High Protein Wet Cat Foods

High protein wet cat foods can help support your cat’s muscles and everyday activity while adding moisture to their meals. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need nutrients found naturally in animal tissue, along with a complete balance of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. As you compare protein-rich canned cat food, look for an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement that matches your cat’s life stage, whether you’re feeding a growing kitten or an adult barn-side companion who comes indoors for supper. Ingredients such as chicken, turkey or fish can contribute protein, but the ingredient list alone won’t tell you whether a recipe meets your cat’s full nutritional needs. Wet cat food labeled for complete and balanced nutrition is intended to serve as a daily diet for the stated life stage, while foods labeled for intermittent or supplemental feeding should not make up the whole menu. The best high protein wet cat food for your cat also depends on their age, activity level, health and taste preferences—not just the biggest protein number on the label. Comparing high protein canned cat foods takes a little label reading because moisture affects the protein percentages you see. The crude protein figure in the guaranteed analysis is listed on an as-fed basis, so it isn’t a straight comparison with dry cat food or even wet recipes with different moisture levels. A dry matter comparison removes water from the calculation: divide the listed protein percentage by 100 minus the moisture percentage, then multiply by 100. Since guaranteed analysis values are minimums or maximums rather than exact nutrient measurements, this gives an estimate; the manufacturer can provide more detailed nutritional information. Along with protein, check calories per can or serving and follow feeding directions as a starting point, adjusting portions to help maintain a healthy body condition. Introduce a new wet cat food gradually over about seven to ten days, keep fresh drinking water handy and refrigerate opened food according to package directions. If your cat has kidney disease or another medical condition, talk with your veterinarian before switching to a high protein diet so supper fits their individual needs.