Cat food can be divided into several types according to different classification standards. Below are common classification methods and their characteristics:
1.Classification by Manufacturing Process
Extruded food characteristics: High-temperature and high-pressure extrusion molding, contains starch binder, long shelf life, and relatively low price. Easy to store, but high temperatures may lead to nutrient loss, and some products contain a lot of starch.
Roasted food characteristics: Low-temperature (below approximately 75℃) long-term roasting, retaining more nutrients, with dry kernels. High in protein and low in starch, with good palatability, but the process is complex and the price is higher.
Freeze-dried food characteristics: Made from fresh ingredients through low-temperature dehydration, and after rehydration, it is almost like eating raw food, retaining complete nutrients. High in protein and with excellent palatability, but requires refrigeration and is expensive.
Air-dried food characteristics: Low-temperature air drying and dehydration, high meat content, no additives, similar texture to jerky.
High nutritional density, but short shelf life and relatively high price.
2.Categorized by Ingredient Properties
Grain-Free Cat Food
Features: Contains no wheat, corn, or other grains; uses legumes and tubers as carbohydrate sources.
Suitable for: Cats prone to allergies or with sensitive stomachs.
Grain-Containing Cat Food
Features: Contains rice, oats, and other grains; lower cost.
Caution: Some cats may be intolerant to grains.
3.Classification by Moisture Content:
Dry Food
Features: 6%-10% moisture content, easy to store, helps clean teeth.
Recommendation: Must be accompanied by ample drinking water; avoid long-term feeding of only one type of food.
Wet Food (Canned/Pouches)
Features: 75%-78% moisture content, palatable, excellent hydration.
Note: Divided into main meal cans (nutritional completeness) and treat cans (must be mixed with main meal).
Semi-cooked Food
Features: Between dry and wet food, suitable for senior cats or cats with weak digestive systems.