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What are Natural Cat Foods, Exactly?
In this Article
Cats are beloved family members and their health and happiness depend on what goes into their food bowls. Many pet parents are turning to natural cat foods to provide their feline friends with high-quality ingredients that support overall well-being. Understanding what makes cat food "natural" and how it benefits your pet can help you make the best choice for your kitty.
What are natural cat foods?
Natural cat foods are made with ingredients that are minimally processed and free from artificial additives. These diets typically include real meat, wholesome vegetables and essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike conventional cat food, natural options avoid artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, focusing instead on nutrition that closely resembles what a cat might eat in the wild.
How is natural cat food different than organic food?
You might assume natural and organic cat food are the same, but they have distinct differences. Natural cat foods contain ingredients that are minimally processed and free from artificial additives, whereas organic cat food must meet strict regulations about how ingredients are grown and processed. Organic foods must be free from pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while natural cat foods do not necessarily have these requirements.
Additionally, natural cat food focuses on wholesome, recognizable ingredients, while organic cat food guarantees that those ingredients were produced without harmful chemicals. Both options offer benefits, but understanding the difference can help you choose the best diet for your furry family member.
The benefits of natural cat foods
Natural cat foods offer lots of advantages for cats of all ages.
- Supports digestion.
- High-quality, natural ingredients are often easier for cats to digest, reducing the risk of stomach issues and food sensitivities. Many natural products are free from fillers and artificial ingredients that can cause discomfort. By feeding your cat natural food, you help promote a healthier digestive system and prevent unnecessary digestive upset.
- Promotes healthy skin and coat.
- Natural cat food is often rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help maintain soft fur and healthy skin. Essential nutrients like biotin and zinc also contribute to a glossy, well-conditioned coat. Regular consumption of natural food can lead to noticeable improvements in your cat’s fur and overall skin health.
- Encourages strong muscles and energy.
- Real meat is a primary ingredient in most natural food, providing the protein cats need to stay active and strong. Cats are “obligate carnivores” – they thrive on diets rich in high-quality animal protein and natural ingredients satisfies this basic nutritional need.
- Reduces the risk of allergies.
- Many artificial additives and low-quality fillers can trigger allergies or sensitivities in cats. A natural diet made with simple, wholesome ingredients can help prevent adverse reactions and keep your cat comfortable.
- Provides balanced nutrition.
- Natural cat food is formulated to include the right balance of essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids. This ensures your cat gets the nutrients they need without unnecessary additives.
How to choose the right food for your cat
Here’s what to look for when you’re considering natural cat food for your kitty.
- Real, recognizable ingredients.
- Look for cat food that lists high-quality proteins, like chicken, turkey, salmon or beef, as the first ingredient. Avoid products with vague terms like "meat by-products." Choosing a brand that prioritizes whole, natural ingredients ensures your cat gets the best possible nutrition.
- No artificial preservatives or fillers.
- Choose foods that are free from artificial colors, flavors and chemical preservatives like BHA and BHT. Instead, look for natural preservatives such as vitamin E (tocopherols) or rosemary extract. Avoiding artificial additives can support your cat’s long-term health and reduce the risk of allergies or sensitivities.
- Complete and balanced nutrition.
- Ensure that the food meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). A proper diet of natural cat food can support energy levels, muscle growth and overall wellness.
- Added health benefits.
- Some natural cat food includes probiotics for cats that enhance digestive health, antioxidants for immune support and taurine for heart and eye function. These extra nutrients can help keep your cat healthy and in peak condition. Choosing natural food with these benefits can make a big difference in your cat’s well-being.
Transitioning to natural cat food
Knowing how to switch your cat’s food is important to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of natural cat food with your kitty’s current food, gradually increasing the percentage of new food over 7 to 10 days. Watch for any changes in digestion or behavior and consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.
FAQs
How do I know if cat food is truly natural?
Look for labels that specify "natural" and check the ingredient list for whole, recognizable ingredients. Avoid artificial preservatives, flavors and colors.
Is natural cat food more expensive?
Natural cat food can be slightly more expensive than conventional options, but the higher-quality ingredients often lead to better health and fewer vet visits.
Does natural cat food have enough protein?
Yes, high-quality natural cat food should have real meat as the first ingredient, ensuring your cat gets the protein they need.
What is the best natural cat food for kittens?
Kittens need a diet rich in protein, fats and essential nutrients. Look for natural cat food labeled specifically for kittens. Is grain-free natural cat food better?
Not all cats need a grain-free diet. Some natural cat foods include wholesome grains that provide valuable nutrients.
Can senior cats eat natural cat food?
Yes, many cat food makers offer senior cat food with formulas tailored kitties, providing the right balance of nutrients for aging felines.
Need other cat supplies while you’re shopping for natural cat food? PetSmart also carries cat litter, litter boxes, cat toys, cat beds & furniture, cat flea & tick treatments and much more. Explore PetSmart’s Cat Shop to find everything your cat needs, all in one place.
PetSmart offers convenient shopping with Curbside Pickup or in-store pickup. Need something today? We have select items available for Same-Day Delivery in most areas powered by DoorDash. For items you purchase frequently, PetSmart has Autoship that automatically delivers the items you want to your door as often as you’d like. Check the website to see which items are eligible.
Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.
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