Several common misconceptions about the ingredients in cat food

Choosing the right food for your cat can be challenging, especially with so many conflicting claims about ingredients. Many misconceptions about cat food ingredients persist, and some may lead cat owners to make choices based on myths rather than facts.

In this article, we’ll break down some common misconceptions, helping you make informed choices that prioritize your cat’s health and well-being.

1. Grain-Free Diets are Always Superior

A grain-free diet has become popular for pets, partly due to concerns about grains causing allergies, digestive issues, and weight gain. This trend has led many to believe that grains should be avoided entirely in a cat’s diet.

The reality: Grains aren’t as problematic as they’re often thought to be. While cats, as obligate carnivores, primarily need animal proteins, grains can provide beneficial nutrients, including carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. True grain allergies in cats are rare, as most food allergies in cats are triggered by proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. Grain-free foods often replace grains with other carbohydrates, which doesn’t necessarily make them healthier. For most cats without a grain allergy, grain-inclusive foods are perfectly safe and nutritious.

2. Meat By-Products are Low-Quality Fillers

Many cat owners avoid foods with “meat by-products,” thinking they’re low-quality leftovers. This misconception can lead people to choose foods without by-products, assuming that by-products are unsafe or nutritionally inferior.

The reality: By-products can actually be nutritious and are quite similar to what a cat would eat in the wild. They include organ meats like liver and kidneys, which provide essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. By-products are strictly regulated for safety in pet foods, so they are not “fillers” but valuable sources of nutrients. In the wild, cats eat whole animals, including these parts, as part of a balanced diet.

3. Raw or Homemade Diets are Always Healthier

Some owners believe that raw or homemade diets offer the best quality ingredients, mimicking a cat’s natural diet. These diets are popular among those wanting to avoid processed foods altogether.

The reality: Raw and homemade diets can benefit cats but also come with risks, such as exposure to bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. Without guidance from a veterinary nutritionist, homemade diets may lack essential nutrients, risking deficiencies over time. Commercial cat foods are carefully formulated to ensure they contain the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for cats. If choosing raw or homemade, it’s crucial to consult a vet to ensure the diet is complete and safe.

4. Plant-Based Proteins are Equivalent to Animal Proteins

With plant-based diets on the rise, some cat foods now include proteins derived from plants, such as peas or lentils, leading some owners to believe these are adequate protein sources for cats.

The reality: Cats need specific nutrients only found in animal proteins. Unlike plant proteins, animal proteins contain essential amino acids, like taurine, that are vital for heart, vision, and general health. Cats have distinct protein needs that plant proteins alone cannot satisfy. While plant proteins can supplement an animal-based diet, they should not be the main protein source.

5. Higher Price Means Higher Quality

It’s common to believe that higher-cost cat foods offer better quality ingredients. Many premium brands are marketed as superior because they’re more expensive.

The reality: Cost doesn’t always equal quality. Some high-priced foods spend more on marketing rather than nutritional value. Many reasonably-priced cat foods are complete and balanced, meeting all necessary standards for a healthy diet. Instead of focusing on cost, look for foods that meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines and ensure complete nutrition.

6. Cats Should Avoid Carbohydrates Entirely

Cats, as carnivores, don’t require a high-carb diet, leading some owners to assume that all carbs are harmful.

The reality: Although they don’t need large amounts, small amounts of carbohydrates can be beneficial, providing energy and aiding digestion. Carbs can also supply fiber, which prevents constipation. Moderation is essential; carbs should not dominate the diet but can fit into a balanced meal plan without harm.

7. All Preservatives are Unsafe

Preservatives are often avoided due to concerns that they’re harmful chemicals. Many owners seek preservative-free foods, believing this to be healthier.

The reality: Preservatives keep food fresh and safe, preventing spoilage. Many pet foods use natural preservatives like vitamin E (tocopherol) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which are safe and even beneficial. Synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT are also generally safe in regulated amounts, though some prefer to avoid them. Natural preservatives are typically safe, but proper storage is key to maintaining freshness.

8. High Protein Content Guarantees Quality

High-protein diets are often marketed as more appropriate for a cat’s carnivorous needs, leading many to assume that higher protein content is better.

The reality: Quality matters more than sheer quantity. Cats require easily digestible proteins with essential amino acids. Some foods with high protein content derive it from lower-quality sources, which may not provide the best nutrition. The protein’s source, ideally from meat or fish, is what’s most important for a healthy diet.

9. Wet Food is Superior to Dry Food

Wet food is widely considered better than dry kibble due to its moisture content, which many believe is better for a cat’s health.

The reality: Both wet and dry foods have benefits. Wet food helps with hydration, which supports urinary health, particularly in cats prone to dehydration. Dry food, on the other hand, is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Some cats do well on a dry-only diet, while others benefit from a combination of wet and dry foods. Consulting a vet can help determine the best choice for your cat.

        When choosing the right cat food, understanding nutrition is more important than following trends. Cats have unique dietary needs that vary, and not all popular beliefs or marketing claims are accurate. Prioritizing balanced, quality nutrition and consulting your veterinarian will ensure your cat’s diet is tailored to their needs, helping them stay healthy for years to come.