You’ve likely seen commercials talking about the questionable ingredients in popular cat food brands.
It’s got you wondering if you should switch to organic cat food.
You likely eat more organic foods these days because of all the questionable ingredients in conventional foods.
And maybe your cat should too.
Anyway, I bet you have a lot of questions about organic cat food.
So today I’m going to cover all those questions you have about why and how to buy organic.
And then I’m going to finish off by telling you all about the 5 best organic cat foods you can find on the market.
Let’s get started, shall we!
How Are Organic Cat Food Brands Different?
You want to ensure your cat is eating only the best food.
This includes skipping fillers and all of those questionable, unpronounceable, scary-looking ingredients.
Buying organic means you know exactly what’s in your cat’s food.
After all, you likely don’t want to eat any questionable ingredients, so why would you make your cat eat them? Most commercial cat food is loaded with some extremely controversial ingredients (I’ll be going over some of those later on) as well as ingredients grown in some very hazardous settings.
I know your cat may purr loudly and gobble up some of those grocery store brands – but that sure doesn’t mean those brands are healthy for him!
Feeding your cat only organic food filled with protein and other important nutrients helps your cat live a longer, more energetic life.
What You Need To Know About Allergens In Cat Food
Corn, wheat, dairy, and preservatives are just a few common allergens found in cat foods.
A lot of commercial brands load their products with these inexpensive, easy to source ingredients to bulk out cat food. This means they can skip using more expensive quality ingredients like meat and other important vitamins and minerals.
But it can be dangerous for your cat!
Some common symptoms of allergies in cats include:
- sneezing
- coughing
- itching and scratching
- overgrooming
- runny eyes
- digestion issues
And allergies can come up, seemingly out of the blue, even after years of eating the same food.
So, doesn’t it just make sense to skip cat food containing these common allergens in the first place?
Organic cat food is less likely to contain these fillers, and most common allergens.
What Exactly Does Organic Mean When It Comes To Cat Food?
Much like with human food, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the term organic when it comes to pet food.
“Organic” food must contain only ingredients grown on a land which has been pesticide free for a minimum of 3 years. Any livestock included in organically certified food must be able to roam outdoors, and be given no antibiotics or hormones.
For more information on the USDA Organic standards click here.
Isn’t Organic Cat Food More Expensive?
Yes, can for can, and bag for bag, you will notice that organic cat food costs a little more than conventional brands.
But since the less expensive brands contain so many fillers your cat will need to eat more food to feel full.
Organic cat food is very nutrient dense, and often contains significantly higher amounts of protein and fiber – so your cat will actually eat less food at each meal.
So, you pay more, but you use less.
And when you factor all that in, the cost isn’t all that different.
Besides, isn’t it worth a little more money to make sure your cat is eating quality food with no questionable ingredients or fillers?
What Should I Look For When I Buy Organic Cat Food?
It’s so important to read your labels!
The official USDA seals tell you exactly how much organic content is in your cat food.
“Organic” means the food must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, not including any added salt or water.
“Made With Organic Ingredients” means the food must contain at least 70% organic ingredients – again not including added salt or water.
FDA guidelines state that any food marked “natural” means none of the ingredients have been chemically altered in any way – but this is not necessarily a highly regulated term.
So, in other words buying “natural” food is good – but buying “organic” is much better.
Sadly, most other terms you see on cat food, such as “holistic”, are widely unregulated and typically don’t mean much.
As with any food, ingredients on cat food are listed in the order of quantity – so if chicken is listed first you know the food contains a large amount of chicken.
You really want to take note of the top 3 ingredients on the list – this is what your cat food is mostly composed of. You want to see mainly protein sources and maybe water.
If any type of fillers or any other questionable ingredients are listed in the top 3 ingredients, you’ll probably want to skip this food.
And speaking of ingredients…
What Ingredients Should You Watch Out For When Buying Cat Food?
You know you want to avoid fillers and preservatives in your cat food.
But what exactly does that mean?
And what else do you need to avoid when buying cat food?
Here are some things commonly found in cat food that you need to know more about.
Artificial Ingredients
There is no need to include artificial color, flavor, or unnatural preservatives in cat food. If you see any of these ingredients listed on your cat food, you’ll likely want to skip it:
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole
- Butylated Hydroxytoluene
- Ethoxyquin
- Propylene Glycol
- MSG
- Red 40
- Blue 2
Unfortunately, this is not an extensive list. Anytime you see an ingredient in your cat food which makes you hesitate it’s probably worth doing a bit more research.
GMO
I’m sure you’ve heard all about GMO’s and their controversial practices. Put simply, GMO foods come from a lab, not nature. Certain strains of bacteria are commonly used to modify organisms, and may pose potential health risks.
When you buy organic you don’t have to worry about GMO.
Grains
Grains aren’t necessarily bad – but they’re often used as filler. They don’t contain much nutritional value to the food, and in cats, much like humans, can cause inflammation and allergic reactions.
Grains can also cause unhealthy weight gain in your cat.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are another type of ingredient that aren’t essentially bad – but are typically just filler.
Protein is a much healthier, more filling, choice for your cat. Cats are carnivores and are a lot healthier, and more energetic, when they eat meat.
Now, you may be confused because some vegetables and fruits are carbohydrates and often added to cat food – and you’re right!
But fruits and vegetables are much healthier carbs than other choices – and contain needed vitamins and minerals.
Meat By-Products
Meat by-products are what’s left over when the more desirable meat is shaved off.
Often, this meat has been unethically raised, fed hormones and given added antibiotics.
Yuck!
Skip this, and look for organic meat only.
Is My Cat Going To Get Bored With Her Organic Food?
I know I would certainly get bored if I had to eat the same food day after day, but luckily your cat may not feel the same.
Most cats are totally fine eating the same meal over and over – but others do get bored and may go on a hunger strike in protest.
In cases like this, it’s lucky that most brands of organic cat food come in a few different flavors to switch between.
There are also certain foods specifically meant to be an occasional treat or mixed in with regular food (see Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Cat Food, reviewed below) which can help end food strikes.
And you can always consider switching back and forth between organic Canned cat food and organic dry cat food.
Speaking of which…
Which Is Better – Organic Dry Cat Food Or Organic Canned Cat Food?
Comparing dry cat food to Canned cat food is akin to comparing apples to oranges.
As long as you’re buying organic, both types are fantastic nutritional choices for your cat.
Here are a few key differences:
- Canned cat food has more moisture content.
- Dry cat food is easier to store.
- Dry cat food is usually cheaper, meal for meal.
- Dry cat food lasts longer once opened.
- Some dry food can actually help with your cat’s dental care.
Most cat parents choose a blend of both kinds. For variety as well as for the benefits.
However, if you choose to just feed dry cat food please make sure your cat has access to even more fresh water than usual, because they won’t be getting as much moisture from their food.
How Should I Introduce Organic Cat Food Into My Cat’s Diet?
Most cats don’t do well if you switch over the food completely from one meal to the next.
They may not like the unexpected change, and they may even experience some digestion issues.
Yes, even when switching to “better” food.
So, it’s best to spend a few days making the transition.
At each meal mix a little of the new food in with the old, until you’re feeding all new.
We are so lucky there is a large variety of organic cat foods readily available in the market these days.
However, it can be very confusing to sort through them all to find the best one for your cat.
Luckily, I’m going to help you out by telling you all about some great organic cat food brands, and listing the pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your cat.
Best Organic Cat Food Reviews
- Newman’s Own Premium Canned Formulas For Cats
- Castor & Pollux Organix Grain Free Organic Small Pet Dry Food
- Organix Organic Cat Food
- Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Cat Food
- Wysong Uretic Organic Chicken Cat Food
Newman’s Own Premium Canned Formulas For Cats
I’m sure you’re all familiar with Newman’s Own products – and yes, Newman’s Own has a line of pet food as well – including an amazing organic cat food.
In addition to the fact that proceeds from all sales go towards charitable foundations, Newman’s Own takes a huge amount of care in the manufacturing of their organic cat food.
Proudly made in the USA, Newman’s Own Premium Canned Formulas For Cats boasts no unnecessary ingredients and always promises organic meat as the first ingredient.
Newman’s Own contains no artificial ingredients, pesticides, chemical additives, colors, preservatives, or common allergens.
This organic canned cat food is made from organic ingredients and contains added easy-to-absorb probiotics, minerals and vitamins for added health, shinier fur, and energy.
This food is a great choice for all cats, but especially for older cats who require extra protein and minerals.
Taurine, an amino acid which is vital for your cat to have a healthy digestive system, optimal heart function and many other benefits, is added into the food.
This formula is specifically made to maintain your cats optimum weight.
And most pet parents report seeing extra energy in their cats after switching to this food.
Pros.
- Proceeds from every sale go to charity
- Is grain and corn free
- Contains a great blend of extra protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Organic meat is always the first ingredient
- Cats love the taste
- Great to keep your cat’s weight under control
- Contains no artificial colors or preservatives
Cons.
- Some people have noticed that the formula has been tweaked a bit, but cats still seem to be enjoying it
Castor & Pollux Organix Grain Free Organic Small Pet Dry Food
Organic Superfood
You may notice this organic dry food formula is technically marked for dogs – but it’s truly the best organic dry food for any small animal.
The first ingredient is organic, free-range chicken, ensuring your cat gets enough protein eating this food.
Castor & Pollux is proudly made in the USA and is a leader in organic pet food.
This amazing organic dry cat food contains an organic superfood blend of blueberries, flaxseed, and coconut oil.
Most cat parents report their cat’s coat is noticeably shinier and healthier looking after switching to this food.
Healthy digestion is very important to Castor & Pollux Organix and this food contains just the right blend of probiotics and prebiotic fiber to help ease or prevent any digestive issues.
And because of the healthier ingredients, this organic dry food actually contains 11% moisture! That’s significantly more than most other organic dry cat foods.
You can trust this organic dry food contains no artificial preservatives, antibiotics, or chemical pesticides.
These tiny little kibbles are the perfect size for all cats, or very small dogs.
Pros.
- First ingredient is organic free-range chicken
- The perfect sized kibbles for your cat
- Certified USDA Organic
- Made in an Organically Certified kitchen in the USA
- Is very high in easy to digest protein
- Contains no wheat, soy, or corn
- Added probiotics and prebiotic fiber to promote healthy digestion and immunity
- Contains a very high level of moisture content for a dry food
- Added superfood blend of blueberries, flaxseed, and coconut oil for antioxidant benefits
- Antibiotic and chemical pesticide free
Cons.
- This particular formula has only one flavor to choose from
- Because of it’s higher than normal moisture content, this dry food expires more quickly than other dry cat foods
Organix Organic Cat Food
Best Wet Organic Cat Food
This is the organic cat food offering from Castor & Pollux.
Much like the review above for the organic dry food, this organic cat food also is made with a superfood blend. The wet formula’s superfood blend contains organic blueberries, flaxseed, dried egg, cranberries, and coconut oil.
This organic cat food offers your cat a high level of antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
If you’re looking for an organic, grain free cat food, this is a great choice.
All the organic ingredients in these recipes are produced without the use of antibiotics, growth hormones, synthetic fertilizers, or chemical pesticides.
It is common-allergen free and contains no unnecessary ingredients.
Pros.
- Certified USDA Organic
- Made in a USA organically certified kitchen
- Contains no popular allergens
- Added blend of organic superfoods
- Grain, wheat, soy, and potato free
- All ingredients grown naturally
- No artificial preservatives or additives
- Many different flavors cats enjoy
Cons.
- Some cats don’t seem to like the texture of this food as much as compared to similar foods
Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Cat Food
High in antioxidants
Nummy Tum-Tum provides a fabulous treat for your cat in the form of 100% pure, USDA Organic pumpkin.
Pure pumpkin is a luxurious treat for your cat – they’ll go crazy for the taste!
If your cat requires a certain food – wet or dry – for their health and they don’t take to the taste, adding some of this pumpkin canned food will ensure they eat it right up.
Please do consult with your veterinarian first if your cat is on a specialized diet.
Pure pumpkin is very high in fiber, and Vitamin A to support healthy digestion.
It’s also extremely high in antioxidants.
And this food is so versatile! It can be an occasional treat for your cat, used on its own, or mixed in with their usual brand of cat food.
This pumpkin is so pure, I defy you to keep your own fingers out of it while feeding your cat!
Pros.
- The pumpkin is sourced from local US farms
- It’s 100% pure USDA organic certified pumpkin
- Can be used as an occasional treat or as an addition to daily cat food
- Comes in a 100% BPA free can
- High in antioxidants and fiber to promote immunity and digestive health
Cons.
- This food is only a supplement or treat, so you’ll likely still need to buy another cat food
Wysong Uretic Organic Chicken Cat Food
Veterinarian Formula
This organic cat food is formulated specifically by a veterinarian to provide your cat with a terrific, healthy, organic cat food.
If your cat has been having urinary tract issues this is a fantastic choice.
This low moisture formula has specially added micronutrients and nutraceuticals help to target specific needs to your cat’s health – especially urinary and immune health.
Wysong’s Uretic Organic Chicken Cat Food contains taurine and many essential vitamins to support high immunity and a healthy digestive system for your cat.
Although this formula does contain some carbohydrates, it’s in the form of healthy, filling brown rice, and is actually used to balance out the high protein content.
Dried kelp and blueberry round out the healthy ingredients in this premium cat food – and make it an extremely tasty option for most cats.
Pros.
- Contains no corn or other unnecessary fillers
- Formulated by a veterinarian specifically for urinary health
- High levels of micronutrients and nutraceuticals boosts urinary and immune health
- Contains a great amount of taurine to help support immunity
Cons.
- Its low moisture content may not be ideal for cats who don’t generally drink a lot of fresh water
- Although most cats love the taste, it does only come in the one flavor
Conclusion
You want to make sure you’re feeding your cat the best – and the best of the best.
So, while all of these organic cat food choices are fantastic options the one which stands out a bit above the others is Newman’s Own Premium Canned Formula For Cats.
Newman’s Own Premium Canned Formula For Cats is the best choice for cats who need to have their weight regulated.
Its incredible blend of organic meat, taurine, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals ensures your cat stays healthy and active.
And you’ll find no artificial ingredients or unnecessary additives.
As if that wasn’t enough, most cats really enjoy the taste of this organic canned cat food AND proceeds go to charity.
What more could you ask for in an organic cat food?!