Is grain-free dry cat food with potato flakes good for digestion?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Dr. Davis

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 12th, 2017

  Cats are carnivores so I prefer an all meat or fish diet. Dry food has an excess of carbohydrates for cats and that is why so many cats are now overweight. I recommend feeding an all meat wet food twice daily and I add in a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin for additional fiber. If you are feeding dry I do use grain free and one that is high in meat protein. There are many good cat foods so find one that they like and stick with it. I find switching foods often can cause upset stomachs, diarrhea, food allergies and fussy eaters. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

  

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  Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 12th, 2017

  There is no data or studies that show that cats need a grain free diet. The only reason this would be indicated is if you had allergy testing done on your cat and it was determined he/she was allergic to some type of grain. Otherwise, it is not necessary. White potatoes are OK if they are plain (no butter or spices). That being said, I don't know too many cats that will eat them. Just feeding a premium brand cat food should be enough.

  

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  Answered By Catherine Stecyk

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 3rd, 2019

  Hello and thank you for reaching out to PetCoach. Purina makes several options of grain-free diets for cats, and this is a reputable brand. That being said, most veterinarians do not recommend feeding grain-free diets to cats or dogs. Grains provide vital nutrients to cats (and dogs) and do not cause any harm. Most food allergies in cats and dogs are to specific types of proteins, not grains. Some grain-free diets are lower in carbohydrates, which means that they can be quite high in both fat and calories. Other grain-free diets merely substitute similar amounts of highly refined starches such as those from potatoes or tapioca (cassava) in place of grains. These ingredients may provide fewer nutrients and less fiber than whole grains, while costing more. Please see the attached link to learn more about the truth about grain-free diets, and share with your friends! http://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/2016/06/grain-free-diets-big-on-marketing-small-on-truth/. I hope this is helpful!

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful