Does your feline friend seem a little too skinny? Watching your cat’s ribs show can be worrying, and it’s natural to want them to have a healthy, robust physique. But when it comes to finding the right food to help them pack on some healthy pounds, the shelves are overflowing with choices, and it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. You want the best for your furry companion, but the sheer variety of formulas, ingredients, and claims can leave you scratching your head.
This is where we come in. We understand the challenges you face when trying to find that perfect, calorie-dense food that’s also nutritious and appealing to your picky eater. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a cat food effective for weight gain, the key ingredients to look for, and how to choose a brand that will have your cat feeling happier and healthier in no time.
Let’s dive into the world of feline nutrition and discover how to help your beloved cat achieve a healthy weight!
Our Top 5 Cat Food To Gain Weight Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cat Food To Gain Weight Detailed Reviews
1. Under the Weather Ready Cal Powder for Cats
Rating: 8.6/10
Is your cat struggling to keep on weight or refusing to eat? The Under the Weather Ready Cal Powder for Cats is here to help. This veterinarian-approved supplement is designed to give your feline friend the extra calories and nutrients they need to get back to their healthy selves. With a delicious chicken flavor, it’s an easy way to boost their health and energy.
What We Like:
- Promotes healthy weight gain for cats who need it.
- Helps stimulate your cat’s appetite, encouraging them to eat more.
- Acts as an energy booster with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Veterinarian-formulated and made in the USA.
- Savory chicken flavor that cats seem to love.
- Long shelf life of 24 months.
What Could Be Improved:
- The expiration date is printed on the back of the product label, which might require a bit of searching.
This Ready Cal powder is a fantastic option for cat owners looking to support their pet’s recovery or overall well-being. It offers a tasty and effective way to ensure your cat gets the nutrition they need.
2. INABA Churu for Senior 10+
Rating: 8.9/10
As our feline friends age, their needs change. The INABA Churu for Senior 10+ treats are specially made to help senior cats stay happy and healthy. These creamy, lickable treats are packed with good stuff your older cat will love, making treat time a special bonding moment.
What We Like:
- Made with real chicken or tuna, so you know you’re giving your cat quality ingredients.
- Each tube has lots of moisture, which helps keep your senior cat hydrated.
- They are low in calories, making them a healthy choice compared to dry treats.
- Contains Omega-3 from salmon oil to help with brain health.
- Taurine is added for overall health.
- Vitamins E and C are included to support their immune system.
- The tubes are designed for easy hand-feeding, creating a fun way to interact with your cat.
- You can also use them as a tasty topper for dry food or to hide medicine.
- Comes in popular flavors like Tuna, Tuna with Salmon, and Chicken Recipe for variety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The variety box only includes Chicken with Cheese, which might not be a favorite for all cats.
- Some cats might prefer a different texture if they have very sensitive teeth.
These Churu treats offer a delicious and nutritious way to care for your senior cat. They make it easy to give your furry friend extra hydration and important nutrients while enjoying quality time together.
3. Vetoquinol Nutri-Cal 4.25 Oz – High Calorie Supplement for Cats and Dogs
Rating: 9.2/10
Vetoquinol Nutri-Cal 4.25 Oz is a nutritional gel designed to give cats and dogs the extra calories and vitamins they need. It’s a great option for pets that are growing, picky eaters, or those who are getting older and need a boost. This supplement helps stimulate appetite and gain weight, making it easier for your furry friend to get the energy they require.
What We Like:
- It’s a high-calorie supplement packed with essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, plus a multivitamin boost.
- This gel is palatable, meaning pets usually find it tasty, and it’s easy to give them.
- It’s easily digested, helping to support a healthy appetite and provide accessible energy.
- Nutri-Cal is beneficial for growing puppies and kittens, as well as hunting and working dogs needing an extra energy source.
- It works as a calorie booster and weight gainer for pets refusing food or those who are finicky.
What Could Be Improved:
- While palatable for most, some very picky pets might still be hesitant.
- The 4.25 oz size might run out quickly for larger or multiple pets.
Overall, Vetoquinol Nutri-Cal is a valuable tool for supporting your pet’s health and energy levels. It offers a simple and effective way to ensure they get the nutrition they need, especially when they’re struggling to eat enough on their own.
4. Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ Cat Food Toppers for Cats – High Protein Meal Topper & Crunchy Cat Treats for Indoor Cats w/Vitamins
Rating: 8.6/10
Give your feline friend a taste of luxury and health with Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ Cat Food Toppers. This high-protein meal topper is designed to boost your cat’s well-being from the inside out. It’s packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support gut health and a strong immune system. Whether you have a playful kitten or a seasoned senior cat, this versatile topper is a fantastic addition to their diet. It works great as a crunchy treat or a delicious way to enhance their regular meals.
What We Like:
- High protein content from plasma helps with digestion and gut function.
- Supports daily energy levels and helps maintain lean muscles for active cats.
- Made with simple, holistic ingredients – no fillers or artificial flavors.
- Grain-free formula is good for cats with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
- Can be used in many ways: sprinkled on food, mixed in, or given as a standalone treat.
- Great for picky eaters and adds excitement to mealtime.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1lb bag size might go quickly for households with multiple cats.
- While beneficial, the “plasma” ingredient might require some owners to research its source and processing.
Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ is a smart choice for cat parents looking to enhance their cat’s nutrition and enjoyment. It offers a tasty and healthy way to support your cat’s overall wellness.
5. Tiki Cat Silver Comfort Mousse
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of your senior cat turning up their nose at mealtime? The Tiki Cat Silver Comfort Mousse, Chicken & Chicken Liver is a game-changer for older felines. This high-calorie, high-moisture wet food is specially made for cats aged 11 and up. It comes in convenient 5.6 oz pouches, with 20 individual servings in each 8-pack. This means you get plenty of delicious meals for your beloved pet.
What We Like:
- This mousse is a fantastic way to boost the appeal of dry food for picky eaters. Just add a little to their regular meals.
- The chicken and chicken liver flavor is super tasty and smells great, making it irresistible to cats.
- It’s packed with moisture from chicken broth, which is important for cats who don’t drink much water.
- You can trust that it’s made with 100% non-GMO ingredients. There are no fillers or artificial stuff added.
- It’s completely grain-free and gluten-free. There are also no fruits, vegetables, or carrageenan.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some budgets, especially for a regular staple.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, making it tricky to find consistently.
This Tiki Cat Silver Comfort Mousse is a high-quality option that truly caters to the needs of senior cats. It’s a delicious and healthy way to ensure your older cat gets the nutrition and hydration they need.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Helping Your Kitty Pack on Pounds
Is your feline friend a little too lean? Sometimes cats need a little extra help to reach a healthy weight. Choosing the right food can make a big difference. This guide will help you find the best cat food to help your furry companion gain weight.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking for weight-gain cat food, some features are super important.
- **High Calorie Content:** This is the biggest one! The food needs to have more calories packed into every bite. Look for foods that list a higher calorie count per serving on the packaging.
- **High Protein:** Protein is like building blocks for muscles. Your cat needs plenty of it to build healthy weight, not just fat. Look for meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient.
- **Healthy Fats:** Fats provide energy and are important for a shiny coat. Good fats help your cat absorb nutrients and add calories without making them feel too full.
- **Palatability:** Your cat has to *want* to eat it! If the food smells and tastes good to them, they’ll eat more, which is key for weight gain.
- **Digestibility:** The food should be easy for your cat’s tummy to handle. This means they can get all the good stuff out of it.
Important Ingredients to Consider
The ingredients list tells you what’s really in the food.
- **Meat-Based Proteins:** Chicken, turkey, salmon, beef, and lamb are excellent sources of protein.
- **Animal Fats:** Chicken fat or fish oil are good sources of healthy fats.
- **Carbohydrates:** While protein and fat are most important, some healthy carbs like rice or sweet potatoes can also be present.
- **Vitamins and Minerals:** These help your cat’s body work well and absorb nutrients.
Factors That Affect Quality
Some things make cat food better, and some make it worse.
- **Quality of Ingredients:** Foods made with whole meats and fewer fillers are usually better. Avoid foods with a lot of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- **Brand Reputation:** Well-known brands often have good quality control.
- **Formulation:** Some foods are specifically made for weight gain. These are often richer and more calorie-dense.
User Experience and Use Cases
When do you need weight-gain cat food?
- **Underweight Cats:** This is the most common reason. Kitties recovering from illness, surgery, or those with naturally fast metabolisms might need it.
- **Senior Cats:** Older cats can sometimes lose weight. Special food can help them maintain their health.
- **Picky Eaters:** If your cat is a picky eater and struggles to eat enough, a highly palatable weight-gain food can encourage them to eat more.
- **Transitioning:** Always introduce new food slowly. Mix a little of the new food with their old food, and gradually increase the new food over a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in weight-gain cat food?
A: The main Key Features are high calorie content, high protein, healthy fats, great taste (palatability), and easy digestion.
Q: Are there specific ingredients that are better for weight gain?
A: Yes, meat-based proteins like chicken or fish and animal fats like chicken fat are very good for helping cats gain weight.
Q: How can I tell if a cat food is good quality?
A: Look for whole meats as the first ingredients and avoid artificial additives. Trusted brands usually offer good quality.
Q: When is it a good idea to use cat food for weight gain?
A: It’s a good idea if your cat is underweight, recovering from sickness, or is a very picky eater who doesn’t eat enough.
Q: How quickly can I expect my cat to gain weight?
A: Weight gain happens gradually. It depends on your cat’s individual metabolism and how much they eat. Talk to your vet for a realistic timeline.
Q: Can I feed my cat adult food and weight-gain food at the same time?
A: It’s best to stick to one type of food for weight gain. Mixing too many things can upset their stomach. Always consult your vet first.
Q: What if my cat doesn’t like the taste of the weight-gain food?
A: Try warming it up slightly, adding a little bit of plain, cooked chicken broth (low sodium), or mixing in a small amount of wet weight-gain food with dry weight-gain kibble.
Q: How much of this food should I feed my cat?
A: Always follow the feeding guidelines on the package. Your vet can also give you specific advice based on your cat’s needs.
Q: Are there any risks to feeding my cat weight-gain food?
A: The main risk is overfeeding, which can lead to obesity. It’s important to monitor your cat’s weight and adjust portions as needed, ideally with your vet’s guidance.
Q: Should I talk to my vet before buying weight-gain cat food?
A: Absolutely! Your vet can help you figure out why your cat is underweight and recommend the best type of food and the right amount to feed them.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.