If you've never owned an outdoor cat before and need a little assistance in choosing an appropriate diet then you've come to the right place. Outdoor cats require different nutrition compared to less active/indoor cats. Not only do they burn more energy when out exploring the world but they also need an extra supply of vitamins and minerals to boost their immune system.
Additionally, during colder months, they will need a diet that will keep their coats thick and healthy to protect them from harsh weather. So if you've been on the lookout for the best cat foods for your outdoor feline, take a look at the guide below where we have broken down some of the highest-rated options. Moreover, we've put together a handy buying guide complete with some frequently asked questions so that you understand everything you need to know to feed your adventurous fur friend.
Did You Know?
- Animal protein is the key ingredient in cat food as they are obligate carnivores. Protein is vital to the development and maintenance of muscle mass. Cats are physically unable to break down protein substitutes so animal protein is the only option!
- Providing a wet food diet for your cat will ensure they are adequately hydrated as you can't be sure they will be drinking enough throughout their day.
- Kittens, outdoor cats, and senior cats will need recipes with a higher protein content to fuel their current lifestyles.
- Carbohydrates are not necessary for cat foods as their diet should mostly consist of protein. Some argue that carbs are 'fillers'. This is why you may see packaging stating that their formula contains no potatoes.
The 10 Top Rated Cat Foods For Outdoor Cats
1 Best Wet Food for Adult Outdoor Cats: Ziwi Peak Rabbit & Lamb Recipe Canned Cat Food
- Brand: Ziwi Peak
- Allergens: No common allegens. Rabbit and lamb can cause an allergic reaction but this is rare.*
- First 5 Ingredients: Rabbit meat, water sufficient for processing, lamb, lamb lung, lamb liver
- Primary Proteins: Rabbit & Lamb
- Calories: 203 kcals per 6.5 oz | 81 kcals per 3oz
- Flavor: Rabbit & Lamb
- Type: Wet canned food
- Life Stage: All life stages
Ziwi understands the nutritional needs of an outdoor cat. This wet cat food contains high-quality protein from two animal sources and adds no unnecessary additional carbs so that your cat’s weight doesn’t waver. Specifically, this limited ingredient canned food for outdoor cats contains 92% organs, meats, and New Zealand green mussels to keep your cat fueled, strong, and lean.
Another worthy note to make is that this tasty rabbit and lamb recipe contains fewer ingredients than other cat foods. This is perfect if your kitty has previously struggled with food allergies. But don’t let the ingredients list fool you, this recipe contains all of the essential and crucial nutrients to ensure your cat has a healthy and nutritious diet.
Rabbit Meat, Water Sufficient for Processing, Lamb, Lamb Lung, Lamb Liver, Chickpeas, Lamb Kidney, Hare Meat, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Heart, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Bone, DL-Methionine, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex), Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid).
- Perfect for kittens, adults, and seniors
- No corn, wheat, soy, or grain
- Little to no allergens
- Limited ingredient
- Can be expensive
- Not the best option for picky cats
- Previous customers have commented that a change in the formula has resulted in a lack of interest
2 Best Wet Food for Outdoor Kittens: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Food
- Brand: Wellness
- Allergens: Chicken, fish, salt (irritant)
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, chicken liver, chicken broth, carrots, natural flavor
- Primary Proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 97 kcals per can
- Flavor: Chicken
- Type: Wet food
- Life Stage: Kitten
Dedicated to the growth and development of your kitten, Wellness Complete contains a healthy supply of DHA to encourage and support brain development and function. In addition, the formula contains enough taurine to ensure that your kitten’s eyes are in good health.
Wellness only uses high-quality ingredients and leaves out potentially harmful additives so that you can be sure your kitten will grow into a strong and healthy adult cat. This protein-rich cat recipe will provide kittens fuel to support growing muscles as well as enough vitamins and minerals to look after their heart and organs.
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Carrots, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Guar Gum, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Salt, Menhaden Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Beta-Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
- Contains DHA for brain development
- Grain-free formula
- No soy, wheat, corn, or peas
- Encourages growth and development
- Available in different sizes
- Some reports of quality issues during 2020 and 2021
3 Best Wet Food for Outdoor Senior Cats: Fancy Feast Tuna Feast in Gravy
- Brand: Fancy Feast
- Allergens: Fish, chicken, salt (irritant)
- First 5 Ingredients: Fish broth, tuna, wheat gluten, chicken, liver
- Primary Proteins: Fish and chicken
- Calories: 75 kcals per can
- Flavor: Tuna in gravy
- Type: Wet food
- Life Stage: Senior (aged 7+)
Cat parents can’t go wrong with an enticing Fancy Feast fish-flavored recipe. Cats aged seven and over will benefit inside and out from this formula thanks to its high-protein, high-quality content. To start, the formula contains plenty of vitamin E to nourish and support their skin and coats as well as vital antioxidants to keep their immune system functioning and in great shape. To add, the primary ingredient is real tuna, which is fused with gravy to ensure that your cat’s muscles stay fueled and strong.
The only concerning factor regarding this option is some of the questionable ingredients. Most of these have proven to be beneficial to cats but the inclusion of meat by-products may have some cat owners raising an eyebrow.
Fish Broth, Tuna, Wheat Gluten, Chicken, Liver, Meat By-products, Corn Starch-modified, Soy Flour, Artificial And Natural Flavors, Salt, Tricalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Minerals [Potassium Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide], Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement].
- Made with real tuna
- Protein-rich
- Antioxidants to support your cat’s immune system
- Contains wheat gluten, corn, soy, and artificial flavors
- Contains meat-by-products*
4 Best Dry Food for Adult Outdoor Cats: Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain-Free
- Brand: Go!
- Allergens: Chicken, turkey, fish, egg, duck (rare), potato (rare), cottage cheese (dairy)
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken meal, deboned chicken, deboned turkey, duck meal, turkey meal
- Primary Proteins: Chicken, turkey, duck, salmon
- Calories: 473 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken, turkey, and duck
- Type: Dry cat food
- Life Stage: Adult
Go! Solutions’ carnivore recipe understands the importance of protein needed in a cat’s diet. In fact, 84% of the formula’s ingredients are from real, premium-quality fish and meat. Scanning the list of ingredients, you won’t find any by-product meals, gluten, corn, soy, wheat, or artificial preservatives.
Moreover, this dry cat food includes cranberries to assist your feline’s urinary tract as well as taurine to look after eye and heart health. There is also a balanced supply of probiotics, prebiotic fiber, and digestive enzymes to encourage and aid healthy digestion.
Chicken Meal, De-Boned Chicken, De-Boned Turkey, Duck Meal, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, De-Boned Trout, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Fish Flavor, Peas, Potatoes, Whole Dried Egg, Potato Flour, Tapioca, De-Boned Salmon, De-Boned Duck, Salmon Oil, Pumpkin, Apples, Carrots, Bananas, Blueberries, Cranberries, Lentils, Broccoli, Cottage Cheese, Alfalfa, Sweet Potatoes, Blackberries, Squash, Papayas, Pomegranate, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (A Source Of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Beta-Carotene, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Sulphate, Calcium Iodate, Ferrous Sulphate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Rosemary.
- Grain-free cat food
- No corn, wheat, soy, gluten, or by-products
- 84% meat and fish
- Uses 10 real animal ingredients
- Also suitable for indoor cats
- Contains a number of allergens compared to other foods
- Some fussy felines may not take to the recipe
5 Best Dry Food for Outdoor Kittens: Instinct Original Kitten Grain-Free Recipe
- Brand: Instinct
- Allergens: Chicken, turkey, fish, egg, salt (irritant),
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, peas, chicken fat
- Primary Proteins: Chicken and turkey
- Calories: 577 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken
- Type: Dry food
- Life Stage: Kitten
Free from soy, corn, wheat, grains, and gluten, Instincts Orignal kitten food fuses a fresh and balanced mix of meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, and fruits. This tailored mix of ingredients is ideal for the growth and development of your young kitten as it’s specifically designed to take care of every inch of their little body from head to toe.
A key part of the recipe is the inclusion of live, natural probiotics and antioxidants to aid digestive health. In addition to this, natural omegas are also present to ensure your kitten’s skin and coat are in the best possible condition.
Chicken, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Egg Product, Chicken Meal, White Fish Meal, Tapioca, Natural Flavor, Lamb Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Montmorillonite Clay, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Freeze Dried Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.
- Made with cage-free chicken
- Made in the USA with globally sourced and trusted ingredients
- 81% real animal ingredients
- 19% vegetables
- Contains DHA for brain development
- Little to no size variations available
6 Best Dry Food for Outdoor Senior Cats: Blue Buffalo Healthy Aging Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
- Brand: Blue Buffalo
- Allergens: Chicken, fish, salt (irritant), potatoes,
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Primary Proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 399 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken and brown rice
- Type: Dry cat food
- Life Stage: Senior cats (aged 7+)
The unique thing about Blue Buffalo’s Heathy Aging recipe is the addition of their famous LifeSource bits. These pieces are cold-formed, reducing their exposure to heat, and therefore retaining potency. Each piece is a precise blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants carefully selected by professionals to ensure that your older kitty is well-looked after.
This dry cat food is tailored to suit the needs of mature cats and will therefore have an appropriate balance of ingredients. As such, your cat’s immune system and digestive tract will be supported. Furthermore, Blue Buffalo’s recipe contains an appropriate amount of calories per cup which will mean that your kitty will maintain a healthy weight.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Pea Protein, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Menhaden Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Powdered Cellulose, Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Fish Oil (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Pea Fiber, DL-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Potatoes, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dried Chicory Root, Taurine, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin E Supplement, Calcium Sulfate, Cranberries, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Carnitine, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Blueberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, L-Lysine, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
- Made with cold-formed LifeSource bits
- Balanced and essential proteins and carbohydrates for older cats
- Made without corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives
- Made with real chicken
- Dry food can often leave cats dehydrated. Ensure your older cat has constant access to freshwater
- Some picky eaters may not take to this
7 Best High-Protein Wet Food: Tiki Cat Papeekeo Luau Ahi Tuna & Mackerel
- Brand: Tiki Cat
- Allergens: fish
- First 5 Ingredients: Tuna, mackerel, tuna broth, sunflower seed oil, calcium lactate
- Primary Proteins: Tuna and mackerel
- Calories: 154 kcals per 6oz can | 72 kcals per 2.8 can
- Flavor: Tuna and mackerel
- Type: Wet cat food
- Life Stage: Kittens and adult cats
Chicken and turkey aren’t the only flavor cat foods that your feline friend craves. Tiki Cat has put together an irresistible tuna and mackerel wet cat food that’s filled with nutritional benefits. For example, this fish-flavored recipe is filled with omegas that will encourage healthy skin and coats. In addition, the recipe also features tuna broth with enough moisture so that your kitty will be well-hydrated.
This carefully formulated option contains the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals for cats of all ages. Also, the consomme-based recipe means it’s great for cats that are picky eaters and leaves ingredients such as gluten, grains, and flours.
Tuna, Mackerel, Tuna Broth, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Fish Oil, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Iron Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source Of Vitamin K Activity), Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
- Potato and grain-free
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Suitable for pregnant and nursing cats
- Uses wild-caught ahi tuna and mackerel
- Fewer case size options are available
- Strong scent
8 Best Grain-Free: Instinct Original Grain-Free Pate Real Rabbit
- Brand: Instinct
- Allergens: Pork, rabbit (rare), salt (irritant), fish, potatoes
- First 5 Ingredients: Rabbit, pork, pork liver, pork broth, ground flaxseed
- Primary Proteins: Rabbit and pork
- Calories: 80 kcals per 3oz can | 147 kcals per 5.5oz can
- Flavor: Rabbit
- Type: Wet cat food
- Life Stage: Adult
This protein-heavy pate is almost all made from real animal sources so you can be sure your feline is receiving high-quality cat food. Exactly 95% is made with real farm-raised rabbit, pork, and liver whereas the remaining 5% is fruits, veggies, and other wholesome components. This entire recipe is perfect for outdoor cats as its protein content is more than enough to fuel and support strong and lean muscles.
Rabbit, Pork, Pork Liver, Pork Broth, Ground Flaxseed, Montmorillonite Clay, Tricalcium Phosphate, Peas, Carrots, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide), Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), Taurine, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Artichokes, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Tomato, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Parsley.
- Made in the USA
- 95% rabbit, pork, and liver
- Farm-raised rabbit
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for pregnant and nursing cats
- Contains more allergens compared to other options
- Only suitable for adults
9 Best Variety Pack: Weruva Cats In The Kitchen Cuties Variety Pack
- Brand: Weruva
- Allergens (Funk In the Trunk): Fish, chicken
- First 5 Ingredients (Funk In the Trunk): Chicken broth, chicken (boneless, skinless breast), tuna, pumpkin, sunflower seed oil.
- Primary Proteins (Funk In the Trunk): Chicken and tuna.
- Calories (Funk In the Trunk): 54 kcals/3.2oz can
- Flavor (Funk In the Trunk): Chicken and pumpkin
- Type: Canned wet food
- Life Stage: Adult
Variety packs are a great solution for cats that lose interest in their food fast. This multipack mixes up your cat’s diet with a selection of flavors including chicken, lamb, and fish. Made to maintain lean muscle mass, each meal is made with real animal protein and can be used as a standalone meal or even as a topper.
Although each wet food is grain-free and relies on real meat for its primary source of protein, all food options contain fish which may not be ideal for those looking to avoid it. Nevertheless, your outdoor cat is sure to thrive.
(Funk in the Trunk): Chicken Broth, Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breast), Tuna, Pumpkin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Locust Bean Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Fish Oil, Guar Gum, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Copper Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
- Variety pack contains different flavors
- Different size options are available
- Affordable price
- Hydration-focused formula
- Can be used as a complete meal or topper
- Some have commented that some formulas have an off-putting smell
- All recipes contain fish
10 Best for Nursing Cats: Diamond Naturals Active Chicken Meal & Rice Formula
- Brand: Diamond
- Allergens: Chicken, fish,
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat, natural flavor, flaxseed
- Primary Proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 454 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken meal and rice
- Type: Dry cat food
- Life Stage: All
Diamond Natural cat food boasts a formula that will support your cat from head to toe. To begin with, the recipe includes salmon oil, a healthy source of DHA, and omega -3 fatty acids to support your kitten’s brain and vision development. Not to mention, the inclusion of kale, pumpkin, and other fresh fruits and veggies will fiercely assist your cat’s digestive tract.
Not only is Diamond Naturals perfect for kittens and active cats but it is also suitable for pregnant or nursing cats too. Mother cats are responsible for feeding their kittens so will need a good supply of energy to keep them happy and healthy whilst they nurse their babies.
Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Sodium Bisulfate, Salmon Oil (Source Of Dha), Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
- Family-owned company
- Made in the USA with local and global ingredients
- Suitable for pregnant/nursing cats as well as kittens and adults
- Uses chicken meal and chicken fat as the protein source
Best Outdoor Cat Food Buying Guide & FAQs
What to Look for When Buying Buying Cat Food for Outdoor Cats
Outdoor cats are naturally more active and will spend a lot of time exploring outside of the home, so there are things that you must take into account when feeding your adventurous feline.
Since many commercial cat food can seem similar, it’s important to understand what to look for when purchasing the best alternative for your feline friend. Take a look at this list below:
Protein
Cats need food high in protein and cannot survive without animal meat in their diet. Plant substitutes can make them sick as their digestive systems are not built to break it down effectively, so anything but meat is a no-go. Typically, cats need no less than 30% protein in their food to support their busy lifestyle.
Moreover, it’s important to understand that the required protein content will differ depending on the cat’s age. For example, kittens will need cat food with an extra amount to support their muscle development. Similarly, adult cats that like to spend their days stalking and exploring the great outdoors will need higher-protein cat food to supply energy.
Carbohydrates
Carbs are not a 100% essential ingredient in cat food as a healthy feline can typically survive without. Revisiting the previous point, cat food should be composed mainly of animal protein as it is the key ingredient to keeping them happy and healthy. However, fruits and veggies are also necessary in cat foods as they can benefit their organs, skin, and coats.
Essentially, carbohydrates are debated as ‘filler’ ingredients to cat lovers as they can decrease the room in cat foods that could otherwise be taken up by protein and healthy fats.
Hydration
Wet cat foods are an excellent additional source of hydration. Cats typically don’t drink enough at the best of times, so wet food may be the solution if you’re unsure or concerned that your cat isn’t well-hydrated.
Fats
Fats are an essential part of diets as they are responsible for providing energy. They also help by transporting nutrients across cell membranes and influencing the absorption of various vitamins. So fats are something you shouldn’t shy from as a cat lover.
Vegetable oil and animal fats are common fat sources in both cat and dog foods. Arachidonic and linoleic acids are essential fatty acids and are some crucial components found in poultry, pork, beef, corn, fish oil, and safflower oil. In addition to this, fish oil and flaxseed are also vital as they contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamins and Minerals
We all know and understand that vitamins and minerals are an integral part of any animal’s diet, but this goes especially for the outdoor feline.
For example, it’s worth looking at recipes with important antioxidants as these will help support and strengthen your cat’s immune system. This will make your cat healthier in general, and it can also potentially prevent them from being susceptible to outdoor factors that will threaten their well-being.
Although pets can typically generate their supply, cat food containing vitamins A, C, and E can help protect their body significantly. In addition, selenium and zinc are also on the list of most potent antioxidants, so always look out for fruits and veggies that will contain these in the ingredients list.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cat Food
Since outdoor cats burn more energy during the day, they need a specific diet with a higher protein and fat content. As a result, their needs are very different from cats that are less active or spend all of their time inside.
An indoor cat, or one that doesn’t get as much exercise as others, will require foods that have fewer calories to prevent them from gaining weight.
In addition to this, you can’t always guarantee that your outside cat is adequately hydrated as they won’t have frequent access to fresh, clean water. This is why it’s important to feed them a wet cat food diet or even add a topper to their dry food. On the other hand, indoor cats will always have water, so it’s more acceptable to feed them a dry food-based diet.
You may also like our review on indoor cat food.
Tips For Feeding Feral Cats
It’s not uncommon for your cat to come home accompanied by a friend that will guilt you into a free meal. It’s also admirable when cat lovers go out of their way to feed stray cats who need nourishment.
Below are some listed tips on feeding a feral cat:
- Leave fresh water out for them to drink from to stay hydrated.
- Try to establish a schedule. By doing this, you can observe them closely and be on the lookout for any illnesses or injuries they may have.
- By observing the unfamiliar felines, not only could you potentially save their life, but you could also protect your cat from contracting something dangerous by seeking veterinary advice and assistance.
- Like your own cat, you should look to feed feral cats twice a day.
- Take note of how much they are eating and make sure that the food is eaten or disposed of. This will prevent other animals or pests from visiting and making themselves at home.
- If multiple cats are visiting at mealtimes, give them their bowl if possible. This will reduce the chances of them fighting over food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some cats are born for the outdoor lifestyle whereas others are content with life indoors. Those that live inside for the majority of their life generally have a longer lifespan as they are not exposed to the dangers that linger outside. However, it’s debated that a lot of felines are happier when allowed to roam and enjoy independence.
Generally, there are a lot of factors outside that can put our feline friends in danger. These include cars, predators, diseases, injuries, harsh weather, fights with other felines, and sadly, human cruelty.
In addition, some cats can get lost when left to explore outside. Take a look at our detailed guide for finding lost cats if you’re concerned this may happen to your own kitty.
Not all cat foods listed here state that they are specifically targetted for outdoor felines. The same stands for other cat food reviews as we have chosen options that will better suit the specific needs of a more active feline.
So with this in mind, you are able to widen your scope to other cat foods as long as you understand cat nutrition and what your feline needs to keep them healthy.
It’s necessary to feed outdoor cats on a schedule. Preferably, you want to feed your cat twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening. Always use the instructions labeled on the cat food packaging, especially if they list guidelines for specific weights, ages, and circumstances. However, if you’re unsure, you can always talk to your vet for some advice.
Similar to feeding feral and stray cats, your cat should be fed twice a day following the guidelines provided on the cat food packaging. Typically, your cat’s food should provide them ample support day-to-day so that you won’t need to feed them more which could prove to be more harmful than beneficial.
Cats might be well-intune with their hunting instincts but that may not necessarily mean that they are good at catching prey so they can’t be guaranteed to feed themselves adequately. Besides, some of the best cat food for outdoor cats will contain ingredients that will boost their overall health and protect them against some of the dangers lurking in the great outdoors.
