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NBC News
09-05-2025
- Health
- NBC News
Is fresh dog food better than kibble? We asked vets
Pet owners want the very best for their dogs, especially when it comes to their diet. Fresh dog food, which typically needs to be frozen or refrigerated, can be a great alternative to standard kibble and canned wet foods, according to the vets I spoke to. But is fresh dog food actually better for your dog? The answer depends on a few different factors, including your dog's lifestyle, any allergies or preferences they have and your budget. I spoke to veterinarians to better understand the claims and promises surrounding fresh dog food and whether it's worth switching your dog's diet. I also gathered their recommendations for fresh dog food brands to consider, as well as options that NBC Select staffers feed their own dogs. How I picked the best fresh dog food When shopping for the best fresh dog food, experts recommend keeping in mind the following factors: Meets AAFCO standards: The most important thing to look for when shopping for pet food in general is whether it's approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which means an independent lab has tested the food to guarantee safety. 'If the food is not AAFCO approved, this can mean that testing was only done internally, and no regulating body performed a secondary confirmatory test,' says Dr. Miriam Fink, Medical Director at Bond Vet. Your dog's specific needs: As with every type of dog food, it's important to understand your dog's specific nutritional needs before buying. Consider their age, breed, activity level, allergies and any health conditions they may have. Always look at the brand's packaging and/or website for a guide that indicates how much food your pet needs daily based on their weight and age. You can also check out Balance It, which is run by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and gives detailed information about your dog's diet. Storage: Fresh dog food is usually refrigerated or frozen, which means you'll need to make sure you have enough space to properly store it. Most brands will state exactly how to store and thaw frozen food and how long it'll last in your fridge or freezer. Price: Expect fresh dog food to be more expensive than typical store-bought kibble or canned food. Most fresh dog food brands are delivery services, which means cost will be higher due to convenience. Best fresh dog food of 2025 Best overall: Ollie Ollie's fresh food is made alongside veterinary nutritionists who help create balanced, human-grade recipes that meet AAFCO standards (more on human-grade dog food below). Plus, it delivers meals right to your door on a regular schedule. NBC Select senior manager of commerce analytics Amanda Smith feeds Ollie to her picky, 3-year-old rat terrier Mac and says it's been a 'game changer' for his diet. 'He's never been very food motivated and suddenly he's begging for meal time,' she says. Smith says the process from start to finish took only a few minutes. First, you'll need to take a short quiz about your dog's current weight, ideal weight, spay/neuter status and activity level. You can choose between three plans: full fresh (pouches that include real meat, fruits, veggies and grains), mixed (half portion of Ollie's fresh food and half of Ollie's dry food) and half fresh (half portion of Ollie's fresh food to mix with your dog's typical food). Here's a cost breakdown for each plan: Full fresh: $22 per week (small dogs), $55 per week (medium dogs), $69 per week (large dogs) Mixed bowl: $19 per week (small dogs), $45 per week (medium dogs), $59 per week (large dogs) Half fresh: $15 per week (small dogs), $38 per week (medium dogs), $41 per week (large dogs) You can choose from up to five fresh recipes, including pork, chicken, beef, lamb and turkey. Store your fresh food in the freezer and defrost it in the fridge at least 24 hours before your pup's mealtime, according to the brand. If your dog isn't ready to start an all-fresh meal, Ollie also has kibble options that you can add to your meal plan and mix with the fresh food. Ollie also has treats and supplements to add to your shipment. Dr. Abel Gonzalez, a veterinarian and the clinical director at Dutch, a pet telehealth company, recommends JustFoodForDogs due to its high-protein food with a lower calorie count, which makes it great for older or less active dogs. It has more than a dozen recipes, all of which have one source of protein for a limited ingredients diet, including turkey, venison and lamb. You can choose between four main categories: Fresh Frozen, JustFresh (comes in resealable packaging), PantryFresh (shelf stable) and DIY Homemade (includes a recipe, but you'll need to supply the ingredients). My 7-year-old havanese and bichon frise mix, Bella, is obsessed with the brand's JustFresh recipes. I mix a spoonful with her regular kibble once a day and I can tell she likes it much more than her canned wet food — she's always begging for food once meal time comes around. Each JustFresh meal comes in a handy resealable pouch and one package lasts me about a week at the rate I'm feeding her. I've also recently started incorporating the Fresh Frozen meals to Bella's diet (I alternate them with the JustFresh meals). I love that the Fresh Frozen options come in a ton of flavors to give Bella a good amount of variety, and it lasts up to 18 months in the freezer, so I'm always stocked up. When thawed, the meals stay fresh in the original package for up to seven days (five days after opening the packaging). You can purchase pouches individually or choose to autoship your dog's food, which will ship to your home at the frequency you choose (anywhere between one- and 12-week intervals, and your order ships within three to five business days). This subscription-based service delivers fresh dog food to your door. Before you place an order, you'll fill out a questionnaire that helps the brand determine a meal plan that best fits your dog's nutritional needs. Each meal then comes pre-portioned for your dog's needs based on their age, weight, breed, activity level and build. You can store The Farmer's Dog pouches in your fridge or freezer, and each one lasts up to four days in the fridge after you thaw it, according to the brand. It's a favorite of former NBC Select social editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who feeds this service to her 3-year-old maltese and poodle mix, Bandit. 'I knew friends who tried it and their dogs were all big fans, so I did a trial with Bandit and it was obvious he liked it way more than his kibble,' she says. (Bandit typically eats the turkey, beef and chicken meals.) Plan pricing varies based on your dog's weight, breed, activity level and more. Nom Nom creates a fresh meal plan based on your dog's health and nutritional goals, including weight management, stomach issues and skin sensitivities. You'll fill out a questionnaire about your dog's breed, weight, age and diet-related issues (including whether they're a picky eater or have food allergies), and Nom Nom will recommend the recipe that best fits their needs. All meals are pre-portioned for each dog's unique caloric needs and you can select up to four recipes for each shipment. If you're on the fence about which recipes to get, you can purchase a sampler pack of four recipes (beef, chicken, turkey and pork). All meals come frozen, and you can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to 6 months, according to the brand. Petplate will create a custom meal plan for your pet based on a short quiz. Each meal is also perfectly portioned for your pup to ensure they get the right amount of nutrients. Best of all, you can mix-and-match recipes in your dog's meal plan, so you aren't limited to only certain recipes (pricing will change based on which protein you choose; for example, venison and lamb are slightly more expensive). The brand has four main plans: FreshBaked (shelf-stable with a crunch), FreshCombo (a mix of baked and cooked textures), FreshCooked (signature cooked plan) and Toppers (signature plan offered in smaller portions). There are two FreshBaked recipes to choose from (beef and chicken), and six FreshCooked recipes, including turkey, venison, lamb and pork. Best with whole ingredients: Spot & Tango Spot & Tango's fresh recipes are cooked in small batches and delivered in pouches. Fresh recipes include turkey and quinoa, beef and brown rice, and lamb and sweet potato. You'll first need to complete an initial questionnaire that asks about your dog's weight, age, breed, activity level and any health issues, which the brand uses to determine your pup's ideal meal plan and caloric intake. Spot & Tango also has its own version of kibble, called Unkibble, that's made up of a dehydrated meat, starch, fruit and veggies and doesn't have any preservatives, fillers or additives, according to the brand. You can add snacks, including turkey strips and cheese bites, to your delivery for an additional fee, too. Frequently asked questions What is fresh dog food? Fresh dog food usually refers to minimally processed meals made with whole, natural ingredients like meats, vegetables and grains, often cooked gently to retain nutrients, says Gonzalez. Most fresh dog food is labeled as 'human-grade,' meaning the ingredients and preparation methods meet FDA standards for human consumption. 'It often indicates higher quality ingredients, stricter safety standards and better overall nutrition compared to conventional pet food,' says Gonzalez. The biggest difference between fresh dog food and regular kibble is that fresh food is usually refrigerated or frozen, which helps it last longer and can help preserve the nutrients in the food without needing artificial preservatives, says Gonzalez. Make sure you are properly thawing and storing frozen food to maintain its safety and nutritional integrity; most brands will indicate how to properly store and thaw frozen food and how long it'll last in your fridge or freezer. Is fresh dog food better than kibble? Fresh food is commonly associated with 'high quality' and 'good ingredients,' but it's typically just refrigerated food. 'Refrigerated food can be a great option for some pets, and the most important thing is feeding something your pet likes and is safe for them,' says Fink. I do not think it is 'better' than regular kibble or wet food because the main deciding factors are whether they are safe for their pet.' However, it all depends on your dog. Fresh food can be tastier for your pet, which helps switch up their diet if they're a picky eater. Plus, fresh food may have fewer preservatives compared to kibble or canned food, which benefits those with sensitive stomachs or allergies. What is the difference between fresh food and raw food? The difference is pretty self explanatory: Fresh dog food is cooked, while raw food is uncooked. However, all of the vets we've spoken to do not recommend raw food, so even if it's frozen and labeled 'fresh,' you should not feed your pet raw food. 'Just like raw food can make us sick with bacteria, viruses and parasites, it can make pets sick, too,' says Fink. Also, even if these organisms pass through your dog without causing them harm, there is still a risk to any young children who put their hands in their mouth — they could become sick from salmonella and other bacteria, says Dr. Nicole Savageau, a board-certified veterinarian at The Vets, a mobile veterinary service. How can you safely switch your dog's diet? Switching your dog to a new diet takes time and patience; otherwise, you might risk them getting bored with their new food quickly or upsetting their stomach. When adjusting your dog to new foods, the veterinarians I spoke to recommend the following tips: Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Miriam Fink is the medical director at Bond Vet. Dr. Abel Gonzalez is a veterinarian and the clinical director at Dutch, a pet telehealth company. Dr. Nicole Savageau is a board-certified veterinarian at The Vets, a mobile veterinary service. Why trust NBC Select? I am an updates editor at NBC Select who has written about pets and dog food for over five years. For this article, I spoke to board-certified veterinarians about how to shop for fresh dog food and researched dozens of options on the market to recommend the best ones to shop.
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Understanding the benefits of well-made packaged food for cats
Formulated, tested and trusted Measured portions for better weight management Convenience and consistency Extended shelf life Dental health support Tailored formulas for different needs Palatability and acceptance Regulated safety standards Support for skin and coat health Digestive wellness In a nutshell Author : Dr Umesh Kallahali, Small Animal Consultant, Mars Petcare India References Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Mars International by Times Internet's Spotlight team. In recent years, many cat owners across India have expressed challenges around portion sizing and nutritional balance for home-prepared meals. One significant hurdle is the lack of accessible, standardised guidelines on daily caloric requirements for cats, leading to potential issues of underfeeding or overfeeding. According to veterinarians, both extremes can contribute to long-term health complications, including obesity and nutritional this backdrop, good quality commercially prepared cat food is becoming a go-to choice for pet parents, offering a more structured approach to feline nutrition. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits associated with well-manufactured cat food:In India, pet food is not regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) since it is not meant for human consumption. However, imported and domestically produced pet foods are required to comply with import health certifications and animal quarantine norms set by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Additionally, many brands voluntarily align with global standards, such as AAFCO (USA) and FEDIAF (Europe), to ensure nutritional adequacy and consumer is a leading cause of obesity in cats worldwide. A recent study 1 noted that accurate portion control is a significant factor in weight management for domestic cats. Packaged foods often offer feeding guidelines based on a cat's age, weight, and activity level, helping pet parents serve more appropriate meal urban lifestyles can make meal preparation challenging on a daily basis. Ready-to-serve cat food offers a convenient alternative, providing consistency in portion sizes and nutritional content without the variability often associated with home-cooked prepared foods, particularly dry kibble and sealed wet food, have a longer shelf life when stored correctly. This makes them a more practical option in households where refrigeration or storage space might be dry cat foods are formulated with kibble textures designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. While not a substitute for professional veterinary dental care, incorporating these foods into a cat's diet may support oral hygiene.A study published in the Journal of Nutrition observed 2 that cats fed dry diets exhibited better oral health compared to those on wet diets. The research indicated that diet plays a significant role in oral health, with a diet rich in dry foods contributing to reduced plaque offer variations of cat food tailored to different life stages (kitten, adult, senior) and specific health concerns, such as urinary tract care, digestive sensitivities, or hairball management. Such specialised formulas are typically developed in consultation with veterinary commercial brands conduct palatability testing to ensure that cats are more likely to accept the food. While preferences vary among individual animals, higher acceptance rates have been reported in cats when introduced to familiar textures and flavours in these prepared pet foods in India are increasingly adhering to global safety protocols. Reputed manufacturers conduct quality checks for contamination, ingredient accuracy, and hygiene, offering greater assurance compared to raw or inadequately stored home-cooked commercially available diets include Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which have been associated with improved skin hydration and coat quality in felines. Peer-reviewed studies, including those in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 3 , have highlighted the role of fatty acids in supporting dermatological health in sensitivity is a common concern among pet cats. Packaged foods often contain prebiotics, dietary fibre, and highly digestible protein sources that support gastrointestinal function and reduce odour in litter no single feeding approach fits all, the growing interest in packaged cat food reflects a larger shift toward structured and evidence-based pet care. Pet owners are advised to consult with veterinarians to determine the most appropriate diet for their cat's individual needs, whether through commercial options or customised home-cooked the pet care sector in India evolves, informed decision-making and access to nutritional knowledge will remain key to improving feline health outcomes nationwide. To support pet parents in making informed choices, companies like Mars International are playing an active role in advancing science-backed nutrition and pet health. Globally trusted brands such as Royal Canin, Pedigree, and Whiskas aim to offer not just quality nutrition but a holistic approach to pet well-being. By fostering an ecosystem that combines expertise, innovation, and care, these initiatives help ensure that no moment in a pet's life is compromised.
Time of India
29-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Understanding the benefits of well-made packaged cat food for cats
In recent years, many cat owners across India have expressed challenges around portion sizing and nutritional balance for home-prepared meals. One significant hurdle is the lack of accessible, standardised guidelines on daily caloric requirements for cats, leading to potential issues of underfeeding or overfeeding. According to veterinarians, both extremes can contribute to long-term health complications, including obesity and nutritional deficiencies. Against this backdrop, good quality commercially prepared cat food is becoming a go-to choice for pet parents, offering a more structured approach to feline nutrition. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits associated with well-manufactured cat food: Formulated, tested and trusted In India, pet food is not regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) since it is not meant for human consumption. However, imported and domestically produced pet foods are required to comply with import health certifications and animal quarantine norms set by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Additionally, many brands voluntarily align with global standards, such as AAFCO (USA) and FEDIAF (Europe), to ensure nutritional adequacy and consumer confidence. Measured portions for better weight management Overfeeding is a leading cause of obesity in cats worldwide. A recent study 1 noted that accurate portion control is a significant factor in weight management for domestic cats. Packaged foods often offer feeding guidelines based on a cat's age, weight, and activity level, helping pet parents serve more appropriate meal sizes. Convenience and consistency Busy urban lifestyles can make meal preparation challenging on a daily basis. Ready-to-serve cat food offers a convenient alternative, providing consistency in portion sizes and nutritional content without the variability often associated with home-cooked meals. Extended shelf life Commercially prepared foods, particularly dry kibble and sealed wet food, have a longer shelf life when stored correctly. This makes them a more practical option in households where refrigeration or storage space might be limited. Dental health support Certain dry cat foods are formulated with kibble textures designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. While not a substitute for professional veterinary dental care, incorporating these foods into a cat's diet may support oral hygiene. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition observed 2 that cats fed dry diets exhibited better oral health compared to those on wet diets. The research indicated that diet plays a significant role in oral health, with a diet rich in dry foods contributing to reduced plaque accumulation. Tailored formulas for different needs Manufacturers offer variations of cat food tailored to different life stages (kitten, adult, senior) and specific health concerns, such as urinary tract care, digestive sensitivities, or hairball management. Such specialised formulas are typically developed in consultation with veterinary nutritionists. Palatability and acceptance Many commercial brands conduct palatability testing to ensure that cats are more likely to accept the food. While preferences vary among individual animals, higher acceptance rates have been reported in cats when introduced to familiar textures and flavours in these prepared diets. Regulated safety standards Commercial pet foods in India are increasingly adhering to global safety protocols. Reputed manufacturers conduct quality checks for contamination, ingredient accuracy, and hygiene, offering greater assurance compared to raw or inadequately stored home-cooked diets. Support for skin and coat health Several commercially available diets include Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which have been associated with improved skin hydration and coat quality in felines. Peer-reviewed studies, including those in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 3 , have highlighted the role of fatty acids in supporting dermatological health in pets. Digestive wellness Digestive sensitivity is a common concern among pet cats. Packaged foods often contain prebiotics, dietary fibre, and highly digestible protein sources that support gastrointestinal function and reduce odour in litter boxes. In a nutshell While no single feeding approach fits all, the growing interest in packaged cat food reflects a larger shift toward structured and evidence-based pet care. Pet owners are advised to consult with veterinarians to determine the most appropriate diet for their cat's individual needs, whether through commercial options or customised home-cooked meals. As the pet care sector in India evolves, informed decision-making and access to nutritional knowledge will remain key to improving feline health outcomes nationwide. To support pet parents in making informed choices, companies like Mars International are playing an active role in advancing science-backed nutrition and pet health. Globally trusted brands such as Royal Canin, Pedigree, and Whiskas aim to offer not just quality nutrition but a holistic approach to pet well-being. By fostering an ecosystem that combines expertise, innovation, and care, these initiatives help ensure that no moment in a pet's life is compromised. Author : Dr Umesh Kallahali, Small Animal Consultant, Mars Petcare India References :
Forbes
21-03-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 7 Best Cat Foods, Based On Advice From Trusted Vets
Investing in your cat's health and happiness starts with feeding them tasty, nutrient-rich food. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need a meat-based diet with plenty of moisture—not plant-heavy formulas packed with fillers. Out of the very best cat foods, Smalls is our top pick overall, as it prioritizes high-quality animal proteins and avoids unnecessary carbohydrates that don't serve a cat's natural needs. The best cat food is the one your cat actually loves, while keeping them healthy and thriving. While many cat owners assume that kibble is the standard, every expert we spoke with recommended prioritizing wet or fresh foods. "Respect the cat's biology,' says Dr. Laurie Coger, DVM. 'They are designed to eat a meaty, moist food.' Since cats have a low thirst drive, they rely on their food for hydration; therefore, wet cat food can be an essential part of a balanced diet. But that doesn't mean dry food doesn't have a place at all—some high-protein kibble options, like Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon, offer species-appropriate nutrition while providing variety for cats that prefer crunchier textures. Beyond choosing between wet and dry food, it's important to consider your cat's age, health and individual needs. From protein-packed formulas to high-quality dry food, our top picks for the best cat food cover a range of options to help you find what's right for your feline. Smalls Type: Fresh | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 200 kcal/package | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: Many commercial cat foods rely on fillers and preservatives, but Smalls takes a different approach—one that more closely mirrors what cats are meant to eat. The brand prioritizes high-quality animal protein and natural hydration, gently cooking its fresh recipes to preserve nutrients. The turkey formula, for example, is packed with over 80% animal protein, plus hydrating ingredients like green beans and dandelion greens, which may support digestion and urinary health. To get started, pet parents take a quick online quiz that asks for information about their cat's age, weight, activity level and dietary preferences. Smalls then ships a sampler box with ten packets of fresh food, so you can test different recipes before committing to a recurring delivery schedule. Since meals arrive frozen, they stay fresh in the freezer until you're ready to thaw them. Once thawed, they last about a week in the fridge, so meal prep is easy with minimal waste. Smalls also meets standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which a non-profit organization that regulates the nutritional requirements for pet food. In other words, this food meets all of a cat's dietary needs, making it a straightforward way to introduce fresh food into your cat's diet without worrying about dealing with complicated meal prep. Chewy Type: Wet (stew) | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 152 kcal/carton | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: If you want high-quality wet food but aren't looking for a fresh option like Smalls, Caru Classic Wild Salmon And Turkey Stew is a great choice. Unlike many canned foods that contain meat by-products, artificial preservatives or gums, Caru uses limited, human-grade ingredients and slow-cooks its recipes to retain nutrients. The result is a stew-like texture that's closer to homemade food than typical processed cat food. Wild salmon is the first ingredient, which provides lean protein and omega-3s that support skin, coat and brain health. The formula also includes turkey for extra protein, plus dandelion greens and marine microalgae oil, which give your cat antioxidants and fatty acids that may support immune function, kidney health and joint mobility. Since many cats don't drink enough water, the moisture-rich formula helps keep them hydrated and supports urinary health. Caru makes its food in a USDA-licensed human food facility in Wisconsin, using USDA-inspected meats and sourcing all other ingredients from human-edible sources. It costs more than standard wet food, but the simple ingredient list, high-quality sourcing and gentle cooking process can support long-term health and may help prevent issues like dehydration and inflammation. Amazon Type: Dry | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 470 kcal/cup | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: Every vet we spoke with stressed how important moisture is for cats, since they don't naturally drink much water and get hydration from their food. But cats can be extremely picky, and some simply prefer dry food. If kibble is part of your cat's diet, choosing a high-quality, limited-ingredient option matters—and we think Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon is one of the best. Open Farm starts with wild-caught Pacific salmon, packed with omega-3s and DHA to support a healthy coat, skin and brain function. The formula also includes ocean whitefish and herring meal for additional protein, plus pumpkin, cranberries and dandelion greens, which are ingredients that may aid digestion and immune health. While kibble is more processed than fresh or wet food, Open Farm keeps its ingredients recognizable compared to many traditional brands. The veterinarians we consulted had differing opinions on dry food—one holistic vet told us it's 'a myth' that kibble cleans teeth, while others say dry food still has a place in a balanced diet. What they all agreed on, however, is that hydration is key. Many recommend rehydrating kibble with water or broth to improve moisture intake. (Also, if you're worried about your cat's water intake, you can always invest in a cat water fountain.) Ultimately, the best diet is whatever works for your cat. If that includes kibble, this is a trustworthy option with responsibly caught fish and fully traceable ingredients. Amazon Type: Wet | Life stage: Kitten | Calories: 100 kcal/3 oz can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: A kitten's early diet lays the foundation for lifelong health, and Weruva's Kitten Chicken Formula Au Jus provides the nutrition they need to grow strong. This protein-rich recipe is designed to deliver essential amino acids that help kittens build muscle and maintain their energy levels. Because kittens require higher amounts of protein, fat and key nutrients than adult cats, a well-balanced formula is critical during this stage. Beyond protein and hydration, this Weruva recipe includes taurine, fish oil and vitamin D3 to support your kitten's brain development, vision and immune function. The high moisture content may also help with digestion and kidney health, which is especially important for young kittens as they transition to solid food. The soft, shredded texture of the food is meant to be easy for tiny teeth to manage, so they can get the nutrients they need without struggling to eat. And the recipe skips grains, artificial additives and carrageenan, which is helpful if your kitten has a sensitive stomach. Weruva prepares its food in human-grade facilities, following strict global safety standards to ensure high-quality ingredients and processing. Since kittens burn through calories quickly, the brand recommends feeding one to two cans per 1.5 to 2 pounds of body weight daily, split into three or more meals. Chewy Type: Wet (mousse and shreds) | Life stage: Senior | Calories: 80 kcal/can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: As cats age, their nutritional needs shift, but one macronutrient remains essential: protein. "The amount of calories they need may lessen, but protein needs can actually increase," says Coger. "It's vital that older cats get enough protein and the key amino acids for heart health, taurine and carnitine." Tiki Cat Silver Chicken, Salmon And Chicken Liver Mousse And Shreds is designed specifically for seniors, with a high-protein formula to help maintain muscle mass and a soft texture that's easy to eat. Since kidney issues are common in older cats, this low-phosphorus formula is designed to be easier on their system. With salmon oil, coconut oil, turmeric and green tea extract, this food includes ingredients that may ease inflammation and support joint health as cats get older. It's also highly palatable, with chicken liver to entice cats that may have reduced appetites. Tiki Cat's Silver line offers a variety of textures beyond mousse and shreds, including all-mousse, shredded-only and options with broth, so you can choose what best suits your cat's preferences. Smalls is another great option for senior cats, especially if hydration is a concern or they need an even softer texture. But if your cat prefers a specific texture or you want a more budget-friendly option, Tiki Cat Silver is a great pick. Amazon Type: Wet (flaked in consommé) | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 71 kcal/2.8-ounce can, 151 kcal/6-ounce can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: If your cat has a sensitive stomach, you know how frustrating it can be to find a food that doesn't upset their digestion. Tiki Cat Luau Wild Salmon Recipe keeps things simple with just one protein source—wild-caught Alaskan salmon—plus a short list of recognizable ingredients. There are no grains, no potatoes and no gums—just flaked fish in a light consommé that's meant to be easy to eat and even easier to digest. Some cats struggle with rich or highly processed foods, which is why a single-protein and low-fat formula like this one can be a good fit. Salmon is naturally high in omega-3s, which may help with inflammation and gut health, and the extra moisture supports digestion and hydration. "A low-carb, moisture-rich diet with real protein is much easier on digestion than one packed with unnecessary fillers," says feline nutrition experts Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre. If you're switching foods, take it slow—especially with a cat who already has stomach issues. Dr. Liza Cahn, DVM, recommends mixing in small amounts of the new food with their old diet and increasing the portion gradually over the course of a week. That way, their system has time to adjust, making the transition smoother and less stressful for both of you. What the editors say: 'My cat has always had a sensitive tum, and there's nothing more frustrating than watching him throw up an entire can of nice wet food,' says senior home and kitchen editor Amanda Arnold. 'With this Tiki Cat formula, he gets sick much less often and seems to be more energetic, which I could not appreciate more—I spend much less time cleaning my floors and worrying about his diet.' Chewy Type: Wet (minced in broth) | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 56 kcal/can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: If your cat needs to lose a little weight, switching to a high-protein and moisture-rich diet can make a big difference. Veterinarians often see kibble contributing to weight gain because it's higher in carbs than cats actually need. "Dry kibble almost always leads to gradual weight gain in cats," says Coger, who notes that many dry foods rely on starches that don't fit a cat's natural diet. Bixbi Liberty Tuna & Pumpkin Recipe is a great option for cats who need to slim down without feeling deprived. It's made with wild-caught tuna as the first ingredient, giving cats the high-quality protein they need to maintain muscle while losing excess fat. The addition of pumpkin provides fiber, which can help with digestion and keep cats feeling full longer. (Read: No more begging between meals.) Because this recipe is wet food with plenty of moisture, it also supports hydration and overall health, so it's a better choice than dry food for weight management. While every cat's metabolism is different, feeding a high-protein and low-carb diet like this one makes it easier to manage your cat's weight without leaving them hungry. At Forbes Vetted, we're committed to helping pet parents make informed choices about how they care for their animals. From covering the best raw dog food to automatic litter boxes, we've spent years researching and testing products to bring you the best recommendations. We know how important it is to find the right food for your cat. You want one that supports their health, fits their dietary needs and, most importantly, is something they'll actually eat. To make sure we're recommending only the best options, we took the following steps: If you're thinking of changing up your cat's food, here's what to consider before making the switch. The easiest way to ensure a cat food meets basic nutritional standards is to check for an AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement on the label. This confirms that the food is complete and balanced for a specific life stage—kitten, adult or senior. While AAFCO compliance is a good starting point, the experts we spoke with emphasize that it doesn't tell you everything about ingredient quality. That's why it's important to look beyond the label and consider what's actually in the food. Many veterinarians agree that moisture-rich diets are best for cats, since they naturally get most of their hydration from food rather than a water bowl. Wet and fresh foods, such as Smalls and Caru, provide the moisture cats need to support kidney and urinary health. Dry kibble tends to be lower in moisture and higher in carbohydrates; that doesn't mean kibble has no place in a cat's diet, but it should be chosen carefully. Dr. Coger warns that many dry foods rely on starches that can contribute to weight gain, so if you do feed kibble, it's best to choose one with high-quality animal protein and consider rehydrating it with water or broth. Since cats are obligate carnivores, protein and fat should make up the bulk of their diet. According to feline nutrition experts Kennedy and Lefebvre, the best cat foods start with named animal proteins like chicken, turkey or salmon as the first few ingredients. They also recommend avoiding grains, potatoes and legumes, since these don't provide the nutrients cats need and may lead to digestive issues. While 'grain-free' has become a popular marketing term, it's more important to choose food with real, high-quality meat rather than unnecessary fillers. Many indoor cats gain weight easily, especially if they eat dry food that's high in carbohydrates. Portion control matters, and Dr. Cahn and Dr. Coger both stress that leaving kibble out all day often leads to weight gain. A cat's calorie needs depend on age, activity level, and metabolism, but in general, seniors need less food than younger, more active cats. If weight gain is a concern, switching to a high-protein, low-carb wet food, like Bixbi Tuna And Pumpkin, and feeding measured meals instead of free-feeding can help maintain a healthy weight. A healthy cat should have a shiny coat, steady weight, plenty of energy and normal digestion. If your cat always seems hungry, gains weight easily, sheds more than usual or has digestive issues, it might be time to rethink their food. The experts we spoke with suggest watching for changes in their coat, litter box habits and energy levels to see if their diet is really working for them.
