How to Compare the Nutritional Facts on Cat Food

We all want to feed our kittens nutritious food, but it can be very difficult to read nutrition labels on wet food vs. dry food. In this article I will tell you how to find the true nutrition in the food and support you in making your kitty as healthy as possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The information provided here.
• Calculator

1. First, we need to figure out.........what exactly should be in my kitten/cat's food to make them healthy? Well, let's think about how our kitties would thrive in the wild. Typically, one good meal for an average sized cat would be approximately 1 mouse. A typical mouse is made up protein, fat and lots of moisture. *****The official recommendation for kittens is: 30% protein, 20% fat ******The official recommendation for Adult cat is: 25-30% protein, 15-20% fat.

2. So, now that you know the recommedations for premium kitten health, it is time to learn how to read those labels!! The first thing you need to look at is the "Guaranteed Analysis" chart. To calculate and compare wet vs. dry foods, we will need to compare them on equal ground - on a dry matter basis.

3. Formula = "Nutrient Percent" divided by "Reciprocal of Moisture" Percent *****It sounds complicated, but I will walk you through it.

4. "Nutrient Percent" is the nutrient you are looking at. For example, if you are looking at protein, you will go to the Guaranteed Analysis and see Protein 25% ******that is the Nutrient percent. Simple right?

5. "Reciprocal of Moisture" is the percent of food that is NOT water. So if the moisture content is 10%, the "Reciprocal of Moisture" will be 90%. If the moisture content is 15%, the "Reciprocal of Moisture" will be 85%. If the moisture content is 25%, the "Reciprocal of Moisture will be 75%. Got it?

6. Let's Practice. ***SAMPLE GUARANTEED ANALYSIS**** Protein 25% Fat 12% Fiber 2% Moisture 10%
   
   Formula = Nutrient percent divided by "Reciprocal of Moisture" percent
   "Reciprocal of Moisture" = 90%
   Protein 25/90 = 27.7%
   Fat 12/90 = 13%

7. Let's do one more practice to compare!! ***SAMPLE GUARANTEED ANALYSIS**** Protein 9% Fat 5% Fiber 1.5% Moisture 80%
   
   Formula = Nutrient percent divided by "Reciprocal of Moisture" percent
   "Reciprocal of Moisture" = 20%
   Protein 9/20 = 45%
   Fat 6/20 = 30%

8. Congratulations!!! You are now armed with the information to successfully compare the Nutrition Labels on different types of Cat Food!!!!

Tips & Warnings

• Use the calculator on your phone or carry a mini calculator on a key chain. Once you know which brands you want, you will rarely need to use the calculation.
• Veterinarians warn that "all proteins are not equal." If you are an exceptionally dedicated kitty owner you may consider getting a food without byproducts. Feathers and hair are high in protein, but have very little nutrional value - make sure to look at the ingredients list.
• Kitties with kidney problems should have a lower protein diet.