Grain-free cat food: yes or no?
The main reason why most cat foods include cereals in their composition is the price of ingredients: meat and fish are more expensive than rice and wheat. However, domestic cats are carnivores. That’s why grain-free cat food is the best option to feed your kitty, especially if it has digestive problems, allergies or intolerances, or if it is neutered.
What are the benefits of grain-free cat food?
Grain-free cat foods have a high content of animal protein. This offers the following benefits to our feline companions:
- Facilitates digestion. As carnivores, cats digest proteins and lipids better than carbohydrates. That’s why a grain-free diet supports intestinal health and increases nutrient absorption.
- Reduces the occurrence of allergies and intolerances. Grain-free food lowers the chances of triggering allergic reactions in cats. This is because many cats are allergic or intolerant to the cereals found in most kibbles.
- Provides a more balanced energy supply. Grain-free cat food releases energy more steadily, avoiding blood sugar spikes and reducing fat accumulation.
- Helps prevent intestinal blockages. A quality grain-free diet is usually rich in dietary fiber, which reduces hairball formation and prevents intestinal obstructions.
Why is grain-free food recommended for neutered cats?
When cats are neutered, they decrease their physical activity and increase their food intake. This causes weight gain that can lead to serious health problems. To prevent obesity, in addition to adjusting the daily food portion, it is recommended to switch to a special diet for neutered cats. Grain-free food for neutered cats is the best option to control the weight of castrated felines. Its low proportion of carbohydrates and high level of dietary fiber help prevent your furry friend from eating more than it really needs.
How to choose a good grain-free cat food?
For grain-free cat food to be complete, healthy, and high-quality, it must have the following characteristics:
- Include quality proteins. The best grain-free cat foods are formulated with a single source of quality animal protein, such as salmon, hake, turkey, rabbit, or lamb.
- Avoid meat meals. Discard foods made with meat meals and other animal by-products. As low-quality proteins with little nutritional value, cats have difficulty digesting them.
- Contain digestible carbohydrates. The carbohydrate sources in grain-free foods should be light, healthy, and easily absorbed, such as pumpkin, carrot, or potato.
- Incorporate dietary fibers. A good grain-free cat food should also include dietary fiber to promote gastrointestinal transit and prevent hairball formation.
What type of food is best for your pet?
Grain-free cat food is an excellent option for neutered pets, those with allergies, or those suffering from digestive problems. However, if your feline friend has no special needs or sensitivities, you can also offer food with cereals, formulated with natural and high-quality ingredients. And if you have any doubts about your kitty’s diet, don’t hesitate to ask your trusted veterinarian for advice.
