Maintaining your cat’s urinary tract health is crucial for their overall well-being. Selecting the right food can make a significant difference in preventing and managing urinary issues. The ideal cat food for urinary tract health should possess a high moisture content, promote a balanced pH level, and contain the right balance of minerals to support a healthy urinary system. Fortunately, numerous options are available to meet these needs, catering to various budgets and dietary requirements.
“Opt for high-quality, animal-based proteins to promote optimal urinary pH levels. Always consult with your veterinarian to select the most appropriate diet tailored to your cat’s specific urinary health needs,” advises Emma Passman, a commercial pet nutritionist.
This article explores the best cat foods available in 2024 that support urinary tract health, helping you make an informed decision for your feline companion.
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Understanding Urinary Tract Health in Cats
Several factors contribute to a cat’s urinary tract health:
Moisture Content is Key
A diet rich in moisture is paramount for diluting urine and supporting kidney function. This high moisture content helps flush out mineral deposits and prevent infections, significantly reducing the recurrence of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Cats, originally desert animals, derive most of their hydration from prey. Therefore, wet cat food, with its naturally high water content, is ideal for maintaining proper hydration and urinary health.
Maintaining a Healthy Urinary pH
The pH level of a cat’s urine is influenced by their diet. An overly alkaline urine (pH greater than 7) can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and struvite crystal formation. Conversely, an overly acidic urine (pH less than 7) can lead to calcium oxalate crystal development. Ideally, cat food should promote a slightly acidic diet, with a urinary pH range of about 6.0 to 6.5, which is naturally achieved with meat-rich, minimally processed diets.
Balanced Mineral Content
Controlled levels of minerals like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus are essential for preventing the formation of urinary crystals and stones. Foods with high concentrations of these minerals, often found in meat and by-product meals, can increase the risk of crystal formation. Choosing foods with balanced mineral content is crucial, and a veterinarian can provide specific guidance based on your cat’s needs.
Top Cat Foods for Urinary Tract Health
Here are our top picks for cat food that supports urinary tract health:
#1 Overall Best: Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken
Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken
This moisture-rich, soup-style food boasts 80% moisture content, making it an excellent choice for cats prone to urinary tract issues. It features succulent chicken as the primary protein source, set in chicken broth, and is low in ash, minimizing the risk of urinary crystal formation. The species-appropriate, meat-centric ingredient list helps maintain an optimal urinary pH.
- Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Zinc Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 16% Min, Crude Fat: 2.6% Min, Moisture: 80% Max, Ash: 1.6% Max.
- Pros: Supports urinary tract health, species-appropriate, highly digestible chicken.
- Cons: Uses plant-sourced oil instead of animal fat, lacks fiber sources.
#2 Best For Sensitive Stomach: Smalls Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food
Smalls Cat Food
Smalls offers a subscription-based fresh food delivery service focused on protein-packed formulas. Their Ground Bird recipe is moisture-rich, meat-based, and low in ash, contributing to urinary health. Featuring chicken muscle meat and liver as primary ingredients, this recipe is easily digestible and low in carbohydrates, promoting a healthy urinary pH.
- 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.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 13% Min, Crude Fat: 8.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1.5% Max, Moisture: 73% Max.
- Pros: Single protein source, hydrating, easily digestible, low carb.
- Cons: Subscription only, limited customer support channels.
#3 Best Dry: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Urinary SO Dry Cat Food
Royal Canin Vet Urinary SO Dry Cat Food
This veterinary-approved dry food is formulated to manage struvite stones and prevent calcium oxalate stone formation. It features a high-protein content with controlled magnesium levels and balanced nutrition. While chicken by-product meal is the primary ingredient, it’s rich in essential nutrients. A prescription from a veterinarian is required for purchase.
- Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten, Natural Flavors, Wheat, Salt, Powdered Cellulose, Fish Oil, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Bisulfate, Calcium Sulfate, Sodium Pyrophosphate, Vegetable Oil, Fructooligosaccharides, Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin A Acetate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Monocalcium Phosphate, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate], Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 32.5% Min, Crude Fat: 13% Min, Crude Fiber: 4% Max, Moisture: 8% Max.
- Pros: Creates ideal magnesium levels, balances pH, high protein.
- Cons: Higher carbohydrate content, requires veterinary prescription.
#4 Premium Pick: Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Blend Wet Cat Food
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Blend Wet Cat Food
Sustainably sourced and packaged in recyclable cartons, this wet food is a great option for cats with urinary concerns. It features humanely raised chicken as the primary ingredient, followed by chicken bone broth for added moisture and digestive benefits. The inclusion of cranberries may also aid urinary tract support.
- Ingredients: Humanely Raised Chicken, Chicken Bone Broth, Pumpkin, Carrots, Red Lentils, Agar Agar, Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas), Chicory Root, Sunflower Oil, Coconut Oil, Salt, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Chloride, Dandelion Greens, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Turmeric, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Dried Kelp, Cranberries, Spinach.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 7% Min, Crude Fat: 7.02% Min, Crude Fiber: 0.85% Max, Moisture: 82% Max, Ash: 0.75% Max.
- Pros: High-quality protein, bone broth for hydration, contains cranberries.
- Cons: Higher carbohydrate content than ideal, expensive.
#5 Best Affordable: Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Cat & Kitten Food
Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Cat & Kitten Food
This affordable canned food meets the high moisture requirement for urinary tract health. Primarily made from animal ingredients, it’s easily digestible and contains cranberries to support urinary health. The main drawback is the use of guar gum as a thickener, which may cause digestive issues 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.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 11% Min, Crude Fat: 9.13% Min, Crude Fiber: 0.16% Max, Moisture: 75.22% Max, Ash: 2.29% Max.
- Pros: High moisture, animal-based ingredients, affordable.
- Cons: Guar gum may cause digestive upset.
#6 Best Dry Prescription: Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Dry Cat Food
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Dry Cat Food
This clinically studied prescription diet is designed to manage bladder stones and support urinary tract health. It helps balance urine pH, control mineral levels, and increase water consumption to prevent crystal formation. Chicken is the first ingredient, providing a high-quality protein source. A veterinary prescription is necessary.
- Ingredients: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Pork Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, L-Lysine, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Potassium Citrate, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Iodized Salt, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 30% Min, Crude Fat: 13% Min, Crude Fiber: 4% Max, Moisture: 8% Max.
- Pros: Promotes healthy urinary pH, reduces stone appearance, high protein.
- Cons: Requires vet prescription, permanent diet change, higher carb content.
#7 Best Wet Prescription: Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Canned Cat Food
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Canned Cat Food
This veterinary diet is highly effective in reducing common urinary symptoms and dissolving struvite crystals. It balances urine pH and controls key minerals to prevent crystal formation. With chicken as a primary ingredient and a high moisture content, it supports overall urinary health. A veterinarian’s prescription is required.
- Ingredients: Pork By-Products, Water, Pork Liver, Chicken, Brewers Rice, Corn Starch, Soybean Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Chicken Fat, Fish Oil, Calcium Sulfate, Guar Gum, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dicalcium Phosphate, DL-Methionine, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, Iodized Salt, Potassium Citrate, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, minerals (Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate), Beta-Carotene.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 8.5% Min, Crude Fat: 3.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 78% Max.
- Pros: Clinically tested, effective for urinary crystals.
- Cons: Contains plant-based ingredients, requires vet prescription.
#8 Best Freeze-Dried: Feline Natural Chicken & Lamb Feast Freeze-Dried Cat Food
This freeze-dried option, when rehydrated, offers excellent urinary tract support. It features a meat-rich, species-appropriate ingredient list including chicken, lamb heart, kidney, and liver. It is notably lower in phosphorus compared to other freeze-dried foods, supporting healthy pH levels.
- Ingredients: Chicken, Lamb Heart, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Liver, Lamb Blood, Flaxseed Flakes, New Zealand Green Mussel, Dried Kelp, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 48% Min, Crude Fat: 31% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 8% Max.
- Pros: Low phosphorus, supports urinary tract health, high protein.
- Cons: Very expensive.
#9 Best For Senior Cats: Weruva TruLuxe Grain-Free Steak Frites with Beef & Pumpkin in Gravy
Weruva TruLuxe Cat Food, Steak Frites
This food supports urinary tract health while being mindful of kidney health in senior cats. It offers a combination of high protein and relatively low phosphorus content. Its meat-based formulation helps maintain an appropriate urinary pH, making it a valuable option for older cats.
- Ingredients: Beef Broth, Beef, Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Potato Starch, Carrot, Sunflower Seed Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3 Supplement), Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Copper Sulfate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source Of Vitamin K), Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 10.9% Min, Crude Fat: 4.9% Min, Crude Fiber: 0.12% Max, Moisture: 82.4% Max, Ash: 0.48% Max.
- Pros: Supports urinary and kidney health, low phosphorus, high protein.
- Cons: Expensive.
#10 Best For Weight Loss: Weruva Amazon Livin’ with Chicken & Chicken Liver in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
Weruva Amazon Livin
This high-moisture diet is suitable for cats needing to lose weight while addressing urinary tract issues. It combines high moisture, appropriate acidity, and relatively low ash content. With a lower calorie density than dry food and a satisfying consistency, it aids in weight management.
- Ingredients: Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breast), Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Potato Starch, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Xanthan Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 10% Min, Crude Fat: 1.4% Min, Crude Fiber: 0.5% Max, Moisture: 85% Max, Ash: 1.2% Max.
- Pros: Supports urinary health, low-calorie, made from animal ingredients.
- Cons: Contains thickeners, relies on plant-based oil, expensive.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Diet plays a vital role in preventing urinary problems, but it’s not a sole solution. If your cat exhibits signs of urinary tract disease, such as straining to urinate, bloody urine, or complete inability to urinate, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. A veterinarian can diagnose the specific condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan, which may include prescription diets or other medical interventions.
References:
Passman, E. (n.d.). Personal communication.
Cats.com. (n.d.). Ash in Cat Food. Retrieved from https://cats.com/ash-in-cat-food
Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken in Chicken Consomme. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/tiki-cat-puka-puka-luau-succulent/dp/34304
Smalls. (n.d.). Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food. Retrieved from https://cats.com/recommends/smalls-35
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Urinary SO Dry Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/royal-canin-veterinary-diet-adult/dp/35157
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Blend Wet Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cats.com/recommends/open-farm-harvest-chicken-rustic-blend-wet-cat-food
Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Cat & Kitten Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/nulo-freestyle-turkey-chicken-recipe/dp/122852
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Dry Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/hills-prescription-diet-cd-multicare/dp/54554
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care with Chicken Canned Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/hills-prescription-diet-cd-multicare/dp/54783
Feline Natural Chicken & Lamb Feast Freeze-Dried Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/feline-natural-chicken-lamb-feast/dp/35432
Weruva TruLuxe Grain-Free Steak Frites with Beef & Pumpkin in Gravy. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/weruva-truluxe-steak-frites-beef/dp/104732
Weruva Amazon Livin’ with Chicken & Chicken Liver in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Cat Food. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/weruva-nine-liver-chicken-chicken/dp/34495
Cats.com. (n.d.). Urinary Tract Infection in Cats. Retrieved from https://cats.com/urinary-tract-infection-in-cats
