How We Choose the Best Cat Foods
This list of the best cat foods was meticulously curated by a panel of veterinarians who are employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD.
They were asked to choose the best cat foods in their honest opinion, across multiple categories, based on the following:
- Brand reputation
- Clinical trials and science-backed research
- Ingredients (nutritional value)
- Palatability
- Price
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of veterinarians. Manufacturers and vendors cannot pay for placement in Vet Verified articles or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your pets.
Cat Food FAQs
What is the healthiest food you can feed a cat?
The healthiest food for your cat will depend on their individual needs. Generally speaking, the healthiest cat foods are complete and balanced, made with high-quality ingredients, and come from a trusted brand with board-certified veterinary nutritionists on staff.
Top vet-recommended cat foods include Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin.
Is expensive cat food really better?
Price is not necessarily an indication of the quality of the cat food. Better indicators of quality cat food include formulas supported by research, expert-backed nutrition, and beneficial ingredients. Such diets dotend to cost more, though that is not always the case, and some diets come with a premium price tag but without the science-backed nutrition.
How can I tell if a cat food is working?
Monitor your cat’s weight and health to confirm the cat food you are feeding is working. New health conditions and or signs like weight loss or gain, bad appetite, digestive upset, skin or coat sensitivities, and lack of energy indicate it’s time to discuss dietary changes with your veterinarian.
How do you transition your cat to a new food?
Switch your cat to the new food gradually. For Days 1 and 2, feed 75% of the old food and 25% of the new food. On Days 3 and 4, give 50% new and 50% old. For Days 5 and 6, feed 75% new and 25% old food. Feed just the new food on Day 7.
If any issues arise, go back to the previous ratio of old and new food for a few days. Some cats can take two weeks or longer to transition to a new food.
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