Investing in your cat’s well-being starts with providing them with palatable and nutrient-dense food. Cats, as obligate carnivores, thrive on a diet primarily based on meat, emphasizing ample moisture content and avoiding plant-based fillers. Discovering the best cat food involves prioritizing high-quality animal proteins to cater to their inherent dietary requirements. Solcat.net can help you choose a balanced diet that promotes optimal health and vitality for your cat. With options like fresh, wet, and dry food, understanding the essentials ensures your feline companion receives the nourishment needed for a vibrant and healthy life, enhanced with essential nutrients for overall wellness.
1. Best Cat Food Overall
Fresh, High-Protein Meals To Meet Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs
Smalls Fresh Ground Bird Sampler provides fresh, high-protein meals tailored to meet your cat’s nutritional needs.
Type: Fresh | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 200 kcal/package | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- Made with at least 80% animal protein to support muscle and bone health
- High moisture content helps keep cats hydrated
- Gently cooked and frozen with no preservatives or artificial fillers
Keep in mind:
- Requires freezer and fridge space for storage
- More expensive than most traditional cat food
Many commercial cat foods include fillers and preservatives, but Smalls takes a different approach, one that more closely reflects 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.
2. What Is The Best Wet Cat Food?
A Simple, Slow-Cooked Stew That Looks Like Real Food
Caru Classics Wild Salmon And Turkey Stew is a simple, slow-cooked stew that looks like real food.
Type: Wet (stew) | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 152 kcal/carton | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- Made with human-grade ingredients
- Slow-cooked for better nutrient retention
- Free from grains, artificial preservatives and animal by-products
Keep in mind:
- Higher price point compared to many traditional wet cat foods
- Packaged in a carton rather than a can, which some pet owners may prefer or dislike
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.
3. What Is The Best Dry Cat Food Available?
A Limited-Ingredient Kibble That’s More Thoughtfully Made
Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon stands out as a limited-ingredient kibble that’s more thoughtfully made.
Type: Dry | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 470 kcal/cup | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- Made with wild-caught salmon, a natural source of omega-3s and DHA
- Limited-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
- Includes pumpkin, dandelion greens and cranberries for digestion and immune support
- Sourced with transparency—track ingredients down to the origin
Keep in mind:
- Veterinarians recommend adding water or broth to kibble for better hydration
- Some holistic vets argue that kibble does not actually help clean teeth
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. 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.
4. What Is The Best Cat Food For Kittens?
A High-Protein And Hydrating Wet Food For Healthy Growth
Weruva Kitten Chicken Formula Au Jus delivers high-protein and hydrating wet food for healthy growth.
Type: Wet | Life stage: Kitten | Calories: 100 kcal/3 oz can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- Real chicken as the first ingredient for lean protein
- High moisture content supports hydration and digestion
- Soft, shredded texture is easy for kittens to eat
- Free from grains, artificial additives and carrageenan
Keep in mind:
- Kittens may need multiple cans per day to meet calorie needs
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.
5. What Is Considered The Best Cat Food For Seniors?
A Soft, High-Protein Meal That Supports Muscle And Kidney Health
Tiki Cat Silver Chicken, Salmon And Chicken Liver Mousse And Shreds is a soft, high-protein meal that supports muscle and kidney health.
Type: Wet (mousse and shreds) | Life stage: Senior | Calories: 80 kcal/can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- Soft mousse and shredded texture is easy for older cats to eat
- High in protein to help maintain muscle mass and a healthy weight
- Low phosphorus to support kidney function
- Includes salmon oil, turmeric and green tea extract to help fight inflammation
Keep in mind:
- Lower in calories than many wet foods
- Some cats may prefer a different texture; Tiki Cat Silver offers other varieties
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 Dr. 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.
6. What Is The Best Cat Food If Your Cat Has a Sensitive Stomach?
A Gentle, Single-Protein Recipe That’s Easy To Digest
Tiki Cat Luau Wild Salmon Recipe is a gentle, single-protein recipe that’s easy to digest.
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:
- Single-protein formula with wild-caught Alaskan salmon
- No grains, potatoes or gums
- Hand-packed to preserve quality and texture
Keep in mind:
- Low in fat, which may not be ideal for cats needing extra calories
- Transitioning slowly is key for cats with sensitive stomachs
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. According to feline nutrition experts Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre, a low-carb, moisture-rich diet with real protein is much easier on digestion than one packed with unnecessary fillers.
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.
7. What Is The Best Cat Food For Weight Loss?
A High-Protein, Fiber-Rich Meal To Help Cats Stay Satisfied
Bixbi Liberty Tuna & Pumpkin Recipe stands out as a high-protein, fiber-rich meal to help cats stay satisfied.
Type: Wet (minced in broth) | Life stage: All life stages | Calories: 56 kcal/can | AAFCO-compliant: Yes
What you’ll love:
- High-protein tuna helps maintain muscle while reducing excess weight
- Pumpkin adds fiber to promote digestion and help cats feel full
- No fillers, byproduct meals, or artificial preservatives
- Sustainably sourced wild-caught tuna
Keep in mind:
- Lower in calories than many wet foods, so portioning is important
- Some cats may prefer a different texture—this is minced in broth
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. According to Dr. Coger, dry kibble almost always leads to gradual weight gain in cats, who also 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.
8. Why Should You Trust Forbes Vetted?
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.
- This article was written by Forbes Vetted home and kitchen editor Kelly O’Sullivan, who has years of experience covering pet products. She’s interviewed dozens of veterinarians and pet nutrition experts over her career and is deeply knowledgeable about feline health and nutrition. The story was overseen by senior editor (and cat owner) Amanda Arnold, who also has extensive experience covering pet care and makes sure our recommendations are well-researched and reliable.
- To ensure we’re recommending only the highest-quality cat foods, we consulted with several experts and veterinarians: Dr. Laurie Coger, DVM, an integrative veterinarian specializing in pet nutrition; Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre, feline nutritionists and co-founders of Two Crazy Cat Ladies; and Dr. Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance.
- We update this article regularly to reflect new product offerings and the latest expert advice. Our most recent update was in March 2025, ensuring our recommendations remain current and well-researched.
9. How Did Forbes Choose The Best Cat Food?
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:
- We consulted with three veterinarians and feline nutrition experts. Our list reflects what they told us they look for in a great cat food: high-quality animal protein, moisture content to support hydration and a minimal ingredient list without unnecessary fillers.
- We made sure each recommendation meets guidelines for cat food set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), meaning it meets the necessary standards for complete and balanced nutrition.
- We focused on the highest quality cat food available; we prioritized recipes with real, recognizable ingredients and avoided options with fillers, meat by-products and artificial additives.
- We considered a variety of dietary needs. Not every cat has the same nutritional requirements, so we included a mix of fresh food, wet food and dry food options as well as formulas for kittens, seniors, sensitive stomachs and weight management.
- We read through hundreds of customer reviews and only included cat foods that consistently earn positive feedback from both pet parents and experts. If a product had common complaints about palatability, quality or digestibility, we left it out.
10. What Should You Look For In The Best Cat Food?
If you’re thinking of changing up your cat’s food, here’s what to consider before making the switch.
AAFCO Statement
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.
Food Type
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 provide the moisture cats need to support kidney and urinary health. According to Dr. Laurie Coger from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), wet cat food is essential for hydration, especially considering the low thirst drive in cats. 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.
Ingredients
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.
Calories
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 and feeding measured meals instead of free-feeding can help maintain a healthy weight.
How To Tell If Your Cat’s Food Is Working
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.
FAQ About What Is Best Cat Food?
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What makes a cat food “the best”?
The best cat food is high in animal protein, moisture-rich, and free from unnecessary fillers. It meets AAFCO standards and suits your cat’s age, health, and preferences.
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Is wet food better than dry food for cats?
Yes, wet food is generally better due to its high moisture content, which supports hydration and kidney health. It aligns better with a cat’s natural diet.
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What ingredients should I avoid in cat food?
Avoid foods with grains, potatoes, legumes, artificial additives, and meat by-products. Look for real, named animal proteins as the primary ingredients.
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How can I tell if my cat has a food sensitivity?
Signs include digestive issues, skin problems, excessive shedding, and changes in energy levels. Consult your vet for a proper diagnosis.
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How often should I feed my cat?
Feed your cat measured meals once or twice a day. Avoid leaving food out all day to prevent overeating and weight gain.
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What is AAFCO compliance and why is it important?
AAFCO compliance means the food meets nutritional standards for a specific life stage (kitten, adult, senior). It ensures the food is complete and balanced.
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Should I change my cat’s food as they age?
Yes, kittens need high-protein, high-fat food for growth, while seniors may need fewer calories and easily digestible formulas.
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Can cat food help with weight loss?
Yes, high-protein, low-carb wet food with added fiber can help cats lose weight while maintaining muscle mass.
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How do I transition my cat to a new food?
Mix small amounts of the new food with their old diet, gradually increasing the portion over a week to avoid digestive upset.
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Where can I find reliable information about cat nutrition?
Websites like solcat.net provide articles, expert advice, and resources on cat nutrition and care, helping you make informed choices for your feline friend.
Finding the best cat food involves considering several factors, including your cat’s age, health, and individual preferences. By prioritizing high-quality ingredients, understanding nutritional needs, and consulting with experts, you can ensure your feline friend enjoys a balanced and nutritious diet that supports their overall well-being. Remember to visit solcat.net for more information and resources to help you provide the best care for your beloved cat. Discover helpful articles, connect with a community of cat lovers, and find the perfect food to keep your feline happy and healthy. Visit us today at 950 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104, United States. Call +1 (206) 386-4000 or visit our website at solcat.net to learn more.
