How to buy the best cat food for indoor cats with sensitive stomachs, according to vets
We selected the Best cat food for indoor cats with sensitive stomachs with advice from veterinarians and animal nutritionists.
How do you choose the best cat food for indoor cat?
Nutritional Requirements:
Cats have specific nutritional needs, including a high-protein diet with essential amino acids like taurine. Look for cat foods that meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition.
Life Stage:
Consider your cat’s life stage when choosing food. Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats have different nutritional needs. Ensure the food you select is appropriate for your cat’s age.
Read the Ingredients:
The ingredient list can give you valuable information about the quality of the cat food. Look for high-quality protein sources (such as chicken or fish) listed among the top ingredients. Avoid foods that contain excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.
Wet vs. Dry Food:
Both wet and dry cat food have their advantages. Wet food can provide hydration, which is important for cats who may not drink enough water. Dry food can help maintain dental health. Some owners choose a combination of both, offering a mix of wet and dry food.
Special Dietary Needs:
If your indoor cat has any specific dietary requirements or sensitivities, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food options. For example, some cats may require grain-free or limited-ingredient diets.
Allergies and Food Sensitivities:
If your cat has shown signs of allergies or food sensitivities, it may be necessary to try an elimination diet or switch to a hypoallergenic cat food formulated for cats with food allergies.
Brand Reputation:
Remember that every cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Monitor your cat’s health and well-being after transitioning to a new cat food and make adjustments if necessary.
Consult Your Veterinarian:
Your veterinarian can provide valuable advice tailored to your cat’s specific needs. They can recommend suitable brands and guide you on portion sizes and feeding schedules.
Remember that every cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Monitor your cat’s health and well-being after transitioning to a new cat food and make adjustments if necessary.
Why special food for indoor cats?
An indoor cat does not have the same exercise opportunities as an outdoor cat. So indoor cats need special food to keep them healthy. Good food plays a role in cat health as well as weight control. Although an indoor cat and an outdoor cat will have similar basic nutritional needs, their activity levels will likely be different, meaning they will burn calories differently. A cat food made for indoor cats usually has fewer calories per serving than an outdoor cat food. It can have a higher fiber content, which helps offset an indoor cat’s tendency to experience hairballs more frequently than outdoors.
The back of your indoor cat’s food bag will offer a guide to how much you should feed based on your cat’s ideal weight, but it will typically be a range, which means you’ll want to check your cat’s weight periodically. If they’re a little heavy, scale back your cat’s portions toward the smaller end of the range. If they’re a little underweight, move toward the end of the spectrum.
Your vet is a great resource to help you figure out the best daily calorie intake for your kitty based on current body conditions, breed, and age.
Fortunately, most of the major cat food brands offer a tempting variety of professionally formulated cat foods to keep your indoor cat satisfied and healthy. These include wet foods, dry foods, grain-free foods, and even limited-ingredient diets.
Try one of these top-rated indoor cat foods.
According to online reviews—and our own very picky indoor kitties—these are some of the best indoor cat foods on the market.
Royal Canin Indoor Adult Dry Cat Food is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular product:
Indoor Formula:
This cat food is designed to support the unique needs of indoor cats. Indoor cats typically have a lower activity level and may be prone to weight gain. The formula helps maintain a healthy weight and supports overall well-being.
Hairball Control:
Indoor cats are more prone to hairballs due to increased grooming and decreased natural fiber intake. Royal Canin Indoor Adult Dry Cat Food contains a precise blend of fibers to support healthy digestion and help reduce hairball formation.
Balanced Nutrition:
The formula provides a balanced blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to meet the specific energy requirements of indoor cats. It includes essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health and vitality.
Dental Health:
The kibble’s shape and texture help promote chewing and reduce the formation of tartar and plaque. This contributes to overall dental health and helps maintain fresh breath.
High Palatability:
Royal Canin is known for its commitment to taste and palatability. The food is formulated to be highly appetizing, satisfying even the most selective eaters.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s diet to ensure it is suitable for your cat’s specific needs and health conditions.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Food in the Chicken Recipe is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular product:
Indoor Formula:
This cat food is tailored to support the unique needs of indoor cats. Indoor cats often have a more sedentary lifestyle and may be prone to weight gain. The formula helps maintain a healthy weight and supports overall well-being.
Chicken Recipe:
The primary ingredient in this cat food is real chicken, providing a high-quality source of protein that is essential for maintaining lean muscle mass.
Fiber for Hairball Control:
Indoor cats are more prone to hairballs due to increased grooming and decreased natural fiber intake. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Food contains a blend of natural fibers to support healthy digestion and help reduce hairball formation.
Balanced Nutrition:
The formula provides a balanced blend of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health and vitality in adult cats.
Antioxidant Blend:
Hill’s Science Diet includes an antioxidant blend to support a strong immune system, promoting the overall health and well-being of your cat.
Veterinarian Recommended:
Hill’s Science Diet is a brand trusted by many veterinarians. The cat food undergoes rigorous testing and quality control to ensure it meets the highest standards of pet nutrition.
Always consult with your veterinarian to determine if Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Food, Chicken Recipe, is suitable for your cat’s specific needs and dietary requirements. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your cat’s age, weight, and any underlying health concerns.
Acana Dry Cat Food for Indoor Cats, specifically the Indoor Entrée variant, is a popular choice for indoor cats. Acana is known for producing biologically appropriate pet foods that aim to mirror a cat’s natural diet. Here are some key features and potential benefits of Acana Dry Cat Food for Indoor Cats, Indoor Entrée:
Protein-Rich Ingredients:
The formula includes a variety of protein sources like chicken, turkey, whole herring, and rabbit. These proteins provide essential amino acids to support your cat’s lean muscle maintenance.
Limited Carbohydrates:
Acana focuses on reducing carbohydrates in their cat food formulas. This can be beneficial for indoor cats who may have a more sedentary lifestyle and are at a higher risk of weight gain.
Whole Prey Ratio:
Acana strives to mimic the natural diet of cats by incorporating whole prey ratios. This means using different parts of the animal, including meat, organs, and cartilage, to provide a balance of nutrients.
Natural Ingredients:
Acana emphasizes using high-quality, natural ingredients in their recipes. They strive to source ingredients locally and sustainably.
No Artificial Additives:
Acana avoids the use of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in their cat food.
It’s important to note that individual cats may have unique dietary requirements and sensitivities. It’s always recommended to consult with your veterinarian to determine if Acana Dry Cat Food for Indoor Cats, Indoor Entrée, is suitable for your cat’s specific needs and to ensure a smooth transition to any new diet.
IAMS Proactive Health Adult Indoor Weight Control and Hairball Care Dry Cat Food with Chicken and Turkey is a specific cat food formula designed to address the needs of indoor cats who may be prone to weight gain and hairball issues. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular cat food:
Weight management:
This formula is formulated with L-carnitine, a natural amino acid that helps indoor cats maintain a healthy weight by promoting fat metabolism.
Hairball care:
The inclusion of a proprietary fiber blend in the cat food helps reduce hairball formation by aiding in the natural passage of ingested hair through the digestive system.
Chicken and turkey protein:
The primary sources of protein in this cat food are chicken and turkey, which are lean and highly digestible protein sources that support muscle maintenance.
Essential nutrients:
The cat food is balanced with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, to support overall health and well-being.
Indoor cat formula:
This cat food is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats, who may have a more sedentary lifestyle compared to outdoor cats.
When considering cat food options, it’s important to note that individual cats may have different dietary requirements or sensitivities. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific cat based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or allergies they may have.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Indoor Complete Premium Natural Dry Cat Food is a cat food option that is formulated specifically for indoor cats. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular cat food:
High-quality protein:
This cat food is made with real chicken as the primary source of protein, which is essential for maintaining strong muscles and supporting overall health.
Lentils and salmon:
Lentils and salmon are included in the recipe to provide a good source of fiber, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.
Natural ingredients:
Rachael Ray Nutrish Indoor Complete Premium Natural Dry Cat Food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or poultry by-product meal.
Added vitamins and minerals:
The cat food is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to support optimal nutrition and overall well-being.
Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables:
This cat food contains antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries, blueberries, and carrots, which provide added nutritional benefits.
Suitable for indoor cats:
The formulation of this cat food takes into consideration the specific needs of indoor cats, including weight management, hairball control, and overall health support.
As always, it’s important to consider your individual cat’s needs and consult with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the most suitable diet for your feline companion. They can offer guidance based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or sensitivities your cat may have.
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Indoor Natural Adult Dry Cat Food is a cat food option designed specifically for indoor adult cats. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular cat food:
High-quality protein:
This cat food is made with real chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support strong muscles and overall health.
Indoor formula:
The formulation of this cat food takes into consideration the needs of indoor cats, such as weight management and hairball control.
Wholesome ingredients:
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Indoor Natural Adult Dry Cat Food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
Essential nutrients:
The cat food is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including taurine, to support optimal nutrition and overall well-being.
Highly palatable:
The recipe is crafted to be flavorful and appealing to even the pickiest of eaters, ensuring that your indoor cat will enjoy their meals.
Balanced nutrition:
This cat food provides a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to meet the nutritional needs of adult indoor cats.
It’s always important to consider your individual cat’s needs and consult with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the most suitable diet for your feline companion. They can offer guidance based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or sensitivities your cat may have.
Purina ONE Natural, Low Fat, Weight Control, Indoor Dry Cat Food, +Plus Indoor Advantage, is a cat food option designed for indoor cats who require weight management support. Here are some key features and benefits of this particular cat food:
Low-fat formula:
This cat food is specifically formulated to be lower in fat to help indoor cats maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.
Weight control:
The formula includes a blend of high-quality protein sources and natural fiber to help support healthy weight management in indoor cats.
Indoor Advantage:
The “+Plus Indoor Advantage” formula of Purina ONE is designed to meet the unique needs of indoor cats. It supports hairball control and promotes a healthy metabolism.
Real chicken as the main ingredient:
The cat food is made with real chicken as the primary protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.
Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamins:
The cat food is enriched with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamins to support a healthy skin and coat.
Natural ingredients:
Purina ONE Natural, Low Fat, Weight Control, Indoor Dry Cat Food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors, preservatives, or fillers.
It’s always important to consider your individual cat’s needs and consult with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the most suitable diet for your feline companion. They can offer guidance based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or sensitivities your cat may have.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Dry Cat Food is a premium cat food option designed for adult indoor cats. Here are some key features of this product:
High-quality protein:
The cat food is made with real chicken as the primary ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support strong muscles and a healthy body condition.
Grain-free formula:
This cat food is formulated without the use of grains, which can be beneficial for cats with grain sensitivities or allergies.
Indoor cat formula:
The formulation of this cat food takes into account the specific needs of indoor cats, such as weight management, hairball control, and overall health support.
Natural ingredients:
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Dry Cat Food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Essential nutrients:
The cat food is fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and well-being.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids:
This cat food contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from natural sources to promote healthy skin and coat.
No poultry by-product meals:
The formula is free from poultry by-product meals, which are low-quality protein sources often found in lower-grade cat foods.
It’s important to note that individual cats may have different dietary needs or sensitivities. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific cat based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or allergies they may have.
Purina Cat Chow Indoor Dry Cat Food, Hairball + Healthy Weight, is a cat food specifically formulated for indoor cats. Here are some key features of this product:
Indoor formula:
This cat food is designed to meet the unique needs of indoor cats, including hairball control and weight management. It aims to support their overall health and well-being in an indoor environment.
Hairball control:
The formula includes natural fibers that help reduce hairballs by aiding in the passage of ingested hair through the digestive system.
Healthy weight management:
The cat food is formulated with a calorie-controlled recipe to help indoor cats maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, which can be common in less active indoor cats.
High-quality protein:
The cat food contains real chicken as the primary source of protein, which supports muscle development and maintenance.
Essential nutrients:
The formula is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and well-being.
Trusted brand:
Purina is a well-known and trusted brand in the pet food industry, with a long history of producing cat food.
It’s important to note that individual cats may have different dietary needs or sensitivities. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific cat based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or allergies they may have.
CRAVE Grain-Free Indoor Adult High Protein Natural Dry Cat Food is a cat food option designed for indoor adult cats. Here are some key features of this product:
Grain-free formula:
This cat food is free from grains like corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens for cats. It provides a grain-free option for cats with sensitivities or those following a grain-free diet.
High-quality protein sources:
The cat food is made with real chicken and salmon as the primary sources of protein, which are highly digestible and provide essential amino acids for muscle development and maintenance.
Indoor cat formula:
The formulation of this cat food takes into account the specific needs of indoor cats, such as weight management, hairball control, and overall health support in an indoor environment.
No artificial flavors or preservatives:
CRAVE Grain-Free Indoor Adult High Protein Natural Dry Cat Food does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives, providing a more natural option for your cat.
Essential nutrients:
The cat food is fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and taurine to support overall health and well-being, including heart and eye health.
High protein content:
This cat food is formulated with a high protein content to support lean muscle mass and satisfy your cat’s carnivorous instincts.
As with any cat food, it’s important to consider your individual cat’s needs and consult with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the most suitable diet for your feline companion. They can offer guidance based on factors such as age, health condition, and any dietary restrictions or sensitivities your cat may have.
How do we test food for indoor cats?
Testing cat food for indoor cats typically involves a combination of evaluating the ingredients, analyzing nutritional content, observing your cat’s response to the food, and consulting with your veterinarian. Here are some steps you can take to test cat food for your indoor feline:
Read the ingredients:
Carefully review the ingredient list on the cat food packaging. Look for high-quality protein sources, such as meat or fish, listed among the top ingredients. Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial additives, and by-products.
Check the nutritional content:
Examine the nutritional information on the cat food packaging. Ensure that the food meets the nutritional requirements recommended for indoor cats, including appropriate levels of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Transition Period:
When introducing a new cat food, it’s essential to do so gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with your cat’s current food and gradually increasing the proportion of the new food over a week or two. Monitor your cat’s response during this transition period.
Observe Your Cat's Health and Behavior:
After your cat has fully transitioned to the new food, observe their health, energy levels, coat condition, and overall behavior. Look for any signs of improvement or any adverse reactions like digestive issues, skin problems, or changes in litter box habits.
Consult with your veterinarian:
Your veterinarian is a valuable resource in assessing the quality and suitability of cat food. They can provide guidance based on your cat’s specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. Regular checkups with your vet can also help monitor your cat’s health over time.
Rotating Food:
Some cat owners choose to rotate between different high-quality cat food brands and flavors to provide variety and ensure a well-rounded diet. This approach can prevent your cat from becoming too dependent on a single type of food and potentially developing sensitivities or aversions.
Remember that each cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Keep an eye on your cat’s health, consult your veterinarian regularly, and be open to adjusting their diet if necessary.
How to Transition Your Indoor Cat to New Food?
Transitioning your indoor cat to a new food should be done gradually to minimize digestive upset and help them adjust to the new diet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to transition your indoor cat to new food:
Choose the New Cat Food:
Select a high-quality cat food that meets your indoor cat’s nutritional needs. Consider consulting with your veterinarian for recommendations based on your cat’s specific requirements.
Start Slowly:
Begin the transition by mixing a small amount of the new cat food with your cat’s current food. Start with a ratio of about 75% old food and 25% new food.
Monitor Your Cat's Response:
Pay close attention to your cat’s reaction to the new food. Watch for any signs of digestive upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Additionally, observe changes in their appetite, energy levels, and overall behavior.
Gradually increase the ratio:
Over the course of several days, gradually increase the proportion of the new cat food while decreasing the amount of the old food. For example, on day three, try a 50/50 ratio of old food to new food. On day five, aim for a 25/75 ratio, and by day seven, your cat should be fully transitioned to the new food.
Take it slowly if needed:
Some cats may have a more sensitive digestive system and require a slower transition. If you notice any adverse reactions, slow down the transition process by spending a few extra days on each ratio step.
Maintain Consistency:
Once your cat is fully transitioned to the new food, stick with it for a while to allow their system to adapt and to accurately assess the impact of the new diet. Abruptly switching back and forth between different foods can cause digestive issues.
Water Availability:
Ensure that fresh water is always available for your cat, regardless of the type of food they’re eating. This is important for their overall hydration.
Remember, every cat is different, and some may require more or less time to adjust to a new food. If you encounter any significant issues during the transition or if your cat’s health deteriorates, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
