What is Dry Cat Food?

Dry kibble is popular among many cat owners because it’s convenient. It comes in larger bags and because its moisture content is less than 20 percent, it has a longer shelf life, even after opening. This makes it more cost effective.

There’s less risk of bacterial growth with dry food, so you can leave it out all day for your cat to graze on while you’re at work. Crunchy kibble also helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup on cats’ teeth. Dry cat food may be more difficult for older cats to chew, however.

• Dry Cat Food Benefits

1. Supports Cats’ Natural Grazing:In the wild, cats ate multiple small meals throughout the day. With dry food, you can leave their food out for cats to instinctively graze upon. This is not possible with wet food, which would spoil if left out too long.

2. Helps Promote Dental Health:Chewing hard kibble may help prevent plaque and tarter buildup on teeth. However, whether you feed wet or dry food, you can maintain your cat’s dental health with regular teeth cleanings by your veterinarian.

3. Easy and Economical:A bag of dry food typically costs less than the equivalent amount of meals in wet food. And, one bag can last a while. So, it can be a good option for cat parents on a budget.

• Dry Cat Food Drawbacks

1. Studies have shown a correlation between obesity and feeding dry cat food. This could be because a lot of cats that eat dry food are often free-fed, and owners do not realize how much their cats are actually eating in a day.

2. It can also cause the opposite problem because it’s hard to notice that your cat is not eating when they are free-fed. The amount your cat eats in a day should be monitored or measured out for both reasons.

3. Older cats with dental disease or those who have had some of their teeth removed may also have a harder time chewing dry food.

Cat Food Buying Guide 

Avoid feeding a home-cooked or homemade diet unless it is specially formulated by a veterinarian who is specialized in making these diets. If you don’t have help from a qualified vet, these diets can be deficient in vitamins and minerals such as taurine, which can cause heart disease in cats. Involving your veterinarian in your decision of what to feed your cat can be very helpful in ensuring they get the most appropriate nutrition.  

Here are some other things to consider.

•  AAFCO Approval

Basic minimum nutritional requirements for cats have been established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This is important because all pet foods that carry an “AAFCO statement“ or “AAFCO-approved nutritional guarantee” are considered to be nutritionally complete and well-balanced diets for your cat.

• Ingredient List

It’s important to read the label on the back of the package to ensure that the main ingredients, which will be listed first, consist of meat and meat by-products. This is because cats are carnivores and require a high-protein diet that supplies the appropriate amount of essential amino acids and fatty acids.

• Your Cat’s Particular Health Needs

The best cat food for your cat will be unique to their lifestyle and nutritional needs.

For example, if your kitten or cat is of normal weight and healthy, then a kitten or adult maintenance diet should be sufficient. If your cat is overweight, it may be best to look for a low-fat diet.

If your cat has a health condition, your veterinarian may prescribe a specific diet formulated for that disease. For example, kidney diets are recommended in most cats who develop kidney disease, or a urinary diet may be more appropriate in cats who have lower urinary tract disease.

• Your Cat’s Preferences

At the end of the day, you may not have a choice in what type of diet you feed your cat. Some cats can be very picky and only eat dry or only eat wet food.

Where To Buy Dry Cat Foods Cheapest?

• Chewy:Up to 4% Super Cash Back

• PetFlow: Up to 10% Super Cash Back

• Petco:Up to 2% Super Cash Back

• Walmart:Up to 4% Super Cash Back

• Petsmart

• Amazon
  

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Best Dry Cat Food for Indoor Cats

Royal Canin

Royal Canin History

Royal Canin is one of the oldest brands on the market. It was founded in 1967 in France. The brand had started by offering recipe based on science nutrition. They are always emphasizing and talking about the research and development they have done to formulate their recipes. The company has a great team of researchers that are working on their recipes to give the right nutrients that your cats need, especially for specific health issues, breeds, exercise levels, and age groups.

pros

1. Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Dry Food comes recommended very highly, both in its original form, and in its appetite control for spayed cats form, delivering a good mix of proteins, minerals, and vitamins. The Royal Canin Adult Instinctive also comes across well thanks to its high protein levels and popularity with cats.

2. Part of what makes Royal Canin so appealing is that its products are tailored to specific conditions. One such example is the Gastrointestinal Fiber Response Dry Cat Food, its proven ability to help cats with constipation brings it many recommendations from satisfied owners.

cons

1. One possible negative point against Royal Canin is the high level of carbohydrates present in its products. In some cases this van potentially lead to higher rates of obesity in cats. 

2. Moreover, the high price of Royal Canin can't be ignored, as Royal Canin's products are significantly more expensive than Purina's equivalent. 

Royal Canin Dry Cat Food 

There are 53 dry food recipes between Royal Canin’s veterinary and retail dry cat foods. Most of the kitten-aged food is breed-specific, whereas adult food choices focus on indoor versus outdoor nutritional needs. Most outdoor cats are more active than indoor cats, so the primary difference between indoor and outdoor recipes is the calorie density of the kibble, rather than the ingredients.

1.Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Adult dry cat food

Price and where to buy: From $47.69 + 2% cashback @ Petco

Indoor cats require more nutrients and extra care. The Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Dry Cat Food has been formulated to fit the specific needs of indoor cats and meet their nutritional requirement. This is a great recipe that helps cats by reducing the odor of their stool. With lack of exercise, your cats may have a slower intestinal process that can cause a smelly poop.

The brand knows this and offers a recipe that has a highly digestible protein and comes with the appropriate fiber content. It also comes with special nutrients that can promote good digestion and help reduce the odor and quantity of your cats’ stool. This is formulated to have a moderate fat content that can adapt to the activity level of indoor cats. This is important to maintain and reach your cats’ ideal weight.

Ingredients

Chicken meal, corn, brewers rice, corn gluten meal, wheat, chicken fat, wheat gluten, natural flavors, brown rice, pea fiber, rice hulls, dried plain beet pulp, vegetable oil, calcium sulfate, grain distillers dried yeast, sodium silico aluminate, fish oil, potassium chloride, fructooligosaccharides, sodium pyrophosphate, psyllium seed husk, salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, egg product, calcium carbonate, vitamins (DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), niacin supplement, biotin, riboflavin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin A acetate, vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, vitamin D3 supplement), taurine, trace minerals (zinc oxide, zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, manganese proteinate, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate), L-carnitine, rosemary extract Preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.

Pros 

• It helps reduce the odor of your cats’ stool.

• It promotes stronger teeth and bones.

• It reduces the risk of having hairballs.

• It helps maintain your cats’ ideal body weight.

Cons

• Some cats won't like this recipe.

• The main ingredient used is chicken meal only.

2.Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Intense Hairball 34 dry cat food

Price and where to buy: From $31.61 + 2% cashback @ Petco

Are you worrying about the hairball of your cats? This is not something that you look forward to early in the morning, and the Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Intense Hairball Dry Cat Food is formulated to help you with it. This recipe is ideal for cats that are prone to having excessive hairballs and helps you to eventually eliminate it.

It also helps in promoting the dental health of your cats. It offers a combination of compatible fibers that are responsible for supporting the gastrointestinal health of your cats. This is important for them to avoid the development of hairballs and promote a healthy metabolism. It makes it easier for them to digest their meals and get the nutrients that come with it.

Ingredients

Chicken meal, corn, brewers rice, rice hulls, corn gluten meal, chicken fat, natural flavors, wheat, wheat gluten, pea fiber, dried plain beet pulp, grain distillers dried yeast, vegetable oil, calcium sulfate, fish oil, psyllium seed husk, potassium chloride, sodium pyrophosphate, fructooligosaccharides, salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, vitamins (DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), niacin supplement, biotin, riboflavin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, vitamin D3 supplement), monocalcium phosphate, trace minerals (zinc proteinate, zinc oxide, ferrous sulfate, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate), taurine, rosemary extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.

Pros 

• It eliminates hairballs.

• It supports dental health.

• It supports gastrointestinal health.

• It has fatty acids to avoid inflammation.

Cons

• This is only ideal for cats that are prone to hairballs.

• There are cats that may not like the flavor.

3.Royal Canine Feline Health Nutrition Weight Care Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy: From $59.51 + 2% cashback @ Petco

The Royal Canine Feline Health Nutrition Weight Care Dry Cat Food is formulated to help cats that are neutered, spayed, or currently obese. When they are overweight, it would be hard for them to move around and do different activities. Do your cat a favor and give them the right formula that they need.

Having obesity can be dangerous for cats because it can be the leading cause of different problems such as skin diseases, liver problems, and urinary stones. The risk of being obese can be higher if you will offer them a diet that has high-fat content.

Ingredients

Chicken meal, pea fiber, wheat gluten, corn, corn gluten meal, natural flavors, brewers rice flour, brewers rice, wheat, chicken fat, dried plain beet pulp, calcium sulfate, fish oil, salt, potassium chloride, sodium pyrophosphate, monocalcium phosphate, psyllium seed husk, calcium carbonate, vegetable oil, choline chloride, vitamins (DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), niacin supplement, biotin, riboflavin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, vitamin D3 supplement), taurine, trace minerals (zinc proteinate, zinc oxide, ferrous sulfate, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate), L-carnitine, rosemary extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.

Pros

• It is formulated for overweight cats.

• It prevents your cats from being obese.

• It is low in fat and is highly palatable.

• It helps maintain a glossy and shiny coat.

Cons

• This is only for overweight cats.

• Some obese cats won’t eat this meal.

4.Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Indoor Intense Hairball 34 dry cat food

Price and where to buy:  $44.45 + 4% cashback @ Walmart

Are you worrying about the hairball of your cats? This is not something that you look forward to early in the morning, and the Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Intense Hairball Dry Cat Food is formulated to help you with it. This recipe is ideal for cats that are prone to having excessive hairballs and helps you to eventually eliminate it.

It also helps in promoting the dental health of your cats. It offers a combination of compatible fibers that are responsible for supporting the gastrointestinal health of your cats. This is important for them to avoid the development of hairballs and promote a healthy metabolism. It makes it easier for them to digest their meals and get the nutrients that come with it.

Ingredients

Chicken meal, corn gluten meal, brown rice, corn, chicken fat, natural chicken flavor, rice hulls, chicken, pea fiber, dried plain beet pulp, psyllium seed husk, powdered cellulose, vegetable oil, brewers dried yeast, salt, sodium silico aluminate, fish oil, calcium sulfate, fructooligosaccharides, potassium chloride, monosodium phosphate, egg product, DL-methionine, choline chloride, L-cystine, taurine, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), niacin supplement, biotin, riboflavin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], sodium tripolyphosphate, tea, trace minerals (zinc oxide, zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganese proteinate, copper proteinate, copper sulfate, manganous oxide, calcium iodate, sodium selenite), L-carnitine, rosemary extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.

Pros

• It eliminates hairballs.

• It supports dental health.

• It supports gastrointestinal health.

• It has fatty acids to avoid inflammation.

Cons

• This is only ideal for cats that are prone to hairballs.

• There are cats that may not like the flavor.

Conclusion

While Royal Canin has a reputation for quality supported by vets, and comes in a wide variety of forms to suit your cat’s requirements, some of its products may not be the best all round choice for everyday consumption, and there’s also the high price to consider. Still, its long-standing reputation should serve as a confidence booster for any potential customer and, while the levels of carbohydrates and plant-based content are high in some products, it deserves its reputation as a trusted brand of good quality cat food.

Purina Pro Plan

Purina Pro Plan History

As its reputation suggests, Purina has a lot of things going for it. Having the enviable reputation of both being of high quality and relatively affordable, its different products are tailored to particular ages – or even dietary plans - ensuring that whatever you have in mind for your cat, Purina will likely have a food to suit.

It’s one of the oldest pet food companies in the world, having been founded in 1894, expanding and growing in popularity over the years. Its 2001 merger with Swiss food company Nestlé allowed it to expand even further, and to this day it remains at the forefront of the cat food market.

Pros

1. First off, there are a number of different imprints within the Purina brand, offering customers a variety of choice. For instance, Purina ONE is its highest quality food, Friskies is aimed at lower budgets, and Beyond focuses on formulas with natural ingredients.

2. For the most part, Purina reliably uses real meats as its primary ingredient.This helps support a healthy diet, making these foods a reliable source of protein and fiber, with very little in the way of artificial preservatives. Furthermore, Purina is transparent regarding the sourcing of its ingredients, so you’re left in no doubt as to what’s in your cat’s food, and what’s gone into creating it.

Cons

1. The biggest con, however, is that these formulas often use plant ingredients like soybean or corn gluten to boost the protein content without increasing the price.

2. Although Purina’s products tend to have a good reputation, the level of quality involved hasn't always been consistent across the range of products it plays host to. 

Purina Pro Plan Dry Cat Food 

With the Purina reputation extending back over 90 years, the cat and dog food brand is certainly a household name. Driven by quality, targeted nutrition for our cats, the company has evolved its range over the years, with its Purina Pro Plan line one of its most popular. Designed to target specific health conditions and life stages as well as provide what Purina considers as optimum nutrition through quality ingredients, Pro Plan is one of the best-selling ranges on the market. 

1.Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Cat Food 

Price and where to buy:  $20.98 + 4% cashback @ chewy

This is a dry cat food from the Savor line. It sticks to the Purina Pro Plan promise to include meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient in every dry recipe. Chicken sits at the top of the ingredient list. Chicken is followed by brewers rice and corn gluten meal, both of which are denser, drier ingredients and may in fact represent a bigger chunk of the food’s calorie content than chicken.

But this kibble isn’t all plants. It contains poultry by-product meal and dried egg product as protein sources and beef fat as a primary fat source. Later on the ingredient list, it also contains fish meal.

Ingredients

Chicken, Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Dried Egg Product, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Wheat Flour, Soy Protein Isolate, Fish Meal, Natural Liver Flavor, Brewers Dried Yeast, Inulin, Potassium Chloride, Added Color, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Phosphoric Acid, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, VITAMINS [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K)], Taurine, Choline Chloride, MINERALS [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C).

Pros

• Contains added probiotics

• Slightly lower carbohydrate content than other dry foods

• Relies on animal-sourced fat

Cons

• Contains artificial colors and flavors

• High carbohydrate content

• Low moisture content

2.Purina Pro Plan Focus Hairball Management Adult Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $20.98+ 4% cashback @ chewy

The Purina Pro Plan Focus Hairball Management Adult Dry Cat Food, from the name itself, is designed to help cats that are prone to hairballs. Hairballs are not something that you’d like to see in the house or when cleaning their cat toilet training kit, so managing and controlling it is important. This meal is created to help you with that problem.

It is made of chicken and rice formula that helps in controlling the hairballs of your cats. It comes with natural fibers and real chicken for better results. It is made with 40% protein that can fit the nutritional needs of your cats. It has added Omega-6 fatty acids for healthier coat and skin.

Ingredients

Chicken, Corn Gluten Meal, Brewer's Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Soy Protein Concentrate, Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols (Form of Vitamin E), Dried Egg Product, Soybean Meal, Wheat Flour, Soy Protein Isolate, Powdered Cellulose, Fish Meal, Animal Liver Flavor, Inulin, Gelatin, Soy Lecithin, Phosphoric Acid, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Manganese Sulfate, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source of Vitamin K Activity), Sodium Selenite. M-4621.

Pros

• It is formulated for cats with hairballs.

• It uses real chicken as the main ingredient.

• It comes with natural fibers for better digestion.

• It helps in promoting healthier coat and skin.

Cons

• It is made for adult cats only.

• Some cats are not interested in this meal.

3.Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $38.48+ 4% cashback @ chewy

Another meal on our list from the Purina Pro Plan brand is their Savor Shredded Blend Adult Dry Cat Food. It comes with real salmon as the main ingredient that offers optimum quality protein that your cat requires. According to the company, it is made with 40% protein content with added rice formula for fibers that can help with the digestion of their meals.

It has crunchy kibbles that your cat can easily chew and digest. It comes with shredded pieces of salmon that give a brand-new mealtime experience to your cats. This is a completely balanced meal that you can try to boost the appetite of your cats and let them be interested in eating more during mealtime. If you are trying to switch to a new meal, this can be a great option to consider.

Ingredients

Salmon, Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Soybean Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Soy Protein Concentrate, Dried Egg Product, Liver Flavor, Wheat Flour, Fish Meal, Glycerin, Soy Protein Isolate, Chicken, Gelatin, Inulin, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Phosphoric Acid, Caramel Color, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K)], Taurine, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], L-Cysteine, Sodium Bisulfate, Dl-Methionine, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C).

Pros

• It has shredded pieces of salmon.

• It has added taurine for healthy vision and heart of cats.

• It is a complete meal that offers great taste.

• It comes with rice for fiber content.

Cons

• There are cats that can be finicky in eating seafood ingredients.

4.Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Indoor Care Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $21.99 + 4% cashback @ chewy

Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Indoor Care Salmon & Rice Formula is specially designed to help your indoor cat thrive. This formula includes high-protein nutrition that helps cats maintain a healthy weight, as well as natural fiber to help control hairballs. It is also rich in omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Real salmon is the #1 ingredient, and the formula is made with 40% protein. Every cat is special and you want the best for her. With over 50 formulas, Purina Pro Plan can help you find the best cat food to meet your cat's unique needs. Give your cat exactly what she needs to excel. Purina Pro Plan Focus has specialized formulas to meet your cat's unique nutritional needs. 

So whatever her size, age, or lifestyle, nurture the greatness in your cat. High-quality protein, including salmon as the #1 ingredient. Natural fiber helps control hairballs. High-protein nutrition helps cats maintain a healthy weight. Natural prebiotic fiber, sourced from chicory root, helps promote digestive health. Antioxidants for immune system health. Rich in omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

Ingredients

Salmon, Brewer's Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Soy Protein Isolate, Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols (Form of Vitamin E), Fish Meal, Wheat Flour, Powdered Cellulose, Animal Liver Flavor, Soybean Hulls, Inulin, Gelatin, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Phosphoric Acid, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Manganese Sulfate, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source of Vitamin K Activity), Sodium Selenite. 

Pros

• Specially designed to help your indoor cat thrive featuring real salmon as the #1 ingredient

• Made with 42% protein and powerful antioxidants so your beloved cat gets the energy and stamina she needs

• High-protein nutrition helps cats maintain a healthy weight, while natural fiber helps to control hairballs

• Rich in omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat along with vitamin A and taurine to help support excellent vision

• 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats

Cons

• Some cats don’t like this flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Purina Pro Plan Cat Food is a decent cat food option for healthy cats. Cats absolutely love this recipe, making it a favorite for many feline friends. You will also love buying this food because it is easy to find and affordable. Win-win!

If you are most concerned about the quality of your cat’s food or your cat has weight and health issues, we recommend a different brand. Purina Pro Plan, though tasty, is not made with high-quality ingredients and contains a lot of carbohydrates. Although this is not a major issue for healthy cats, cats with weight problems might gain even more weight on this food.

Hill's Science Diet 

Hill's Science Diet History

The history of Hill’s Science began in 1939. A blind man named Morris Frank asked his veterinarian to help his guide dog named Buddy,with kidney failure. The said vet had already researched the impact of poor diet on dogs and tailored a specific diet for Buddy.Hebelieved Buddy's illness was the result of poor nutrition, so he developed a new pet food with his wife, Louise Morris, in their kitchen. 

Committed to creating products to improve our pets’ health, Hill’s puts every ingredient through a stringent testing process to ensure that anything that makes its way into a Hill’s pet food is a high-quality ingredient. They offer premium cat foods for felines of all ages, as well as specialty recipes for cats that need a little extra care.

Pros

• Recipes are created by a team of scientists for optimal nutrition

• Strict quality control of ingredients ensures consistent cat food quality

• Many formulas to choose from

• There are specialty blends for cats with specific needs

• Quality protein sources are used

Cons

• More expensive than other brands

• Some ingredients aren’t our top choices

 Hill’s Science Dry Cat Food

More often than not the taste and flavor of cat food are sacrificed for the quality. One of the numerous things that Hill's cat food can boast of is an unmatchable flavor. Best believe that this flavor is combined with equally stellar nutritional value. AlI the food produced by them is made using top-shelf ingredients including salmon, chicken, and lamb. Users can rest assured that their pets are enjoying their food while getting the most out of it for their all-around health.

1.Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $47.99 + 4% cashback @ Chewy

For dry cat food, the Hill’s Sensitive Stomach & Skin formula is pretty expensive. But it also offers some benefits you won’t find in most cat foods. For instance, it’s loaded with vitamin E and omega fatty acids that will help keep your cat’s skin and coat healthy and feeling great.

This food does more than just keep your cat looking great though. It’s also got prebiotic fiber for gut health. Specifically formulated for cats with sensitive stomachs, this recipe is easy to digest and won’t upset your cat’s tummy.The first ingredient in this food is chicken, ensuring that your cat is getting quality protein sources. And with a minimum of 29% crude protein, you can be sure that they’re getting plenty of protein overall.

Ingredients

Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Meal, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Calcium Sulfate, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Potassium Chloride, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, L-Lysine, Iodized Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Green Peas, Apples, Cranberries, Carrots, Broccoli, Beta-Carotene.

Pros

• Vitamin E and omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

• Contains prebiotics fiber for gut health

• Easy to digest for sensitive stomachs

Cons

• Rather expensive for dry cat food

2.Hill's Science Diet Adult Multiple Benefit Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $28.99 + 2% cashback @ Petco

With so many different health-boosting blends to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down all the options to a single Hill’s recipe. But with the multiple benefit cat food, you can get all the benefits you’re looking for in a single blend.

Hairballs are a common complaint for many cat owners. To help with that problem, this blend contains natural fibers that can reduce the number of hairballs your cat coughs up. It’s also formulated to help maintain a healthy weight so your cat doesn’t become obese.A quick check of the nutritional panel reveals that this food contains a minimum of 30% crude protein with chicken listed as the first ingredient. That’s great, but we weren’t so happy with some of the other ingredients, such as corn gluten meal and wheat gluten. But we did like the antioxidants and vitamins that are included for immune system support.

Ingredients

Chicken, Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Whole Grain Wheat, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Iodized Salt, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.

Pros

• Uses natural fibers to reduce hairballs

• Helps to maintain a healthy weight

• Contains antioxidants and vitamins for immune system support

• 30% minimum crude protein

Cons

• Some of the ingredients aren’t our top choices

3.Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $43.99 + 2% cashback @ Petco

This Hill’s Science Diet recipe is formulated for cats who live indoors. Like most indoor cat foods, it has relatively high levels of fiber to support healthy digestion, along with what the company describes as an “exclusive blend of omega-6 fatty acids” to nourish the skin and coat.

The food’s first ingredient is chicken, followed by whole wheat, corn gluten meal, and powdered cellulose. These ingredients are primarily sources of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, respectively. Chicken fat is added as a species-appropriate source of fat, along with soybean oil and fish oil.To improve the food’s palatability, the recipe contains chicken liver flavor and natural flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Soybean Oil, Calcium Sulfate, Lactic Acid, Fish Oil, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, L-Carnitine, L-Lysine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Green Peas, Apples, Cranberries, Carrots, Broccoli, Beta-Carotene. 

Pros

• Cats seem to love the food’s flavor

• Free of vaguely-named animal by-products

• Free of potentially harmful additives

Cons

• High carbohydrate content

• Expensive

4.Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food

Price and where to buy:  $24.19 + 4% cashback @ Walmart

When it comes to feeding your kitten, you can’t just choose any food. You’ll want to buy food formulated for the developmental needs of kittens and that’s where this dry cat food recipe comes in. It’s specifically tailor made to give your kitten the best head start in life so that they can grow to their full potential.

This is a nourishing recipe that features high quality, savory chicken as the first ingredient, which is important for building lean muscles. But it’s also a complete and balanced diet that is made with wholesome, natural ingredients with your kitten’s health and safety in mind. That’s why it includes fish oil to promote healthy brain and eye development, in addition to an antioxidant and vitamin blend for a healthy immune system.

Ingredients

Chicken,Whole Grain Wheat,Corn Gluten Meal,Chicken Fat,Whole Grain Corn,Chicken Liver Flavor,Dried Beet Pulp,Soybean Oil,Dicalcium Phosphate,Fish Oil,Calcium Sulfate,Lactic Acid,Egg Product,Flaxseed,Choline Chloride,Powdered Cellulose,L-Lysine,Potassium Chloride,Taurine,Iodized Salt,Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement),Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite),DL-Methionine,Calcium Carbonate,Oat Fiber,Mixed Tocopherols for freshness,Natural Flavors,Beta-Carotene,Apples,Broccoli,Carrots,Cranberries,Green Peas

Pros

• Contains DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development

• Made with chicken as the first ingredient

• Contains balanced vitamin and mral blend for strong bones and teeth

• Free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives

• Made in the U.S.

Cons

• Contains grains (wheat, corn and rice) which increases the carb content

Conclusion

With a team of qualified experts formulating their products in one of the world’s leading research facilities, it’s no wonder that Hill’s is churning out some premium-quality pet foods. They make blends that are great for cats of all ages, from kittens to seniors. Even cats with unique health concerns or dietary sensitivities are likely to find a suitable match in one of the Hill’s cat food recipes.

Royal Canin vs. Purina Pro Plan vs. Hill’s Science Diet

Ingredient Analysis

• Royal Canin

1. Protein :as your cat's true nature is a carnivore, Purina only use real whole meat or fish as their main protein source, at higher levels than many other cat food products. Meat such as chicken, beef or lamb are also excellent sources of essential fatty acids, vitamin B and iron. Fish protein is also another popular ingredient, which also includes the bones, as when ground they are a good source of calcium which your kit needs. Oily fish also adds an extra boost of healthy omega fatty acids as well as vitamin A and D.

2. Carbohydrates:the main source of carbs in Purina dry and wet pet food is cereal based, typically rice, wheat, corn and barley as they all provide energy as well as essential nutrients, including vitamin B. The fiber in these carbs also help to support a healthy digestive system.

3. Fats:an essential part of your cat's diet, Purina includes the most appropriate fat level in all their products, depending on their life stage or health management needs. Ensuring your cat gets the right amount of fat can boost their skin and coat as well as help to a maintain healthy immune system.

4. Vitamins and minerals : Purina fortify their formulas with the most appropriate vitamins, minerals and probiotics for cats, to help maintain their maintain body structures and vital functions. life stage or health management needs. Ensuring your cat gets the right amount of fat can boost their skin and coat as well as help to a maintain healthy immune system.

• Purina Pro Plan

1. Protein:All of the items in the Focus range have a higher-than-average level of protein. This is perfect for growing cats, outdoor cats and those cats who simply have a high energy and indulge in plenty of activities. Protein is brilliant for rebuilding muscle, as well as for maintaining a healthy body. It can, however, leave some cats, who aren't as active, a lttle skittish. If this happens to your cat, then it may be best to opt for a brand with less protein.

2. Fiber:With lots of added fiber, your cat will be able to maintain a healthy digestive system. Better still, much of With lots of added fiber, your cat will be able to maintain a healthy digestive system. Better still, much of the fiber given in the options above consist of prebiotic fibers. This means that your cats' healthy bacteria will be happily fed - allowing your cat to better digest the great nutritional benefits of Pro Plan cat food.

3. Moisture:Naturally, all animals need plenty of moisture during the day - and some of this must come from their food, as well as fresh water. When you feed your pet wet cat food, you're providing plenty of added moisture for them. Of course, when feeding them dry food, you will need to ensure that there's plenty of opportunity and access to fresh water for your cat.

•  Hill’s

1. Proteins:Protein is usually the first among Hill Science diet cat food ingredients as a whole. It is even better than the options used here are incredibly tasty and of a high-quality. In this case, ingredients such as chicken, salmon, and lamb. There's also an array of dairy products that equally contribute to building strong cells in your furry lttle friend's body.

2. Fiber:Especially when it comes to indoor or elderly pets, this is an incredibly important ingredient. Fiber is already known as one of those ingredients that are quite flling, for an animal that does not lead an active lifestyle, this could be quite beneficial. Furthermore, this goes a long way to promote weight management and uphold digestive health as a whole. So, even though they are not exercising as much as they should be, these pets should be able to enjoy an obesity-free existence.

3. Fish oil:This is another vital ingredient most especially for fur babies; there is no doubt that they need an extra boost to ensure that they develop properly. Fish oil is a power-packed ingredient as a whole. It contains nutrients that make it a must-have ingredient in most food options for pets. For instance, they are a great source of Omega -6 and 3 fatty acids which are great when it comes to the well-being of the skin and coat. Equally, they contain vitamin A which promotes good vision while also arming up the immune system.

Price Comparison

• Royal Canin Cat Food Cost

Your expenses will vary depending which type of Royal Canin food you purchase. In general, however, Royal Canin foods are a bit pricier than others with similar ingredient lists.

For example, Royal Canin’s popular Urinary SO dry cat food costs about $0.30 per ounce, adding up to a daily feeding cost of around $0.60 per day for an average cat. That places it on the lower end of the premium price spectrum.

The wet version of the same recipe—Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Loaf in Sauce—costs $0.40 per ounce and would cost about $3.60 per day if feeding a 10-lb cat.

Moving away from prescription diets, Royal Canin’s Adult Instinctive Thin Slices in Gravy recipe is, oddly, more expensive than some of the recipes in the Veterinary Diet Line. At over $0.50 per ounce, this food would cost about $4.50 each day if feeding a typical cat.

• Purina Pro Plan Cat Food Cost
  

Purina Pro Plan is a touch pricier than most other brands in the Purina family. On a day-by-day basis, it would cost about $2.88 per day to feed a 10-lb cat one of Purina Pro Plan’s wet foods and about $0.28 per day to feed her one of their dry recipes.

• Hill’s  Cat Food Cost

Hill’s cat food ranges from moderately-priced to expensive. If your cat weighs 10 lbs, it would cost roughly $3.05 per day to feed them Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d canned food and about $3.63 for Hill’s Ideal Balance canned.

Like most cat food companies, Hill’s charges less for their dry foods. The Hill’s Prescription diet kibble mentioned in the product reviews above would cost about $0.52 per day.

Tips:The average cost-per-lb is heavily influenced by the varying amounts of moisture present in each brand's food products (wet vs. dry food, dry vs. freeze-dried food, etc). However, the average cost-per-kcal eliminates the influence of moisture. Therefore, the average cost-per-kcal is the better metric to consider.

Practical Comparison

• Royal Canin Cat Food

1. Royal Canin currently sells over 100 different varieties of cat food. While they do offer traditional cat food recipes, many of their products are formulated for specific health issues like urinary tract health or digestive care. Royal Canin is also one of a few cat food brands that offers recipes marketed for specific cat breeds like Persians and Maine Coons.

2. Royal Canin offers a number of recipes that are formulated, or at least marketed, for specific life stages, body sizes, as well lifestyles as well. Their foods are available in both wet and dry types. In terms of their wet foods, there are a number of different textures and consistencies to choose from.

• Purina Pro Plan Cat Food 

1. Purina Pro Plan is best for picky eaters who have few health issues. One area where Purina Pro Plan stands out is in cat approval. On top of our own experience, almost all the recipes were flooded with positive comments about how the pickiest of feline eaters love to chow down on the Purina Pro Plan cat foods.

2. It is also much more suited for younger cats that have no known health issues. As we will learn, this food line is not the best in terms of food ingredients or protein to carbohydrate ratios. As a result, Purina Pro Plan is not ideal for cats with known illnesses, such as obesity or diabetes.

• Hill’s  Cat Food

1. If you take a look at the large catalog of cat food products that Hill’s offers, you’ll notice that they make a wide range of products that are suitable for different cats. For example, they make premium-quality dry and wet cat food for healthy adult cats. But they also make food for kittens and seniors, those with sensitive stomachs, cats with skin problems, and more.

2. For cats with serious health concerns, Hill’s offers an entire line of prescription pet foods that require veterinarian authorization to purchase. And cat owners who prefer to feed their feline a special diet are in luck as well with grain-free recipes and more.

Number of Recalls

Royal Canin has been recalled 3 times:

• May 11, 2007: Melamine

• April 19, 2007: Melamine

• Feb. 2, 2006: excess level of vitamin D3

Purina Pro Plan has been recalled once:

• March 9, 2016: Incorrect Vitamins and Minerals

Hill's Science Diet has been recalled 4 times:

• June 2014: Potential for salmonella

• November 2015: Labeling issues 

• Jan. 31, 2019: elevated levels of Vitamin D
  

• March 20, 2019: elevated levels of Vitamin D

How Should I Feed Dry Cat Food?

Most cat parents feed their cats one of two ways:

1. Free Feeding :Following the feeding guidelines on the bag, they leave the recommended amount of dry food out for their cats to graze on throughout the day. If your cats prefers to only eat crunchy kibble, or they only eat little bits at a time, this may be a good feeding routine for them. 

2. Meal Feeding : For this method, cat parents feed their cats only at certain times, and discard any leftovers. This feeding routine allows you to incorporate wet food at meals, since it can’t be left out.

What's is The Best Way to Transition?

As always, be sure that your cat has access to plenty of fresh water in a source that’s appealing to them, such as a clean bowl or water fountain. Also, be sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the packages, and adjust amounts if you add toppers to prevent weight gain.

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