What to Consider in High-Quality Cat Food
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statement: The AAFCO statement on a cat food label is the basic indicator of its nutritional completeness. AAFCO, a nonprofit organization, sets the standard nutritional requirements for pet food and animal feed. A cat food with an AAFCO statement is guaranteed to be balanced and complete for cats at different life stages. More about AAFCO standards can be found in the next slide.
Guaranteed Analysis and Nutrient Profiles: The guaranteed analysis provides the percentages of protein, fat, and other essential nutrients in cat food. For adult cats not pregnant, a minimum of 26% protein, 9% fat, and the presence of necessary nutrients including taurine, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins are recommended. There is no specific fiber or carbohydrate requirement for adult cats not pregnant, and a complete and balanced diet does not need additional essential nutrients. Cats with kidney issues may require lower protein diets to minimize waste product buildup in the blood and subsequent sickness.
If comparing wet food to kibble, the guaranteed analysis of wet food may not provide a complete picture of nutrient levels. More on deciphering the guaranteed analysis for wet food can be found in the How to Read a Cat Food Label section.
Expert Formulations: Brands with a dedicated nutrition expert on staff were given priority based on WSAVA guidelines. Both veterinary nutritionists we consulted agree on this. It is advisable to choose pet food manufacturers employing at least one full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or animal nutrition expert with an advanced degree. Brands relying on external veterinary nutritionists may not ensure the highest quality standards due to limited experience and technical knowledge.
Ingredients List: The ingredients listed on a pet food label are arranged in order of weight. Whole meat or meat meal should ideally be the primary ingredients. While the order of subsequent ingredients is worth considering, it shouldn’t be the sole focus.
Manufacturing Standards: When choosing a cat food brand, it’s crucial to consider the manufacturer’s quality control measures and production facilities. Accessible information about this should be available on the pet food company’s website. If not, contacting the company should provide quick answers. Some smaller pet food companies produce their food in facilities used by larger, more reputable manufacturers, ensuring quality and safety. When in doubt, opting for larger manufacturers with a long track record of producing pet food is recommended for quicker issue detection if any should arise.
Calorie Content: Cat food typically lists its calorie content in kilocalories (kcals). According to WSAVA, an average cat weighing 8 to 10 pounds should consume between 230 and 270 kcals per day. A cat food’s packaging should clearly display its calorie content.
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