Cat Wet Food Analyzer

Carrageenan is a seaweed-derived thickener that research has linked to gastrointestinal inflammation in animals. Studies show degraded carrageenan can trigger inflammatory responses. While food-grade carrageenan is considered safer, many veterinarians recommend avoiding it, especially for cats with sensitive stomachs. Over 30% of wet cat foods contain carrageenan, making it important to check ingredient lists.

Cats are obligate carnivores with limited carbohydrate needs. Ideal wet food should have less than 5% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. Many wet foods range from 1-10% carbs. High-carb diets can contribute to obesity and diabetes in cats. Our calculator helps you determine the hidden carb content since manufacturers aren't required to list it.

For cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), phosphorus should be limited to 125-250mg per 100kcal, depending on the CKD stage. Our calculator converts the phosphorus percentage to mg/100kcal for easy comparison. IRIS guidelines recommend: Stage 1-2: <250mg, Stage 3: <200mg, Stage 4: <150mg per 100kcal.

Complete food meets 100% of a cat's nutritional needs and can be fed as the sole diet. It must meet AAFCO standards with added taurine, vitamins, and minerals. Complementary food is for occasional feeding only - treats or toppers that should be maximum 10% of daily intake. Feeding only complementary food can lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Cats are colorblind to red and green, making artificial colors purely for human appeal. Common colorants like Red #40, Yellow #5 (Tartrazine), and Caramel Color offer no benefit to cats. Some studies link artificial colors to behavioral issues and allergic reactions. Premium cat foods typically avoid all artificial colorants.

The ideal Ca:P ratio for adult cats is between 1:1 and 2:1, with a minimum of 0.6:1 per AAFCO standards. An imbalanced ratio can affect bone health and kidney function. Kittens need ratios closer to 1.2:1 for proper development. Our calculator automatically computes this ratio from your inputs.

Guar gum and xanthan gum are generally considered safe thickeners for cats. They rank 2 and 4 respectively on our safety scale. These are natural gums that pass through the digestive system without absorption. However, some cats with very sensitive stomachs may experience soft stools. They're much safer alternatives to carrageenan.