Cat · Guide

How do I choose the right cat food?

Look for "complete and balanced" for your cat's life stage, with animal protein as the foundation. Cats are obligate carnivores and cannot thrive on plant protein. Include wet food if you can — cats have a low thirst drive and urinary problems are common.

Why wet food deserves consideration

Cats evolved getting most of their water from prey, and their thirst drive is correspondingly weak. Cats fed exclusively dry food are often mildly under-hydrated, which is relevant because urinary tract disease is one of the most common feline health problems.

This does not mean dry food is bad — plenty of cats do well on it. But adding wet food, even partially, is one of the simplest changes with a plausible health benefit.

Protein, and why the source matters

Cats require taurine, arachidonic acid and preformed vitamin A, all of which come reliably from animal tissue. Plant proteins do not substitute. This is why vegetarian cat diets are unsafe rather than merely suboptimal.

Any complete and balanced cat food will account for this — which is exactly why that statement matters more than the protein percentage on the front.

Fussiness is real, and worth working with

Cats form food preferences early and resist change. Transition over a week or more, and avoid changing several things at once.

A cat that suddenly refuses food is a medical concern rather than a preference problem. Cats that stop eating can develop serious liver complications within days.

Check your own pet — freeSnap a few photos, get a wellness score in minutes

A wellness check, not a diagnosis — and never a replacement for your vet. If something seems wrong with your animal, see a veterinarian.

Common questions

Is wet or dry food better for cats?

Both can be complete and balanced. Wet food supports water intake, which matters for urinary health given cats' naturally low thirst drive.

Do cats need grain-free food?

Not usually. Grain-free is a marketing category; complete and balanced with animal protein is the meaningful standard.

How do I switch my cat's food?

Gradually, over a week or more, mixing increasing proportions. Cats resist abrupt change and may simply refuse to eat.