If you’re looking for the best dry cat food brands, you are in the right place. Before deciding on a brand, it's important to consider several factors that can help you find the best one for your cat's specific needs. First and foremost, look for a brand that uses high-quality ingredients, such as real meat or fish as the first ingredient. Avoid brands that use fillers, artificial preservatives, and dyes. Additionally, pay attention to the type of diet your cat needs, such as a grain-free or limited ingredient diet.
Other important factors to consider include your cat's age, activity level, and any health concerns. For example, older cats may require a lower calorie diet, while active cats may need a higher protein diet. Cats with sensitive stomachs or allergies may benefit from a diet with limited ingredients or novel protein sources.
When choosing the best dry cat food brand, it's also important to read reviews from other cat owners and consult with your veterinarian. Asking yourself questions like "What are the top-rated brands for cats with sensitive stomachs?" or "What are the best dry cat food brands for indoor cats?" can help you narrow down your options and make an informed decision.
In summary, finding the best dry cat food brand involves considering your cat's individual needs, reading reviews, and consulting with your veterinarian. By doing your research and taking the time to choose the right brand, you can ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy for years to come.
10 Best Dry Cat Food Brands
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This product is ideal for cats who require a grain-free diet with real chicken as the main protein source.
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This product is ideal for cats that require a grain-free and high-protein diet made with cage-free chicken.
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The product is ideal for indoor cats who require grain-free, high-protein diets with real chicken as the main ingredient.
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4
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Ideal for cats who require a limited ingredient diet, grain-free recipe with real rabbit as the primary protein source.
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5
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This product is ideal for senior cats as it promotes their overall health and provides essential nutrients.
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6
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The product is ideal for feeding cats a dry food diet with added gravy flavor.
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7
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Hill's Science Diet Dry Cat Food is ideal for adult cats who need support for healthy weight and weight management.
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8
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This product is ideal for adult cats who require a high protein diet with chicken and salmon as main ingredients.
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9
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It's ideal for adult cats who need a healthy and balanced diet with real chicken protein as the main ingredient.
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10
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The product is ideal for providing high quality maintenance nutrition for cats.
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1. Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe With Real Chicken Natural Dry Cat Food, 11 Lb. Bag

For cat owners who want to provide their feline friends with a high-quality, nutritious diet, Instinct Original dry cat food is an excellent choice. Made with 81% real animal ingredients and nutritious oils, 19% vegetables, fruits and other wholesome ingredients, this grain-free cat food is formulated with responsibly sourced cage-free chicken as its #1 ingredient.
Instinct Original dry cat food is a natural cat food that is high in protein and contains probiotics to support healthy digestion, as well as omegas for skin and coat health. It is free from grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, artificial colors, or preservatives, making it a great choice for cats with food sensitivities.
What sets Instinct Original dry cat food apart is that it is the first raw coated kibble on the market. Each piece of kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw for added nutrition and taste. This gives the food a delicious, healthy flavor that even picky kitties will love.
The power of raw ingredients is evident in Instinct Original dry cat food. Raw ingredients are natural, made from real meat and whole food ingredients, protein-packed, and minimally processed. This cat food is made in the USA with the finest ingredients sourced from around the world.
Instinct is known for being a raw brand, crafting both dry and wet cat food from real ingredients. When compared to other cat food brands like Blue Buffalo, Fancy Feast, Hills Science Diet, Royal Canin, Rachel Ray, Natural Balance, Merrick, Purina One, Friskies, Wellness, Iams, Purina Beyond, and Weruva, Instinct stands out as a top choice for cat owners who want to give their pets the best possible nutrition.
2. Instinct Ultimate Protein Grain Free Cage Free Chicken Recipe Natural Dry Cat Food, 10 Lb. Bag

The Instinct Ultimate Protein dry cat food is the ultimate solution for cat owners seeking high-quality, grain-free, and natural cat food. With cage-free chicken as its main ingredient, this cat food has up to three times more real chicken than vegetables or animal meals, which provides up to 95% of the protein in the food. This makes it an excellent source of protein for your feline friend.
This natural cat food is made with guaranteed levels of natural probiotics that aid in promoting digestive health, omegas that support skin and coat health, and antioxidants that help boost the immune system. It is free from grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and balanced food choice for your cat.
What sets the Instinct Ultimate Protein dry cat food apart is that it is the first raw coated kibble on the market. Every piece of kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw food for optimal nutrition and taste. This results in a delicious and healthy flavor that cats and kittens crave.
The power of raw ingredients is evident in Instinct Ultimate Protein dry cat food. It is made from real meat and whole food ingredients that are minimally processed, protein-packed, and natural. This cat food is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world.
When it comes to high protein cat food, Instinct is the best choice for your cat. It is a premium brand that crafts dry and wet cat food from real ingredients. Compared to other brands such as Blue Buffalo, Fancy Feast, Hills Science Diet, Royal Canin, Rachel Ray, Natural Balance, Merrick, Purina One, Friskies, Wellness, Beyond, and Weruva, Instinct Ultimate Protein dry cat food stands out as the best cat food with high protein.
3. Instinct Raw Boost Indoor Health Grain Free Recipe With Real Chicken Natural Dry Cat Food, 5 Lb. Bag

The Instinct Raw Boost dry cat food is a grain-free indoor cat food that features freeze-dried raw cage-free chicken bites. The cage-free chicken is the primary ingredient, ensuring that your cat gets the best quality protein.
This natural cat food is a blend of high-protein kibble and freeze-dried raw chicken pieces that provide a healthy and delicious meal for your cat. It is also rich in probiotics and omegas, which aid in healthy digestion and stool odor control. Additionally, it is free from grains, potato, corn, wheat, soy, byproduct meal, artificial colors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and safe choice for your cat.
This is the first raw-boosted kibble that mixes high-protein, grain-free cat food with freeze-dried raw cat food toppers in one bag, providing complete and balanced nutrition for all cats, from kittens to seniors. The delicious and healthy flavor will even please picky eaters.
The power of raw ingredients is evident in this cat food, which is made using real, minimally processed, whole-food ingredients that are protein-packed and natural. It is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world, ensuring that your cat gets the best quality food.
Instinct offers the best cat food that is boosted with raw, and they craft both dry and wet cat food from real ingredients. You can compare Instinct to other cat food brands such as Blue Buffalo, Fancy Feast, Hills Science Diet, Royal Canin, Rachel Ray, Natural Balance, Purina One, Friskies, Wellness, Iams, Beyond & Weruva, and see the difference in quality and taste.
4. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Recipe With Real Rabbit Natural Dry Cat Food, 10 Lb. Bag

Instinct Limited Ingredient cat food is the perfect choice for cats with food sensitivities. This high-quality cat food is made with only one protein and one vegetable, and contains no grains, dairy, eggs, chicken, beef, fish, sweet potato, potato, chickpeas, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.
Crafted with farm-raised rabbit, a healthy and easily digestible protein that provides all the essential amino acids, this natural cat food is perfect for cats with food allergies. Instinct Limited Ingredient's simple ingredients ensure that your cat receives all of the necessary nutrients without any unnecessary additives.
Instinct Limited Ingredient cat food is also the first raw coated kibble on the market, with every piece of kibble coated in freeze-dried raw for added nutrition and taste. This delicious, healthy flavor is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Made with the pure, real nutrition of raw ingredients, this cat food is minimally processed and packed with protein. Instinct Limited Ingredient cat food is proudly made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world.
When it comes to the best cat food for allergies, Instinct is the clear choice. This high-quality cat food is available in both dry and wet varieties, and is made with only real ingredients. Compare Instinct to other top brands such as Blue Buffalo, Fancy Feast, Hills Science Diet, Royal Canin, Rachel Ray, Natural Balance, Merrick, Purina One, Friskies, Wellness, Iams, Beyond, and Weruva to see the difference in quality and nutrition. Your cat will thank you for choosing Instinct Limited Ingredient cat food.
5. Iams Proactive Health Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food With Chicken Cat Kibble, 16 Lb. Bag

The IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food Kibble with Chicken is a nutrient-rich dry food that comes in a 16 lb. bag, providing your senior cat with all the essential nutrients they need. The food is made in the USA with the world's finest ingredients, ensuring that your cat gets only the best.
The first ingredient in this dry food is chicken, which is rich in protein and helps support strong muscles in senior cats. Additionally, the food contains essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus that nourish strong bones and healthy joints, keeping your cat active and playful.
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for senior cats, and the IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food Kibble with Chicken helps achieve this with L-carnitine. This ingredient supports weight management, keeping your cat in good shape.
The food also contains vitamin E, which helps restore immune responses of older cats to those of a healthy adult cat, keeping them healthy and active. Additionally, this dry food supports a healthy immune system with 2X the antioxidants of IAMS Healthy Adult Original with Chicken, keeping your cat's immune system in top shape.
6. Purina Friskies Dry Cat Food, Gravy Swirlers – 16 Lb. Bag

Introducing the Purina Friskies Dry Cat Food in a 16lb bag with the delectable Gravy Swirlers flavor! This dry cat food is formulated with the perfect combination of chicken and salmon flavors that cats simply can't resist. What's more, it is packed with a savory gravy that's baked in to provide an added layer of flavor, making mealtime even more enjoyable for your feline companion.
The tempting texture of this cat food is designed to entice your furry friend to her dish, encouraging her to eat up and get the essential nutrition she needs. Speaking of nutrition, this dry cat food is 100% complete and balanced, formulated to cater to all life stages. It contains a blend of essential vitamins and minerals that provide the everyday nutrition cats need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, it boasts of antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system.
This dry cat food is also enriched with essential fatty acids that support healthy skin and coat, keeping your cat's fur shiny and soft to the touch. Rest assured that this product has been checked for quality and safety to provide added peace of mind for pet parents.
7. Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food

Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable and Chicken Medley is a revolutionary weight management food for adult cats that helps them maintain a healthy weight and lean muscle. Over 70 percent of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this dry food for cats, making it a highly effective and reliable option for your feline friend.
This dry cat food is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients for your cat's overall health and well-being. It contains a perfect blend of roasted vegetables and chicken medley that offers a delectable taste and variety to your kitty's diet, helping to satisfy their cravings.
The food is designed to provide long-lasting weight support, so your cat can maintain a healthy weight for the long term. With its unique formula, it supports lean muscle growth, providing your cat with the necessary energy to stay active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable and Chicken Medley is a perfect choice for pet owners who want to ensure their cats are getting the best nutrition possible. Its high-quality ingredients make it a healthy and nutritious option for your feline friend.
8. Iams Proactive Health High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food With Chicken & Salmon Cat Kibble, 13 Lb. Bag

The IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH High Protein Dry Cat Kibble with Chicken and Salmon is a specially formulated cat food that provides your feline friend with the essential nutrients they need for optimal health. This 13 lb. bag of high protein dry kibble contains real chicken, the primary ingredient, and is rich in protein to help maintain strong muscles and provide healthy energy for play.
The high concentration of high-quality protein in this cat food is designed to nourish your cat's heart and maintain healthy muscles. The fiber blend is tailored to support your cat’s digestive health, with the inclusion of prebiotics and beet pulp. This kibble is soy-free, and contains no artificial dyes or preservatives, only real ingredients with the flavors cats crave.
The IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH High Protein Dry Cat Kibble also includes calcium to promote strong teeth and healthy bones, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor cats. Additionally, this cat food is nourished with the optimal ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, which helps to promote soft, shiny, and healthy coats.
This cat food is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their cats with a healthy and balanced diet. With real chicken as the primary ingredient, this kibble is rich in protein and offers essential nutrients for your cat's optimal health. It is also free from soy, artificial dyes, and preservatives, making it a safe and healthy option for your cat.
9. Iams Proactive Health Adult Healthy Dry Cat Food With Chicken Cat Kibble, 22 Lb. Bag

This 22 lb. bag of IAMS Proactive Healthy Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken is a nutrient-rich option that is designed to promote a healthy body for your feline friend. The main ingredient in this cat food is chicken, which provides high-quality protein to support your cat's muscles.
In addition to protein, this cat food also contains natural fiber and prebiotics to support healthy digestion. Omega-6 and -3 fatty acids are also included, which can help promote a healthy skin and glossy coat.
This cat food is made in the USA with only the finest ingredients, ensuring that your cat receives a high-quality and nutritious meal. Essential nutrients such as calcium and potassium are added to help nourish a healthy heart.
With 100% complete and balanced nutrition and 0% fillers, this cat food is an ideal choice for maintaining your cat's overall health and wellbeing. Treat your cat to a delicious and healthy meal with IAMS Proactive Healthy Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken.
10. Kirkland Signature Super Premium Maintenance Cat Food

Introducing the Super Premium Formula cat food, available in a convenient 25 lb bag. This specially formulated recipe boasts high-quality ingredients to provide your feline friend with a healthy and delicious meal.
The number one ingredient in this formula is fresh chicken, which not only adds a savory taste but also serves as an ideal protein source. Chicken meal is also included, providing an additional source of highly digestible protein to support your cat's nutritional needs. Both of these protein sources are essential in maintaining your cat's health, ensuring their muscles and organs are functioning properly.
The kibble size of this formula is designed to be easy for your cat to pick up and chew, while also helping to keep their teeth clean. The crunchy texture of the kibble helps to scrape away plaque and tartar, promoting good dental health.
In addition to these key features, this formula also contains guaranteed levels of vitamin E, selenium, and zinc. These antioxidants work together to support your cat's overall health and well-being. Vitamin E helps to neutralize free radicals, while selenium and zinc assist in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Best Dry Cat Food Brands FAQs
What are some natural and organic dry cat food brands available?
There are several natural and organic dry cat food brands available in the market. Some of the popular ones include:
1. Blue Buffalo: This brand offers high-quality cat food made with natural ingredients like real meat, fruits, and vegetables.
2. Orijen: Orijen is a well-known brand that uses fresh, regional ingredients in their cat food, making it a good choice for those looking for organic and natural options.
3. Wellness Core: Wellness Core is a brand that offers grain-free, protein-rich cat food made with natural ingredients like chicken, turkey, and salmon.
4. Merrick: Merrick offers a range of organic and natural cat food options made with real meat, fruits, and vegetables.
5. Dr. Elsey's Cleanprotein: This brand offers a high-quality cat food made with high-protein, grain-free ingredients that are free from artificial preservatives and additives.
It's important to note that not all natural or organic cat food brands are created equal, so it's always a good idea to read the ingredients label and do some research before making a purchase.
What are some popular grain-free dry cat food brands?
There are several popular grain-free dry cat food brands available in the market. Some of the most popular ones are:
1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: This brand offers high-quality grain-free dry cat food with real meat as the first ingredient. The food is free from chicken or poultry by-product meals, wheat, soy, and corn.
2. Wellness CORE: This brand offers grain-free dry cat food made with premium proteins like turkey, chicken, and fish. The food is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
3. Purina Beyond: This brand offers grain-free dry cat food with real meat as the first ingredient. The food is free from corn, wheat, and soy, and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
4. Instinct: This brand offers grain-free dry cat food made with high-quality proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish. The food is free from grains, gluten, and artificial preservatives.
5. Nulo: This brand offers grain-free dry cat food made with animal-based proteins and low-glycemic ingredients. The food is free from grains, soy, and corn.
It is important to note that while grain-free cat food may be a good option for some cats, it is not necessary for all cats. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your cat's diet.
What are the best dry cat food brands for indoor cats?
There are several dry cat food brands that are specifically formulated for indoor cats and can provide them with the necessary nutrients they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some of the best dry cat food brands for indoor cats include Blue Buffalo Indoor Health, Hill's Science Diet Indoor, Purina ONE Indoor Advantage, and Royal Canin Indoor Adult.
Blue Buffalo Indoor Health cat food contains real chicken and brown rice to support muscle and energy maintenance, as well as antioxidants for immune system support. Hill's Science Diet Indoor cat food is designed with a unique fiber blend to promote healthy digestion and natural fiber to reduce hairballs. Purina ONE Indoor Advantage cat food is made with real turkey as the primary ingredient and contains natural fiber to help control hairballs. Royal Canin Indoor Adult cat food is formulated with highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to support digestive health.
Ultimately, the best dry cat food brand for your indoor cat will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your furry friend.
What are the best dry cat food brands for weight management?
When it comes to weight management for cats, it's important to choose a high-quality dry cat food brand that is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of overweight or obese felines. Some of the best dry cat food brands for weight management include Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight, Blue Buffalo Weight Control, Purina Pro Plan Weight Management, Royal Canin Satiety Support, and Wellness Complete Health Healthy Weight. These brands offer a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to help your cat feel full and satisfied while also promoting weight loss. It's important to note that every cat is unique, and what works for one cat may not work for another. It's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet and feeding plan for your cat's individual needs. Additionally, it's important to monitor your cat's weight regularly and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
What are the top ingredients to look for in dry cat food brands?
When choosing dry cat food, it's important to look for high-quality ingredients that will provide your cat with the nutrition they need to thrive. Here are some of the top ingredients to look for in dry cat food brands:
1. High-quality protein: Look for dry cat food that lists a high-quality animal protein, such as chicken, fish, or beef, as the first ingredient. This will provide your cat with the essential amino acids they need to maintain strong muscles and a healthy weight.
2. Healthy fats: Fats are an important source of energy for cats and help keep their skin and coat healthy. Look for dry cat food that contains healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
3. Digestible carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide cats with energy, but they should be easy to digest. Look for dry cat food that contains whole grains or vegetables like sweet potatoes or peas.
4. Vitamins and minerals: Dry cat food should contain a balance of essential vitamins and minerals to support your cat's overall health and well-being.
5. Limited filler ingredients: Avoid dry cat food that contains fillers like corn, wheat, or soy, which can be difficult for cats to digest and may lead to allergies or other health problems.
Overall, it's important to choose a dry cat food that is made with high-quality ingredients and meets your cat's specific nutritional needs. It's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dry cat food for your furry friend.
What are the top-rated dry cat food brands on the market?
There are several top-rated dry cat food brands on the market, each with their own unique formula and ingredients. Some popular brands include Blue Buffalo, Orijen, Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands are known for using high-quality ingredients, such as real meat and vegetables, and avoiding fillers and by-products. They also offer a variety of options for different needs and preferences, such as grain-free, weight management, and indoor formulas. It's important to note that every cat is different and may have their own specific dietary needs, so it's always best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to their diet. Additionally, it's important to read the ingredient list and nutritional information on any cat food before purchasing to ensure it meets your cat's needs and preferences.
Which dry cat food brands are recommended by veterinarians?
There are several dry cat food brands that are recommended by veterinarians. Some of the top brands include Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Iams. These brands are preferred by veterinarians because they offer complete and balanced nutrition for cats, with high-quality ingredients that support overall health and wellbeing. They also have formulas that cater to specific health needs, such as weight management, digestive health, and urinary tract health. It's important to note that every cat has individual nutritional needs, so it's best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food for your cat. In addition to dry food, it's also recommended to provide cats with wet food and fresh water to ensure they are getting enough moisture in their diet.
Which dry cat food brands are recommended for cats with sensitive stomachs?
There are several dry cat food brands that are recommended for cats with sensitive stomachs. One of the most popular ones is Royal Canin Digest Sensitive. This brand is specifically formulated to promote digestive health and reduce the risk of digestive upset in cats. Another recommended brand is Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin. This brand contains easily digestible ingredients and is free from artificial colors and preservatives. Additionally, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is also a good option for cats with sensitive stomachs. This brand contains high-quality proteins and easily digestible carbohydrates to help promote digestive health. It is important to note that every cat is different and may have different dietary needs, so it is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat's diet.
Which dry cat food brands are the most affordable?
There are various dry cat food brands that offer affordable options for pet parents. One of the most affordable options is the Meow Mix brand, which offers a variety of dry cat food products at a very reasonable price. Another popular brand that offers affordable dry cat food is Purina Cat Chow, which has been a trusted name in pet food for decades. In addition, Friskies and 9Lives are other brands that offer good quality dry cat food at an affordable price. It is important to note that while affordability is a factor, it is also important to ensure that the dry cat food you choose provides adequate nutrition for your feline friend. Therefore, it is important to read the labels and ingredients carefully to ensure that the dry cat food you choose meets your cat's nutritional needs.
Which dry cat food brands are the most nutritionally balanced?
There are several dry cat food brands that are considered to be nutritionally balanced, and it ultimately depends on your cat's specific dietary needs. Some popular brands include Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Blue Buffalo. These brands often offer different formulas tailored to specific health concerns such as digestive health, weight management, and urinary tract health. It is important to check the label and ingredients list to ensure that the food meets the nutritional requirements for your cat's life stage and any health concerns. Consulting with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best dry cat food brand for your feline friend. Additionally, it is important to note that while dry cat food can be a convenient option, it should not be the sole source of a cat's diet and should be supplemented with wet food or fresh food to ensure a well-rounded diet.