable recipe won’t make up for overfeeding.

Dry food for senior cats is often intended for pets aged 7 and over, depending on the recipe. Always check the age range on the packaging, particularly for foods intended for cats aged 6 months to 6 years or those aged 7 and over.

2. Ingredients and analytical constituents

Ingredients are generally listed in descending order by weight. In particular, check:

• the protein source: chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb or dried animal protein;
• the protein and fat content;
• the fibre content, which may be relevant for hairballs or digestion;
• minerals, particularly calcium, phosphorus and magnesium;
• whether taurine, vitamins and trace elements are included.

For dry food for sensitive cats or a recipe intended for cats with delicate digestion, a clear list of protein sources makes it easier to compare products. This doesn’t replace veterinary advice if your cat has persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss or a suspected allergy.

A grain-free cat food may suit certain dietary preferences, but it isn’t necessary for every cat. What matters most is how well your cat tolerates it, its nutritional balance and whether it’s suited to your cat’s age.

3. Pack size, storage and switching foods

Different pack sizes suit different needs:

• 300 g: handy for trying a recipe or for a cat that gets bored with food quickly;
• 800 g to 1.5 kg: suitable for a household with one cat;
• 2 to 4 kg: a good balance between how often you need to buy more and keeping the food fresh;
• 5 to 10 kg: a good option for several cats or regular use.

Store the bag in a cool, dry place and reseal it after each use. When switching brands, allow around 5 to 10 days for a gradual transition, slowly increasing the proportion of the new food. This can help limit digestive upset caused by a sudden change.

Our picks for different households

Recommended for : Budget-conscious first-time buyers

WHISKAS Cat Dry Food Chicken 800g

Why it suits this household : The 800 g pack is a good choice for a first purchase or for a household that prefers to keep storage to a minimum.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfalls

The product listing gives details of the ingredients and analytical constituents, including 30% protein and 11.5% fat.

Key benefit and highlights

According to the product information, this complete food is suitable for adult cats from 1 year old and contains fibre, taurine and vitamin E.

Recommended for : Premium food fans

Farmina N&D Prime Neutered Cat Chicken 1.5 kg

Why it suits this household : This grain-free recipe is formulated for neutered cats and comes in a pack that’s easy to store.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfalls

The grain-free claim is backed up by a clear ingredient list that includes chicken, herring, eggs, peas and chickpeas.

Key benefit and highlights

The product listing states 38% protein and 16% fat, as well as taurine and L-carnitine.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent use

Wellness CORE Dry Cat Sterilised Original Chicken & Turkey 4 kg

Why it suits this household : The 4 kg bag is suited to regular use, particularly for several neutered cats or a cat fed exclusively on dry food.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfalls

The recipe lists its protein, fat and fibre content, rather than relying solely on a marketing claim.

Key benefit and highlights

The product listing states 54% chicken, 38% protein, 13% fat and 4.5% fibre.

Recommended for : Cats with delicate digestion

Pro Plan Cat Adult Delicate Digestion Turkey 3 kg

Why it suits this household : This recipe is intended for adult cats from 1 year old. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a wheat-free formula with a clearly identified protein source.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfalls

The “delicate digestion” claim is paired with a wheat-free recipe, prebiotics and selected protein sources.

Key benefit and highlights

The product listing states 40% protein, 18% fat, 18% turkey and a 3 kg pack size.

Frequently asked questions about dry cat food

How long does a bag of dry cat food stay fresh after opening ?

It depends on the product, how it’s stored and how often it’s opened. Seal the bag carefully, keep it away from heat and moisture, and follow the date shown on the packaging. A smaller pack may be more practical if your cat doesn’t eat much dry food.

Is dry food for neutered cats necessary ?

It isn’t essential in every case, but these recipes may be tailored to the needs of neutered cats, particularly when it comes to portion size and energy density. Keep an eye on your cat’s weight, measure portions and ask a vet for advice if your pet has a specific health condition.

Is chicken or salmon dry food suitable for a sensitive cat ?

It depends on how well each cat tolerates it. A salmon recipe can be a way to vary protein sources, while a chicken formula may suit a cat that already digests it well. If you suspect a food reaction, look for a clear ingredient list and ask a vet for advice before permanently excluding certain ingredients.