There are many types of cat food out there but it generally falls into these categories.
Fresh cat food
Katkin food is created for your cat. They ask you all of your cat's details about their health and food preferences. The result is freshly cooked food whoich is 100% fresh meat. Their food is designed for cats as carnivores. It’s gently steamed, frozen and portioned in KatKin’s own kitchen, then delivered to you. There are no preservatives, no cheap derivatives and they don't cut corners, plus it's delivered to your door.
Wet food or tinned food and pouches
Wet food has a high-water content, and some cats hardly ever drink water on this diet.
Dry food
Dry cat food. Cats with this diet will need to drink a lot of water to prevent urinary tract infections such as cystitis. It is easier for the owner and some cats prefer it.
Raw food diet
I have no experience with a raw diet, but some cat owners swear by it, especially if their pet suffers from allergies or skin conditions.
Cat Superfoods
Just as we have foods which are classed as 'super foods' so do cats.
Cat superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that provide exceptional health benefits for cats. Including these superfoods in their diet can contribute to their overall well-being. Here are some cat superfoods:
Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps promote a healthy coat, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive function.
Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and fiber, blueberries can aid in preventing urinary tract infections, support eye health, and boost the immune system.
Pumpkin: A great source of fiber and moisture, pumpkin can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation in cats.
Spinach: This leafy green vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. It supports immune health, bone strength, and overall vitality.
Sweet potatoes: High in fiber and vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are beneficial for digestion, immune support, and maintaining healthy skin.
Coconut oil: Adding small amounts of coconut oil to a cat's diet can help improve digestion, promote a healthy coat, and support brain function.
Green tripe: Green tripe refers to the unprocessed stomach lining of grazing animals. It contains digestive enzymes, probiotics, and essential fatty acids that aid in digestion and support a healthy gut.
Chia seeds: These tiny seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help promote healthy skin and coat, support brain function, and aid in digestion.
When incorporating superfoods into your cat's diet, it's important to introduce them gradually and in moderation. It's always best to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your cat's diet.
UK branded super foods
Tried and Tested
Some cat food on our supermarket shelves contains as little as 4% meat. When I first got Loki, what he was doing in his litter tray wasn’t ok, so I searched the internet and tried to learn a little more about cat food. A lot of cat food has low protein and is filled with grains or rice. This isn’t something cats would eat in the wild. I changed his diet and here are my reviews on the foods my cats have tried.
Wet Food:
I tried him on Felix as good as it looks. Loki loved this but I didn’t.
Protein 4% (meat or fish), minerals, sugars and additives including vitamins.
He loved these pouches, but I didn't like the meat percentage
Click below for more info
This is when I started my research. I found out that there are 'Cat Superfoods.'
Superfoods are high quality cat foods. The ingredients show high protein percentages and grain/rice show small percentages. Natural ingredients and grain free are also good things to spot.
There are some healthy foods which we eat and they are also good for cats. These include, cooked eggs, cooked lean meat, blueberries, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, oily fish (excluding tuna due to the mercury.) Dandelions are also good for cats.
If your cat fancies a little bit of yogurt thats ok for them to try. Although lactose in dairy usually gives cats upset tummies, the lactose in yogurt is broken down while making it. Just try a little to begin with.
If you have an outdoor cat, you've probably noticed he or she eating grass and then being sick. They do this to bring up fur balls. Grass also contains folic acid. If your cat is an indoor cat, its a good idea to grow some indoor grass. Just as we need a balanced diet, so do cats.
Here are some popular wet Super Cat Food brands known for their quality
3. APPLAWS
Applaws is known for its high-quality wet cat food made with limited ingredients. They use natural ingredients, including real meat or fish, without any artificial additives. Both cats and I approved of this.
Initially I tried the pouches which Loki liked, but his tastes changed, so I tried the tins and he loved them.
They come in 70g and 156g. In packs of 6 or 24.
I tried the larger tins, but both cats got bored and loved a new tin. We were wasting a lot, so I went back to the 70g tin.
They come in packs of 6 of the same flavour and are 70g tins.
They also come in packs of 6 of the same flavour and are 156g tins.
The multipacks of different flavours come in packs of 12 and are 70g tins.
Multipacks are a good place to start. Its the best way to try your cat with different food and it allows them to choose their favourites.
Adult Chicken Multi Pack in Broth
12 70g tins
When I first ordered Applaws, I went for the variety chicken pack. Loki ate all of them to begin with because it was so tasty.
Chicken Breast:
Chicken breast (75%), chicken stock, rice (1%)
Chicken Breast & Cheese:
Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock (24%), cheese (5%), rice
Chicken & Ham:
Chicken breast (75%), chicken stock (19%), ham (5%), rice
Chicken and Pumpkin:
Chicken breast (50%), chicken stock (25%), pumpkin (24%)
Click below for more info
Adult Fish Multi Pack in broth
Mackerel with Tuna:
Mackerel (45%), tuna fillet (30%), fish stock (24%), rice (1%).
Mackerel with Sardine:
Mackerel (50%), sardine (25%), fish stock, rice.
Tuna with Prawn:
Tuna fillet (52%), fish stock, prawn (23%), rice.
Tuna Fillet in Broth:
Tuna fillet (75%), fish stock (19%), rice (6%).
Click below for more info
Kitten Multipack
Chicken:
Chicken (53%), rice, minerals.
Tuna Fillet:
Tuna fillet (40%), fish stock, vegetable gelling agent.
Sardine:
Sardines (60%), rice.
Click below for more info
Now my cats have found trheir favourites, this is what I buy on a regular basis
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast (70%) chicken stock, rice.
Click below for more info
24tins x 70g
Chicken Breast & Duck: Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock (24%), cheese (5%), rice (1%).
Click below for more info
Chicken Breast & Cheese: Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock (24%), cheese (5%), rice (1%).
Click below for more info
When Luna first arrived, she stole my tuna fish salad, so I immediately ordered her some fish of her own.
Mackerel and Sardine: Mackerel (50%), sardine (25%), fish stock, rice.
Click below for more info
Ocean Fish: Mackerel (45%), tuna fillet (30%), fish stock, rice.
Click below for more info
Neither of the cats will now never touch normal chicken breast. They enjoy their tinned food too much.
4. NATURES MENU
I tried to find products which both myself and Loki liked.
This was my favorite. When Loki was a kitten and growing quickly he really liked these. Once he got a bit older, he got more picky and went off the pate which was a shame
Natures Menu specializes in raw and natural pet food. They offer a variety of complete and balanced wet cat food options made with real meat or fish.
Grain Free
Sugar Free
Gluten Free
No Artificial Addatives
They come in packs of 18 of the same flavour and are 85g tins.
They also do a 48 pack of different flavours and are 85g tins.
Mixed Selection
Chicken with Turkey:
Chicken* (55%), chicken broth (29.3%), turkey* (15%), minerals (0.7%).
Chicken with Salmon & Tuna:
Chicken* (60%), chicken broth (29.3%), salmon* (6%), tuna* (4%), minerals (0.7%)
Beef & Chicken:
Beef* (40%), chicken* (30%), chicken broth (29.3%), minerals (0.7%).
*Natural ingredients
Click here for more info
Chicken with Turkey
Chicken*: (55%), chicken broth (29.3%), turkey* (15%), minerals (0.7%).
*Natural ingredients.
Click here for more info
Chicken with Salmon and Tuna
Chicken*: (60%), chicken broth (29.3%), salmon* (6%), tuna* (4%), minerals (0.7%).
*Natural ingredients.
Click here for more info
Kitten with Chicken
Chicken*: (70%), chicken broth (29.2%), minerals (0.8%).
*Natural ingredients.
Click here for more info
5. JAMES WELLBELOVED
Good for sensitive stomachs
James Wellbeloved: James Wellbeloved is a popular brand that offers a range of wet cat food formulas suitable for cats with specific dietary needs. They use hypoallergenic ingredients and avoid common allergens.
They come in boxes of 12 pouches of the same flavour and are 85g pouches.
Adult Turkey in Gravy
Turkey: Turkey (41%), pea protein, tomato pomace, cassava, potato flakes, sunflower oil, linseed oil, potassium diphosphate, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, fish oil, xylose, chicory extract, cranberry extract, Yucca extract.
Click here for more info
Senior Turkey in Gravy
Turkey: Turkey (35%), tomato pomace (1%), cranberry extract (130mg/kg), yucca extract (50mg/kg), glucosamine (100mg/kg)
Click here for more info
Kitten Turkey in Gravy
Turkey: Turkey (35%), tomato pomace (1%), cranberry extract (130mg/kg), yucca extract (50mg/kg)
Click here for more info
Adult Lamb in Gravy
Lamb: Lamb (35%), tomato pomace (1%), cranberry extract (130mg/kg), yucca extract (50mg/kg)
Click here for more info
Senior Lamb in Gravy
Lamb: Lamb (35%), tomato pomace (1%), cranberry extract (130mg/kg), glucosamine (100mg/kg), yucca extract (50mg/kg)
Click here for more info
6. THRIVE
Thrive is a complete food, including all the necessary vitamins and minerals which cats need
It is wheat/gluten free, easy to digest, feed alone or with dry food, no preservatives, no fillers or artificial gelling agents, no added colours, no added sugars, no artificial flavours.
They come in packs of 6 of the same flavour and are 75g tins.
They also come in single flavours as well as chicken and fish collections
Meat and Poultry Collection
Chicken Breast:
Chicken breast (75%), chicken stock, sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Chicken Breast and Chicken Liver: Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock, chicken liver (5%), sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals. brown rice, tomato, pumpkin, water, vitamins and minerals.
Chicken Breast and Turkey: Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock, turkey (5%), sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Chicken with Vegetables: Chicken, water, green pea, carrot, vitamins and minerals.
Beef with Vegetables: Beef, pumpkin, green pea, water, sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Chicken & Liver: Chicken, chicken liver, brown rice, tomato, pumpkin, water, vitamins and minerals.
Click here for more info
Fish Collection
Tuna Fillet:
Tuna fillet (75%), tuna stock, sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Ocean Fish: Mackerel (71%), mackerel stock, whitebait (4%), shrimp (3%), sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Tuna and Salmon: Tuna (71%), tuna stock, salmon (4%), sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Tuna with Vegetables: Tuna (67.75%), carrot (4%), green pea (4%), tuna stock, vitamins and minerals.
Ocean Fish: Mackerel (71%), mackerel stock, whitebait (4%), shrimp (3%), sunflower oil, vitamins and minerals.
Sardine & Mackerel: Sardine (37.5%), mackerel (37.5%), mackerel stock, vitamins & minerals.
Tuna with Shrimp & Squid: Tuna (67%), shrimp (4%), squid (4%), tuna stock, vitamins and minerals.
Kitten
Chicken: Chicken breast (70%), chicken stock, sunflower oil, vitamins, minerals.
Click here for more info
2. LILY'S KITCHEN
Good for sensitive stomachs
Complete wet food for adult cats over 4 months old
Balanced recipe for all-round nutrition
Natural ingredients: made with no cheap fillers or rubbish, to ensure the finest natural goodness
With proper meat and fish: the real fish and meat in these dishes are irresistible and full of flavour, encased in a sumptuous gravy
Contains essential taurine: an amino acid that is vital to your cat's health and wellbeing
Grain-free recipe: ideal for cats with sensitivities
No added sugars
These come in packs of 8 and 16 and are 85g each.
Ingredients:
Chicken: 53% freshly prepared (chicken 40%; pork 13%), gravy, minerals.
Chicken & Salmon: 53% freshly prepared (chicken 22%; pork 21%, salmon 10%), gravy, minerals.
Ocean Fish: 53% freshly prepared (fish 26% incl. white fish 11%, salmon 10%, prawn 5%; pork 14%; chicken 13%), gravy, minerals.
Beef: 53% freshly prepared (beef 26%, chicken 5%) gravy, minerals.
Cuts in gravy
Click below for more info
Chicken: chicken (50%), chicken broth (45%), sunflower oil, minerals, tapioca, tuna oil.
Chicken with Ham: chicken (45%), freshly prepared ham (3%), chicken broth (47%), sunflower oil, minerals, tapioca, tuna oil.Chicken with Mussel: chicken (45%), freshly prepared mussels (3%), chicken broth (47%), sunflower oil, minerals, tapioca, tuna oil.Tuna with Salmon: tuna (47%), freshly prepared salmon (4%), tuna broth (47%), sunflower oil, minerals, tapioca, tuna oil.
Shredded fillets
Click below for more info
Lamb: Lamb (30%), chicken (20%), pork (15%), salmon oil, chelated minerals.
Hotpot: Chicken (25%), game (15%), pork (15%), turkey (10%), salmon oil, chelated minerals.
Chicken: Chicken (65%), salmon oil, chelated minerals.
Poultry: Turkey (50%), duck (15%), salmon oil, chelated minerals.
Pate
Click below for more info
Kitten Food
Chicken: Chicken (30%), pork (21%), trout (10%), beef (4%), salmon oil, minerals.
Click below for more info
1. KATKINS
Katkin food is fresh food which is created espessially for your cat. They ask you all of your cat's details about their health and food preferences. The result is freshly cooked food which is 100% fresh meat. Their food is designed for cats as carnivores. It’s gently steamed, frozen and portioned in KatKin’s own kitchen, then delivered to you. There are no preservatives, no cheap derivatives and they don't cut corners, plus it's delivered to your door.
They also add nutrients to the food.
KatKin Nutrient Mix: vitamin A 3844 IU, vitamin D3 120 IU, Zinc (zinc chelate of methionine) 26 mg, iron (iron chelate of glycine, hydrate) 21 mg, manganese (manganese chelate of glycine, hydrate) 3mg, copper (copper sulphate pentahydrate) 2mg, iodine (potassium iodide) 0.683 mg, taurine 1111 mg
Cluck:
100% Chicken thigh, liver and heart, Protein 17.1%, Fat content 6.5%, Crude ash 1.9%, Crude fibre 0%, Moisture 74.6%
Plus the Katkin nutrient mix
Calories (kcal/100g): 131
Click below for more info
Moo:
100% Beef trim, heart and liver
Protein 17.2%, Fat content 10.2%, Crude ash 2.2%, Crude fibre 0.3%, Moisture 69.4%
Plus minerals, sunflower oil, salmon oil
Calories (kcal/100g): 145
Click below for more info
Gobble:
Turkey thigh, liver and gizzards
Protein 20.5%, Fat content 5.7%, Crude ash 2.3%, Crude fibre 0%, Moisture 71.5%
Plus the Katkin nutrient mix
Calories (kcal/100g): 132
Click below for more info
Baaa:
Lamb trim, heart and liver, Duck and chicken, gizzards and liver, White fish, salmon and turkey liver, Protein 13.6%, Fat content 12.6%, Crude ash 2.4%, Crude fibre 0.1%, Moisture 70.5%
Plus fish oil and the Katkin nutrient mix
Calories (kcal/100g): 15
Click below for more info
Splash:
Whitefish, salmon and turkey liver, Protein 16.6%, Fat content 6.8%, Crude ash 2.3%' Crude fibre 0%, Moisture 73.3%, Plus sunflower oil and the KatKin Nutrient Mix.
Calories (kcal/100g): 127
Click below for more info
Quack:
Duck and chicken, Protein 18.8%, Fat content 6.2%, Crude ash 2.2%, Crude fibre 0.1%, Moisture 72.8%
Plus the Katkin nutrient mix
Calories (kcal/100g): 135
Click below for more info
Oink:
Pork: Protein: 17.2%, Fat content: 10.2%, Crude ash: 2.4%, Crude fibre: 0.1%, Moisture: 69.9%
Calories (kcal/100g): 170
Click below for more info
Overall, these foods brands tend to be more expensive, but cats need less, because of the high protein content.
Here are some popular dry Super Cat Food brands known for their quality
2. JAMES WELLBELOVED
James Wellbeloved is known for producing hypoallergenic and natural dry cat food. They offer a range of formulas suitable for cats with dietary sensitivities or specific requirements.
James Wellbeloved Adult Cat Turkey Dried Cat Food
Turkey meal (27.5%), brown rice, turkey fat (13.9%), white rice, maize gluten, potato protein, turkey gravy (3.9%), tomato pomace, dried meat-free stock, potassium chloride, chicory pulp, fish oil, chicory extract (0.25%)
Click below for more info
James Wellbeloved Adult Cat Chicken Dried Cat Food
Chicken meal* (27.5%), brown rice* (21%), chicken fat* (13.9%), white rice* (13.8%), maize gluten*, potato protein, chicken gravy* (3.9%), tomato pomace* (2.5%), dried meat-free stock, potassium chloride, chicory pulp* (0.5%), fish oil*, chicory extract* (0.25%), calcium carbonate, carrot*, sodium chloride, cranberry extract* (0.05%), yucca extract* (0.02%).
Click below for more info
James Wellbeloved Adult Cat Fish Dried Cat Food
Fish meal (26.0%), brown rice, white rice, olive oil, maize gluten, fish stock, potato protein, fish oil (4.0%), tomato pomace (2.5%), potassium chloride, chicory pulp, chicory extract (0.25%), calcium carbonate, carrot, sodium chloride, cranberry extract (0.05%), yucca extract (0.02%)
Click below for more info
James Wellbeloved Adult High Protein Dried Cat Food
Poultry meal* (36.4%), chicken* (20%; including 17.5% fresh chicken), turkey meal* (18.2%), lentils* (14.6%), pea starch,
peas* (13.5%), poultry fat* (8.6%), turkey gravy (3%), minerals, sunflower oil*.
Click below for more info
3. THRIVE
Thrive's dry cat food typically features real meat or fish as the primary ingredient, which is beneficial for cats as they are obligate carnivores. They aim to create balanced and complete formulas that provide essential nutrients for cats at different life stages. Their recipes may include additional ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and beneficial supplements to support overall feline health. Thrive's dry cat food is often free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They may also offer grain-free options for cats with specific dietary sensitivities or preferences. It's always a good idea to check the specific ingredients and nutritional information on the packaging or contact Thrive directly for detailed information about their dry cat food range.
Chicken: Dried chicken (64.5%), fresh chicken (16.5%), chicken fat (6%), sweet potatoes, potatoes, chicken gravy (3%), vitamins and minerals, salmon oil.
Click below for more info
Salmon and Herring: Dried salmon (26%), dried herring (20%), fresh salmon (17%), sweet potatoes, potatoes, salmon oil (6%), salmon gravy (2%), pea fibre, vitamins and minerals.
Click below for more info
4. WILD FREEDOM
Wild Freedom is a premium, complete dry cat food inspired by your cat's natural instincts. It provides your cat with a delicious, species-appropriate nutrition and is suitable for adult cats of all breeds. In addition to lots of fresh meat, the grain-free recipes contain wild herbs.
Based on the wild cat's natural diet balanced, complete dry food for adult cats of all breeds and sizes
Wild Freedom Wild Country Poultry. This is also high in protein. The cat’s favourite.
41% fresh poultry meat, 29% poultry protein (dried), 25% chicken
Click below for more info
All these foods tend to be more expensive, but I’ve found that my cats feel full quickly and are therefore eating less because of the high protein content.
Hills Prescription Diet Dental. The vet was impressed by the condition of Loki’s teeth, so it obviously works. Dental issues are common in cats and insurers aren’t keen to pay out.
Hills do a range of prescription foods which really helped our late tabby who lived to be 19.
Click below for more info
Science Diet: Hill's Science Diet offers a variety of dry cat food options with formulas designed for different life stages and specific nutritional needs.
When selecting wet cat food, it's essential to consider your cat's specific dietary requirements and consult with your veterinarian if needed. It's also advisable to introduce new food gradually to ensure your cat's digestive system adjusts well to the change.
A study has shown that cats have an intake target that equates to approximately 52% of their daily calorie intake from protein, 36% from fat and 12% from carbohydrate. They appear to prefer a diet which is most like a diet they would get in the wild.
Look out for a new page - All about Prescription Food for Cat Health
Cat Treats
‘Dreamies’ are very popular treats. They do get two every night for coming to bed nicely. They also get some when they have been groomed. It’s a necessity but they hate it, so they deserve a reward. I do have to be stringy though or the litter trays are dire.
Katkin Nibbles' are healthy treats.
Chicken breast.100% freeze-dried
Protein 79%
Crude fibre 0.1%
Crude fat 7.2%
Crude ash 4.4%
Click below for more info
Salmon fillet.100% freeze-dried
Protein 68.8%
Crude fibre 0.1%
Crude fat 24.4%
Crude ash 4.1%
Click below for more info
Water Fountains
Water fountains. To encourage the cats to drink water we have a water fountain.
This has multiple fountains.
Check out this video
Click below for more info
This has a tank plus a fountain
It comes with filters and a pump.
Click below for more info
Raw Food
Feeding cats a raw food diet is a topic that generates a lot of debate among pet owners, veterinarians, and experts. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to feeding cats a raw food diet:
Nutritional Balance: Cats have specific dietary requirements, and it's crucial to ensure they receive a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. A raw food diet for cats should contain the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It can be challenging to achieve this balance consistently without professional guidance or using commercially prepared raw diets.
Potential Health Benefits: Advocates of raw food diets claim potential benefits such as improved coat condition, increased energy, better dental health, and a reduced risk of certain health issues. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and it's essential to consider the overall health of your cat and consult with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes.
Safety Concerns: Raw food diets may carry some safety risks. Raw meat can be a source of bacteria, parasites, and pathogens such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to both pets and humans. Handling raw food requires strict hygiene practices to minimize the risk of contamination. Additionally, bones in raw diets can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal obstructions.
Digestive Sensitivity: Cats' digestive systems have evolved to process and utilize nutrients from a primarily carnivorous diet. However, individual cats may have varying sensitivities or intolerances to certain raw food ingredients. It's important to monitor your cat's response to a new diet and consult with a veterinarian if any digestive issues or health concerns arise.
Veterinary Guidance: Before transitioning your cat to a raw food diet, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian experienced in feline nutrition. They can assess your cat's specific health needs, provide guidance on balanced nutrition, and help address any concerns or potential risks associated with a raw food diet.
Commercial Raw Diets: If you decide to feed your cat a raw food diet, consider using commercially prepared raw diets that are formulated and balanced specifically for cats. These products typically undergo testing for safety and nutritional adequacy. It's important to choose reputable brands and carefully read the labels to ensure they meet essential nutritional requirements.
Alternative Options: If you're concerned about the risks or challenges associated with raw food diets, there are alternative feeding options available. High-quality commercial cat foods, both wet and dry, can provide balanced nutrition for cats. Many reputable brands offer options formulated to meet feline dietary needs.
Remember, each cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's important to consider your cat's individual health, consult with a veterinarian, and make an informed decision based on their specific needs. Regular veterinary check-ups and open communication with your vet can help ensure your cat's nutritional requirements are being met and their overall health is maintained.