Nestle Purina Pet care is a world-renowned pet food company that produces some of the best foods for cats with urinary tract issues. This article independently reviews the best Purina urinary tract cat foods.
With over 18,000 employees and 500 scientists, including nutritionists. The company has been in business for over 80 years and has a long history of producing high-quality products trusted by pet owners and veterinarians.
The company wrote this on their website“We shape the future of Health and Well-being for pets & people through three simple pursuits. Pets Are Our Passion, Safety is our Promise, Innovation is our Pledge”.
Those drives led to their success in providing the best care for pets.
Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods are specifically designed to meet the needs of cats with urinary tract issues and help prevent or reduce urinary tract infections.
The foods contain high-quality ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. In addition, the food is highly digestible and has a high level of natural proteins, making them an excellent choice for cats with urinary tract issues.
This article will briefly review four of the best Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods, along with a top pick urinary tract cat food from Iams (for a comparison).
Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food, +Plus Urinary Tract Health Formula is a unique blend of nutrients that help support your cat’s urinary tract health while providing high-quality protein to help maintain lean muscles.
The formula contains targeted magnesium levels to help reduce the risk of struvite crystal formation and promote a healthy urinary pH. It also has added vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, to support a healthy immune system.
DHA, an omega-6 fatty acid, helps support cognitive development and vision. This high-protein kibble is made with real meat and no poultry by-product meal for a taste cats love.
Feed your cat Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food, +Plus Urinary Tract Health Formula as part of a complete and balanced diet to help keep her looking and feeling her best every day.
Purina Pro Plan UR urinary tract cat food wet is specially formulated to help reduce the risk of crystal formation in the bladder, leading to feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).
It contains high levels of magnesium to help maintain proper pH balance in the urine, and chicken is the primary source of protein to reduce potential struvite crystal formation.
Additionally, this urinary tract health cat food wet provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats and has a delicious gravy recipe your cat will love.
Pros
It is specially formulated to reduce the risk of FLUTD.
High levels of magnesium help maintain proper pH balance in the urine
Chicken is the primary source of protein
Complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats
It helps build the immune system
Cons
Some cats don’t like the taste or texture of this food
Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food is a great option for cats needing extra urinary health support.
This formula contains high levels of protein and low magnesium levels to help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. In addition, the food is enriched with vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
The delicious ocean whitefish flavor will have your cat returning for more. So if you’re looking for wet food that will support your cat’s urinary health, Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food is a great option.
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble is a nutritious, balanced meal that helps support your cat’s urinary tract health.
The chicken kibble is enriched with taurine and prebiotics for overall health and vitality. With its high-quality ingredients, this food provides your cat with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble is also a veterinarian recommended for cats over the age of one.
So if you’re looking for nutritious and delicious food that will help support your cat’s urinary tract health, look no further than IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble.
Pros
Enriched with taurine and prebiotics
High-quality ingredients
Veterinarian recommended
Complete and balanced nutrition
Supports health
It helps reduce the risk of struvite crystals formation
Purina ONE Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Cat Food is formulated to help reduce the risk of UTIs and keep your cat’s urinary tract healthy.
This delicious pate is made with natural beef and liver and contains essential nutrients like vitamins A and E. Plus, magnesium is low to help maintain a healthy urinary pH balance.
So if you’re looking for a nutritious option to help support your cat’s urinary health, consider Purina ONE Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Cat Food.
If you’re looking for cat food to support your cat’s urinary health, any options on this list would be a great choice. There are plenty of nutritious and delicious options, from wet to dry food.
So find the perfect fit for your feline friend and help keep their urinary tract health with one of these marvelous foods.
Cats are lovable pets, and it is only natural for us to want to share our snacks with our kitten friends. However, feline lovers must remember that our dietary and nutritional needs are pretty different from cats. So, what snacks do cats like?
While humans have an exhaustive list of treats to snack on, cats are pretty picky, and not all treats are suitable for their health.
What makes a snack healthy for cats?
You might consider lavishing your cats with delicious snacks to show love and affection.
However, you must note that not all snacks are healthy for cats. For example, experts say cat treats should contain more than 10% of the cat’s total calories consumed. The reason is that most snacks add just calories to a cat’s diet.
What snacks do cat like?
While your cat should eat a 100% complete and balanced food diet, there are healthy treats you can give your cats occasionally.
Here are a few snacks that your cat would love.
1. Canned fish
Canned fish is a delight for felines and is safe to offer a small amount periodically.
In addition, fish can serve as an enjoyable snack for cats.
Most cats find the smell of fish quite appealing, fueling their craving for it. Fish has a high nutritional content as it is a high source of protein, omega-3 acids, and vital nutrients for a healthy cat diet.
The cat’s digestive system is slow processing fish. So you must avoid feeding them raw fish. Some cats may have allergies to fish.
Look out for canned fish in water with no extra salt or other added additives that could harm cats.
2. Bananas
Bananas are safe for cats, and giving them once in a while is not a bad idea. You can offer bananas to your cat periodically unless your veterinarian says otherwise.
Cats do not easily digest banana peels, so ensure it is kept out of their reach. Begin with a small tasting and be on the lookout for any unusual reactions.
3. Cheese
Cheese makes up for a delicious snack for your cats. Many felines love cheese, and it is pretty understandable.
Cheese has an exquisite taste that makes them a thrill for cats. Although cheese is high in protein, it can upset your cat’s digestive system if ingested in large quantities.
Most cats are lactose intolerant, making it difficult to digest dairy products. However, be on the lookout for any reaction, and you can substitute it with a non-dairy cheese if your cat is lactose intolerant.
4. Eggs
Eggs are great snacks for cats. It is packed with protein and fats and is one occasional treat you can give your cat. However, a single egg is about 90 calories, so you must be mindful of how much egg you give your cat.
An average cat requires around 150- 200 calories daily, so you might want to avoid giving your cats more than a single egg portion.
Eggs account for one of the most widespread food allergens for cats. Therefore, you should immediately watch out for any reactions or symptoms and alert your veterinarian.
Raw eggs are not appropriate to feed your cats as they may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli.
5. Green Beans
Green beans are another example of healthy snacks cats like. Although snacks are carnivores, they still crave healthy veggies like green beans.
You can use green beans as a healthy snack or include them in your cat’s traditional diet. Ensure you stick to fresh or frozen green beans.
The reason is that canned beans often have extra sodium laced in them. If you intend to use green beans for weight loss for your feline, consult your veterinary to draw out a medically approved plan.
6. Lean meat
Lean meat is an excellent choice if you want a great snack to share with your cat. Cats are meat lovers and a perfect addition to your cat’s diet. Meat also contains taurine, an essential amino acid cats need for optimal health.
Cooked beef, chicken, turkey, and lean deli meats with no seasoning are great snacks for cats. However, avoid giving your raw cat meat as it could make them sick.
7. Blueberries
Although cats lack sweet taste receptors, many enjoy blueberry because it offers something new. In addition, due to their wet texture and juiciness, your cat may find blueberries an exciting treat to snack on.
Blueberries are not considered a super food for cats. However, they contain antioxidants that are safe and healthy for cats. Therefore, blueberries do not form an essential part of your cat’s diet.
So you must be mindful of the quantity you give to your cats. Like other snacks, blueberries should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Tips for healthy snack feeding in cats
The following are healthy snack feeding tips for cats you can use;
Moderation is vital: Cats may develop a habit of avoiding their food for snacks. As a result, ensure you feed them in moderate amounts.
Discourage begging: Do not reward begging and avoid giving your cat a snack at the dinner table.
Avoid toxic food: While you might want to share your food with your cat, you must avoid particular food that could be toxic to your cat. Onion, chocolate, alcohol, tea, and salt are some typical unhealthy foods you mustn’t feed your cat.
Make your homemade snack: You can make your homemade snack by cooking small pieces of liver, fish, eggs, etc; or make cat patties.
These treats for cats are packed with protein and free from animal by-products, wheat, soy, and corn. In addition, they contain less than 2 calories per treat, making them healthy for your feline friend.
Best of all, they are made with simple ingredients, real salmon, and savory protein flavors. Are you curious as to what snacks cats like? Then Fruitables cat treat is a great option!
Blue buffalo treats are made with real chicken and are grain-free. These healthy snacks contain only 1.5 calories and aren’t made with contain corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors. It has a soft and crunchy texture which makes it easy to chew.
Final Thoughts
Although cats are pretty picky in their choice of food, they love to snack on good treats. So, what snacks do cats like includes a variety of things such as vegetables, eggs, and even cheese
However, you must consider your cat’s health before giving them a treat.
In this article we first look at the nutritional requirements of indoor cats compared to outdoor cats, followed by reviewing the 6 Best Indoor Cat Dry Food Products that we can find in the marketplace.
Wild Cats vs Indoor Cats
Cats in the wild are always on the prowl looking for food, defending their territories, keeping cool/warm and evading threats. They are highly active with elevated metabolism. A sedentary lifestyle is generally the norm for many indoor moggies.
These statements are generalizations, as all cats are different, whether they are indoor or outdoor cats. For example, there will be indoor cats with a high metabolism. After browsing this article, you will know what is best for your cat with regards to nutrition, as only you know your cat!
Nutritional Requirements of Cats
All cats, whether indoor or outdoor, have the same basic nutritional requirements. Cats are carnivores and thrive on a quality meat protein diet that includes a balance of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
A cat’s diet varies depending on her age, size, current health and whether she is a mother with lactating kittens. Therefore, taking these factors into consideration will help with deciding on the best food for her.
Indoor Cat Dietary Consideration
An indoor feline who is less active than her outdoor cousin, may be more prone to gaining weight. A diet with less calories will benefit her. Set feeding times with portion control, rather than always having indoor cat dry food on offer, help reduce calorie intake.
Developing hair balls tends to be more common with indoor cats, so a diet higher in fiber reduces this problem.
Outdoor cats will likely be actively catching small animals, which they will be snacking on. They may not be as hungry as indoor cats at mealtimes. The prey they catch and eat will be high in protein and nutrition.
Indoor cats will be totally reliant on the cat food cat owners present to them, making it important to select a quality balanced indoor cat food formula.
The Difference Between Indoor Cat Dry Food and Regular Cat Food
Lower protein
Higher fiber
Lower calories
Tends to have less grain fillers
The Downside to Indoor Cat Dry Food
In order to reduce calories, real meat ingredients are switched out for high fiber vegetables such as sweet potatoes, peas and corn. This is perfect for sedentary humans who want to lose a few pounds, but not for the obligate carnivore that a cat is.
Cats with allergies to gluten may react to such a diet. Indoor cat dry food may contain other additives such as cellulose, salt, meat byproducts and flours.
The Upside to Indoor Cat Dry Food
Less fillers are always good. You don’t want to just fill your cat, you want to nourish your cat.
Being prone to hairballs, the high fiber will help push the hair through her system before it can form into a hairball. Reduced calories will keep excess weight off.
Supplementing an Indoor Cats Diet
Outdoor cats are eating small animals, topping up with their nutrition. They eat bones, organs, and all. They will be digesting minerals, vitamins and macro nutrients.
You can make up for possible deficiencies in indoor cat food by supplementing your cat’s diet. A bit of lean meat (fully cooked, or raw) every now and then, will give her a protein boost.
Talk to your veterinarian about vitamin supplements that may be beneficial to your cat.
7 Best Indoor Cat Dry Food Products Reviewed
Our Team at Cat Food Advisor have explored indoor cat dry food products and have identified seven that we believe are the best options for cats.
We have selected a kitten kibble, an organic dry food, a kibble for cats prone to digestive upsets and foods low in grains.
Our reviews point out the pros and cons of each product to help cat owners make a quick decision to what is best for their cat.
We have chosen the Hill’s brand for a dry kitten kibble because the company involves animal nutritionists and veterinarians in the formulation of their products. We like that the indoor kitten kibble has a chicken meat protein as it’s main ingredient as opposed to fish ingredients (to much fish for kittens is not a good idea).
The kibble is specifically formulated for growth, has small kibble size for easy eating and is well supplemented offering a balanced diet for kittens.
Pros
High fiber promoting healthy digestion
Small kibble size for small mouths
DHA included from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development in kittens.
A product specifically designed for indoor adult cats is the basis behind why we have included this recipe in our reviews. Having real turkey meat protein as its number one ingredient rather than meat byproducts and higher fiber to reduce hairballs, common with indoor cats are features we like.
The product is lower in calories to some other cat foods, better for weight management of indoor cats.
Pros
Natural flavors
Range of minerals included for strong bones and teeth
Included vitamins for immune health
Small crunchy kibble
High fiber- minimizes hairballs
Lower calories- weight management
Made in USA
Veterinarian recommended
Customers rating 4.8 stars
Cons
Includes chicken by-product meal
High in grain fillers- rice, corn gluten meal and soybean meal
Our Team decided on the Castor & Pollux Organix mix as an inclusion in our best cat dry food reviews, because for some of our viewers, an organic certified product ensures the food they feed their cats does not come with chemicals or pesticide residues.
This product’s first ingredient is organic chicken meat, a big plus in our view. We like that the company offers a 100% refund guarantee if customers are in any way unhappy with the cat food.
Pros
Certified USDA as organic pet food
No chemical pesticides or synthetic fertilizers
Natural preservatives
No antibiotics or added growth hormones in the meat ingredients
None GMO
Organic chicken meat as the first ingredient
Other ingredients all organic
Small easy to eat kibble size
Made in USA
Grain free
100% complete and balanced nutrition
Vitamins, minerals included
Customers rating 4.4 stars
Cons
Some customers say their cats won’t eat it
High in phosphorous- may not be good for kidney function
Including a grain free indoor cat dry food in our reviews provides our viewers with a product that does not have an overuse of fillers that do not always agree with the digestive systems of carnivorous cats.
Pros
Complete 100% balanced nutrition
Omega 6 Fatty Acids for healthy coat and skin
25 essential vitamins and minerals
Made in USA
No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Priced well
Customers claim their cats like eating it
Customer rating 4.7 stars
Cons
First Ingredient is chicken by-product meal, rather than real meat
The Diamond Naturals dry cat food interested us to run a review on it because its number one ingredient is real chicken meat from cage free chickens. Our Team likes that it is an all-natural balanced nutrition product free from wheat, corn and soy ingredients.
This product has been specifically formulated for indoor cats, therefor lower in calories and higher in fiber.
Our Team selected the Royal Canin dry cat food as this recipe has been formulated for adult cats with sensitive digestion. It supports optimal digestive health with prebiotics and highly digestible proteins.
Pros
Formulated for adult cats with sensitive digestion
Small kibble in 3 shapes for easy eating
Prebiotics for digestion
100% complete and balanced- AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles
Our last cat dry food we have selected is Iams Proactive Health. We chose this one because customers have rated it so highly with a 4.8 stars rating. This is not a dry cat food specifically for indoor cats.
Our Team likes that this product has chicken as its number one ingredient, however the recipe also has meat by-products and grains included. This isn’t necessarily a concern, however, with cats with sensitive digestion another product would better suit.
Pros
Real chicken as the first ingredient
Natural fibers and prebiotics for healthy digestion
Omega -6 and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
From our selection of indoor cat dry food, you will be able to select a product suitable for your cat and its indoor lifestyle. If interested, take a look at these recent articles:
Cat Food Advisor is privately owned. We do not accept money, samples, gifts, or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers, like Chewy or Amazon (at no extra cost to you) when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
Satisfying a fussy cat can frustrate cat owners who are seeking a food that is nutritionally balanced, whilst trying to appease the choosy palate of their cat. At Cat Food Advisor we delve into the question, ‘Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats?’
The Opinion of Experts
Veterinarians and pet nutritionists worldwide will all have an opinion as to whether wet canned cat foods are a better choice to dry kibble, or whether dry cat foods are a better option.
Pet owner’s cats will also have an opinion! Some cats turn their nose up and refuse to have anything to do with eating wet cat food, but gobble down dry food and with other cats, it may be the other way around.
The Two Arguments Against Dry Cat Food Are:
1. Dry Foods Typically Have More Carbohydrates: – Cats are carnivores and cannot thrive on carbohydrate dense foods, and canned wet food are low-carb compared with dry cat food.
2. Cats Eating Dry Food Do Not Drink Enough Water: – Causing kidney and urinary tract diseases. Canned food maintains hydration in cats.
Let Us Now Consider These Two Arguments
Argument 1- Dry Foods Typically Have More Carbohydrates
Dry foods generally contain more carbohydrates in the form of grains than wet food. Their recipes will typically include ingredients such as wheat, corn meal, soy, and rice. Some dry foods will utilize proteins from vegetable, rather than meat. Many experts argue that cats are carnivores, and carnivores should get their protein only from meat.
However, when looking at the science, this notion is not supported. Cats can readily and effectively utilize carbohydrates as a source of energy, and they are adaptable to different nutrient ratios in their diet.
While cats do require some carbohydrates in their diet, it is accepted that the amount they require is less than other animals such as dogs (being more omnivorous)- Can cats eat dog food?
So Why Do Some Cats Become Obese on Dry Food?
As with humans, it is likely due to excessive calories. Over fed cats will put on weight!
Some cat owners, unknowingly, buy the inexpensive dry foods without consideration to the nutrients and ingredients in the product. Inexpensive cat foods often contain ingredients that are high in calories, whilst lacking in the essential nutrients required by cats for a healthy balanced lifestyle.
The cat’s body knows what it needs, and in its quest to gather all the nutrients it requires, will keep eating until it satisfies its nutritional cravings. This is no different to people who eat too many McDonalds hamburgers. The food is nutritionally deficient and very high in calories, causing people to put on weight!
Not only are nutrients often lacking in cheaper cat food products, but the recipes quite often contain excessive inferior fats from fish oils, chicken or pig fat. These can interrupt the uptake of other nutrients and add to the problem of weight gain in felines.
Up to this point, we have been referring to dry kibble. However, companies selling wet canned cat foods can also be guilty of inferior products.
Argument 2- Cats Eating Dry Food Do Not Drink Enough Water.
This is plausible. Nobody wants their cat to develop urinary tract infections or kidney failure due to dehydration.
However, this argument is flawed for several reasons.
Firstly, cats can produce more highly concentrated urine than canines and have lower water requirements. Some studies have concluded that there is no difference with the water intake in cats between those fed a dry diet or wet.
There are many other factors affecting water intake in cats other than from what they eat, including protein and mineral content of the food, as well as energy density.
Typically, higher moisture diets have less calories to dry food (if consuming the same quantity of food). Therefore, cats eating wet food are less likely to have weight problems is an acceptable viewpoint. However, cat owners with an active cat with higher energy demands, would not need to be concerned with the density of calories in dry food.
Is Dry Food Bad for Cats- Conclusion
Regardless of whether you decide upon dry or wet food, your focus should be on the nutrients it contains, and on recipes having quality ingredients, rather than on the price point of the product.
Constant dehydration in cats can lead to kidney and urinary tract disease, yet the evidence does not support the argument that feeding dry food will exasperate this risk. Having fresh clean water always on hand, will ensure cats are well hydrated, especially on hot days.
Kittens being weaned, require plenty of water, or supplementing with milk formula, whilst they are adapting to dry kitten food to ensure they are hydrated.
Excessive calorie intake will cause weight gain in cats, especially inactive cats. Wet cat food is less calorie dense and therefore a better option for cats prone to weight gain.
Pet owners could consider the option to include both dry and wet cat food in their cat’s diet.
We have looked at a multitude of cat food products and read through countless customer feedback comments in order to put together comprehensive reviews for our viewers delving into the 6 best dry cat foods for outdoor cats in 2023. But first, a little background…
What Do Wild Cats Eat?
Wild cats thrive on almost every continent on Earth. People joke that cats domesticated humans and not the other way around. In fact, even though we have been companions for over 4000 years, research shows that about fifty percent of pet moggies still live outdoors.
Nonetheless, outdoor cats need feeding and care, although not as much as their indoor buddies. Unsurprisingly, these outdoor cats can be picky about the kind of food they eat.
Being carnivores, a cat must eat meat. In the wild, small cats eat rodents, birds, lizards, insects and fish.
Their delicate carnivorous digestive systems are not designed to digest plants, grains or carbohydrates, and as such, they can get horribly sick when they eat high amounts of those unnatural cat foods. Many cat food products are packed with fillers, that are not a natural part of a carnivore’s cat.
Outdoor cats are more active than their indoor relatives and they will be battling the elements of heat and cold, therefore outdoor cats require more calories. It is important to, not only give your cat food that is equivalent to their natural wild diet (mice, lizards and birds), but to feed them food that is nutritious and free from ingredients that carnivores won’t tolerate.
What to Expect From Our ‘Best Dry Cat Foods for Outdoor Cats’ Reviews
We have researched and reviewed cat foods and selected products that we consider to be suitable and right for your outdoor cats.
The foods we have reviewed are perfect for outdoor cats, and of course indoor cats will do very well with any of them. Their digestive systems are the same, only their calorie requirements may differ. Here are our 6 best dry cat foods for outdoor cats in 2022.
Purina Beyond Simply Grain Free White Meat Chicken & Egg Recipe adult dry cat food. Purina’s pet nutritionists design their cat food to include high-quality ingredients from carefully considered sources. Their high-protein cat food’s main ingredient is white meat, chicken raised, without steroids.
Offering a nutrient-rich blend that is one hundred percent complete and balanced for adult cats. This natural cat food, with added minerals and vitamins, contains feline probiotics for digestive health.
They have crafted a gluten and grain-free, dry cat food, without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Their dry food, when mixed with their wet food range and toppers, can make mealtime for cats in your home a satisfying experience.
All Purina’s products are made in USA where they take positive steps to make it right for your pet and good for the planet.
This product- Friskies Surfin and Turfin, includes essential fatty acids, healthy protein, zinc, Vitamin A, Taurine, and antioxidants. The cat food is suitable for kittens, lactating mother cats and adult cats.
The most important ingredient in this cat food is chicken. This product is grain-free; no wheat, corn, soy, or any type of grain is used as a filler. This is important as grains do not exist in a wild cat’s diet. However, they do include peas as an ingredient. Another ingredient very suitable for cats is eggs. Note that the Purina chicken meat has been sourced from USA, not overseas.
Understandably pet owners do not want to feed their cats artificial flavors or colors! Purina’s products do not have these. This cat food is made from natural ingredients that are safe for your cat. The positive addition of Taurine helps with muscle growth and good vision in your cats. Purina Beyond Grain Free is available in a 5 Lb bag. Other recipes are also available- like salmon.
Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon adult dry cat food offers delicious crunchy bites. Formulated with real ingredients, including small amounts of real carrots and peas.
Containing no artificial flavors or preservatives, this formula uses real chicken as its main ingredient, packed with omega-6 fatty acids. It is well known that fatty acids help nourish and maintain healthy skin and a lustrous fur coat.
An inclusion of antioxidants promotes immune health. Cat owners’ reviews of the product say it must have a great taste as their cats seem to love it. Along with a great taste, this cat food meal delivers 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats.
The crunchy kibble helps reduce plaque build-up and whiten teeth. An important point to note is this dry food for cats contains no grain fillers.
Inspired by the diet of the lynx (picture on the packet), a vigorous and renowned hunter, BLUE Wilderness is a grain-free, protein-rich food, containing meats that cats like. BLUE Wilderness is a product of the Blue Buffalo company. Based in the United States, Blue Buffalo makes premium-quality pet foods that contain real meat. There product also includes fruit and vegetables in the mix (peas and sweet potatoes). This addition of carbohydrates is claimed by the company to help fuel your cat’s energetic lifestyle.
This dry food recipe is packed with a blend of red meat (mainly beef).
In addition, it contains omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to support a healthy coat. Also included are antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists. These additions support immune system health.
It must be noted that this particular product does not contain corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Royal Canin Adult Fit & Active dry cat food appears to be tailored for adult cats with access to the great outdoors to live a long, healthy life. Outdoor cats are so much more active than indoor cats, this product has ensured calorie requirements are suitable for maintaining a healthy, ideal weight.
Antioxidants have been added, which helps promote immune health. The dry cat food provides a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal cat wellness.
It is suggested that cat owners try pairing with Royal Canin Adult Instinctive wet cat food formulas to add variety and interest to your cat’s meal.
The main ingredient is chicken meal. This product does include grain fillers.
With real salmon being the main ingredient in the Wellness complete Dry Natural Cat Food product, cats should find it irresistible!
This appears to be a well-rounded recipe with a focus on the nutrition that moderately active cats need to stay fit and healthy. This is a formula suitable for both indoor and outdoor cats. Specially formulated for cats, this adult grained cat food has the right balance of protein and fat.
It also has a balanced blend of Omega Fatty Acids, vitamins and minerals. The company has crafted the dry cat food to support total wellbeing, including plenty of energy for playtime, sound digestion and immunity, a lustrous skin and coat, healthy eyes and strong teeth, plus controlled minerals for urinary health support.
Made in the USA with no GMO ingredients. This food is available in three different sized bags.
If you have any questions regarding any of the 6 best dry cat foods for outdoor cats in 2023 that we have reviewed, or questions on cat related products or topics in general, please send us a message and we will endeavor to provide answers.
We have reviews on the Wholehearted Cat Food Brand looking at the features and flaws of both dry and wet cat foods.
A Final Word
Cat Food Advisor is privately owned. We do not accept money, samples, gifts, or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers, like Chewy or Amazon (at no extra cost to you) when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
There are approximately 95.6 million cats living in American households (National Pet Owners’ Survey 2017). Every one of these cuddly felines need to be fed. The question is… How to choose the best cat food for your cat? In this article Cat Food Advisor delves into this question.
We have reviewed what we consider to be the 10 best cat foods available on Amazon to help you choose the best cat food that is best suited to your cat.
What Do Wild Cats Eat?
First up, domesticated cats are equal to wild cats in their digestive make-up and their nutritional requirements.
The diet of a wild cat is mainly made up of small rodents, such as rats and mice. Other common prey are rabbits, moles, shrews and birds.
However, these cats will prey on almost any small animal, such as large insects, lizards, frogs and snakes. Those wild cats that are game to get wet will even go to the effort to catch and eat fish.
Think what would a wild cat eatwhen considering how to choose the best cat food.
What Nutrition is Important for a Healthy Cat?
Wild cats are carnivorous hunters of small prey.
Cats are true carnivores. They are meat eaters- plain and simple! They require protein from meat for good vision, a strong heart and muscle development, and a healthy reproductive system.
Meat also contains moderate amounts of fat, and a minimal amount of carbohydrates. Domesticated cats require these general proportions today, just as their wild cousins do.
Cats also require many other nutrients, including vitamins, fatty acids, minerals and amino acids.
Is It Safe to Feed Your Cat Raw Meat?
Whilst it is quite OK to feed your cat a commercial wet or dry food, Cat Food Advisor suggests that you can offer variety in your cat’s diet by feeding it cooked or raw meat.
It is important to ensure that the meat you feed your cat is fresh, as spoilt raw meat, raw fish and raw eggs, can contain bacteria that trigger food poisoning. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for cats.
A lack of thiamine can cause neurological problems. Therefore, it is advisable to not to overfeed your cat raw fish.
So, If Not Raw Meat, What Should You Feed Your Cat?
Cooked beef, turkey, chicken, and small amounts of lean deli meats are a great way to give cats their nutritional requirements.
Commercially, there are two types of cat foods available- wet cat foodand dry cat food. These commercial products vary widely, and therefore require looking carefully at their ingredients and where their ingredients have been sourced from.
Many cheaper cat foods will be bulked up with fillers. Cat Food Advisor has looked into grain fillers– often these fillers are not a natural part of a cat’s diet. You want to avoid them. Be aware of grain or corn fillers. Also steer clear of GMO ingredients and products that are excessively fatty, salty or they have added sugar.
Dry Cat Food or Wet Cat Food?
It seems that most cats prefer wet cat food over dry cat food, although there are always exceptions. Wet cat food is closer to what wild cats eat- in texture and water content.
Dry food is fine if it is complete and balanced. Dry food generally is less expensive than canned food, and once dished up to your cat, may stay fresher for longer.
Wet food gives additional moisture for cats. If only fed dry food, cats would need to be provided with lots of fresh water. This is especially so if they are prone to developing urinary tract blockages, constipation or weight problems.
Many wet foods come in three-ounce cans. Cat Food Advisor recommends to feed approximately one can a day for every three to three and a half pounds of body weight. However, ingredients within different products/brands vary and therefore feeding rates will vary. A happy, healthy cat will maintain a good weight and stay active.
For an average sized adult cat, it is recommended to feed ¼ cup of dry food morning and again in the evening. This is only a rough guide, as products vary, and so do cats!
You will know how much to feed your cat through trial and error. If your cat leaves food, then perhaps you are feeding it too much. If your cat is putting on too much weight, then ease off on its food.
We recommend mixing it up a bit for your cat, so he/she does not get bored with a mono-diet. A mixture of wet cat food, dry cat food and raw or cooked meat will keep your cat very happy.
To help you choose the best cat food for your cat we have provided a summary of a selection of products available.
The nutrition that a cat needs is definitely provided in Purina dry cat food and reviews on the product claim that it taste makes their cat happy. There is a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids, essential vitamins, and essential minerals providing for a 100% complete nutrition.
Purina dry food with chicken and salmon flavor is available in two different size packs. The small pack size is 1 lb and the larger bag is 13 lb. It also contains high fiber content that helps to control hairballs and avoids digestion problems.
Pros
Made of real chicken- cats’ favorite!
Suitable for cats of all ages, kittens, adults and senior cats
Meow Mix contains four flavors- chicken, turkey, salmon and ocean fish. All flavors that will have your cat salivating! Protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids, essential vitamins and essential minerals are provided for 100% complete and balanced nutrition.
Meow Mix dry food with chicken, turkey, salmon, fish flavor is available in two different size packs. The small pack size being 3 lb and the larger 3.15 lb. This food contains ground corn and soybeans as a source of carbohydrate.
Pros
High-quality protein
Variety of meats (protein source)- chicken, turkey, salmon
Blue Wilderness High Protein Grain Free cat food is only for adult cats. Its protein comes from real meat, making it tasty for cats and a healthy option. The product promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat with an inclusion of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants have been added to this dry cat food to support the immune system.
Blue Wilderness dry food with chicken flavor is available in three different size packs. The smallest pack size being 2.5 lb, a larger bag- 6 lb and the largest- 12 lb. If you are offering your cat only dry food, Cat Food Advisor recommends ensuring your cat has plenty of drinking water on hand for hydration.
Pros
Made of real chicken as a healthy source of protein
Animal nutritionists formulated the product with inclusions of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals
Grain-free
Support immune system
Support healthy skin and a shiny coat
Provides essential vitamins and minerals
No artificial flavors
All ingredients natural
Cons
Customer reviews indicate that some cats have an allergy to certain ingredients
Purina One is a veterinarian recommended food, and safe for your cat, as only natural ingredients are used. It provides 100% nutrition with no added fillers, making this food a great choice for your cat. It includes fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and fiber. Fiber helps with cat hairballs and keeps the digestive system flowing. Real turkey forms the main protein source and customer reviews vouch for the great taste.
Purina One dry food with turkey flavor is available in four different size packs (3.5 lb, 7 lb, 16 lb 22 lb). Natural vitamins and minerals have been added for whole-body health.
The taste of the wild’s rocky mountain feline formula, with roasted venison and smoked salmon is, according to customer reviews, to be revered by cats! There are no grain fillers, rather the addition of some easy to digest vegetables such as peas and sweet potato provide carbohydrates for energetic cats. Good levels of protein to support lean strong muscles. Safe for your cat as this food is made in the USA with advanced food safety protocols. Additions of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, offering a well rounded diet for cats.
Cat Food Advisor likes that this product is made with all natural ingredients, you can be rest assured that there are no added artificial flavors or colors. The protein level is higher than carbohydrates which is a better balance and something other brands don’t always have right.
Taste of the wild dry food with venison and salmon flavor is available in a 15 lb size pack.
Purina Fancy Grilled collection canned wet cat food would have to be a favorite choice for kittens! Customer reviews account for the great taste. Purina provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for kittens. Purina wet food consists of high quality protein with meaty cuts of poultry or seafood, with a light gravy. The product is made in USA, abiding by the food regulators.
To ensure your cat is hydrated, Purina’s wet food is moist and easy to eat and digest. Essential vitamins and minerals have been included added to support the overall health of your cat
Purina Fancy Feast wet food offers different flavors and is available in two size packs. One containing 24 cans and the other, 30 cans- each can being 3 oz.
Pros
Made of real meat- poultry and seafood
100% complete and balanced
Different flavors available
Provides essential vitamins and minerals
Wet food for Kittens
Cons
Customer reviews- some cats digestive system doesn’t agree with the fish ingredient
Purina Friskies offers a mix of recipes all in one pack. Meal times will be interesting for your cat as he/she will get a variety of meats and flavors. Served as a pate, makes the wet cat food smooth and easy to eat. Suitable for cats of all ages giving a 100% balanced diet. The product does have added artificial flavors, making it tasty for cats.
Available in five different size packs (all detailed on Amazon). Recommended feeding for an adult cat- ¾ to 1 oz per pound of body weight daily. Growing kittens will require more per pound of body weight.
Pros
Chicken and Turkey meat
100% complete and balanced
Different flavors available
Smooth texture
Reasonably priced
Cons
Artificial flavors used
Customer reviews- some not happy with product presentation
A gourmet adult cat food with 100% complete and balanced nutrition. Three chicken recipes are offered in this pack, each with a different texture (pate/chunks/roasted)- enabling variety for your cat. Added essential vitamins and minerals supporting the overall health of cats. The product is grain free.
Purina classic pate wet food with different flavors/textures is available in a 24 cans. Each can being 3 oz. There are several different meat flavors in the Purina Wet Cat Food range, including recipes specifically for kittens.
A gourmet cat food recipe with 100% complete and balanced nutrition providing essential vitamins and minerals to support the overall health of adult cats. Quality ingredients, including the best protein from tuna and white meats. Contains long grain rice and garden greens for a source of carbohydrates.
Purina medleys wet cat food offers different flavors available- seafood, chicken, turkey and Primavera flavor, all in savory sauces. The product comes in five size pack sizes, as well as single 3oz cans. You can better understand these choices on Amazon. Purina’s wet cat food is not grain-free.
Purina Po Plan Focus offers a low PH, low dietary magnesium wet cat food that improve urinary tract health in cats. It is easy on the digestive system and a good choice for sensitive cats, or cats with health challenges. The cat food contains real chicken providing high-quality protein.
Purina Pro Plan wet cat food with different flavors is available in eleven different size packs. You can better understand these packages on Amazon. Formulated for adult cats with essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
Pros
Maintain urinary tract health- low PH and low magnesium
Foods with cat essential vitamins and minerals is great!
Fatty acids are needed for healthy skin and coats.
Avoid artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.
Look for foods with the correct balance of protein vs carbohydrates. Too many starchy ingredients suggests that the carbohydrates are high.
Look for foods that replicate a wild cat’s diet.
Offer variety and a mix of foods.
Raw meats are good, so long as they are fresh!
Cat’s with sensitive digestion or urinary tracts require low PH, low magnesium foods.
The addition of cat probiotics helps with digestion.
You will get what you pay for- cheaper often means a product less nutritious.
Avoid GMO products.
Choose the Best Cat Food Conclusion
We recommend that if unsure, or your cat reacts to certain foods, to seek veterinary advice.
Hopefully, your precious feline won’t be dragging rats into your home any time soon! If kept well fed with one of the Cat Food Advisor top 10 best cat foods, then that should not happen. You should now be an expert on How to Choose the Best Cat Food!
A Final Word
Cat Food Advisor is privately owned. We do not accept money, samples, gifts, or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers, like Chewy or Amazon (at no extra cost to you) when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
Understanding the nutritional requirements of domestic cats and being able to sift through the many different brands, products, and options available, may seem like a daunting task to budding new cat parents, however, this need not be the case. We have identified the best dry cat foods and reviewed them for our readers in this article.
Cat Food Advisor has identified what we consider to be the best dry cat foods available in 2022 in Amazon & Chewy stores, and have provided comprehensive reviews on the products, pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Our comprehensive Dry Cat Food Guide for Cat Owners
In our guide we list the important things to look for in a quality dry cat food. We recommend that you view our guide HERE before purchasing a dry cat food for your pet.
Here is a Quick View of Our Best Dry Cat Foods Selection
These have been identified to be nutritionally high-quality foods.
PICK because Fussie Cat offers a complete nutrition using natural high-quality ingredients high in meat protein, without artificial additives or grain fillers, yet packed with extras to ensure cats get all that they need! It has been carefully formulated specifically for cats of all ages. Our No 2 Pick is at the bottom of this article.
Company donates food to cat shelters throughout USA
High fiber
Cons
Grain fillers
Some customer reviews claim the quality of batches is inconsistent
Contains one flavor per box or bag
The Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Food, developed specifically for indoor cats, uses high-quality ingredients that include salmon, lamb and chicken meat proteins. Their website claims that their recipes have been carefully formulated by a team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists and has clinically proven antioxidant benefits.
Their recipes are made with all natural ingredients boosted with vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Rest assured that their products never contain artificial colors, preservatives, flavors or chicken by-product meal.
Although the ingredients list shows meat as the main ingredient, it does contain grain fillers. Customers have generally given excellent product reviews. Some customers claim the quality of this cat food is inconsistent from one packet to the next.
Real chicken meat protein (no chicken by-products)
Animal nutritionists/Veterinarian input
Uses rice as opposed to wheat or soy
Cons
Only a single flavor/recipe
Another great choice is the Blue Buffalo Indoor Hairball Weight Control dry cat food. Their nutritionally balanced recipe has been specifically formulated with the input of veterinarians and animal nutritionists for maintain a cat’s optimal weight. The main ingredient is real chicken meat and brown rice. The rice, used to provide carbohydrates and fiber is a better choice than using wheat, soy, or corn fillers.
The recipe is enriched with minerals, vitamins, and amino acids for healthy immune and digestive health as well as eye and bone health. Also included in the ingredients list are natural vegetables and berries. These additions give added fiber and antioxidants.
Their products are free from artificial colors, preservatives and flavors and animal by-products, making it one of one of our picks for the best dry cat foods list.
Blue Buffalo presents their product in three sized packets.
The Blue Buffalo Indoor Hairball dry cat food provides well rounded nutrition for any cat.
Reduced carbohydrates to support weight management
Smaller kibble size, easy for cats to chew
Balanced nutrition
Cons
Higher price
Nulo Grain Free Dry Cat Food looks to be a very good product. We specifically like the very high meat protein content and the fact they do not have any grain fillers (rice, wheat, soy or corn), nor white potato. The meat ingredients include salmon, chicken, duck and turkey. This provides 83% of the protein in the product. Nulo have kept their carbohydrates in check, ensuring that your cat will maintain a healthy weight,
They do include an excellent BC30 Probiotic to ensure a healthy gut and good digestion. Also included within their balanced diet are vitamins and minerals.
The product is well presented as a small kibble. This is easy for cats to eat and helps with maintaining oral hygiene in cats.
They offer different products specifically formulated for adult cats and for kittens.
Nulo grain free dry cat food has been rated very highly by customers, with some finding the price of the product a little higher than other dry food products. We feel it is worth the extra expense having a quality product.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredients Diets (L.I.D.) dry cat food is a healthy choice that has been formulated specifically for adult indoor cats with thought going into the balance of carbohydrates and protein, ensuring they are kept to a healthy weight. They offer only one flavor- Salmon and Chickpea in a 5lb bag.
As a dry cat food we like that it does not have grain fillers, which will only cause your cat bloat and digestive issues. Their main ingredient is salmon. It also contains chickpeas, peas and potatoes- providing carbohydrates and fiber. Their recipe has additional vitamins, minerals and fatty acids ensuring all nutritional requirements have been met.
Most customer reviews have been very positive, with some cat owners saying the quality of the product is inconsistent.
Free from artificial colors, preservatives and fillers
Range of flavor/recipe choices
Balanced nutrition formulated for adult cats
Vitamins, minerals and Omega fatty acids
Made in USA
GMO free
Main meat protein- chicken
Cons
Rice, barley and oats included
Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Cat Food is a balanced food with the main protein ingredient being chicken mixed with rice, barley and oats. All natural ingredients are boosted with the additions of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. It is free from artificial flavors, colors and preservatives. It does not include fillers such as corn, wheat or soy.
Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Cat Food comes in three packet sizes- 2.5lb, 6lb and 12lb.
Another favorite pet food choice for cats is the Nutro Max Cat Salmon Food. The salmon and brown rice recipe, suited to indoor cats, comes in a 6lb bag.
Nutro Max Cat Salmon Food comes with important nutrients such as Vitamin E, Taurine, Vitamin C, Tomato Pomace, and extracts from Cranberries and Blueberries- ensuring a healthy immune system and healthy digestion.
We like that the product has no GMO ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It also has no corn, wheat, soy or chicken by-product meal- just real food for your cat!
Nutri cat food is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, supporting healthy skin and coat.
This recipe main protein meat ingredient is salmon, however, Nutri offers other meat proteins in other dry food products such as chicken and turkey.
Packed with minerals, vitamins and superfood extras
Several recipe choices (fish and poultry)
Products formulated for adult cat and another for kittens
A good choice for cats with allergies or a food sensitive
Cons
Some customer reviews say their cat does not like it
Fussie Cat Grain Free Protein Rich dry cat food is our TOP PICK. It offers complete, balanced high-quality nutrition using natural ingredients high in meat protein, without artificial additives or grain fillers, yet packed with extras to ensure cats get all that they need!
It has been carefully formulated with a range of meat recipes some suitable for adult cats and a recipe for kittens. Recipes include: duck and quail, chicken and quail, chicken and turkey, salmon and chicken, and salmon on its own.
The product is a good choice for cats sensitive to allergies and those with UTI problems.
The product comes in three packet sizes, 2lb, 4lb and 10lb.
The Iams Proactive Health Adult Indoor Pet Food is an exciting choice for domestic cats. Formulated for weight management of cats, with a lower fat content to similar products and high fiber. The extra fiber helps in hairball control and intestinal health. Packed with Omega fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat and added vitamins and minerals for bone strength, eye sight and immune health.
Iams’ main meat protein comes from chicken and turkey which most cats generally enjoy.
Gentle on the stomach suitable for sensitive digestion
Cons
Turkey By-product meal as main ingredient
Includes corn meal, soy meal and wheat fillers
Another great choice is the Purina Cat Chow, formulated by the company for cats with sensitive stomachs. A turkey flavored recipe boasting 25 essential vitamins and minerals for a complete balance of nutrients for cats. The company offers a variety of formulas packaged in either a 6.3lb or 13lb bags. No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives are used with Purina’s Cat Chow.
We would have preferred real turkey meat as opposed to turkey by-product meal, and a little less corn and soybean meal used as fillers.
Customers have given this dry cat food a five star rating for flavor, value for money and ingredients.
Cats are carnivores, so high protein meat should be the main ingredient. Cats are not omnivores like us humans, so they should have very little grains or plant foods in their diet.
Complete and Balanced
Cats require a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids and amino acids, together with vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients
The ingredients matter a lot. Choose options low in fat, sugars, and grain fillers. Try natural ingredients because they promote a healthy system. Steer clear of artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.
Other Health Benefits for Food
Look for Omega fatty acid rich foods for healthy skin and coat, pre and pro biotics for digestion and immune health and fiber to help with the reduction of fur balls and a functioning digestive system.
Mix Wet and Dry Foods
Although a dry food only diet offers all the nutrients your cat requires, mixing it up with tinned wet foods and fresh raw or cooked food will add variety and taste to what your cat eats.
Price
What you pay for is often what you can expect to get in quality with a dry cat food. Foods with high quality natural ingredients will cost more as apposed to animal by-product proteins and grain fillers.
The Final Pick For… Best Dry Cat Foods!
We showed you our No 1 pick at the beginning of this article. For our number 2 pick it would have to be Nulo Grain Free Salmon Duck and Turkey. A little pricier than the other dry cat foods reviewed in this article, but offering the very best quality nutrition for your cat!
Cat Food Advisor is privately owned. We do not accept money, samples, gifts, or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers, like Chewy or Amazon (at no extra cost to you) when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
With over 18,000 employees and 500 scientists, including nutritionists. The company has been in business for over 80 years and has a long history of producing high-quality products trusted by pet owners and veterinarians.
Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods are specifically designed to meet the needs of cats with urinary tract issues and help prevent or reduce urinary tract infections.
Blue buffalo treats
All cats, whether indoor or outdoor, have the same basic nutritional requirements. Cats are carnivores and thrive on a quality meat protein diet that includes a balance of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
Pet owner’s cats will also have an opinion! Some cats turn their nose up and refuse to have anything to do with eating wet cat food, but gobble down dry food and with other cats, it may be the other way around.
What to Expect From Our ‘Best Dry Cat Foods for Outdoor Cats’ Reviews 
