❓ 10 Questions You Should Ask Cat Food Brands – Vet Guide 2025 🐱

Hello savvy cat parents! 😊 I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc. With hundreds of cat foods out there, knowing what to look for is essential. In this 2025 guide, we explore 10 must-ask questions—covering ingredients, nutrition testing, processing, recalls, sustainability, and more—and show how Ask A Vet helps you decode labels and choose wisely. Let’s ensure every meal is best for your feline friend! 🧩🍽️

1️⃣ Where are ingredients sourced from?

• Ask if proteins, grains, or vegetables are domestic or imported—and from inspected facilities.
• Traceability ensures quality and reduces contamination risk.

2️⃣ Are these named ingredients or by-products?

• Named ingredients (“chicken,” “salmon meal”) are higher quality than vague terms (“meat by-product”).
• Check for quality first ingredients and avoid excessive fillers.

3️⃣ Is the food AAFCO “complete & balanced” for my cat’s life stage?

• AAFCO approval shows the diet meets established nutrient targets for kittens, adults, or seniors.
• Therapeutic or veterinary diets may replace this label with prescription-only status.

4️⃣ How is nutrition testing performed?

• Ask if the brand uses feeding trials (ideal) or ingredient analysis only.
• Feeding trials ensure the diet supports real-life growth and health.

5️⃣ What quality control and safety protocols exist?

• Check for FDA/USDA-inspected facilities, HACCP plans, frequent ingredient testing, and pathogen controls.
• Reusable batch numbers and digital traceability help during recalls.

6️⃣ Are there any recalls or safety issues on record?

• Ask about past recalls—why they happened and how they were fixed.
• Brands with transparent handling and swift responses are more trustworthy.

7️⃣ What sustainability practices are in place?

• Look for eco-friendly sourcing—responsible fisheries, regenerative farming, reduced packaging.
• Sustainable brands show long-term commitment to pets and planet.

8️⃣ Are there added artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors?

• AAFCO allows vitamins/minerals, but beware of synthetic dyes or flavor enhancers.
• Natural preservation (mixed tocopherols, rosemary extract) is preferred.

9️⃣ What’s the shelf life and how should it be stored?

• Ask about the recommended use-by period after opening; storing tips like resealing, refrigeration for wet food.
• Proper usage ensures nutrient quality and safety.

🔟 Is there customer or vet support if I have concerns?

• Brands should offer accessible veterinary nutritionists or certified specialists for questions.
• Ask A Vet supplements this by providing real-time food guidance and signposting trusted brands.

💡 How Ask A Vet Helps You Navigate These Answers 📲

• 🔍 Interpret and verify manufacturer responses.
• 🏷 Supply alternative suggestions when brands fall short on transparency or nutrition.
• 📄 Help read packaging, labels, and nutrition facts confidently.
• 🛠 Support your cat’s diet choice with ongoing advice and troubleshooting.

Ask A Vet empowers you to ask informed questions and feed your cat with confidence—anytime you need support. 🐾💬

✅ Final Takeaway

Don’t just look at ingredient lists—ask the right questions: Where does it come from? Is it tested? Are safety measures in place? Is it healthy long-term? With informed answers and Ask A Vet's guidance, you ensure every meal supports your cat’s health, happiness, and the planet's well-being. 😊

Dr Duncan Houston BVSc — empowering pet parents one food choice at a time. Visit AskAVet.com and download the app for expert help anytime. 📱