You are what you eat. This adage remains as true for felines and people as it does to all other creatures on Planet Earth. Indeed, cat food is one of the important – if not, the biggest – expenses of any guardian who has decided to let their furry “kids” share a little bit of their home. But what food is the best for your bossy, independent or laid-back feline? And which cat food should you choose if you want to find tasty products without the paw killer price tag?
There are many factors that go into deciding which brand and type of cat food to buy. Some people go for the cheapest products while others go for the most expensive. There are also those who like to choose the best cat food brands in the market and take their time pinpointing which brand they need. Whatever your personality is, you can find the best cat food for you.
Here are 5 factors you need to consider when choosing the best cat food for your most important little pal:
1. Canned Food or Kibble?
Yes, you read that title correctly. It is not whether canned or kibble is better for your cat – both choices come with their own advantages and disadvantages. But perhaps the best option that you have in choosing a cat food is to not choose at all.
If you’ve a kibble lover, then keep buying them kibble. Kibble lovers are like those stay-at-home folks who would rather dine in than go out to a fancy restaurant. And if your cat prefers a bit of kibble now and then, then go with it. Buy them the best kibble you can afford – but always keep their canning and kibble-loving moments in the back of your mind.
Canned food, on the other hand, is like eating at a fancy restaurant. It has more flavor, is more appealing and healthier, and is more expensive. But for some owners, it’s a perfect family meal. Nonetheless, if you cannot afford to serve canned food right out of the can, you can always pour the canned cat food into a dish. This saves you from the hassle of containers and the mess that comes from dropping bits of leftovers and sauces into your trash bin.
2. Ingredients and Dietary Requirements
Make sure that you are choosing not only the right cat food brand, but also the right type of cat food. Cats are all different, just like people. Some cats may have problems ingesting certain types of toxins, or are allergic to certain kinds of food.
For example, if you have a kitty with a health issue (like hyperthyroidism or diabetes) then you must steer clear from fish-flavored cat food. Fish, especially the tuna variety, can help your cat lose weight. However, it’s also filled with mercury, which worsens your cat’s thyroid and heart condition.
As for other ingredients, it’s a good idea to pick a food with carbohydrates and protein. What you said? Carbohydrates and protein aren’t the same thing! Yes, we know that. But many canned or dried cat foods have a certain amount of carbohydrates, which is why it’s important for you to understand that there is a difference between carbohydrates and protein.
For example, many people mistake tuna for a good source of protein, but it is actually packed with carbohydrates and mercury.
3. Cheaper Brands are False Economy
We recommend that you get the best cat food brand that your budget can provide – even if that means splurging a little on your furry buddy. In general, cheap brands are no good for your cat’s health. They will make your furry friend sick and can even cause long-term kidney and liver damage. Often low-grade food can result in diarrhea and other digestive issues resulting in your cat litter box becoming their sole domain. Further you might then need to invest in cat litter pail to handle the unwanted smell.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that you should invest in the best cat food brand that is reasonable, healthy for your four-legged friend and within your budget. Remember, a little extra spent on their favorite food will give you all that much more to enjoy when your cat gives you their special purring for being such a great and loving human!