In pursuit of the tastiest and most nutritional food for your young cat, you may have a hard time deciding between canned and kibble diets. The bottom line is that either can be a great option for healthy cats, so long as the diet is balanced and nutritionally complete. Here, we’ll review the pros and cons of canned and kibble diets to help you make an informed decision for your kitten.
Canned diets for young cats
Canned foods are typically wet, chunky or pâté type foods that come in small portions. Ensure the canned diets you’re choosing are approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your young cat’s life stage. Some canned items are meant to be given as treats and are not appropriate as the main component of a cat’s diet.Kibble diets for young cats
Kibble diets are dry foods that usually come in a bag. Ensure the dry diet you’re choosing is approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your young cat’s life stage. Some kibble-type items are meant to be given as treats and are not appropriate as the main component of a cat’s diet.Comparing canned and kibble diets for young cats
The table below lists the pros and cons of canned and kibble diets for your kitten.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Canned diets for young cats |
Increased moisture. The increased water content of canned foods may be a good option for cats who don’t drink enough water and for cats with specific health conditions, such as lower urinary tract disease or kidney disease.
Weight management. Canned diets usually have fewer calories in a specific volume of food. This may help cats to feel satiated after eating fewer calories.
Lower carbohydrate content. As obligate carnivores, cats require meat proteins. The higher protein and lower carbohydrate content may potentially ward off obesity and diabetes, though studies are needed to verify this. Cats can still process carbohydrates, both in canned and dry foods.
Palatability. Anecdotally, canned diets may have more enticing smells for cats. Heating canned foods is also an option to enhance their palatability.
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Cost. Most canned diets are more expensive than kibble. Keep in mind that you’re paying for a can that is around 80% water.
Can’t be left out. Canned food should not be left out for more than 1 to 2 hours, so it’s not ideal for cats who are grazers.
Lack of versatility. Canned foods aren’t amenable to most puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys or automatic feeders.
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Kibble diets for young cats |
Can be left out. If your cat likes to slowly graze on their meals rather than eating the meal all at once, dry kibble can stay out without spoiling.
Versatility. Kibble diets work in most automatic feeders, puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys.
Price. Kibble diets are usually much more cost-effective for pet owners.
Oral health. Some kibble diets, specifically those that have received the seal from the Veterinary Oral Health Council, can help scrub plaque off teeth.
Higher energy density. For cats who are underweight or need more muscle mass, the higher energy density of kibble may help them remain at a healthy body condition score.
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Lower moisture content. Cats who eat kibble will need to get more of their daily water requirement from drinking, so you’ll need to make sure they always have water available.
Higher energy density. Yes, you’re seeing this on both the pros and cons for kibble diets. For cats who tend to be overweight, kibble diets may not be the best option.
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For most young cats, there’s no solid evidence that a canned vs. a kibble diet makes a noticeable difference in the pet’s health. If your kitten has a health condition, such as food allergies or kidney disease, they may require a special diet. Speak with your VCA care team before choosing your cat’s food. Your VCA care team may have specific recommendations for dry vs. kibble food, and you may need a veterinary prescription.
Find your cat’s healthy canned or kibble diet on shopmyvca.com
