Every cat deserves real, natural food—the kind that fuels their body, supports their energy, and aligns with their carnivorous instincts. But with so many commercial options packed with fillers, artificial ingredients, and unnecessary carbohydrates, how do you choose the best diet for your feline?
That’s where natural food for cats comes in. Choosing high-quality, minimally processed food ensures your cat gets the essential nutrients they need without harmful additives. But what should be in their bowl? Can certain farm to pet ingredients provide better nutrition? And what human food is good for cats when given in moderation?
A well-balanced diet for cats includes high-protein meats, healthy fats, and essential vitamins—without excessive grains or plant-based fillers. Many pet owners are now turning to fresh, raw, or freeze-dried options to mimic a cat’s ancestral diet. But what makes these foods superior?
Additionally, understanding which human foods are safe for cats allows you to provide nutritious, homemade alternatives while avoiding harmful ingredients. Let’s dive deep into natural feline nutrition and explore the best options for a happy, healthy cat.
Why Choose Natural Food for Cats?
Your cat isn’t meant to eat highly processed kibble loaded with grains and artificial additives. They thrive on meat-based nutrition, rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential amino acids. But why should you make the switch to natural food for cats? Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- Supports a Healthy Weight – Natural, high-protein food keeps your cat full longer without unnecessary carbs and fillers that contribute to weight gain.
- Better Digestion – Fewer fillers and artificial ingredients mean fewer stomach issues, reducing bloating and improving digestion.
- Stronger Immune System – Essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from real food help strengthen your cat’s natural defenses.
- Shinier Coat & Healthier Skin – Omega fatty acids in real meat promote a soft, glossy coat and reduce skin irritations.
- Higher Energy Levels – Real food provides sustained energy instead of the short sugar spikes caused by low-quality commercial kibble.
- Mimics Their Natural Diet – Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they thrive on animal-based proteins rather than plant-based fillers.
Switching to natural food for cats ensures they receive species-appropriate nutrition that fuels their body while keeping them happy and healthy. It’s a simple change that makes a huge difference in your feline’s overall well-being.
Key Ingredients in a Natural Cat Diet
If you’re looking to switch to a natural diet, focus on whole, minimally processed ingredients that support your cat’s health.
1- Quality Animal Protein
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on meat-based diets. Look for:
✔ Chicken, turkey, or duck – Lean and protein-rich.
✔ Salmon or tuna – Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids.
✔ Beef or lamb – High in essential amino acids.
2️. Healthy Fats
Fats are a crucial energy source for cats and help with skin and coat health. Great sources include:
✔ Salmon oil – Promotes heart health and reduces inflammation.
✔ Chicken fat – A natural fat source packed with flavor.
✔ Coconut oil – Helps with digestion and fur health.
3️. Essential Vitamins & Minerals
A balanced diet should include:
✔ Taurine – A must-have amino acid for heart and eye health.
✔ Vitamin A – Found in liver and essential for vision.
✔ Calcium & Phosphorus – Supports strong bones and teeth.
Farm to Pet: Why Fresh Ingredients Matter
The farm to pet movement focuses on using fresh, whole ingredients in pet food—similar to what you’d expect in high-quality human food. This ensures your cat gets the purest nutrition, free from unnecessary fillers and artificial components.
- Better Nutrient Retention – Less processing means more vitamins, minerals, and amino acids remain intact, supporting overall health.
- No Artificial Additives – You won’t find preservatives, flavor enhancers, or colorants, which can cause allergies or digestive issues.
- Higher Protein Content – Fresh meat-based proteins provide more nutritional value per bite than highly processed kibble.
- Better Hydration – Many fresh food options contain natural moisture, supporting kidney health and preventing urinary issues.
- Improved Digestion – Whole, natural ingredients are easier to digest, reducing bloating, gas, and upset stomachs.
Switching to a farm to pet approach means your cat gets food that’s closer to nature, just as they were meant to eat. It’s about prioritizing quality, ensuring that every meal fuels their health, energy, and longevity.
What Human Food Is Good for Cats?
Wondering if you can share your food with your cat? Some human foods are safe snacks for cats, but only in moderation. The key is to stick to nutrient-rich, unseasoned, and protein-packed options that align with a cat’s carnivorous diet.
- Cooked Chicken or Turkey – A lean, protein-rich option that supports muscle health.
- Salmon – Packed with Omega-3s, but should always be cooked (raw fish contains harmful enzymes).
- Pumpkin – A great source of fiber, helping with digestion and hairball prevention.
- Eggs – A high-protein snack that provides essential amino acids, but must be fully cooked.
- Blueberries – Low in sugar and full of antioxidants that support immune function.
- Carrots & Green Beans – A crunchy, low-calorie treat full of vitamins for eye health.
Always avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, caffeine, and anything seasoned. While occasional human food treats can be fun, your cat’s primary diet should be high-quality, meat-based nutrition to ensure they get the essential nutrients they need.
Best Dog Snacks That Work for Cats Too
If you have both cats and dogs, you might be tempted to share their treats. Some of the best dog snacks can be safe for cats, but only if they meet the following criteria:
✔ Single-Ingredient – Must be meat-based, with no grains or fillers that don’t benefit a cat’s diet.
✔ Freeze-Dried – Preserves nutrients without the need for artificial preservatives.
✔ High-Protein – Supports both species’ muscle health and energy levels.
✔ No Artificial Additives – Avoid treats with flavors, colors, or sweeteners that are unnecessary for cats.
✔ Easily Digestible – Some dog treats contain ingredients that may be too heavy for a cat’s system.
What to Avoid:
Biscuits and Crunchy Treats – Many dog biscuits contain grains, which cats don’t need.
Chewy Treats & Rawhides – Too tough for cats and may cause digestive issues.
High-Carb Snacks – Dog treats with added starches or sugars don’t fit a feline’s carnivorous diet.
If you’re looking for safe dog snacks for cats, stick to freeze-dried, single-protein options that mimic their natural diet without unnecessary fillers!
How to Transition Your Cat to a Natural Diet
Switching to natural food for cats requires a gradual transition to prevent digestive upset.
✔ Start Slowly – Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of their current food.
✔ Increase Gradually – Over 7-10 days, increase the natural food portion until it’s 100%.
✔ Monitor Their Reaction – Check for signs of digestive upset or food sensitivities.
If your cat resists the change, try incorporating freeze dried treats to entice them!
Why Choose Remy’s Kitchen for Natural Cat Treats?
If you’re looking for nutrient-rich, protein-packed treats to complement a natural diet, Remy’s Kitchen is the perfect choice. Their treats are designed to support your cat’s health, digestion, and overall well-being while providing a delicious snack they’ll love.
What Sets Remy’s Kitchen Apart?
✔ 100% Real Meat – Made with single-source protein like chicken, salmon, or turkey, without grains, fillers, or unnecessary additives.
✔ Freeze-Dried for Maximum Nutrition – Locks in essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids while preserving natural flavors.
✔ Perfect for Multi-Pet Homes – Works as both a cat and dog treat, eliminating the need for separate snacks.
✔ Gentle on Digestion – Easily digestible for pets with sensitive stomachs, making them an ideal choice for picky eaters.
✔ No Artificial Preservatives – Free from synthetic additives, colors, or chemicals that could harm your pet’s health.
✔ High in Taurine – Supports heart health, vision, and muscle function in cats.
Remy’s Kitchen treats provide the best balance of taste and nutrition, ensuring that your pet gets wholesome, protein-rich snacks that support their natural diet without any harmful ingredients.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Cat the Best with Natural Food
A natural diet isn’t just a trend—it’s the key to a healthier, longer life for your feline companion. By prioritizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, you’re ensuring your cat receives the essential nutrients they need without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. Cats thrive on protein-rich diets, and choosing wholesome, minimally processed food is the best way to support their overall well-being.
Incorporating the farm to pet approach means feeding your cat high-quality, fresh meals that closely resemble what they would eat in the wild. Knowing what human food is good for cats helps you make better snack choices, ensuring that treats complement their diet rather than harm it. For multi-pet homes, selecting the best dog snacks that are also safe for cats can make treat time more convenient.
Looking for a way to enhance your cat’s diet with natural, high-protein treats? Try Remy’s Kitchen freeze-dried treats—a nutrient-dense, natural option your pet will love and benefit from!
