The Best Food for Cats with IBD: Dietary Management and Recommendations

Finding the right food for a cat with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can be tough. Cats with IBD need special diets to help manage their symptoms. This list will guide you through some of the best foods that can help your cat feel better.

Key Takeaways

• Cats with IBD need diets with minimal ingredients to avoid flare-ups.
• Novel proteins like rabbit, duck, or pork can help reduce negative reactions.
• High moisture content in food supports better digestion for cats with IBD.
• Avoid artificial additives like colors, flavors, and sugar to prevent worsening symptoms.
• Homemade diets can be an option but require careful planning to ensure they are balanced.

1. Smalls Cow Recipe

When it comes to managing your cat’s IBD, Smalls Cow Recipe is a top contender. This fresh, wet food is primarily made from beef, boasting a crude protein percentage of 33%. The high moisture content and quality ingredients make it not only nutritious but also highly digestible for our feline friends.

One of the standout features of Smalls is their convenient delivery service. They bring fresh food right to your door, making it easy to keep your cat’s diet consistent. You can adjust your cat’s meal plan, pause, or cancel your subscription anytime through their customer portal or by contacting customer support.

Key Features

• Primary Protein: Beef
• Crude Protein Percent: 33%
• Size: 11.5 oz

Benefits

1. Single Protein Source: Veterinarians often recommend diets with a single protein source for cats with IBD, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
2. High Moisture Content: Helps keep your cat hydrated and supports digestive health.
3. Convenient Delivery: Fresh food delivered right to your door, making meal management a breeze.

Dietary management is one of the best and most conservative ways of treating cats with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One of the many causes of feline IBD has to do with food intolerances. That’s where Smalls Fresh Cow Recipe steps up to the plate.

For more tips on feeding your cat, check out our [cat owner’s guide](https://catsluvus.com/cat-boarding-hotel/what-is-a-cottage-a-cat-owners-guide/).

2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein

When it comes to managing our feline friends’ IBD, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is a top contender. This diet is specially formulated to support your cat’s gastrointestinal health with essential nutrients and a limited-ingredient formula. It’s perfect for cats with sensitive stomachs.

Key Features

• Primary Protein Source: Rabbit
• Crude Protein Percent: 30%
• Food Type: Dry
• Size: 8.8 pounds

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High protein content
• Beneficial nutrients
• Great for sensitive stomachs

Cons:

• Requires a prescription
• On the pricier side

Why Choose Royal Canin?

Royal Canin uses rabbit as its protein source, which is a novel protein ideal for cats with IBD. The 30% crude protein is enough to keep your cat healthy, and the 5.7% fiber helps with digestion. While it is a bit more expensive and requires a prescription, many vets recommend it over other brands.

If your vet asks you whether you want Royal Canin or Hill’s Prescription Diet, we give a slight edge to Royal Canin.

For more information on managing your cat’s IBD, check out our comprehensive guide.

3. Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d

When it comes to managing IBD in cats, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d is a top contender. This dry cat food is specifically formulated to help cats with food sensitivities and intolerances. The primary protein source is chicken liver, which is not only tasty but also easy on your cat’s tummy. With a crude protein percentage of 29%, it provides a decent amount of protein to keep your feline friend healthy and active.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break it down:

Pros:

• No prescription required
• High-quality food
• Decent crude protein amount
• Simple ingredients

Cons:

• Expensive

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content:

Nutrient	Percentage
Crude Protein	29%
Crude Fat	15%
Crude Fiber	3%
Moisture	10%

Why Choose Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d?

Hill’s is a big name in the prescription pet food industry, and for good reason. Their z/d formula is designed to be gentle on your cat’s digestive system, making it a great option for cats with IBD. Plus, the simple ingredients list means there are fewer things that could potentially upset your cat’s stomach.

If you’re looking for a reliable food option for your cat with IBD, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d is definitely worth considering. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment.

For more tips on managing your cat’s IBD, check out our website.

4. Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed

When it comes to managing our feline friends’ sensitive tummies, Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed is a top contender. This dry cat food is made with real hydrolyzed salmon as the first ingredient, making it a great choice for cats with special dietary needs. It’s like a spa day for their digestive system!

Here’s a quick look at what makes this food a purr-fect option:

Feature	Details
Primary Protein	Hydrolyzed Salmon
Crude Protein Percentage	30%
Food Type	Dry
Available Sizes	5 or 11 pounds

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Cons:

In summary, if your cat is dealing with IBD, this food could be a game changer. It’s designed to be gentle on their stomach while still providing the nutrition they need. Remember, a happy cat means a happy home!

"Feeding your cat the right food is like giving them a ticket to the kitty buffet!"

So, if you’re looking for a food that’s both effective and easy on the wallet, check out Blue Buffalo’s offerings. It’s a great way to keep your cat’s tummy happy without breaking the bank. For more tips on cat care, visit Cats Luv Us!

5. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed

When it comes to managing IBD in our feline friends, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed is a top contender. This highly digestible formula is designed for cats with sensitive stomachs. Made with high-quality ingredients, it includes plenty of antioxidants to support the immune system.

Key Benefits

• Highly Digestible: This food is gentle on the stomach, making it perfect for cats with IBD.
• Immune Support: Packed with antioxidants, it helps keep your cat’s immune system strong.
• Quality Ingredients: Only the best ingredients are used, ensuring your cat gets the nutrition they need.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount
Protein	50%
Fat	20%
Fiber	5%

Pros and Cons

Pros

• No prescription required
• High-quality food
• Decent crude protein amount
• Simple ingredients

Cons

• Expensive

If your cat has a sensitive stomach, this food could be a game-changer. It’s designed to be gentle and nutritious, making it a great option for cats with IBD.

For more information on cat diets, check out this link.

6. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit

When it comes to managing your cat’s IBD, simplifying their diet is key. That’s where Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit comes in. This food is purposefully made with a simple ingredient list for pets with food sensitivities. It features one animal protein and one vegetable, making it easier on your cat’s tummy.

Key Features

• Primary Protein: Rabbit
• Food Type: Freeze-dried
• Crude Protein Percent: 60%
• Size: 8 ounces

Ingredients

• Rabbit with ground bone
• Rabbit Liver
• Olive Oil
• Pumpkin Seed
• Potassium Chloride
• Sodium Phosphate
• Choline Chloride
• Dried Pediococcus acidilactici Fermentation Product
• Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product
• Dried Bifidobacterium longum Fermentation Product
• Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product
• Taurine
• Tocopherols (Preservative)
• Dandelion
• Dried Kelp
• Zinc Proteinate
• Iron Proteinate

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High protein content
• Simple ingredient list
• Made with farm-raised rabbit

Cons:

• Expensive

If your cat could talk, they’d probably say, "This rabbit recipe is the cat’s meow!"

7. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Duck

When it comes to managing IBD in our feline friends, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Duck is a top contender. This food is designed with simplicity in mind, using a limited number of ingredients to reduce the risk of triggering an IBD flare-up. The main protein source is duck, which is less likely to cause allergies compared to more common proteins like chicken or beef.

Key Benefits

• Limited Ingredients: Fewer ingredients mean fewer chances of upsetting your cat’s stomach.
• Duck as a Novel Protein: Duck is a less common protein source, which can be beneficial for cats with food sensitivities.
• Grain-Free: This formula is free from grains, which can sometimes be a source of inflammation.
• High Digestibility: The ingredients are chosen for their high digestibility, making it easier on your cat’s digestive system.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the guaranteed analysis for this diet:

Nutrient	Percentage
Crude Protein	10%
Crude Fat	9%
Crude Fiber	1%
Moisture	78%
Ash	2.5%

Why We Like It

• Allergy-Friendly: Made from duck, which is less likely to cause allergic reactions.
• Minimal Inflammatory Ingredients: Free from common inflammatory ingredients.
• Highly Digestible: Easy on the stomach, reducing the risk of IBD flare-ups.
• Zero Carbohydrates: No carbs, which can sometimes contribute to digestive issues.

Things to Consider

While this diet is excellent for many cats with IBD, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet before making any dietary changes. Every cat is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

For more tips and recommendations on managing your cat’s IBD, check out our website.

8. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Chicken

When it comes to managing IBD in our feline friends, Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Chicken is a top contender. This wet food option is designed specifically for cats with sensitive stomachs and gastrointestinal issues. It’s a simple ingredient recipe that can help ease your cat’s digestive woes.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break it down:

Pros:

• Designed for cats with gastrointestinal problems
• Decent fiber amount at 4.5%
• Chicken liver is more digestible than regular chicken
• Antioxidants for improved health

Cons:

• Low protein amount
• Expensive
• Requires prescription

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content:

Nutrient	Amount
Protein	9%
Fiber	4.5%
Moisture	78%
Calories	131 kcal/5 oz

Why Choose Merrick?

Merrick uses a single source of protein, which helps simplify your cat’s diet. This is especially important for cats with IBD, as it reduces the chances of triggering an allergic reaction. The food also contains several antioxidants, which are great for your cat’s coat and overall health.

Keeping your cat on a wet food diet can be a bit pricey, but the benefits often outweigh the costs. Most cats require multiple cans daily, which can add up.

For more information on managing your cat’s IBD, check out our comprehensive guide.

9. Stella & Chewy’s Duck Duck Goose Dinner Morsels

If your cat has IBD, finding the right food can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, because Stella & Chewy’s Duck Duck Goose Dinner Morsels might just be the answer to your feline’s dietary woes. This freeze-dried raw food is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can help manage IBD symptoms.

Why Choose Stella & Chewy’s?

• Novel Protein Source: Duck and goose are less common proteins, which can be easier on your cat’s digestive system.
• Raw Goodness: Raw food is often recommended for cats with IBD due to its natural and easily digestible ingredients.
• Short Ingredient List: Fewer ingredients mean fewer chances of upsetting your cat’s stomach.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount
Crude Protein	44%
Crude Fat	35%
Crude Fiber	5%
Moisture	5%

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High in protein
• Grain-free
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Cons

• Can be pricey
• Some cats may need time to adjust

If you’re looking for a food that combines quality and taste, Stella & Chewy’s Duck Duck Goose Dinner Morsels is a strong contender. It’s like giving your cat a gourmet meal every day!

For more tips on managing your cat’s IBD, check out our website.

10. Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Indoor Duck and Potato

When it comes to managing our feline friends’ IBD, Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Indoor Duck and Potato is a top contender. This food is specially formulated to cater to cats with sensitive stomachs and food intolerances. The primary ingredient is real duck, which is a high-quality single animal protein source. This makes it easier for our cats to digest and reduces the risk of triggering their IBD symptoms.

Key Benefits

• Limited Ingredients: This formula contains a minimal number of ingredients, which helps in identifying and eliminating potential allergens.
• Grain-Free: No grains are included, making it suitable for cats with grain sensitivities.
• Indoor Formula: Designed specifically for indoor cats, it helps maintain a healthy weight and supports overall well-being.
• High-Quality Protein: Duck is the first ingredient, providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.
• Added Vitamins and Minerals: Ensures a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients.

Feeding Guidelines

Feeding your cat the right amount is crucial. Here’s a simple table to help you out:

Cat’s Weight	Daily Serving
5-9 lbs	1/4 – 1/2 cup
10-14 lbs	1/2 – 3/4 cup

Why We Love It

We love this food because it takes the guesswork out of feeding our cats with IBD. The limited ingredient list means fewer chances of upsetting their tummies. Plus, the grain-free formula is a bonus for those with grain sensitivities. And let’s not forget, our cats seem to love the taste of duck!

If you’re looking for a reliable food option for your cat with IBD, Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Indoor Duck and Potato is definitely worth considering.

For more tips on managing your cat’s diet, check out this link.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks! Navigating the world of cat food for our furry friends with IBD can be a bit like herding cats, but with the right knowledge, it’s pawsible! Remember, every kitty is unique, so what works for one might not work for another. Keep an eye on those ingredient labels, opt for novel proteins, and don’t fur-get to consult your vet. With a bit of patience and a lot of love, you’ll have your feline feeling fine in no time. Now, go on and give your whiskered buddy a treat—they’ve earned it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best food for cats with IBD?

The best food for cats with IBD often includes novel proteins like rabbit or duck and limited ingredients. Each cat is different, so it’s essential to find what works best for your pet.

Why are novel proteins recommended for cats with IBD?

Novel proteins are less likely to cause an immune reaction because the cat’s body hasn’t been exposed to them before. This can help reduce symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

Can I make homemade food for my cat with IBD?

Yes, you can make homemade food, but it needs careful planning to ensure it has all the nutrients your cat needs. Consulting a vet for a balanced recipe is a good idea.

What should I avoid in cat food if my pet has IBD?

Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors, and additives. These can worsen IBD symptoms. Stick to simple, natural ingredients.

How can I know if a particular food is good for my cat’s IBD?

Start by reading the nutrition labels and consult your vet. Look for foods with limited ingredients and novel proteins. Monitor your cat for any changes in symptoms.

Is it okay to switch my cat’s food frequently if they have IBD?

Frequent changes in diet can cause flare-ups in IBD symptoms. It’s best to find a suitable food and stick with it, making changes only when necessary and under veterinary guidance.