Today’s best cat foods–reviews of canned and raw options
SMALL UPDATE Apr 2021: Updated links. Removed some products no longer available. Moved Halo Sensitive Stomach Formula to top choice group.
The cat food world changes A LOT. When I have time, this list is updated. Meanwhile, you can help others by sharing info in the Comments.
Scratching your head in the cat food aisle? I’ve been there.
In fact, I’ve become a bit obsessive about how to choose the best cat food. I hope the hours of research and time I put into it will help you–and your cat. If you’re curious, I explain how I selected these cat foods here and answer FAQ’s about it here.
My main concern with cat food is how it affects:
- cat metabolism in regards to diabetes and weight
- cat kidney and urinary health
- cat digestive system, IBD, and intestinal cancer prevention
To me, these issues are even more important than the quality and source of the micro-ingredients in a food and who manufactures the food. Of course, I would never use a cat food created in China, but high quality pet food canning plants are few and far between even in the US. Now, there are some small ingredients I’ve taken a great interest in – such as carrageenan and BPA. This is because there may be life-threatening problems associated with these substances if they are consumed regularly over time. On the other hand, people ask about a lot of ingredients, like guar gum, that are not – to my knowledge thus far – known to be a big risk.
I think it’s easy, out of concern for your cat, to lose sight of the forest for the trees. So for me it’s about minimizing risk while keeping the higher priorities (above) in perspective and making sure we have enough good options to choose from.
Today’s best cat foods
If your cat has special health issues, please be sure to consult with a good vet about their food. If your cat has an illness with weakened immunity, some vets recommend avoiding raw meat as a precaution against bacteria.
Tip: On mobile, click the “+” signs for more info on each food.
FIRST PLACE | WHAT’S | COST | SPECIAL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Life’s Abundance Instinctive Choice canned |  | Simple ingredients, include organic chicken Omega 3s (fish oil) No carrageenan Very low starch, grain free No BPA in cans US ingredients only | MED-HIGH daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | Most cats love this food. I can only find it online–by the case. I suggesting getting their trial size first. You can save money & hassle with their auto-ship option. |
| Ziwipeak Canned Cat Food |  | Meat ingredients are sourced from grass-fed farming with no hormones or antibiotics used. No BPA in can lining. No carrageenan (removed). Very low starch, grain free. Sourced only from fully traceable, approved New Zealand farms. Manufactured in company-owned facilities in New Zealand | HIGH | Contains bone, which can be constipating for some cats |
| Primal, RAW frozen |  | Some ingredients are organic (not the meats though). Small company focused solely on quality pet food. Omega 3s (fish oil) Raw is considered most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Very low starch, grain | LOW daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | Includes ground bones—caution for cats with kidney issues or constipation.Tip: See their helpful food portion calculator provided online (it’s challenging to calculate amounts without it)Uses water High Pressure Processing to prevent bad bacteria while preserving the enzymes that make raw food nutrients so available.Includes Montmorillonite Clay (from Azomite) that is tested as contaminant-free.While Primal contains more plant matter than I like to see in a cat food (making it more complicated for digestion), the fact that it’s raw outweighs that issue and keeps it in the 1st tier. |
| Halo Natural Sensitive Stomach Recipe |  | No grains No rendered meats Includes omega 3 + 6 Ingredients sourced in US, except lamb from New Zealand and peas from Canada Includes a Quail formula, which is a good novel protein for cats with digestive tracts requiring alternatives (it also contains chicken though) | MED-HIGH | A little dry – try mixing a splash of water Moved from 2nd to 1st place because now uses D3 (instead of D2). |
| Weruva Grain Free Cats in the Kitchen (cans + pouches) |  | No carrageenan Simple ingredients Grain-free Responsive customer service Certified GMO-free Made in human-food processing facility No BPA in can lining | MED -HIGH daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | Moved from 2nd to 1st place because no longer contains starch ingredient. Beef is from Australia & New Zealand. Fish is from international waters, except for Tilapia, which is farmed in Thailand. Chicken raised in Thaliand. Manufactured in Thailand in human-food processing facility. |
| Tiki Cat Koolina Luau canned and Puka Puka Luau (both chicken) |   | Very low starch, grain free Manufactured in a human food factory USDA certified chicken Very simple ingredients– easy on digestion No BPA in cans No carrageenan | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | Made in Thailand at a human food factory. USDA certified chicken. |
| Darwins RAW frozen |  | All meats are hormone-and antibiotic-free and free-range Claim human-quality ingredients Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Low starch, grain free Simple recipe (best for digestion) | MED-LOW | Lab-tested to meet and exceed AAFCO guidelines Includes ground bones—caution for cats with |
| Hound & Gatos canned |  | No BPA in can lining No carrageenan Low starch, grain free Claim human-quality US food and factory | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | There is a misprint on some cans that indicates the product contains Vitamin D2. I have been contacted by the owner of Hound & Gatos, who assures me that it is a misprint; the product still contains D3, not D2. We assume the misprint will be corrected on future labels. |
SECOND PLACE | WHAT’S | COST | WHY 2nd PLACE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primal Freeze Dried RAW |  | More convenient than raw frozen food. Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Low starch, grain free Some ingredients are organic (not the meat) | LOW daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | IMPORTANT: Add water as instructed – otherwise the carb count is too high, plus cats can get dehydrated & accidentally overeat if you don’t add water. All raw dehydrated food are in 2nd place because they require water to be healthy and some people may overlook this. Includes ground bones— caution for cats with Includes Montmorillonite Clay (from Azomite) that is tested as contaminant-free. |
| Ziwipeak, Raw air-DEHYDRATED |  | Omega 3s (fish oil) No hormones and antibiotics 8% more moisture than most dry foods–more if you add water. More convenient than raw frozen food. Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Low starch, grain free; nice simple ingredients | LOW daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | IMPORTANT: Add water as instructed – otherwise the carb count is too high, plus cats can get dehydrated & accidentally overeat if you don’t add water. All raw dehydrated food are in 2nd place because they require water to be healthy and some people may overlook this. Includes ground bones—caution for cats with Several experts say dry foods are too dehydrating for cats with kidney problems. |
| FirstMate Limited Ingredient Canned |  | Made in Vancouver, Canada Uses free-range chicken. Vitamin and mineral supplements are sourced from North America, Germany and France. Meats sourced from US, except Duck from Germany, Lamb from New Zealand/Australia. | MED | In 2nd place because contains some starch, making carb count slightly higher. |
| Party Animal Canned Cat Food |  | Grain free Hand-crafted in small batches Organic protein sources, oils, fruits, vegetables.Made in USA | MED | In 2nd place because it contains several plant ingredients ingredients (harder for cats with sensitive digestion) |
| Pure Vita canned |  | Grain free, low starch Fairly simple ingredients Manufactured at company-owned US plant Fish meal is cetified ethoxyquin-free No carrageenan | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | In 2nd place because contains controversial ingredient Menadione (synthetic K) |
| Feline Natural Raw Freeze Dried by K9 |  | More convenient than raw frozen food. Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Low starch, grain free Nice simple ingredients are easy on digestiom (if you add water as instructed – Clean New Zealand sourced ingredients | LOW daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | IMPORTANT: Stir in warm water (at about body temp); don’t have to wait to serve. Add water as instructed – otherwise the carb count is too high, plus cats can get dehydrated & accidentally overeat if you don’t add water. All raw dehydrated food are in 2nd place because they require water to be healthy and some people may overlook this. Includes ground bones—caution for cats with “Has been tested and exceeds the AAFCO minimum requirements” – including taurine. (Shane Bartlettf, K9 Natural Food) |
| Honest Kitchen GRACE DEHYDRATED |
| Only pet food legally allowed to call themselves “human grade” (they won a lawsuit). Company owned US plant is certified for organic and kosher products by the state of California. Meat is steamed at low temperatures to kill pathogens while conserving nutrient quality, then dehydrated. Grain free | LOW daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | IMPORTANT: Add water as instructed – otherwise the carb count is too high, plus cats can get dehydrated & accidentally overeat if you don’t add water. All raw dehydrated food are in 2nd place because they require water to be healthy and some people may overlook this. Also in 2nd place because contains starchy ingredients, making carb count a bit higher than first place foods. NOTE “Grace” is lower in carbs and simpler in ingredients than “Prowl” Introduce gradually. Texture is unique–some cats resist it. Ours like it better with ground turkey added. Tip: Best deal I found on a trial |
| Stellas Freeze Dried RAW Dinner Morsels |  | More convenient than raw frozen food. Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Low starch, grain free Nice simple ingredients are easy on digestion No carrageenan | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | All raw dehydrated are in 2nd place because they require added water to be healthy and many people may overlook this. No longer contains menadione! IMPORTANT: Add water; rehydrate for 1 minute. Add water as instructed. |
| LOTUS canned |  | No carrageenan No ethoxyquin in fish Very low starch, grain free All ingredients sourced from US, Canada, New Zealand Made in small batches in US Claim not to have BPA in lining | Medium daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | In 2nd place because contains large fish (4th ingredient), so should not be fed exclusively due to concerns about accumulated ocean pollution toxins and/or extra iodine affecting thyroid health over time. |
| Taste of the WILD canned |  | No BPA in cans No carrageenan No ethoxyquin in fish Low starch, grain free | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | In 2nd place because contains large fish, so should not be fed exclusively due to concerns about accumulated ocean pollution toxins and/or extra iodine affecting thyroid health over time. Also contains small amount of menadione sodium bisulfite (controversial form of vitamin K) |
| Soulistic canned Carrageenan-free formulas only: Good Karma, Harvest Sunrise |  | Claims human-quality food sources and “free range” chicken No GMOs Grain free No Carrageenan (Good Karma and Harvest Sunrise) | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | In 2nd place because contains starchy ingredients, making carb count a bit higher than first place foods. Other carrageenan-free formulas were removed from this list because they contain controversial ingredient Menadione (synthetic K) Manufactured in Thaliand at USDA-approved human food facility You’ll find it at PETCO |
| ORGANIX Grain-Free Canned Cat Food |  | GMO-free certified. Organic (meats and protein sources as well as flaxseed, cranberries and carrots) No carrageenan Made in USA No artificial preservatives, growth hormones or antibiotics in organic ingredients—ever | MED | In 2nd place because Organix is owned by Merrick, which was bought by Purina in 2015. They say the company will still operate independently with no changes. The takeover process will take many months. For these reasons, I would say the product is probably still fine for now, but after 2016, let’s revisit what’s happening with Merrick and the quality of its ingredients. (If you notice anything, let me know. I have already had too many complaints about the Merrick canned cat food and removed it from this list in March 2016. I believe Organix food has more of chance of maintaining quality thanks to certified organic standards.) |
| SOJOS Freeze Dried Raw |  | Raw is considered the most easily digested, nutrient-available form of cat food. Grain free USDA meat Variety of formulas to choose | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | IMPORTANT: Add water as instructed – otherwise the carb count is too high, plus cats can get dehydrated & accidentally overeat if you don’t add water. All raw dehydrated food are in 2nd place because they require water to be healthy and some people may overlook this. Also, this food contains a starchy ingredient (sweet potatoes), so carb percentage will be higher than the many foods on this list that don’t contain a significant starch. Includes ground bones—caution for cats with kidney issues or constipation Meets (exceeds) minimum nutritional levels established by the AAFCO.com. |
| Tiki Cat Hanalei Luau Wild Salmon, canned |  | Sources through environmental fishing practices; seafood sustainability and food safety guidelines Manufactured in a human food factory (quality is visible—looks and smells like human food) Omega 3’s No carrageenan No BPA in cans Low starch, grain free | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list | In 2nd place because contains large fish, so should not be fed exclusively due to concerns about accumulated ocean pollution toxins and/or extra iodine affecting thyroid health over time. No longer contains menadione (controversial synthetic vitamin K). Note: Avoid the TikiCat formulas that have grain (rice) in them. (This Wild Salmon one doesn’t have it.) |
| Instinct LID (Limited Ingredient) canned |  | Meats sourced from US and New Zealand (except rabbit) No carrageenan Very low starch, grain free No BPA in 5.5oz and 3 oz cans GMO free Manufactured in Thailand and Kansas. | MED daily feeding cost compared to others on this list. | Move down to 2nd place (2022) after formula change and manufacturing relocation. Many customers are reporting their cats don’t like the smell and taste of the new formula. Montmorillonite Clay is tested to be toxin-free. According Nature’s Variety rep: “Our vendor tests the Montmorillonite Clay used in our diets for toxins and it is guaranteed toxin-free.” LID formulas are best as they have more simple ingredients than other Nature’s Variety canned recipes. |
While all of these cat food choices are unbiased and based solely on what I would buy, I have started to allow some links on this page to be affiliate links in order to keep this blog funded.
Most cats resist unfamiliar food at first! Buy and try SMALL at first AND use these smart tips to help your cat accept new foods:
If your cat has IBS symptoms or digestive issues
See How treatment-resistant feline IBS symptoms healed in one month and What to feed cats with feline IBS, diarrhea, or frequent hairballs.
If your cat’s favorite natural cat food didn’t make the list…
Many cat foods almost made this list. There were so many foods, I had to be brutal in selecting.
See These natural cat foods didn’t make the “best” list: here’s why (includes the Runner Ups!).
Maybe I missed a food. Let me know if you have questions–I won’t always be able to answer every question personally, but I will add foods you ask about to my “To Be Researched” list.
I also started a list best dry cat foods here–with some health caveats.
Resources
Where to find these foods
- Only Natural Pet Store (carries most of these foods – affiliate store chosen for their reasonable prices)
- Amazon.com and Petfooddirect.com carry many of these foods.
- Many brands are available online directly from the company that makes them
- Your local pet food store (especially if holistic) may have some brands
- Whole Foods carries Primal cat food
Resources for making cat food
Making your own raw cat food can cost even less than the packaged raw cat foods, and is one the healthiest things you can do for most cats. However, it is absolutely essential that you do it right, and add proper nutrients—serious health problems could result if you don’t add the right nutrients. Here’s the scoop!
Your experience? Let’s talk!
None of these foods are perfect, but they met my “best of” criteria. However, every cat has different needs, just like you and I do.
I welcome your experiences, opinions, and contributions in the comments below.
Anyone have any thought on Innova Evo now that its back on the shelves after the recalls?
Didn’t know EVO was back (odd, since I’m on several wait lists)–thanks for the info! In its last iteration before removal, EVO was my favorite canned food. The carrageenan had been removed. Only one gum, as I recall. Animal fat, not vegetable oil. Low carbs, calorie dense. Good for ESRD cats. But that was the last batch I bought of the old formula (at black market prices).
A few years ago, my cats were sickened by canned EVO after it was purchased by Proctor & Gamble. It was awful…and very scary. I contacted the FDA and a rep came and interviewed us and picked up the food for analysis. Never heard back but did hear about other cats getting sick on it. Sure hope they cleaned up their act, but I will not feed that food again.
Scary is right. If I’d had your experience–which I did with H&G-nothing could convince me to try it again.
This is new and intriguing. I hope that you get a chance to review.
p.s. Thanks for your site and recommendations. I used your recommendations (food, litter, etc) 4 years ago for my oldest feral and, now, for three new ferals (well, they are all indoors now and no longer ferals). I know I’m doing the right thing by them and it’s thanks to you! I have digressed…. 😉 I hope you check this out sometime. I value your opinion highly.
https://www.drelseys.com/clean-protein/
I would like to leave a couple of comments;
First – I had a beautiful, very sweet little black cat (Anabel) who I lost at 12 years old. She experienced urinary tract problems (blood in the urine resulting in urination in several parts of the house). Then she developed lymphoma and died from this disease.
I cannot prove anything, but from what I have read I believe that the dry food diet that I fed her throughout her life was the primary cause of her illnesses. Please DO NOT feed your cat dry food!
Second – I now have a feisty little tiger striped cat (Angelina) who I also started feeding dry food. When I read about the illnesses that dry cat food could cause, I switched her to canned food. Within three to four weeks she started to eat less and less of this food, her stools turned black and were only a fraction of their normal volume and I had to discontinue feeding this brand of canned food.
I don’t want to point a finger at the manufacturer, but the two ingredients that I can single out are chicken and carrageenan. I thought that she possibly had an allergic reaction to one of these ingredients (an allergic reaction which I found documented online – for both of these ingredients).
I have now changed her food back to her original dry formula and she seems to be recovering perfectly. Since this dry food is chicken-based I wonder if her negative reaction to the canned food was due to the carrageenan. Reading up on this additive I find that it can result in IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) and possibly even cancer.
Please do not take my comments as scientific evidence but be careful which foods you feed to your little cat. She is totally dependent on you for her health and welfare.
-greg
https://nanasglutenfree.wordpress.com/2016/06/15/seaweed-kelp-carrageenan/
https://therawexplorer.com/2013/04/26/dodgy-ingredients-carrageenan/
http://truthaboutpetfood.com/fda-closes-warning-letter-to-evangers-pet-food/
Evanger’s clears its name after a thorough investigation proves no wrongdoing.
(The FDA mistakenly alleged, NOT “found”. Please correct your wording.)
WRONG! The link Kitty posted above is to an article from 2013! Evanger’s is a horribly corrupt company and I would NEVER buy anything from them or any of the many pet food manufacturers they provide ingredients or processing for. http://truthaboutpetfood.com/the-type-of-meat-evangers-really-used/
Have you checked out Evanger’s food for dogs & cats. It seems very basic, with minimal ingredients.
I did have my cats on Primal Raw Freeze Dried. It’s amazing cat food but only lasted 4 cats 7 days and that was their biggest bag! At $40 a bag I’d be broke if I kept that up! I wish I could keep them on it because I have seen a significant improvement in the litter box. Poops are less and not smelly. My cat with IBS is also having less hairballs. No diarrhea either. So I am going to try them on Petcurian GO Sensitivity and Shine Limited Ingredient Duck Formula. It’s a dry cat food so I am going to moisten it and also sumplement with the Petcurian Go canned food as well. See how that goes! Anyone on here feed their cats The Petcurian Go food?
I only do wet food but yes the shine! Duck canned one is on my rotations that I feed this to my cat every Mondays and he loves it, it is pate and is moist with a thin layer of oily juice, but not very wet, saucy or stew like if that is what you are looking for. My cat does very well on it no digestive issues or allergies
Thanks for responding! It will be the first time feeding the Petcurian canned and dry food tonight. Hope it goes well. 2 of my 4 cats can be picky. The last month has been a battle in trying to find a food that suits them all and very expensive. I wish i could go all canned or the raw freeze dried, but it’s crazy expensive with 4 cats. I’m hoping the Petcurian Dry will be the next best alternative! It should be a bit better if i add water or some wet food to it, especially for my 16yr old with IBS and potential kidney issues. I’m hoping the phosphates are not too high with this food and it’s a good meat only protein so that should be okay.
It is still good for the cats if you feed raw a few times a week and then canned. Part of their variety.
My abyssinian cats have been eating Natures Variety Instinct Chicken Canned for a long time. One of them had oral teeth surgery and will not eat this. I had some canned Chicken Soup for the Soul and gobbled it up. What is your opinion of that brand?
Ziwipeak updated/revamped their ingredient lists for all food including canned in which has lesser ingredients and did away with gums, etc.. chewy.com has some of the new batches alongside the originals, in the upcoming weeks or months, they will probably have all of the new batches for each meat or food form variety.
I was excited to check this out! I wouldn’t feed Ziwipeak before (despite it being #1 recommended canned food on this list, wtf?) because of toxic tetrasodium pyrophosphate, a rust stain remover! Now, according to ziwipeak website’s list of ingredients, they removed not only TSPP, but agar-agar as well!
However, it looks like they removed more than that… Comparing ingredients of the old formula with the new one (ex. venison recipe), i noticed they removed almost all vitamins and supplements. Ok, let’s assume that liver (i.e. venison liver) is a sufficient source of iron, dried kelp – of iodine, and newly added “bone” (i.e. venison bone) ingredient is absorbable enough to replace calcium supplement (although I highly doubt it, it’s a fragment of a bone, it’s just going to pass through, no?). But what about potassium, selenium, choline, vitamin A, a number of B vitamins, biotin, and most importantly, taurine, which cats can’t produce themselves? Are all of these supposed to be sufficiently replaced by the new “chickpea” ingredient? How much of it is in there then??
I’m all for the simplest cleanest ingredient list, and I am still looking for the holy grail of wet food, but I don’t want my cats to suffer the consequences of lack of necessary vitamins and supplements in the long term. So I really want to get to the bottom of this. Has anyone bought the new formula yet and can provide a full list of ingredients printed on the actual can?
Also, one of my cats has hyperthyroidism, can someone shed light on effects of new zealand green lipped mussel on thyroid levels? Although there is a huge list of health benefits of NZGLM as it’s high in omega-3, minerals and protein (http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.com/2013/11/green-lipped-mussel-alternative.html), there’s surprisingly not much info on iodine levels but I’m assuming it’s high since it’s seafood. Does anyone have any info on that? Btw, it’s also not recommended for cats with liver disease.
I’d also appreciate any solid info on effect of dried kelp on thyroid levels. Is it a standard necessary amount of iodine? More? Less? A better or worse source of iodine than the industry standard (calcium iodate, I think)?
Anyway, I would love to switch to Ziwipeak, but since you can #trustnoone, I’m still cautious.
*Skip this part if not interested in switching to Ziwipeak*
Detailed comparison of the new and old formula (venison recipe used as example):
New formula list of ingredients (according to Ziwipeak website):
Venison, Venison Broth, Venison Liver, Venison Lung, Venison Heart, Venison Kidney, Venison Tripe, Chick Peas, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison Bone, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B1 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement)
New ingredients added:
Venison Bone – alleged source of calcium?
Chickpeas – potential source of potassium? and vitamin A? Not sure, ’cause chickpeas are not recommended for carnivorous cats, especially for those with conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, kidney stones, gout, or hyper-acidity as it could end up irritating their condition (http://canigivemycat.com/chickpeas)
Vitamin B1 supplement – listed as thiamine mononitrate in the old formula – standard source of B1, needed for healthy nervous system and mental attitude.
Old formula list of ingredients (according to Chewy website):
Venison Broth, Venison Meat, Venison Heart, Venison Liver, Venison Lung, Venison Kidney, Venison Tripe, New Zealand Green Mussel, Olive Oil, Dried Kelp, Potassium Chloride, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Agar-Agar, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Taurine
Removed ingredients from the old formula:
Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate (YAY!)
Agar-agar (YAY!)
Olive Oil – no info on actual health benefits, aside from relief from constipation
Potassium Chloride – standard source of potassium, required mineral, balances acid/alkaline levels
Choline Chloride – standard source of choline, required vitamin, works to build cell membranes (http://www.petfoodindustry.com/articles/9-dealing-with-choline-chloride?v=preview)
Calcium Carbonate – standard source of calcium, required mineral, promotes strong bones, teeth, cardiovascular health and skeletal strength, used as a buffer to acidic foods.
Iron Proteinate – excellent, most expensive source of iron, required mineral needed for red blood cell reproduction (hemoglobin)
Niacin Supplement – standard source of B-6 vitamin, promotes proper digestion, energy production, healthy skin and nerves
Sodium Selenite – standard source of selenium, powerful anti-oxidant protects the body from free radicals and heavy metals, supports immune response
Calcium Pantothenate – standard source of a B-complex vitamin B-5, supports adrenal activity, involved in almost every metabolic process in the body
Riboflavin Supplement – Vitamin B-2 needed for rich red blood cell production, contributes to skin and coat health
Pyrodoxine Hydrochloride – standard source of B-6 vitamin, immune stimulant, major factor in protein metabolism and red blood cell production
Vitamin A Supplement – vital to immune function, required for healthy vision, develops strong bones, lowers risk to cancer
Biotin – standard source of Vitamin H (part of the B complex group of vitamins), promotes healthy skin and coat
Vitamin B-12 Supplement – involved in immune response, plays a role in the synthesis of protein in the body and the production of red blood cells
Calcium Iodate – source of calcium and iodine, both essential, calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth, iodine is needed for proper thyroid function, which regulates growth, development and metabolic rate.
Taurine – necessary and essential amino acid for cats who do not manufacure it on their own, helps regulate nervous system, promotes thyroid and cardiovascular health
So…. Whoever had the patience to go through the whole list, you be the judge. In fact, I would love your input on which ingredients of the new formula are sufficient sources of the removed vitamins and supplements.
P.S. While doing my research on ingredients, I found some info worth mentioning here and some useful websites about toxic to cats foods and plants I wanted to share fyi:
Avocado (psst! ron krikorian with Avoderm, where u at, boi?) is highly toxic to cats. It contains persin which is quite poisonous to many animals. It can cause a host of health problems including heart, respiratory, and gastrointestinal upset, and can result in death depending on how much is consumed. )
Catnip (I was shocked!) can cause vomiting and diarrhea (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/catnip). This website in particular contains a LOT of plants toxic to cats, but I wanted to highlight catnip in particular, since many people use it with their cats oblivious to its side effects. I recently had unpleasant experiences with both my cats who got very sick out of nowhere (severe diarrhea and vomiting) a week apart from each other. All symptoms pointed to poisoning (it went away in a few days). They are both indoors cats and i give them the same food so I was baffled by what could be the culprit. Then I found this website – it could very well be the catnip since I generously sprinkled it on their scratch pads.
Beware.
Very true Lila!! I do agree as ziwipeak does have a short ingredients list and I don’t know how my cat will respond to the new ingredients, although shorter I’m assuming they are still adding the same minerals etc but maybe comprehensively not listing them? I think this would be have to be answered by ziwipeak Hmm.. although I’m glad they got rid of the gum and nasty tetrasodium p.. I will buy these as I only get the lamb and the version and switch with different meat and brands on a daily basis so I can’t attest the reactions will be.
I didn’t know catnip being potentially negative! I thought too much wouldn’t be good but very interesting how some have adverse reactions! My cat varies he is indifferent at times but then he does like to be rubbed on it, I never add too much perhaps I give too little because I don’t want to cause any reactions if possible, and he seemed to be fine. But this is a good thing to point out in case other cats may not react positively and pinpoint catnip as the potential trigger.
Effie, when you get the new ziwipeak’s formula, can you please let me know how your cat reacts to it? According to Chewy’s reviews, people really hate the new formula. And it’s so much more expensive than the old one too!
Also, I was always under the impression that the companies must by law list all ingredients included in the formula, but if not, then that’s just messed up! I’m shocked by some stuff they DO list, can you imagine what they could be hiding?
my girls love the new lamb/rabbit formula — i am shocked and very relieved…
using as part of rotation, so not going crazy about the vitamins and supplements listed/not listed…
i just have to take a deep breath, believe that the more important issue is what they removed, yay!
Hi! I just started feeding our cats Primal Freeze Dried Raw Chicken & Salmon Formula. I have a 16 yr old cat that has IBS, it has never been confirmed by a Vet, but she has lots of hairballs, throws up usually every day to every other day. She also has at times, loose bloody poops. She’s had this for quite sometime and I had always thought the hairballs were normal until I found your page. So now I have been doing a lot of my own research into this stuff! Trying to find the best option for cat food for 4 cats that range from the ages of 2yrs-16yrs old. So I have been trying to find a good quality food that suits them all. I did have them on Nutrience Infusion Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food, but my 8yr old has had nothing but diarrhea on this food, plus it’s way too high protein for my 16yr old who has chronic IBS and potential kidney issues. I had blood work done on her and it came back all good, but the Vet did tell me to try and get her on a food that has a protein below 12%. I have been feeding her canned food, but found that it has carageenan in it, so now that’s out! So I found this Primal Food tonight at my local Pet Store and was happy to find it because it’s listed as a 2nd best on your site. So far all the cats seem to like it, especially the youngest cats. So my main concern is should my 16yr old with the potential kidney issues be okay on this food too? Is the protein in this food better than the protein found in dry cat foods and canned cat foods? Or is it still too high a protein for her? I’d like to have her on this cat food because i am hoping it will help with the IBS, the kidneys are still okay as per her blood work, the vet just suggested because of her age she should be on lower protein food. What are your thoughts due to your own research and experience? My email is bstaden@cogeco.ca or my facebook account is https://www.facebook.com/WendyCampbell34 I look forward to hearing from you!
My cat has hyperesthesia can someone please help me on foods …he was on merrick dry and wet..I wouldike t star hm on primal dehydrated …any thoughts ? Also have started him on medication called gabapentin ..thanks
I don’t have personal experience, but just from what I read, normally the best is providing a less stressful calming environment and mood stabilizing meds can help in which I’m sure you have a handle on. In terms of food, I would suggest getting high quality food that focuses mainly animal protein with less to no carbs or little greens as possible that is more species appropriate to their diets. I do a meat rotation diet, meaning every day I offer a different meat type and/or brand. The above has great suggestions: ziwipeak offers batches with new ingredients and I know my cat loves venison and lamb and beef from them (haven’t tried the new batches yet, also I get just juicy pork, go! Duck shine, nature variety lid turkey and rabbit, halo guinea fowl only, as well as bravo canned Turkey as well as beef). Try to avoid fish as can cause reactions. If you can, try to transition off dry food completely (you can do the dehydrated ones but make sure to add liquid-broth etc) as I noticed wet or raw food nutrition seems to help cats adapt and sustain their health at peak levels.
Thank you
I would never give “mood stabilizing” drugs to a cat. Why would you anyway? Drugs (natural or synthetic) create biochemical imbalances in the brain and damage organs. You need to look at the root cause of the cat’s ailments. Maybe he’s moody because he’s not eating properly or hates being indoors.
I wouldn’t give drugs either. I have a cat with some difficult behaviors. It’s best to use homeopathics, flower essences, Rescue Rmedy, even Feliway..In addition to playtime and other kitty enrichment activities.
As far as hyperesthesia, when I gave drugs the cat just had more aggravated IBS/IBD, a condition already there. I wonder if this neurological condition happens from some unknown brain damage in utero or some injury when young. I give one drug via rubbing in ear flap skin and some Miralax for his defecating habits! Don’t ever give any OTC stuff unless your vet ok’s it. Pets are not people. I don’t believe the flower essences and all are even legit. Haven’t seen Feliway do anything either. BTW all these years of using L-Lysine for cats for chronic upper respiratory issues, and a few years ago they say studies nix that idea. So why still being touted and sold? I take everything with many grains of salt. Thanks for reading.
Not to start the indoor/outdoor war here, but please don’t make your kitty an outdoor kitty if currently indoors. If you feel at any point this is the issue, I would recommend harness training. There are so many dangers outside – I work with a rescue and I hear horror story after horror story (and know some people personally as well). Do some cats live long lives without incident? Sure… but many do not 🙁 I do agree that I would look into other causes before bringing any mood stabilizing medication into the picture though. I believe gabapentin is pain medication though. Has your hypersthesia kitty had his thyroid checked also? Sometimes hyperthyroid can cause skin twitching as well – thyroid tests are not run in most standard panels – have to be requested separately.
Then, you need to look at more information in which this condition often misunderstood due to being rare and still unknown are the actual reasons why it is caused, but it is commonly associated with rippling on the skin, more noticeable on the back with a brain or nerve chemical imbalance that isn’t healed on its own via diet or calmness, there is no holistic cure, but treatment is about managing it in which often is done by meds. It is encouraged to seek some form of meds both by holistic and traditional vets because of the devastating effect it can have on the cats’ physically and mentally without the medicines. This goes way beyond just moodiness, boredom, diet, and the poor cats have no control over their bodies in which they can internally self mutilate or rarely attack others randomly in an attempt to rid of the pain, hence indicative of seizures etc.. I understand the reason why medicines are often not liked by those that want to do it all natural but Sadly, as of now Feline hyperesthesia syndrome, also again known as rolling skin disease is more effective with medicines- again it does not cure it or makes it disappear, but manages the frequency of it to provide the best quality of life for them.
I would like to add if mild and the meds helped in decreasing the frequency of it, does not mean it is a lifetime medication maintenance, but could be weaned off later and then utilizing less stressful and controlled environments, schedules, etc can all play a role in sustaining a better standard of life. It really depends on the severity of the condition and having continual vet oversight along with the guardian. I do wish Alanna the best and it is likely she and her vet has a handle of what diagnostic testing and blood work (Feline hyperesthesia syndrome isn’t easily diagnosed by testing but clinically and again done after all is exhausted before making the diagnosis). This again is not controlled behaviorally but more mentally.
However, I do agree with always keeping cats indoors, or harnessed and watched if going outside, which is a different subject.
A 100% fresh raw diet, fresh air, and a natural environment cures hyperesthesia. There is absolutely no need for drugs. period. Honestly, I can’t believe people are still asking what to feed their cats. did you not read Liz’s blog about feeding your cats a 100% meat diet? also, if your cat is ignoring you or behaving aggressively, it’s most likely because they doesn’t like you. you can’t force someone to like you. maybe you’re not really a cat person after all.
I never said I had an aggressive cat nor does he have behavioral or mental problems, yet there is no cure for this syndrome and even the blogger Liz here would agree and it would be misleading to suggest such that and my cat has and is still fed raw as well, even top holistic doctors and behaviorist will agree that there is no cure, but feel that feeding raw and full animal protein with no grains etc is the way to go along with little stress to manage or decrease condition depending on severity, but does it cure or prevent it? No, I would hope they do come up with one. I also said I too don’t care or like giving medications, fortunately I didn’t or still don’t have to. My cat is very bonded to me as I had him since he was 3-4 weeks (I almost lost him to fading kitten syndrome but around the clock care and 24 hrs. emergency vet assistance helped him thrived) and I love him dearly as well as try to help others with the community outside cats and I also care for those that want to help their fur babies, whether cat, dog, bird, etc..
But in the short term of medicating if necessay to improving the quality of life of a fur baby, it is understandable, I heard from others when facing a severity of this syndrome such as leading to actual persistent pain and self inflicting attacks after doing what suggested (alternatives such as raw diet included, fresh air, etc), they had to resort to medications. This site is to help encourage, motivate, and give advise that is accurate or what we know as possible as well as encouraging those to seek veteranian assistance whether traditional or holistic for expert advice in which the original questioner did, not to condemn or mislead so don’t resort to making assumptions that does not help anyone. It has no productivity to call others being less lovable or caring as people are here doing the opposite because they do actually care.
The online pet store that I order food through said that Hound & Gatos (the company) is “undergoing some internal changes” – he did not know (or was not willing to say) what changes. Wondering if you will be able to find out if there is anything worrisome involved.
I can’t remember where I read it, but I heard that the cannery that cans for H&G was sold to another company. This company is supposed to continue canning for H&G, but the entire staff was replaced with personnel the new owner hired. The transition is reportedly causing the delay in getting cans on store shelves. I apologize for failing to remember where I read this… And, of course, I cannot verify its veracity, but that is what I heard.
I contacted the people at Avoderm and they replied that the Carrageenan has been taken out of their food and that it would probably take awhile to start receiving the cans and pouches without the carrageenan being listed before all the food without the carrageenan reaches the shelves in the stores and Chewy’s. I feed my cats the chicken and duck also in the pouches.
I wanted to know the thoughts on Logic. My organic store sells it. I can’t find anything bad about this brand. Is there a reason they are not on the list of canned foods to buy?
Correction: Nature’s Logic is what I meant
Hi Liz,
Two new canned foods without any gums!! Worth adding?? 🙂
1) Rawz steam cooked
2) Feline Naturals
Rawz steam cooked ingredients: Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide
Toxic effects of ethylenediamine dihydroiodide treatment in Swedish calves: “To study the preventive effect of supplementary iodine on interdigital phlegmon, 50 Swedish red and white calves weighing approximately 100 kg each were given 1 mg ethylenediamine dihydroiodide (EDDI) per kg bodyweight daily. Fifty calves in the same herd were untreated controls. AS A RESULT OF SEVERE SIDE EFFECTS THE EXPERIMENT WAS INTERRUPTED AFTER FIVE WEEKS. No case of interdigital phlegmon was observed, but 31 calves in the EDDI group and one in the control group were treated for respiratory disease. Serum protein bound iodine increased on average from 68.0 to 213.0 micrograms/litre in the EDDI group compared to an increase from 59.9 to 70.7 micrograms/litre in the control group.” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6636476)
Animal Toxicity Studies: EXCESS EDDI CAUSES CATTLE TO MANIFEST COUGHING, SEROMUCOUS NASAL DISCHARGE, LACRIMATION, DULLNESS OR RELUCTANCE TO MOVE, HEAVY BREATHING, & SLIGHT FEVER… SHEEP MANIFEST SIMILAR SIGNS… THESE SIGNS ABATE WITHIN A FEW DAYS IF EDDI…REMOVED FROM RATION. (https://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/search/a?dbs+hsdb:@term+@DOCNO+440)
Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide:
Sometimes listed as EDDI, it appears to be used as an iodine supplement. It may react with sulfates and release free iodine. Calcium Iodate (currently in many pet foods) is indicated as the most stable iodine supplement and would appear to be a better choice of iodine supplements. EDDI was once used in skin ointments but now it is rarely found in cosmetics and toiletries due to allergic skin responses in the humans. Industrial uses include epoxy resin (glues, adhesives, and paints), coolant oils, rubber latex, solvent, fungicides, textile lubricants, color developers, antifreeze solutions, electroplating solutions, and floor polish remover. The outcome was not good when researchers tried using it to prevent foot rot in cows. (http://www.thedogpress.com/dogfood/Ingredients_Liquorman.asp)
Shall I go on?…
Add to that Rawz uses BPA in the lining of their 5.5 oz cans. They confirmed this to me in an email when I asked. To “reduce costs” 🙁
the a;lternatives to bpa in the epoxy lining are usually wore and almost everyone uses it, or wont disclose it. the science seems kind of fuzzy on safe bpa limits.
Hello,
What are you thoughts on Natural Value cat food?
I was also wondering what your opinions are on Fromm’s canned cat food, Blue Wilderness, Natural Balance and Merrick? (I’m asking about the canned, wet cat food mainly.
Your opinion is appreciated!
I don’t see any mention of Natural Planet Organics canned cat food here. I have two cats who were basically depending on that food to stay alive, but with the recent recipe changes it seems they would rather starve than eat it. I have also had some cans that made one of my cats sick. I’m wondering if other people have had these problems. It’s very hard to find reviews or feedback aboout the food (none on their site, for instance). What do you think of this food? (turkey dinner in particular)
Bestcatfoodfor cats
I’m going to add my comments on this page also, since it’s the newest page. I had commented in reply to a couple of others on the previous page. Hope this helps someone in their research.
I can attest to the comment above from Rhonda, regarding Tiki Cat. I e-mailed them to confirm the Vitamin K(medadione) addition, and they said, “in early 2016, AAFCO changed the vitamin and mineral requirements for complete and balanced diets. To meet these requirements, we had to update our premix in a couple of the diets, which included added a Vitamin K supplement. With the new requirements, the original ingredients in the chicken diets did not meet it naturally….It is not something that had to be added to every diet, but mostly the chicken formulas. We are looking into ways to meet the new requirements without having to add the vitamin k3, but do not have a change at this time. With the new labels, the vitamin and mineral premix was updated but the protein was not changed.” They responded promptly, but unfortunately, this is a very negative change, and I will no longer feed Tiki Cat. I really liked the food because it was literally shredded chicken with added supplements, AND my cat liked it, but I can no longer buy this knowing it has this ingredient in it. So, heads up to everyone feeding Tiki Cat. I don’t believe the cans reflect this added ingredient yet, so you will need to visit their website, click on the new line that has been re-done, and look over the ingredients. This list here on Natural Cat Care blog needs a good update, but I realize she is not able to keep it up as often as things change.
Another tip: I was on Chewy’s site today to find SOMETHING better to feed, and I noticed Hound & Gatos was sold out across the board. Chewy told me that they did not know when it would be restocked because “the company is undergoing changes”. I have e-mailed H&G today asking what this meant. Ultimately, I don’t know that I will even buy this food, because my cat wouldn’t touch it much before without mixing with another food. It is currently recommended on a few “lists” but I’m not sure of the exact reasons why. Hopefully, they are removing all of the gums in their recipe, I heard somewhere that it was a possibility of happening in 2016. I received a response email from the CEO Will, as indicated on the e-mail, and he said, “we must take a moment to update you as to our current temporary situation. Over the last couple of months, the cannery we use, The Performance Pet, for our fine foods was sold to Farmers Union Inc. As such, the new company that took control has completely replaced the workers in the plant, leading to temporary slowdown in the canning process. We expect to begin shipping products again on Feb 28, 2017…We are adding in new varieties as Game Bird, Ocean Fish, The Original Paleolithic Diet(100% various meats) and a new 98% turkey. Two years ago we removed all gums in our products, to further improve quality, and replaced it with Agar, which is commonly sold in natural food stores around the nation. We are also updating all labels to show 98% lamb or 98 % chicken. (98% on all new labels) which is the highest in the industry. H&G isn’t changing formulas, we are still 100% meat products.” So this response answered my question and concern about the gums, though I have yet to see any new labels my self, but I’ll continue to keep an eye on the situation, and may end up ordering from them to see how the new food looks.
Also, after all of my extensive research over the years, I still love Honest Kitchen. I JUST WISH my cat would eat it! From what I’ve gathered over the years, they seem to be a great company that holds high standards, and I would feel comfortable feeding their food, but my cat wouldn’t touch it. Since it’s been a few years, I am buying the samples once more, and maybe this time I’ll have some luck with it. According to the composition of prowl and grace, Grace is less “carby” and I talked to Liz through e-mail today and she informed me that “our foods are actually more than 70% meat, which when comparing cat foods is higher than most brands out there. In nature cats would eat the stomachs of their catch, which would contain fruits and veggies. Cats will also eat grass to help with digestion. We are currently working on different cat recipes but dont have anything solidified yet.” So, it’s good to know that one day they may have more diet options. I love that they serve the dehydrated raw, though.
So to round this all up, I just want others to know we are not in this alone! I am a desperately concerned pet owner who just wants the best for her pet, and wants to find that “perfect” food, which is not out there, but I want to find something pretty dang close. I have bought a few “lists” out there from reputable(I hope) sources and have scoured them trying to figure out which food I should get to try, but there are many foods NOT on these lists, so it’s hard to figure out which one is more reliable, or why certain brands are not on these lists, but my ultimate solution is probably going to be to buy several different varieties and just feed in rotations at a time, so no any ONE food is being fed the most. OR, Honest Kitchen will be well received, crossing my fingers. I just want to find that company that cares as much about pets as I do, and also has the practices and standards to back it. Why is that too much to ask? I hope this is helpful to someone, because I know this whole process makes us want to pull our hair out. Let me know if anyone has anything to add that may help us all! Hopefully the list can be updated soon?
In reply to Wilma on previous page:
I think I’ve came up with a solution, maybe.. haha I’m going to order the Honest Kitchen Grace dehydrated food, and supplement it as a topper, with other canned food that I buy. That’s only if my cat doesn’t want to eat it by itself. I’m going to try again. But I e-mailed Honest Kitchen and she said that it can absolutely be fed with canned foods, even though it’s raw. I think it’s a great option, because you can just sprinkle it on top or mix it in, so they can get those added nutrients. Starting VERY small, and increasing it more and more as time goes by, so they’re at least getting those added benefits from the raw, and making up some of that diet, regardless of what kind of canned food you are feeding. Susan Thixton(from TruthaboutPetFood) mentioned to me that she cannot divulge WHY certain foods did not make her list, because she would be in big trouble.. So in trying to stick with her list, that leaves me with such limited options. I guess it depends on how much you value her opinions and the list. I’m kind of scared to ignore her list, because what does she know that we don’t know? 🙁 So… I think the best solution, is to have a rotation of many different “premium” canned foods, and add that Honest Kitchen in as well, as a topper, worst case scenario. Hope this helps!!
My cats wouldn’t eat the Honest Kitchen either, but did really like it as a topper which I gave them till all was finished. Now I’m thinking about buying it again as a topper. What is bad about the Vitamin K additive. I still give my cats Tiki Cat chicken but sent one 12 pack back to Chewy because I noticed a slightly grey layer at the top when I opened the can. I switch around brands because they won’t eat the same food every day. I do give them raw Darwins at night, and they like it.
I just got Petcurean Go! for my kitty, i got both the dry and canned food. I had to change my kitty’s dry food since Orijen changed their ingredients and Petcurean Go grain free seemed to be the best option as I cannot find any more bags of Orijen in the old formula. Does anyone have any experience with this food, the canned food seems to be pretty good also! I also feed my kitty Rad Cat.
I get the go! Shine duck as it seems the best ingredient wise and my cat loves it, although it is the only one I tried and get. Check out bravo canned line- my cat loves the turkey one. I only feed wet. My friend said the change in Orijen’s ingredients are due to the new plant in Kentucky while the Canada version uses the ingredients you are used to (except it is only available within Canada unless you find a website that willing to ship it to you, but can be costly- friend said there is a trick around that to get the Canadian version- if you type Orijen Canada Dry food- regional red grain free listing should show up and you will see made in Canada (which is reflecting the old or candian ingredients) on chewy.com.
When I contacted Orijen about the Canadian formula of the Regional Red, they indicated the Canadian plant would be making changes to the Regional Red similar to the US version very soon. So it won’t make any difference if it’s made in Canada or USA.
actually, cats don’t eat grass for digestion, they eat grass when their sick to induce vomiting. i don’t know why pet food companies put fruits in cat food. looking at the labels, you would think its rabbit food. little cats are like big cats and all felids are strict carnivores. i mean, you wouldn’t give carrot sticks to a leopard or a blueberries to a lion, right? my cats eat radcat even though it contains seaweed and occasionally live mice or pigeons that are in my yard.
I read that this site was going to revisit Merrick since Purina took over. Any additional information? My cat only eats Merrick; she is so picky, but I want her to have healthy Carrageenan or Guar Gum free food. Thank you in advance. Cathy
Hello this is Rudy Cutrera I have a question regarding Tiki Succulent Chicken,when we open the can, there is a grey film on top of
chicken, and sometimes in middle of can.Can you tell us what causes this,as the expiration date is July 2019.Any ideas… Thank you Rudy
I changed both our kitties to all wet food diet, like Tikicat succulent chicken or Natures Variety Instinct in the AM and Darwins raw food in the PM. In reading previous comments about Tiki cat, I wasn’t aware that Vit K3 was not good. Could someone tell me why? I am unhappy with Tiki Cat because when I open the can,, the first layer of chicken is grey in color which didn’t look right. The expiration dates were ok, not until 2019. But I did decide to try them on Natures Instinct LID formula as that also was highly recommended. I do occasionally switch around as my cats are fussy and will walk away from their food even when they are hungry. I used to give them Fussy Cat canned food which they loved, but it’s never been recommended as a good food and most of their flavors seem to be fish, which I have read should only be fed occasionally.I’m happy to have found this blog, which is so informative.
Some of these canned foods has Sodium Selenite. Has anyone done any research on this?
Hello Joanne,
I know sodium selenite is an ingredient that has a lot of cat owners concerned. When I was first learning about the different types of ingredients and supplementation that goes into commercial cat food, I was concerned too. Still am to a certain degree, as ingredients like brown rice, barley, oats, etc have naturally occurring selenium. So the thought of additional selenium in the form of sodium selenite had me concerned about toxicity.
However, in my research I did come across a study that showed that inorganic (sodium selenite) forms of selenium is no harsher for a cat than natural forms of selenium. It also stated that cats can tolerate high levels as they don’t store a lot in the liver. That’s not to so go crazy with the selenium levels, but it did put my mind at ease. Here is a link to the study: https://www.animalsciencepublications.org/publications/jas/articles/90/8/2549
So now for me personally, when I review commercial cat foods for my site, sodium selenite does not bring down the rating significantly because of this study.
Hope I helped a bit 🙂
-Jaime
I agree with this Jaime, only because I see this ingredient in almost EVERY food for pets. Even Honest Kitchen lists it on the dehydrated cat varieties. Maybe it’s a naturally occurring ingredient? So I don’t think we can get away from this ingredient, and I believe there are much worse ingredients that we should be worried about. Like the synthetic Vitamin K(menadione) among others, that are listed on this list.
What are your thoughts on Redbarn cat food?
Hi, thanks for this great list. It’s been so helpful when identifying safe and healthy foods for my cats. I wanted to bring to your attention the ingredients for Taste of the Wild. I just bought some, and do not see menadione sodium sulfate in the ingredients list.
I currently feed my kitten canned food from Nature’s Variety Instinct LID. However, I’ve read on another forum that it would be the same and more cost efficient to feed my cat the dog’s version of Nature’s Variety Instinct canned food. I’ve crossed checked both cat’s and dog’s version of the NVI canned food and they appear to contain the exact same ingredient. Do you think it would be okay to feed my cat this? I’d love for everyone to weigh in and hear your thoughts on this.
I would advise against it unless it says can be used on both cats and dogs like certain brands like wysong, but nature variety doesn’t, so no, despite looks the same ingredient wise, they have different levels of vitamins and minerals that are balanced for certain species appropriate diets in which cats may require more of such as taurine and the salt or sodium intake may be different for dogs versus cats. Also larger cans may not be bpa coating free like the smaller ones of course depends on the company.
On the other Inquiry, I haven’t tried or heard of the other but I have tried the freeze dry treats of Orijen and Stoney loved it and Orijen is very reputable and well liked among those that do combo or all dry food diets, which I don’t as I prefer all wet diet for my cat.
Thanks Effie.
I’d love to also hear your thoughts on Orijen, and Almo.
I noticed all the recommendations are for adult cats. Can you recommend a kitten food? I’ve been feeding my kitten Wellness core kitten canned food but I know it isn’t ideal because of the Carrageenan (thought better than the Royal Canin dry his previous owner was feeding him). I can’t find any of the top list recommended here in Canada and the wellness is already at the max price for our budget. Are there any other top kittens canned foods on the list?
When it states all life stages it means for all ages and the only thing to take to cosideration is the quantity amount meaning a kitten requires more food due to still growing, while when older- they can be tapered off a smaller amount dependent on what weight your cat should be. I strongly suggest looking at chewy.com or your Canadian online stores that could offer you more variety options. Brands I fed and most I still feed my cat since he was a kitten and thriving at a healthy weight and large length-he is a Norwegian Forrest blue (again, don’t be concern whether it states for kittens or not- still ideal as long as states all life stages) – wild calling, lotus just juicy line, nature variety limited ingredients line (my cat loves the rabbit), ziwipeak, go! Duck shine only, halo-only the guinea kind, and Bravo new canned lines. I think if you want more accessibility locally, I believe nature variety brand will be in most stores- not your general ones, but a pet speciality one.
Actually kitten food is not really necessary to feed kittens. High quality cat food with excellent meat protein fed -depending on the kitten’s age 4x a day and feeding them as much as they want is most important because their energy level is so high.
Slowly transition them to a high quality raw diet that doesn’t contain vegetable protein is a good idea also. We have fed our kittens Natures Variety canned and are in the process of transitioning then to Darwins Raw chicken and turkey. The love it.
As they get older feed the recommended calorie requirement for their age group. We stopped kitten food with no problem at all. And I totally agree with your concern for the wellness kitten diet.
My cats love Darwins raw chicken and turkey.
I used to give my cats Ziwipeak, Instinct LID, Hound and Gatos, etc. canned food but stopped when I noticed they were all getting sick. They were having loose stools and hiding under the covers a lot. They also stopped playing. I saw Whole Paws canned food at Whole Foods and bought a few cans because it looked good. The 3 oz cans don’t contain any sugar or starch (It does have carrageenan, but it’s listed last in the ingredients list). I think sugar is much more harmful than carageenan to OBLIGATE carnivores. If you look at fancy feast classic and Whole Paws, you’ll see that the ingredients are almost the same. But the whole foods brand doesn’t contain bispenol-a, nitrites, or artificial flavors. i feed my cats the non-fish cans. They also like s&c so I always leave a plate out for them. My cats are back to their normal selves, talking and playing all night.
What do you think of Farmina dry cat food and Wild Calling canned cat food?
I don’t do dry food but I heard good things about wild callong but my cat won’t eat it but likes bravo new canned line and their brands. I strongly suggest going to Amazon and order the wild calling variety pack as gives you an ample sample of different meats to try on your cat unlike chewy (which I still love) and other stores that may not carry a variety, but sell in bulk cases that is more expensive or none at all.
I contacted Stella and Chewy today to ask them to change the ingredients back to the old recipe. Here’s their response:
Good afternoon,
We’re sorry to hear that your cat doesn’t care for the minimal change in formulation. Please know that the Pea Protein makes up less than 1% of the entire formulation. However, we’ve since had consumers, such as you, reach out to let us know they’re uncomfortable with the change. We’re in the process of looking into alternatives, and hope to have made that change as of the new year.
Please feel free to let us know if you have any further questions.
Thank you,
Emily
Customer Service & Sales Support Coordinator
Stella & Chewy’s | 111 W. Oakview Pkwy. | Oak Creek, WI 53154
888-477-8977 (toll free) | http://www.stellaandchewys.com
I hope they bring it back!
I use the Chick, Chick, Chicken dinner and Duck, Duck, Goose and the packages do not saw Menadione or Vit K. I’m hoping that this food is still decent because then I’m up a creek. Tho I have noticed larger bones lately like another post mentioned. The RadCat frozen looks good but its too hard to obtain. And I have 9 kittys here and some eat this and other stuff. I can’t find an organic cat food that is grain-free and carrageean free. If anyone knows of one….
avoderm is the best for Cats
careful – avoderm has carrageenan as an ingredient
ohhh
thank you for your sport.
AVODERM TOOK ALL THE CAREGEENAN OUT OF THEIR WET CANNED FOOD
I disagree and second Kate, unfortunately their main website still does list carrageenan on their wet food product ingredients and also even Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source of Vitamin K Activity), and predominantly fish ingredients, which are all no no and to avoid.
the only canned cat food I feed my cat is avoderm canned cat chicken & duck. no carrageenan and no fish in it. when my cat was diagnosed twice with feline leukemia I switched from purina pro plan wet to avoderm. his weight went from 12.0 lbs.to 10.1 lbs. I fed him 3times a day instead of twice a day. when his weight went back up to 11.2lbs. the vet did another test on him and the leukemia was gone.PERHAPS I CURED MY CAT! now if only the doctors can cure me.. I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer as well as lymphoma.
Ron stop spamming, we get it. Your cat had leukemia you started feeding avoderm and miracles ensued, pigs flew and jesus came down from heaven and healed all and world peace became a reality. Doesn’t matter what you say, avoderm has carageenan in it. Says it on their website on all of their products.
LMAO! :))))) Finally! someone said it!
Lol true, granted I’m glad Ron’s cat beat his cancer and if he thinks that is the best brand- great for him, I don’t want to be too rude, but it is true as it does list those negative ingredients and not everyone will share the same sentiments
Effie, for some reason, I highly doubt ron even has a cat…:( Perhaps, it’s his oblivious obsession and persistence and blatant distortion of facts about avoderm ingredients.
BRO GET A CAN OF AVODERM CANNED CHICKEN & DUCK CAT FOOD. NO CARRAGEENAN TO BE FOUND. DO YOUR HOMEWORK!!!
According to their website, that can does have carrageenan: http://www.avodermnatural.com/all-products/cat-foods/wet/grain-free-chicken-duck-entree-gravy
rron, have you tried nutritional ketosis?
http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/healthscience/2012/December/Starving-Cancer-Ketogenic-Diet-a-Key-to-Recovery
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/06/16/ketogenic-diet-benefits.aspx
my 5 yr. old cat was diagnosed with feline leukemia. put him on avoderm canned chicken & duck 3 times a day. his weight went from 12.0 lbs. down to 10.1 lbs. after switching to avoderm his weight went back up to 11.2 lbs. vet gave him another test and his leukemia is gone. I think the avocado oil in avoderm did it. after all, avocadoes kill certain forms of leukemia in humans. I will stay with avoderm
avoderm is the best
BEWARE of Stella and Chewy freeze-dried products:
I’ve been a huge fan of Stella and Chewy for the past couple of years but recently I noticed some changes in their formula (not to mention that they now contain Menadione Sodium Bisulfate Complex). My latest purchase, the duck flavor, had SO many large, sharp bone pieces in the batch. I literally had to dip my hands in the mix (with water) and scoop out bone pieces before serving. In a 1/3 cup mix, I had 20+ small and large, ALL SHARP, bone pieces that are way too dangerous for cats. I am not sure if this problem is pertaining to only the duck flavor but please make sure to check for any sharp bone pieces before serving it to your cats.
Have I mentioned that I’m liking RAWZ brand for dry as a minor supplement to canned? (I figure if they eat a little dry each day, their tummies stay used to it, and then if I’m away they can eat more of it and someone could visit just once per day to feed canned, if necessary). Rawz not only has meat based first several ingredients, but the company also donates all their profits to help other animals, like homeless ones or whatever. That makes me feel good!
Unfortunately RAWZ has BPA in their 5.5 oz cans. I contacted them and they told me this outright, to “lower costs”. I loved the food too but it is off the menu 🙁
This is a very popular misundertand that really needs clearing up. i think that actually most of the cans have some minor amount of bp in them but they meet fda limits- it’s nearly impossible for the industry as a whole to use bpa free cans: – and their replacement chemicals in the epoxy protective lining are just as bad if not worse..https://www.edf.org/health/three-ways-bpa-free-wont-protect-you
test
I just bought some TikiCat canned chicken online. I’ve been buying it for years. The can is now different and I see that the protein content has dropped from 18.5% to 16%. I’m not sure what other changes have been made. Disappointing, though. Also, I noticed that Primal Turkey Nuggets are no longer on your list at all, or at least I can’t find it. In fact, I don’t see any of this type of Primal. Does it no longer make your list? If so, what is the reason?
With the rebranding of the Tiki Cat line they reduced the amount of food/protein content/calories so you have to feed more cans to your cat now.
They also added Vitamin K3 – I’m SHOCKED by this and I’ve sent them a message on their Facebook as well as posted on their news wall asking why they have done this. I can stomach paying extra cash to feed my cat this brand, but I refuse to get past the Vitamin K3. My cat has been eating this new rebranded can for weeks and I want to cry knowing that he’s been eating this terrible horrible ingredient.
I want to pull my hair out at this point. No pet food company should ever be trusted. I thought they were the one brand I could trust.
I feel the same 🙁
I was waiting for Tiki to remove dextrose from their new Carnivore line (the ingredients on their website did NOT show it, but the cans sent by Chewy did), so when I saw the new label, I guessed the formulas must’ve been updated and gladly ordered a box. I was feeding it to mine for a few weeks before I saw the K3 news here (thank you, community, btw) and decided to check the label just in case. I honestly feel betrayed by Tiki (again). So I’m saying goodbye and moving on from this brand. #trustnoone
P.S. Cece, what’s in your rotation?
Hi Lilac!
Seriously, I feel incredibly betrayed as well. This was their response to me, btw:
“The nutrition, ingredients, and feeding instructions will be correct on each label for that batch. In early 2016, AAFCO changed their requirements for vitamin and mineral levels in a complete and balanced diet, which caused us to change our premix. Unfortunately, with the new requirements, we are unable to reach the vitamin K levels naturally and this had to be added into some of the diets. It is not in the Grill diets, only the Luau.”
I don’t buy this at all. What I’m reading between the lines is that they reduced the amount of food per can so they are “unable to reach the vitamin K levels naturally.” Please. We are not idiots here. I told them that they need to do their research and remove K3 before they lose their customers.
Anyway – to answer your question, I use Hound & Gatos (Chicken) every now and then when I can find it, and I’ve switched my cat completely over to Weruva Cats in the Kitchen (Chicken Frick a Zee). Very comparable to Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau and my cat had absolutely no trouble (or complaints) switching over! 🙂
Weruva made my two cats very sick. After a few days of eating the food, they were losing weight and having diarrea. One of the cats was sitting in a crouched position with his nose to the floor. They also started having dandruff. They’ve never had dandruff before!
Why doesn’t Tiki Cat use menaquinone-7 instead of synthetic k3?
I’m just finding this now – I scoured foods to find one that met what I needed late last year for my one boy with a host of medical conditions. Tiki met just about everything – to hear they’ve maybe changed their formula is SO frustrating. I’m going to look into my cans as well. I’ve got one kitty mostly on RadCat raw, but do mix it up with the Tiki and his brother gets mostly Tiki – might have to try to get the pickier one fully on raw. I can comment on the dextrose ingredient because I saw this as well – what’s happening is the Gourmet Carnivore line is slowly running out due to rebranding, and many of the cans are older. The older cans had the dextrose in it, which is why it doesn’t show on their ingredients list online (per Tiki anyway). My last batch of Beef/Liver GC had an expiration date of the same month I bought it, and most others I’ve found were also due to expire soon – I think everyone is just scraping up whatever cans they have left from their main suppliers since they’re almost all gone at the moment (until they launch the new ones). So I’ve been feeding some GC still, but mostly the Succulent Chicken lately which used to be the “Koolina Luau”. Just looked and sure enough, K3 🙁 UGH!!!!!! I will contact Tiki also. K3 is not listed in the ingredients on the website – looks like the site hasn’t been updated in general.
I emailed Tiki and got the same canned response others are getting. Told them I’d reconsider buying it once the K3 was removed, and that I was super disappointed – noted that most people buying Tiki ARE people that are reading the labels. Switched my one boy to Stella & Chewy’s frozen Rabbit Morsels (because I’m also suspecting an allergy to chicken). This is working great for him so far, but now I read that S&C may also be adding in the synthetic K – it’s not in the ones I have, but I’m assuming it’s going to show up soon. Ugh! I keep finding foods that meet the very specific criteria we need and then they change their formulas. If he continues to do well, I’ll try adding a non-chicken flavor of RadCat back in to see if egg is ok with him. Kind of the ultimate plan right now if it works – at least RadCat hasn’t added anything…. yet?
BEST CAT FOOD: AVODERM CANNED CHICKEN & DUCK WITH AVOCADO OIL.
ron! avoderm website ingredient list
for grain free chicken/duck has carageenan, guar gum and menadione!!! would never give to my kids
AVODERM CANNED DUCK &CHICKEN FOR CATS HAD THE CARRAGEENAN TAKEN OUT OF THEIR CANS 9 MONTHS AGO. READ THE INGREDIENTS ON A CAN OF IT. THIS PRODUCT CURED MY CAT OF FELINE LEUKEMIA. LOST TWO LBS. AND SINCE GIVING THIS PRODUCT HAS GAINED ALMOST ALL OF IT BACK VETS RETESTED AFTER 3 MONTHS AND LEUKEMIA WAS GONE. HIS MOTHER HAD IT AND SO DID THE BROTHER CAT. THEY DIED.
Back in the ’70’s we had a cat that lived on cooked liver only. My mom would buy beef liver and cut it up for him. The cat was rarely at the vet and lived to be 20.
You need a serious upgrade .there are now many sites with stronger reviews and many new people ding fact.information grows and changes. I don’t see any new input.
Andrea, perhaps you could leave some input. I think many of us search various sites, try foods from pet boutiques and on-line retailers, weigh the good against the bad, beseech our cats to try “new and improved,” only to repeat this process over and over, ad infinitum.