The Best Grain Free Cat Foods

When it comes to finding the best food for your cat, it can be tricky to find the right formulation that will nourish their health. Your cat may be sensitive to many of the ingredients that are in its food. Grain-free cat food has gained popularity in recent times and may help relieve digestive upset caused by poor ingredients or allergens to grains. If you are in the market for some grain-free cat food, here are our picks of some of the best to choose from.

What to Look For

In our research, we’ve found that the best grain-free cat food is nutrient-dense, protein-rich, and easy to digest. For example, Blue Buffalo’s cat food provides plenty of protein as well as healthy omega fatty acids for maintaining healthy skin and fur. If you’d prefer a softer option, then Purina’s Fancy Feast wet cat food is a worthy pick. Read on to discover our favorite picks. We’re sure you’ll find something for your kitty.

Blue Buffalo WildernessAdult Dry Cat Food

Protein packed

This dry cat food is chicken flavored and is suitable for adult cats.
Top Pick

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This cat food is made with real chicken, which most cats enjoy the taste of. The formula boasts plenty of protein and healthy carbohydrates, including sweet potatoes and peas, to give your cat energy and build muscle strength. In addition, the food also contains omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids to boost the skin and coat. Plus, it’s anti-oxidant rich, which helps fight off harmful free radicals within the body.

Pros: 

  • High quality ingredients
  • Picky cats seem to like it
  • Easy on the digestion
  • Noticeable results

Cons:

  • On the expensive side

Purina Beyond Grain Free Dry Cat Food

Tasty and nutritious

This grain-free cat food contains wild-caught whitefish and probiotics for healthier digestion.
Runner Up

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Purina’s natural formulation is packed full of essential vitamins and nutrients to help support your cat’s health. Even the fussiest of cats enjoy this blend, and cats that previously had allergies to their other foods may be able to eat this without issue. We especially appreciate the vitamin E in Purina’s formula as it helps boost skin and hair health. Even better, it’s made without corn, soy, or wheat.

Pros:

  • Pairs well as a topper with wet cat food
  • Good for the urinary tract
  • Reduces the chance of vomiting
  • Cats like the flavor

Cons:

  • The kibble is quite large, so it may not be suitable for cats with fewer teeth

CRAVE High Protein Dry Cat Food

Everything you need

This cat food uses no byproduct and is brimming with essential nutrients and protein.
Best High Protein

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The main ingredient in CRAVE’s food is real chicken, so you can rest assured your cat is eating quality protein. The chicken combined with some salmon provides a high source of protein for your cat, and protein is essential for energy and muscle development. CRAVE’s formula is free from grain, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives. On the back is a clear guide on how much to serve your cat and how to transition over to CRAVE cat food from your cat’s current food. Moreover, the packaging has an easy-pour tab at the top and is sealed for freshness.

Pros:

  • Ideal for low-carb diets
  • Great for picky cats
  • Easy on digestion
  • Malnourished cats make a quick rebound with this food

Cons:

  • The largest bag available is 10 pounds, which means you will need to repurchase regularly.

Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food

Lip-smacking good

Your cat will love the soft texture and flavorful variety of this collection.
Best Wet Food

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Most grain-free cat food is dry, so having a wet formula means less of a transition for your cat. Also, there’s no need to add water or another substance to make it more edible as you would need to do with a dry mix. Tins are also easier to store and serve out than dry cat food. And if you have a fussy cat, there are three flavors for more variety.

Pros:

  • Better for cats who need high protein but prefer softer food
  • Picky cats seem to love it
  • Adds weight to your cat
  • Easy on the teeth
  • Well priced

Cons:

  • Contains artificial flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of grain-free cat food?

If your cat has an allergy to grains found in most cat food, it could be causing a reaction when they eat it, such as digestive problems. Grain-free cat food is made from premium ingredients and can often resolve symptoms if the previous food is to blame. By removing grains from your cat’s diet, it can indicate whether they have an allergy or not.

What is the best way to switch to grain-free cat food?

If your current cat food isn’t causing any reaction and you want to switch the food to grain-free for higher quality, it may need to be done in stages. Dry grain-free cat food, in particular, will need to be slowly added so that your cat can get used to it. If this is the case, the packaging will advise how much of the food to add to your cat’s meal at a time.

What should I look out for with grain-free cat food?

Ideally, your cat food (regardless of whether it is grain-free or not) should contain healthy, pure ingredients. On the other hand, formulas that are high in protein and contain essential vitamins and nutrients will help nourish your cat. High protein, in particular, will give your cat lots of energy and will help build muscle strength.

About the Author

Mitchell is a proud dad of two rescued feral cats, and he is very fond of their curious nature. He knows that it takes some time for cats to open up to their humans, and he knows exactly how daunting it can be to be a first time cat owner. He hopes to share his expertise and his experiences with his own cats with other cat owners so they can give their pets happy, healthy lives.

Why Trust Us

Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.