Last updated Oct 24, 2023
The best cat food for shedding won’t necessarily prevent your cat from shedding, but it may improve the condition of their coat. A diet built around animal-sourced ingredients with plenty of hydrating moisture will benefit your cat’s digestion as well. When your cat’s digestion is in healthy working order, ingested fur may pass harmlessly through the digestive tract instead of being coughed up as hairballs.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what to look for when shopping for cat food to reduce shedding. We’ll provide in-depth reviews of our top picks for the best options on the market.
At a Glance: Best Cat Food for Shedding To Buy
RAWZ 96% Turkey & Turkey Liver Pate Canned Cat Food
- Packed with turkey muscle meat and organs
- Plenty of hydrating moisture
- Free from gum thickeners and carrageenan
Smalls Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food
- Rich in moisture and animal-sourced protein
- Easily digestible and low in carbs
- Moderately calorie-dense recipe
Ziwi Peak Lamb Recipe Canned Cat Food
- Made with a species-appropriate blend of muscle meat, organs, and bone
- New Zealand green mussels provide omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in moisture to support your cat’s hydration
Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Canned Cat Food
- Contains 50% protein and nearly 30% fat (dry matter)
- Affordably priced around $2.00 per day
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon & Cod Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food
- Made with 92% wild-caught fish and bone
- Ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients
- Rich in skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids
Primal Turkey Formula Freeze-Dried Nuggets
- Comprised of 90% turkey muscle meat, organs, and bone
- Relies on whole-food sources of vitamins and minerals
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and cod liver oil
Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Pate
- Contains over 45% protein and 34% fat (dry matter)
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Smooth, moist pâté -style texture easy for cats to chew
Stella & Chewy’s Absolutely Rabbit Freeze-Dried Dinner Morsels
- Made with a single, novel source of animal protein
- Contains over 46% protein and 31% fat (dry matter)
- Free from hard-to-digest beans, peas, and legumes
Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
- Contains over 66% dry matter protein
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Short list of easily digestible ingredients
Young Again ZERO Dry Cat & Kitten Food
- Contains over 60% protein and nearly 30% fat (dry matter)
- Very low in carbohydrates, under 2% dry matter
- Relies primarily on animal-sourced protein and fat
Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Classic Pate
- Rich in animal-sourced protein and omega-3 fatty acids
- High in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Fairly calorie dense, about 36 calories per ounce
Tiki Cat Silver Chicken, Duck & Duck Liver Mousse + Shreds
- Packed with protein from chicken and duck
- Soft, moist food with a mousse-like texture
- Simple and easily digestible for most cats
Raised Right Turkey & Pumpkin Pate
- Protein-packed fresh food made primarily from animal ingredients
- Made with human-grade ingredients
- Rich in moisture for hydration and digestive support
Dr. Elsey’s cleanprotein Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Top five ingredients are all animal-based
- Rich in animal-sourced protein and fat
- Contains under 10% dry matter carbohydrate
Wellness Complete Health Natural Hairball Control Dry Cat Food
- Formulated to help pass swallowed fur and hairballs
- Contains 40% protein measured as dry matter
- Affordably priced around $0.23 per ounce
What Causes Excessive Shedding?
Excessive shedding may be a sign of an underlying health issue like allergies, stress, or poor nutrition. Even if it isn’t linked to health problems, excessive shedding can contribute to hairballs.
It’s best to consult a veterinarian if your cat is shedding more than usual. They’ll be able to determine whether the underlying cause is something to be concerned about and, if so, how to treat it. They may also recommend dietary modifications to help manage the problem.
Though it’s hard to say whether any specific cat food will resolve issues with shedding, improving the quality and digestibility of your cat’s diet may help. A balanced diet paired with adequate hydration is key to keeping your cat’s skin and coat healthy.
Why Trust Cats.com
We’ve reviewed over 200 of the world’s most popular cat food brands and hundreds of different formulas. We’ve spent hours researching, contacting pet food companies, analyzing labels, and reading customer reviews. With the help of our cats, we also got hands-on experience with most of these foods.
Finally, we consulted seven veterinarians to get their professional opinion on how to reduce excessive shedding through diet.
Our Veterinary Advisors:
- Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ
- Dr. Chris Vanderhoof, DVM, MPH
- Dr. Sarah Reidenbach, DVM
- Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM
- Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM
- Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM
- Dr. Elizabeth Youens, DVM
The 15 Best Cat Foods for Shedding and Hairballs
Our pick for the best cat food for shedding is RAWZ 96% Turkey & Turkey Liver Pȃté. Made primarily with turkey muscle meat and turkey liver, this protein-rich recipe is highly digestible and full of hydrating moisture.
We consider a variety of factors when determining our rankings and do our best to include a wide range of products to suit cats with different needs and preferences. While RAWZ is our top choice, it might not be the perfect pick for your unique cat. To help you find the best option, we’ve categorized our recommendations by food type, price category, life stage, and other important considerations.
#1 Overall Best: RAWZ 96% Turkey & Turkey Liver Pate Canned Cat Food
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 11% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 37
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.25 per day
Comprised of 96% turkey muscle meat and turkey liver, this protein-packed canned food checks all five of the boxes mentioned above.
It contains nearly 41% protein and over 36% fat (measured as dry matter) and under 10% dry matter carbohydrate. The food is free from hard-to-digest ingredients like peas and legumes, and it’s rich in moisture to support your cat’s hydration. It’s also made with a single source of animal protein.
Not only is this canned cat food a great choice for cats that struggle with shedding, but you’ll feel good knowing that 100% of the proceeds from your purchase will be donated. The RAWZ foundation helps provide service dogs to individuals recovering from spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries.
Ingredients
Turkey, Turkey Liver, Turkey Broth, Fenugreek Seeds, Dandelion Greens, Taurine, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Magnesium Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Salt, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Turkey Liver
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Packed with turkey muscle meat and organs
- Plenty of hydrating moisture
- Low carbohydrate content under 10% dry matter
- Free from gum thickeners and carrageenan
What We Didn’t Like:
- Expensive to feed
#2 Runner Up: Smalls Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 13% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 40
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4.00 per day
Packed with moisture and species-appropriate animal protein, Smalls fresh food arrives on your doorstep in customizable deliveries. Choose from chicken-, turkey-, beef-, or fish-based foods in several textures, according to your cat’s individual preferences. Smalls also offers an assortment of treats and meal toppers to round out your cat’s diet.
This Smalls Ground Bird recipe features chicken muscle meat and chicken liver. Though largely meat-based, it contains a few easily digestible veggies which provide natural sources for key nutrients. The dry matter nutrient composition of the formula is around 48% protein and over 30% fat while the carbohydrate content remains very low.
Overall, this is a high-protein, high-fat fresh cat food with low carbohydrate content and plenty of hydrating moisture. At about 40 calories per ounce, it’s also moderately calorie-dense.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Green Beans, Water Sufficient for Processing, Dried Yeast, Tricalcium Phosphate, Kale, Magnesium Proteinate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dandelion Greens, Dried Kelp, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Cod Liver Oil, Salt, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Sodium Selenite, Biotin.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Cod Liver Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Rich in moisture and animal-sourced protein
- Easily digestible and low in carbs
- Moderately calorie-dense recipe
- Available in minced or pate textures
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only available as a subscription plan
- No phone support (text and email only)
#3 Premium Pick Wet Food: Ziwi Peak Venison Recipe Canned Cat Food
- Made In: New Zealand
- Guaranteed Protein: 10% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 34
- Typical Cost Per Day: $6.96 per day
From one of our A-rated brands, this canned cat food features venison. It is a single-protein recipe and, because venison is a novel protein for many cats, it may be a good choice for cats affected by food allergies.
This recipe contains over 45% protein measured as dry matter, most of which appears to come from a species-appropriate blend of muscle meat, organs, and bone. The food does contain chickpeas, but the dry matter carbohydrate content is still under 15%.
Overall, this is a high-protein, moderate-fat recipe with moderate carbohydrate content. It’s very rich in moisture to support your cat’s hydration and to help regulate digestion. The addition of New Zealand green mussel improves the omega-3 content as well which can be beneficial for your cat’s joints, skin, and coat.
Ingredients
Venison, Water Sufficient for Processing, Venison Tripe, Venison Liver, Chickpeas, Venison Lung, Venison Heart, Venison Kidney, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison 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).
Ingredients We Liked: Venison, Venison Tripe, Venison Liver, Venison Lung, Venison Heart, Venison Kidney, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison Bone
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Chickpeas
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Contains over 45% protein measured as dry matter
- Made with a species-appropriate blend of muscle meat, organs, and bone
- New Zealand green mussels provide omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in moisture to support your cat’s hydration
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains chickpeas which some cats have a hard time digesting
- Very expensive to feed
#4 Budget Pick Wet Food: Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Canned Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 11% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 35
- Typical Cost Per Day: $1.71 per day
Feeding your cat a canned food diet can be expensive but it’s well worth the cost to support your cat’s long-term health and wellness. If you’re looking for a more affordable option than the previous picks, Nulo might be a good choice. This cat food costs about $2.00 per day to feed a 10-pound cat.
This Nulo Freestyle canned food contains plenty of animal-sourced protein from turkey, chicken, turkey liver, and tuna. Menhaden fish oil is the primary added fat, a species-appropriate source of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids.
The food contains 50% protein and nearly 30% fat, measured as dry matter, and about 17% dry matter carbohydrate. Though the food is free from hard-to-digest plant ingredients like beans and legumes, it does contain guar gum as a thickener. This ingredient has been known to cause loose stools in some cats.
Ingredients
Turkey, Chicken, Turkey Liver, Turkey Broth, Tuna, Natural Flavor, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Agar Agar, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Salt, Iron Proteinate, Sodium Carbonate, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Magnesium Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Chicken, Turkey Liver, Tuna, Menhaden Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Contains 50% protein and nearly 30% fat (dry matter)
- Affordably priced around $2.00 per day
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Menhaden fish oil provides plenty of omega-3 fatty acids
What We Didn’t Like:
- Guar gum causes loose stools in some cats
- Contains over 15% dry matter carbohydrate
#5 Best Ethically-Sourced: Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon & Cod Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 45% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 124
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4.50 per day
Freeze-dried cat food provides a shelf-stable alternative to raw food. In order to make it shelf-stable, manufacturers remove the moisture, however, so it’s important to rehydrate the food before offering it to your cat – especially if shedding is a concern.
This freeze-dried recipe from Open Farm contains 92% fish and bone. It’s made with wild-caught salmon and cod along with other ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients. The food contains over 47% protein and 26% fat when measured as dry matter.
As a fish-based formula, this cat food is packed with omega-3 fatty acids to help support your cat’s skin and coat health. It’s free from hard-to-digest beans and legumes, and it doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Ingredients
Salmon with Ground Bone, Cod, Sweet Potato, Montmorillonite Clay, Fenugreek Seeds, Tricalcium Phosphate, Organic Dandelion Greens, Salt, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pantothenic Acid, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin), Organic Cranberries, Taurine, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Potassium Chloride, Rosemary Extract.
Ingredients We Liked: Salmon with Ground Bone, Cod
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Made with 92% wild-caught fish and bone
- Ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients
- Rich in skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids
What We Didn’t Like:
- Low in moisture, needs to be rehydrated
- Expensive to feed
#6 Best Chicken-Free: Primal Turkey Formula Freeze-Dried Nuggets
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 48% Min
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories Per Ounce: 124
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4.07 per day
These freeze-dried nuggets are primarily composed of turkey muscle meat and organs. Turkey isn’t a top allergen for cats, so it’s a good alternative to chicken, which is a common source of food allergies in cats.
This formula contains 90% turkey muscle meat, organs, and bone with the remaining 10% of the formula comprised of produce and supplements. Unlike many commercial cat foods, this recipe doesn’t rely on synthetic vitamin and mineral supplements. Nutritional balance is achieved largely through organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Overall, this is a high-protein, moderate-fat formula that contains under 20% dry matter carbohydrate. Like any freeze-dried food, it’s low in moisture and should be rehydrated before you feed it to your cat.
Ingredients
Turkey (with Ground Bone), Turkey Livers, Organic Pumpkin Seeds, Organic Sunflower Seeds, Organic Cranberries, Organic Blueberries, Organic Celery, Organic Kale, Organic Squash, Organic Rosemary Extract, Organic Cilantro, Organic Ginger, Organic Quinoa, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Fish Oil, Montmorillonite Clay, Organic Coconut Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Organic Ground Alfalfa, Dried Organic Kelp.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey (with Ground Bone), Turkey Livers, Fish Oil, Cod Liver Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Comprised of 90% turkey muscle meat, organs, and bone
- Relies on whole-food sources of vitamins and minerals
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and cod liver oil
What We Didn’t Like:
- Low in moisture, should be rehydrated
- Dry matter carbohydrate content close to 19%
#7 Best Pâté-Style: Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Pate
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 7.5% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 44
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.19 per day
For some picky cats, texture is more important than flavor. This pate-style canned food from Instinct has a smooth, moisture-rich texture easy for most cats to chew. It’s also a calorie-dense recipe with about 44 calories per ounce, making it a good choice for cats who need to gain weight.
This canned food contains chicken muscle meat and chicken liver as the main ingredients with supplemental animal protein from turkey. Tuna fish oil is the primary added fat, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids to support your cat’s skin and coat health.
Overall, this is a moderate-protein, high-fat formula with low carbohydrate content under 10% dry matter. It does contain some peas, though they don’t appear to contribute significant to the food’s composition.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Egg Product, Dicalcium Phosphate, Turkey, Peas, Carrots, Pumpkin, Tomato, Kale, Cabbage, Ground Flaxseed, Tuna Fish Oil, Guar Gum, Broccoli, Potassium Chloride, Cranberries, Blueberries, Salt, Parsley, Taurine, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Magnesium Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Iron Proteinate), Choline Chloride, Vitamins (L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement).
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Egg Product, Turkey, Tuna Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Peas, Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Contains over 45% protein and 34% fat (dry matter)
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Relies primarily on animal-sourced protein and fat
- Smooth, moist pâté -style texture easy for cats to chew
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains peas and guar gum
#8 Best Novel Protein: Stella & Chewy’s Absolutely Rabbit Freeze-Dried Dinner Morsels
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 44% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 132
- Typical Cost Per Day: $6.01 per day
Another freeze-dried formula, this recipe from Stella & Chewy’s features rabbit muscle meat and rabbit liver. Because rabbit is a novel protein for most cats, this recipe could be a good choice for cats with food allergies – especially if you haven’t had luck with more common options like turkey or fish.
Like other freeze-dried cat foods, this recipe is expensive to feed but it’s a good alternative to raw food. The freeze-drying process destroys microorganisms without altering the nutritional value and textural qualities of the fresh ingredients.
Overall, this is a high-protein, high-fat food with low moisture content – it needs to be rehydrated before feeding. It contains about 17% dry matter carbohydrate and the only added fat is plant-based.
Ingredients
Rabbit with Ground Bone, Rabbit Liver, Olive Oil, Pumpkin Seed, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Dried Ediococcus Acidilactici Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Longum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Taurine, Tocopherols (Preservative), Dandelion, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Riboflavin Supplement, Sodium Selenite, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
Ingredients We Liked: Rabbit with Ground Bone, Rabbit Liver
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Olive Oil
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Made with a single, novel source of animal protein
- Contains over 46% protein and 31% fat (dry matter)
- Free from hard-to-digest beans, peas, and legumes
What We Didn’t Like:
- Low in moisture, needs to be rehydrated
- Relies primarily on plant-sourced fat
#9 Best High-Moisture Wet Food: Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 10% Min
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories Per Ounce: 19
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.58 per day
Moisture is essential for your cat’s hydration but a high-moisture diet is good for digestion as well. While most wet cat foods contain at least 78% moisture (as fed), this Weruva canned food contains a whopping 85% moisture.
On top of being incredibly moisture-rich, this recipe is packed with animal-sourced protein from chicken. The dry matter protein content is over 66% and the carb content is only about 12.7%.
Something to keep in mind with this recipe is that it is very low in fat – only about 9.3% measured as dry matter. The food isn’t very calorie-dense, so you’ll need to feed your cat more of it. This could be a good thing, of course, if you’re looking for a low-calorie food to help your cat lose weight.
Ingredients
Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breast), Chicken Broth, Potato Starch, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Xanthan Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Potato Starch, Sunflower Seed Oil
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Contains over 66% dry matter protein
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Short list of easily digestible ingredients
What We Didn’t Like:
- Expensive to feed
- Relies primarily on plant-based fat
#10 Best Low-Carb Dry Food: Young Again ZERO Dry Cat & Kitten Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 54% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 128
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.50 per day
While Dr. Elsey’s dry cat food is very low in carbohydrates for a dry food, Young Again cat food is specifically designed for low carb content. This food is formulated with diabetic cats in mind and it contains under 2% carbohydrate measured as dry matter.
This Young Again formula features 60% dry matter protein from a combination of pork, chicken, and herring. Fish oil provides an animal source of omega-3 fatty acids and contributes to the food’s total fat content which is around 29% dry matter.
Overall, this is a very high-protein, high-fat formula with very low carbohydrate content. As a dry food, it’s also low in moisture, so you should supplement your cat’s intake elsewhere. Keep in mind that it also contains guar gum, an ingredient which has been known to trigger loose stools in some cats.
Ingredients
Hydrolyzed Pork, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Flavor, Guar Gum, Herring Meal, DL Methionine, L-Lysine, Fish Oil, Psyllium Husk (source of soluble dietary fiber), Potassium Citrate, Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Brewers Yeast, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Potassium Carbonate, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Tryptophan, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of stabilized vitamin C), L-Carnitine, Betaine Anhydrous, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Salt, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Niacinamide (vitamin B3), Copper Proteinate, Biotin (vitamin B7), Thiamine Mononitrate (vitamin B1), Folic Acid (vitamin B9), Vitamin A Acetate, Riboflavin (vitamin B2), Calcium Pantothenate (vitamin B5), Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dehydrated Pediococcus Acidilactici Fermentation Product, Beta Carotene, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Mixed Tocopherols, Potassium Sorbate and Citric Acid (Preservatives).
Ingredients We Liked: Hydrolyzed Pork, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Herring Meal, Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Contains over 60% protein and nearly 30% fat (dry matter)
- Very low in carbohydrates, under 2% dry matter
- Relies primarily on animal-sourced protein and fat
What We Didn’t Like:
- No dry food contains the moisture your cat needs
- Guar gum may trigger loose stools in some cats
#11 Best For Kittens: Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Classic Pate
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 12% Min
- Age Range: Kitten
- Calories Per Ounce: 36
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.86 per day
Growing kittens require a higher concentration of protein and calories than adult cats – they can also benefit from higher levels of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports eye and brain development. This Wellness kitten formula is packed with animal protein and contains menhaden fish oil as a rich source of DHA.
This recipe is comprised primarily of animal ingredients, including proteins like turkey, chicken, herring, and chicken liver. Menhaden fish oil is the primary source of added fat, though the herring likely contributes some skin- and coat-supporting omega-3s as well.
Overall, this is a very high-protein formula with over 54% measured as dry matter. The fat content is high as well, around 27% dry matter. This is a moisture-rich formula with fairly low carb content under 15%, measured as dry matter.
Ingredients
Turkey, Chicken Liver, Turkey Broth, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Herring, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Menhaden Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Guar Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Dried Kelp, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Alfalfa Meal, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, 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.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Chicken Liver, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Herring, Menhaden Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Rich in animal-sourced protein and omega-3 fatty acids
- High in moisture to support hydration and digestion
- Fairly calorie dense, about 36 calories per ounce
What We Didn’t Like:
- Guar gum triggers loose stools in some cats
#12 Best For Senior Cats: Tiki Cat Silver Chicken, Duck & Duck Liver Mousse + Shreds
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 12% Min
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories Per Ounce: 31
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4.98 per day
Protein is just as essential for senior cats as kittens, especially for older cats that struggle to keep on weight. A calorie-dense, high-protein wet food is the best option to keep your senior cat healthy.
This Tiki Cat Silver recipe contains 60% protein and 25% fat, measured as dry matter, with just 10% dry matter carbohydrates. The food relies primarily on animal-sourced protein from chicken and duck, though the main fat source is plant-based.
Other than the high protein, fat, and moisture content of this food, what makes it particularly appropriate for senior cats is the soft texture. It consists of layers of mousse, broth, and shredded meat which is easy for older cats to chew.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Duck, Duck Liver, Pumpkin, Dried Egg, Coconut Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Turmeric, Tuna Oil, Green Tea Extract, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Zinc Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Duck, Duck Liver, Dried Egg, Tuna Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Coconut Oil, Xanthan Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Packed with protein from chicken and duck
- Soft, moist food with a mousse-like texture
- Simple and easily digestible for most cats
What We Didn’t Like:
- Relies primarily on plant-based fat
- Gum thickeners cause digestive upset in some cats
#13 Best Fresh Food: Raised Right Turkey & Pumpkin Pate
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 21% Min
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories Per Ounce: 48
- Typical Cost Per Day: $2.90 per day
Raised Right is a cat food meal delivery service that makes and sells fresh, human-grade food. The meals are formulated by a team of pet nutrition experts, Raised Right’s recipes are lightly-cooked, human-grade foods primarily made from nourishing animal-derived ingredients.
If you like the idea of making homemade cat food but don’t feel ready for the time and effort involved, Raised Right is a convenient alternative.
Raised Right’s Turkey & Pumpkin Pate for Adult Cats recipe is made primarily from turkey thighs, breast, and liver, which are species-appropriate sources of protein and other nutrients. In addition to meat, the recipe contains small amounts of fruit and vegetables. On a dry matter basis, this food is about 10% calories from carbohydrates.
Ingredients
Turkey Thigh, Turkey Heart, Turkey Liver, Carrots, Blueberries, Organic Spearmint, Cod Liver Oil, Egg Shell Powder, Flaxseed Oil, Organic Kelp Powder, Taurine, Thiamine Mononitrate
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey Thigh, Turkey Heart, Turkey Liver, Cod Liver Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- A protein-rich food primarily made from animal-sourced ingredients
- Extremely palatable—cats love the taste and texture of this fresh food
- The subscription model gives you access to a team of nutrition experts
- Human-grade food promises a higher level of quality control
- Doesn’t contain any common additives that might harm your cat
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains fruit and veggies
- Price is above the market average
#14 Premium Pick Dry Food: Dr. Elsey’s cleanprotein Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 59% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 114
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.84 per day
Though dry food isn’t ideal for cats due to its low moisture content, sometimes it’s all a cat will eat. For cats who shed excessively, it’s important to choose a dry food with low carb content and high digestibility. You’ll also need to supplement your cat’s moisture intake elsewhere in their diet.
Dr. Elsey’s cleanprotein cat food remains one of our top picks for dry cat food. It’s loaded with animal-sourced protein and fat, and the formulas rely on gelatin as a binder rather than gums or starches. Most recipes contain a healthy balance of omega fatty acids thanks to the inclusion of salmon oil.
This recipe features chicken as the first ingredient, supplemented with protein from egg, pork, and gelatin. It may not be the best choice for cats with chicken allergies but it’s a highly digestible formula with over 67% dry matter protein and under 10% carbohydrate.
Ingredients
Chicken, Dried Egg Product, Pork Protein Isolate, Gelatin, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil, Potassium Citrate, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharide, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Calcium Carbonate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Carbonate, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide), Potassium Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Taurine, Salt, Rosemary Extract.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Dried Egg Product, Pork Protein Isolate, Gelatin, Chicken Fat, Salmon Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Top five ingredients are all animal-based
- Rich in animal-sourced protein and fat
- Contains under 10% dry matter carbohydrate
- Free from gums and starches, relies on gelatin instead
What We Didn’t Like:
- No dry food provides the moisture your cat needs
- Not appropriate for cats with chicken allergies
#15 Budget Pick Dry Food: Wellness Complete Health Natural Hairball Control Dry Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 36% Min
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories Per Ounce: 103
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.44 per day
While Dr. Elsey’s is our top pick for dry cat food, it’s fairly expensive. This Wellness recipe is formulated specifically to help your cat pass ingested fur and hairballs but it’s more economically priced, around $0.22 per ounce.
The trade-off with inexpensive cat foods is typically a higher concentration of plant versus animal ingredients. This Wellness formula is no exception. It still contains 40% dry matter protein, most of which appears to come from animal sources, but the dry matter carb content is approaching 30%.
Though the carb content of this recipe is higher than we’d typically recommend, the plant ingredients that contribute to it are chosen for their digestibility. Rather than beans or legumes, this formula relies on brewers rice and several types of plant fiber.
We might not recommend this cat food as highly on its own merits, but it could be a decent choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly dry food to help manage excessive shedding.
Ingredients
Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Deboned Chicken, Pea Fiber, Turkey Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Inulin, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Cranberries, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, L-Carnitine, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken Meal, Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal, Chicken Fat
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Formulated to help pass swallowed fur and hairballs
- Contains 40% protein measured as dry matter
- Affordably priced around $0.23 per ounce
- Digestible recipe free from artificial additives
What We Didn’t Like:
- No dry food provides the moisture your cat needs
- High carbohydrate content, nearly 30% dry matter
What to Look for When Shopping for Cat Food to Reduce Shedding
Shedding is completely normal and necessary for cats, so you shouldn’t expect to stop your cat from shedding entirely. If poor diet is a contributing factor in excessive shedding, dietary modifications may help. The more nutritious and digestible your cat’s diet, the healthier they’ll be — and that includes their skin and coat.
When shopping for cat food to support skin and coat health, look for the following features:
- Focus on animal ingredients. Your cat’s diet should consist primarily of animal-sourced protein and fat with minimal carbohydrate inclusions.
- Balance of protein and fat. Look for a recipe that contains at least 40% protein and 20% fat, measured as dry matter.
- Simple list of digestible ingredients. The simpler your cat’s diet, the more digestible it will be, and digestibility is key for optimal nutrient absorption.
- Rich in hydrating moisture. Wet cat food is generally best for keeping your cat hydrated, though reconstituted freeze-dried food as well as fresh or raw foods work well too.
- Single source of animal protein. If you suspect food allergies are contributing to your cat’s skin and coat issues, consider switching to a single-protein recipe made with a protein your cat hasn’t eaten before.
In addition to improving your cat’s diet, regular grooming is important for managing shedding and hairballs. Brushing your cat several times a week helps remove loose and dead fur from their coat before it can be shed.
Also Read: 11 Best Cat Brushes & Deshedding Tools For Long & Short-Haired Cats
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cat food to stop shedding?
Shedding is part of the natural growth cycle your cat’s fur goes through — dead hairs are shed to make room for new growth. The best cat food to reduce shedding and hairballs is one that supports your cat’s overall health, including skin and coat health. It should be high in animal protein, low in carbohydrates, and rich in hydrating moisture.
Can cat food reduce shedding?
Sometimes. No diet will stop your cat from shedding completely, but poor nutrition can make shedding worse. Switching to an easily digestible, high-moisture diet rich in animal-sourced ingredients may improve your cat’s health and reduce excessive shedding.
Can cat food cause excessive shedding?
Yes. Low-quality food can negatively affect your cat’s skin and coat condition, both of which may contribute to excessive shedding. Food allergies can also contribute to skin and coat issues. If your cat is allergic to their food, switching to a recipe free from the offending allergen may help.
I am interested in foods recommended for cats with excessive grooming and the loss of fur that results. Thank you
Hello Gail, that’s usually a stress-related issue more than a dietary one. Instead of looking for a food specific to your situation, I would focus on the underlying causes of your cat’s excessive grooming while feeding him or her an excellent, all-around high-quality diet.
we have huge problem with hair loss.I am gonna try one of food which offered above! Thanks for great share
When will standard medical Veterinarians learn the truth about the ingredients that are in these pet foods and when will they figure out that dry kibble should NEVER be fed to cats? I’m not a Veterinarian but I jave thoroughly researched feline nutrition, how their digestive system works and each and every ingredient in cat and the pros and cons of each. It just irrational to prescribe a cat with kidney disease, crystals in the urine and/or who had blockages or an obese cat “prescription” dry kibble when dry kibble is is most likely the reason they had the issues in the first place! I have a cat who was obese and kept getting bladder infections. Then I started studying feline health and nutrition. I stopped feeding her dry kibble and now she only gets pate or raw. She has lost 50% of her body weight! She is now healthy and has never had a bladder infection again! I’m sorry but your beloved companies like Hills, Royal Canin and Purina are evil greedy liars! Meat by-products, meat meal, corn, wheat, gluten, cellulose, carrageenan should NEVER be in a cats food! You say a cat is an obligate carnivore then say to feed dry kibble with its dried mystery meat. grains and high carbs, fruits etc in the same sentence! There is NO SUCH thing as a high quality dry kibble, period! How can you say its close to what they eat in the wild! Ive never seen wild cats chasing a herd of biscuits, or sitting around a fire roasting their mice and birds or destroying farmer Bobs garden in search of fruit and vegetables. The pet food companies and YOU who endorse these foods are responsible for many of the kidney and bladder probs, the obesity, the diabetes, the IBD in cats and their suffering and early deaths! If you became a Vet because you care about animals and not about money then open your minds, do better research and LISTEN to your Holistic Veterinarian Colleagues! Thank you for reading…
If you don’t mind would you tell me what you have been feeding your cat? I am very interested. My cat is considered obese and I don’t know what to do. I would really like to help her and I have been trying to read up and learn. She is only 8 years old and I believe she still has many, many good years left to live with us. If you would be kind enough to let me know what you did to help your kitty it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I do leave a small amount of Hills or Royal Canin
as a supplement to wet food. Thry”graze” occasionally.
Is that OK or are you totally against any dried food.
Both my rescue cats are 14 years old….
Live in Australia and do not have access to some of your recommendations…..
Thank you.
Kim
Feed your cat a hairball formula!
Feed your cat a hairball formula! brush your cat daily and feed hairball treats twice daily!
Feed your cat a low calorie senior food.
Which one would be best for indoor cats?
Was looking at the Rawz Natural Premium Pate Canned Cat Wet Food – Made with Real Meat Ingredients No BPA or Gums – 5.5oz Cans 24 Count (Turkey & Green Mussels for Seniors). I this good for indoor?
I have tried wet food for normal adult cats and my cat get diarrhea.
Thank you for your guidance.
Hi Diana, that looks like a good option! If you suspect that gum thickeners like guar gum contribute to your cat’s loose stools, RAWZ might work well. As a senior formula, this recipe will also be moderate in calorie density, making it a good choice for indoor cats. Hope it works for you!