Cat Food

New Dry Food Formulas to Suit Any Cat

Grain-free, high-protein formulas lead new releases.

Published

5 years ago

December 20, 2018

Melissa Hart PETS+ January 2019 Issue

When looking at newer releases in dry cat foods, a few trends appear that have been making gains for the past few years: recipes that focus on grain-free, high-quality protein, with a move toward introducing new or novel protein sources, and staying away from relying heavily on chicken/poultry. You’ll also find some new diets specially designed for different ages/stages and unique needs: from kittens to sensitive stomachs to indoor-only formulas.

$ <$2/pound | $$ $2-$3/pound | $$$ $3-$4/pound | $$$$ $4+/pound

Adirondack Grain-Free Indoor Whitefish & Lentils
Bright Pet Nutrition Group

KEY FEATURES: Featuring whitefish, it contains omega-3 fatty acids from coconut oil and flaxseed for healthy skin and coat, berries for antioxidants and a unique probiotic blend.

SALES TIP: Slow cooked for maximum nutrient retention and enhanced flavor.

adirondackpetfood.com, (888) 843-1738

Grain-Free Kitten
Halo Purely for Pets

KEY FEATURES: Only humanely sourced proteins and non-GMO vegetables. New dry foods include its ﬁrst-ever kitten formulas (chicken and seafood).

SALES TIP: Ethically minded customers will get behind the brand’s broader mission “to change the way companion animals are fed and farm animals are raised … for the better!”

halopets.com, (800) 426-4256

$$$$

Free-Range Chicken
Ziwi Peak

KEY FEATURES: With New Zealand free-range chicken, organs and green-lipped mussel. Air-drying preserves nutritional value.

SALES TIP: Can be used as a complete meal or food topper.

ziwipets.com, (877) 464-9494

$$$$

Turkey Complete
Sojos

KEY FEATURES: Just add water and this turkey-based recipe of freeze-dried meat and air-dried fruits and veggies springs to life. GMO-free, no fillers, preservatives or anything artificial.

SALES TIP: Raw has been trending with dog foods. Your cat-loving customers will appreciate having an option for them.

sojos.com, (888) 867-6567

$$$$

Pheasant & Whitefish Dry Food
Evanger’s

KEY FEATURES: A low-grain super-premium food for all life stages.

SALES TIP: Novel protein sources like pheasant and whitefish can appeal to finicky felines.

evangersdogfood.com, (847) 537-0102

Wellness CORE Indoor
WellPet

KEY FEATURES: A salmon and herring meal recipe, in a protein-rich and poultry-free food made specifically for indoor cats.

SALES TIP: With added glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as omega fatty acids and probiotics, it’s got what an indoor kitty needs to stay healthy.

wellnesspetfood.com, (800) 225-0904

$$$

Purrfect Bistro Complete Care Sensitive Stomach
Merrick Pet Care

KEY FEATURES: Crafted with easily digestible protein and includes prebiotics and probiotics to support optimal digestion.

SALES TIP: Contains antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system to keep kitty at the top of her game.

merrickpetcare.com, (800) 664-7387

Orijen Six Fish
Champion Petfoods

KEY FEATURES: Contains Pacific pilchards, hake, mackerel, flounder, rockfish and sole, two-thirds of which are fresh or raw at the time of processing. The remaining third is dried, for a more concentrated protein source.

SALES TIP: Great choice for cats with poultry allergies/sensitivities.

orijen.ca, (877) 939-0006

$$$$

Melissa Hart

After 15 years working for newspapers across the US (and even Alaska), Melissa Hart is now freelancing, working for a variety of publications and trade organizations. She specializes in content for the small nonprofit and business owner, in fields such as pets, IT, grocery and other retail. Melissa is based in Upstate NY with her husband, twin daughters, two rescue dogs and rescue cat.

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