Choosing the right food for your feline friend can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s natural to gravitate towards labels that promise health and well-being, such as “organic” and “natural.” Organic Cat Food, in particular, often sounds like the premium choice, but is it truly superior? And what does “organic” even signify when it comes to cat food?
This article will delve into the world of organic cat food, clarifying what it means and helping you determine if it’s genuinely a healthier option for your beloved cat.
Decoding “Organic” Cat Food: What Does It Really Mean?
The term “organic” is frequently used in pet food marketing. To understand its true meaning, we need to look at the official definition. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), for animal feed to be labeled “organic,” it must adhere to the production and handling standards set by the USDA National Organic Program (NOP).
The NOP is a federal regulatory framework established to create and enforce consistent national standards for organically produced agricultural products sold across the United States. This program certifies farms and businesses that meet these organic standards, while the USDA ensures compliance through audits, investigations, and other enforcement measures.
The NOP website defines “organic” products as those “produced through methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.”
Furthermore, the USDA’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances specifies which synthetic substances are permitted and which non-synthetic (natural) substances are prohibited in organic crop and livestock production.
Currently, specific organic regulations for pet foods are still under development. Therefore, the NOP mandates that pet foods claiming to be organic must meet the existing human food regulations.
USDA Organic Seal: Does All Organic Cat Food Have It?
The answer is no. While some cat foods boast certified organic ingredients, not all of them carry the official USDA Organic Seal. The presence of organic ingredients doesn’t automatically qualify the entire product as certified organic.
Qualifying for the USDA Organic Seal
To proudly display the USDA organic seal and the “certified organic” statement, pet food products must contain a minimum of 95% certified organic ingredients. This stringent requirement ensures that products bearing the seal truly meet high organic standards.
“Made With Organic Ingredients”: Understanding the Label
Cat foods that don’t reach the 95% organic ingredient threshold can still use the label “made with organic ingredients.” This designation is permitted if the product contains at least 70% organic ingredients in its overall composition. Alternatively, manufacturers can use “organic” as a qualifier for specific ingredients within their ingredient list if they fall below the 70% mark.
Organic vs. Natural Cat Food: Key Differences
Organic and natural are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings, especially in the context of cat food. Organic cat foods are bound by the USDA’s rigorous rules for organic human food production, which include:
- Crop Production: Crops used in organic cat food must be grown without synthetic fertilizers or herbicides.
- Animal Raising: Animals raised for meat, milk, or eggs in organic cat food must be fed organically grown feed.
- USDA Accreditation: USDA-accredited companies meticulously inspect the operations of organic farmers and food companies to ensure compliance.
Natural cat food, as defined by AAFCO, is described as:
“…a feed or feed ingredient derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sources in their natural state or having been subjected to minimal processing that does not alter the fundamental nutritional components and having been produced and handled to retain its natural nutritional integrity, and not containing any synthetic substances except as specifically permitted by regulation.”
For a cat food to be labeled “natural,” every ingredient must meet the AAFCO definition. The presence of any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors disqualifies the product from being labeled “natural.”
However, there are exceptions. Chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals, or trace nutrients may be added to ensure the diet is nutritionally complete and balanced. In such cases, the label must clearly state that the food is “natural with added vitamins and minerals.”
Is Organic Cat Food Nutritionally Superior?
According to Cailin Heinze, a veterinary nutritionist at Tufts University, nutritional benefits of organic foods are not strongly evident in humans, and this likely extends to pets. Pet food is formulated to be “complete and balanced,” providing all essential nutrients at or above the recommended levels.
When selecting cat food, focus on the “basic four” components on the label:
- Animal-Sourced Protein: Essential for muscle development and overall health.
- Healthy Fats (like fish oil): Important for skin, coat, and brain function.
- Fiber (like gums, beet pulp): Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Water: Crucial for hydration.
Many states have regulations specifying the minimum nutrient levels cat food must contain, along with maximum limits for moisture and crude fiber.
To find the best food for your cat, consult with your veterinarian and conduct thorough research. Investigate the pet food company, and prioritize companies that employ board-certified veterinary nutritionists on staff. Nutritional expertise and quality control should not be compromised for the sake of choosing organic.
Ultimately, while organic cat food may appeal to pet owners seeking natural options, focusing on a nutritionally complete and balanced diet, developed with veterinary nutritional expertise, is paramount for your cat’s health and well-being.
Sources:
fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/pet-food-labels-general
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts
WRITTEN BY
Patti Munizza, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Patti Munizza completed her undergraduate degree at Rutgers University and her veterinary medicine degree at The Ohio State University…
