Joybuy Insights

Dog and cat food: how to choose the right diet without being swayed by marketing

Choosing dog and cat food isn’t just about comparing flavours and promotions. Between grain-free recipes, high-protein formulas and claims of being “natural”, it’s easy to end up paying more for a difference that’s barely noticeable day to day.

Your pet’s age, weight, activity level and lifestyle should guide your decision. An adult dog doesn’t have the same needs as a puppy. Similarly, a neutered cat living in a flat won’t necessarily eat the same way as a very active cat.

Common pitfalls when buying pet food

1. Confusing marketing claims with nutritional information

Terms like “premium”, “natural” or “rich in meat” aren’t enough to judge the quality of a pet food. Take the time to check the ingredients list, the analytical constituents and the legal product description.

A wet food may highlight an ingredient on its packaging even though its actual proportion is modest. Claims like “with chicken” or “with turkey” therefore deserve a closer look: the ingredients list should normally state the quantity of the featured ingredient.

2. Comparing protein levels in wet food and dry food directly

Wet food often contains more than 75% water, compared with around 10% for dry kibble. As a result, a protein level of 9% in wet dog food cannot be compared directly with the 36% shown on cat kibble.

For a more meaningful comparison, you need to consider the dry matter. As a guide, a wet recipe containing 9% protein and 82% moisture equates to roughly 50% protein on a dry matter basis. This calculation is an estimate: the daily portion and the energy density of the product also matter.

3. Believing that grain-free is automatically suitable for every pet

A grain-free diet can suit certain preferences or requirements, but this claim alone doesn’t guarantee a better recipe. Grains aren’t necessarily a problem for all animals, and their absence doesn’t mean you can skip checking the overall nutritional balance of the food.

If you suspect an allergy, notice persistent digestive issues or need a specific diet, it’s far better to ask a vet for advice than to change your pet’s food long-term at random.

What to check before you order

1. The “complete food” label

For everyday meals, look for the term complete food, along with the species and age category it’s intended for: adult dog food, adult cat food, food for neutered cats or puppy kibble.

A complementary food can be given occasionally, but it shouldn’t replace a complete meal without proper advice. Also check that the product is actually meant for dogs or cats: some terrines and preparations made for humans aren’t suitable for them.

2. The ingredients and analytical constituents

Pay particular attention to:

  • the order of ingredients, usually listed from highest to lowest quantity;
  • the percentage of meat or fish stated;
  • the levels of protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture;
  • the presence of nutritional additives, such as taurine in some cat recipes;
  • the feeding guidelines based on weight and activity level.

A high-protein food isn’t necessarily suitable for a sedentary pet or one on a special diet. The amount you serve should be adjusted according to your pet’s weight and body condition.

3. Format and storage

Individual 85g pouches and 100g trays make portioning easy for cats and small dogs. 400g tins and large bags of kibble can reduce the cost per meal, but only if the contents are used up before they lose their freshness.

Once opened, wet pet food should generally be kept in the fridge and consumed within the time stated on the packaging. For kibble, reseal the bag carefully and store it in a dry place, away from heat and light.

Our selection based on your buying profile

The products below have been chosen based on the composition, format and usage information available on their product pages. The benefits highlighted by the brands are not considered here as proven medical effects.

Recommended for: Budget-conscious beginners
PURINA wet cat food with salmon, turkey and carrots, 4 x 85g pouches

PURINA wet cat food with salmon, turkey and carrots, 4 x 85g pouches

Why this suits this profile: With its 4 x 85g pouches, this product lets you try a wet cat food without buying a large stock. The recipe is presented as complete for adult neutered cats.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states 78% moisture, 13% protein and specifies the quantity of salmon or turkey featured. This helps you look beyond the packaging visuals.

Key benefit and highlights

85g pouches, two recipes featuring salmon and turkey, and usage guidance for adult neutered cats.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
Orijen Original Prey, dry dog food, 11.4kg

Orijen Original Prey, dry dog food, 11.4kg

Why this suits this profile: The large bag is aimed at households looking for a dry formula based on chicken, turkey, fish and egg, with precise daily portion control.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page details 38% protein, 18% fat, 5% fibre and 12% moisture. A more solid basis for comparing recipes than the simple “rich in meat” claim.

Key benefit and highlights

An 11.4kg format, complete dog food and declared presence of chicken, turkey, fish and egg.

Recommended for: Specific needs and heavy users
EDGAR & Cooper, grain-free wet food with chicken and turkey for adult dogs, 18 x 100g

EDGAR & Cooper, grain-free wet food with chicken and turkey for adult dogs, 18 x 100g

Why this suits this profile: The 18 x 100g trays make it easy to manage an adult dog’s meals, especially when you need to serve regular portions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The recipe states 30% chicken and 26% turkey, with no grains or added sugars according to the product page. At 82% moisture, this is clearly a wet food to compare with other moist products.

Key benefit and highlights

18 individual portions, 56% declared chicken and turkey, plus carrots, cranberries, tomatoes, squash and apples in the ingredients.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these exacting criteria and comply with European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about dog and cat food

What’s the difference between wet food and dry kibble for dogs or cats?

Wet food generally provides more water and is sold in individual portions or tins. Dry kibble is easier to store and can be portioned out over several days. The choice depends on your pet’s preferences, your budget, the storage space you have and the recommendations on the packaging.

How do I change my pet’s diet?

Make a gradual transition by mixing the old food with the new one over several days. A sudden change can be poorly tolerated. Follow the recommended portion size, keep an eye on your pet’s appetite and general condition, and consult a vet if any reaction persists.

How much should I feed each day?

The portion depends on the species, age, weight, activity level and energy density of the product. Use the manufacturer’s feeding guide as a starting point and include treats in your daily calculation. Regular weighing helps you adjust portions without relying solely on the volume you put in the bowl.