October 25th 2022:
View/Download Cat Food Comparison Chart 2020
We understand that there are small variances among brands of cat food. For this comparison chart, the following specific cat food products were used and the information was taken from the manufacturer’s website or product packaging:
- Royal Canin: Adult Fit32
- Spectrum: Adult Delicate32
- Reflex Plus: Adult Hairball
- Reflex: Adult Chicken
- Bonnie: Adult Cocktail
- Proline: Adult Fish
- King: Adult Fish
- Lara: Adult Beef
- Snappy Tom: Adult Ocean fish with vegetables
- Josi Cat: Adult Poultry
- Bewi Cat: Adult Poultry
Grading Criteria
Animal Protein as First Ingredient
International labeling standards state that the list of ingredients must be in the order of proportion. Having animal protein as the first ingredient means that the highest proportion ingredient in the food is in fact animal protein. Cats are obligate carnivores so animal protein is the most important component of a cat’s diet
Multiple Animal-Based Proteins
Certain cats prefer certain protein sources, once you find a brand your cat likes, it’s good to have options of protein sources
Greater than 30% protein
Protein is the most important and one of the more expensive ingredients in dry cat food. The higher the protein the better. There are certain health conditions whereby a lower protein content is better – consult a vet for more information
Omega 3 & 6 Fats
Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids are important for the cat’s eyes, skin and nails, these fats can be derived from either flaxseed oil or fish oils.
Animal-based Omega 3 & 6 Fats
Omega 3 & 6 fats from animal sources are more bioavailable than from vegetable sources. I.e. The cat can absorb more of these essential oils. Oils from fish fat are better than flaxseed. The most superior source of omega 3 & 6 is actually Krill Oil (or Qrill oil)
Prebiotics and Probiotics
In order to ensure proper digestion, good gut bacteria is essential (probiotics). These good bacteria need a source of food (prebiotics) and these usually come in the form of indigestible fibers otherwise known as polysaccharides. Examples include fructooligosaccharides and mannanoligosaccharides
Immune Boosters
Immune boosters ensure that your cat stays healthy. The most common immune boosters in dry cat food are brewer’s yeast and beta-glucan
Dehydrated / Hydrolyzed Protein
Dehydrated protein means actual mean that is simply dehydrated then compressed into a kibble – yes! actual non processed meat. Hydrolyzed proteins are proteins that are broken down into amino acids and peptides – these are the most absorbable type of protein molecule and are particularly useful when dealing with food intolerances or protein intolerances
Gluten Free Option
Some cats have a gluten intolerance. A gluten-free option is useful for cats with this issue.
Botanicals
Botanicals are added to dry food to boost the cat’s health and vitality in various ways. Examples include citrus bioflavonoids for extra antioxidant protection, curcumin for anti-inflammation and joint health and rosemary for keeping bugs away
No Animal Derivatives or By-Products
Animal derivatives and by-products are parts of the animal carcass that are not actual meat, e.g. skin, blood, fur, etc. anything that can be classified as a protein. These products are generally regarded as less preferable for animals to eat compared to actual meat or organs.
