What to Avoid

Sugar has no nutritional value for cats — they lack sweet taste receptors. Promotes obesity, insulin resistance, and dental decay.

Synthetic antioxidant classified by the IARC as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).

Synthetic antioxidant. Hepatotoxic at high doses; potential endocrine-disrupting effects under discussion.

Synthetic antioxidant originally developed as a pesticide. Suspected liver and kidney damage; restricted for pet food in the EU.

Animal protein does not hold a dominant position in the ingredient list. Cats are obligate carnivores and require animal protein as their primary energy source.

Ash content missing from the label. A high ash level (>2.5% as fed) indicates bone or connective tissue content.

Fat source not individually listed. Animal fat and plant oils have very different nutritional profiles for cats.

Seaweed-derived thickener. Suspected to promote gastrointestinal inflammation; evidence on long-term use in pets remains incomplete.

Grain dominates the ingredient list. Cats process carbohydrates poorly; a high grain content displaces animal protein.

Exclusively plant-derived oils as the fat source. Cats cannot efficiently convert ALA to EPA/DHA — animal fat or fish oil is necessary.

"Preservatives" listed without individual names. Makes it impossible to assess whether synthetic antioxidants are present.

"Meat and animal derivatives" without species or percentage stated. Quality and origin cannot be verified.

Highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts destroy red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia) — including in dried form.

Banned in cat food in the EU. Damages red blood cells and causes Heinz body anaemia.