Dry cat food is a great choice for pet parents on a budget. It typically costs less than canned foods and often lasts longer — allowing for more meals per bag.
The best dry cat food has a variety of nutrients that help your cat be healthy and happy. These include a range of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to keep your cat’s body working properly. For example, sodium selenite is added to help strengthen your cat’s skin and coat. This chemical compound is also known to prevent ringworm, hairballs and other skin issues.
These foods are made from a variety of high-quality ingredients, including meats and grains that are carefully processed to retain their nutritional value. The kibble is also baked to give it a rich, caramelized flavor that your cat will love.
Generally speaking, a good dry cat food should have more protein than carbohydrates. This is because cats need high levels of animal protein to be healthy. It should also have low levels of carbohydrate to allow your cat to maintain a lean, trim body weight.
This is especially important for overweight cats who need to lose excess weight. It can also be beneficial for cats with diabetes or other dietary issues, as it helps reduce blood sugar levels in the body.
A good dry food should also contain a lot of water to help your cat stay hydrated and promote kidney, bladder and urinary tract health. This is especially important for aging cats, as dehydration can cause fluid imbalances and lead to chronic kidney disease.
Some of the best dry cat food are designed to address specific needs, such as weight management, skin and coat care, allergies, digestion and sensitivities. Many of the top brands offer multiple options, so you can find the right diet for your cat’s unique lifestyle.
The Best Dry Food for Your Cat
Almost all dry cat foods are manufactured using a process called extrusion, which uses very high heat and pressure to create the kibble shape. Most of these dry kibbles are coated with flavor enhancers to make them more palatable and easier to digest.
The best dry cat foods are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, so they’re a good choice for older and overweight cats or those with digestive issues or diabetes. These foods may have more calories than other types of dry food, but they are lower in fat and higher in fiber to make them a more nutritious choice for your cat.
These foods are also higher in fatty acids to support your cat’s digestive system and skin health. They also contain a balanced blend of amino acids to help your cat feel more energetic.
They also feature various fruits and vegetables to provide a natural source of antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect against oxidative stress, which is the leading cause of disease in cats.
Aside from the nutrients, dry kibble is also easier to digest than canned food, making it a great option for picky eaters and pets with sensitive stomachs. It is also more convenient for owners to store and can be fed at any time of day or night, as long as it isn’t left out too long.
