Cats: Should we avoid so-called natural cat food?
Hi, it’s Judith. Avoiding so-called natural kibble isn’t always necessary, but choosing those that truly respect your cat’s nutritional needs makes all the difference.
To do immediately
- Read the ingredients list of the kibble carefully, and prioritize clearly named natural ingredients.
- Avoid kibble packed with additives, artificial colors and questionable by-products.
- Opt for organic or certified kibble, they better meet the cat’s nutritional needs.
- Make a gradual transition to avoid digestive problems.
- Monitor your cat’s reaction over several weeks: coat, digestion, weight.
Not all natural kibble is created equal. Often, this term hides healthier ingredients than conventional commercial kibble, but some unscrupulous brands exploit this label to offer products still packed with grains and additives. The key is to distinguish those that combine quality natural ingredients from those that rely on marketing. To learn more, you can consult our guide to natural kibble or find out about the benefits of organic food for your cat.
Natural kibble: qualities and limitations to know
Even though they may suggest a healthier diet, not all natural kibble guarantees a suitable nutritional plan. Many still contain excessive grains, hidden carbohydrates, or poorly digestible ingredients. True cat nutrition relies primarily on a high proportion of quality animal protein. Cats are obligate carnivores; their bodies do not digest grains well.
Conventional commercial cat food often contains chemical preservatives (BHA, BHT) and artificial flavorings to appeal to the owner’s eyes and nose more than to the cat itself. Organic or certified cat food guarantees the absence of pesticides and uses meat from responsible farms, which also reduces health risks for cats.
How to recognize a good natural kibble
- Animal proteins clearly named (chicken, salmon, liver) as the first ingredient.
- No artificial colours, preservatives and chemical additives.
- Balance between proteins, lipids and fibers for optimal digestion.
- Little or no cereals; if present, check that they are of good quality and limited.
- Validated by an organic label or rigorous quality control.
The real risks associated with commercial pet food
Traditional kibble, even those labeled “natural,” can contribute to digestive problems such as bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea. Excessive grains often lead to poor tolerance in cats. Their coat can become dull, and their skin may become irritated, causing itching and dandruff. The risk of weight gain also skyrockets when the protein quality is low and too many carbohydrates are consumed, increasing the risk of feline diabetes and obesity.
Well-chosen natural kibble, with appropriate ingredients, contributes to better digestive health and a shiny coat. This translates into fewer vet visits, less weight management, and an improved quality of life. Several sources such as natural cat food emphasize this link between quality nutrition and feline well-being.
If your cat has frequent digestive problems
Switching to an organic, grain-free recipe can provide real relief. However, the transition should be slow to minimize vomiting and diarrhea. Monitor your child’s reaction closely over several weeks.
If your cat is sedentary or neutered
It is essential to adjust the quantity and type of kibble. Some “grain-free” formulas are higher in calories and can promote weight gain if given in excess.
A simple procedure for choosing the right natural kibble
- Step 1: Read the list of ingredients carefully, choose those where meat is first and clearly named.
- Step 2: Choose a balanced formula, adapted to your cat’s age and lifestyle. Avoid mixtures that are too high in carbohydrates.
- Step 3: Make a gradual transition over 7 to 10 days by progressively mixing the old and new kibble.
Grain-free kibble, a common choice for a more respectful feline diet
| Criteria | Carefully selected natural kibble | Poorly chosen natural kibble |
|---|---|---|
| Animal proteins | Clear, majority, visible qualities | Blurry, by-products or excess vegetables |
| Carbohydrate sources | Low and balanced (vegetables, low starch) | Potatoes, peas, and lentils were plentiful. |
| Additives | Absent or naturally occurring (rosemary extracts, tocopherols) | Chemical preservatives, artificial colors |
| Appetite | Good, suitable for cats | May cause low satiety or excessive snacking |
| Effects on the cat | Shiny coat, regular bowel movements, stable weight | Digestive problems, weight gain, dull coat |
A sustainable look at cat nutrition and health
Ultimately, quality trumps the “natural” or “organic” label. Observing your cat daily—its digestion, coat, and energy levels—will guide you more than any marketing slogan. Adopting a routine of regular weighing, portion measurement, and simple noting of key signs is a winning method for a suitable and sustainable feline diet.
For more practical information and to avoid common pitfalls, also check out the differences between kibble with and without grains and how this impacts the health of cats.
Are natural kibble always better than industrial kibble?
Not always. It all depends on the ingredients and the actual quality. A well-formulated commercial kibble can be better than a poorly balanced natural kibble.
How can I tell if my cat tolerates its kibble well?
Monitor stools, coat, vomiting, or itching. A gradual adaptation period helps to identify any potential problems.
Is grain-free food suitable for all cats?
Not necessarily. Some cats tolerate grains well. The most important thing is the overall quality of the ingredients and the cat’s reaction.
Can you mix organic kibble and wet food?
Yes, it often increases water intake and satiety. The transition must be gradual and consistent.
Why does my cat demand more food with certain kibble?
Some formulas are less filling or too high in carbohydrates. Adjusting the portion size or changing the recipe can help.
Thank you for your interest, Judith. It would be kind of you to leave a comment at the end of the article. Thank you all.
