Does your furry friend seem a little too skinny? You’re not alone. Many cat parents worry when their beloved feline isn’t packing on the pounds like they should. It can be stressful seeing your cat looking underweight, and trying to figure out what food will help them gain weight can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces.
The shelves are packed with food claiming to be the answer, but how do you know which one is truly best for your cat? You want a food that is not only effective but also healthy and appealing to your picky eater. It’s a common problem, and the confusion can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help you navigate the world of cat food designed for weight gain. We’ll break down what to look for, explain the important ingredients, and give you practical tips to help your cat reach a healthy weight. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choices and ready to help your cat thrive.
Our Top 5 Cat Food To Help Cat Gain Weight Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cat Food To Help Cat Gain Weight Detailed Reviews
1. Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ Cat Food Toppers for Cats – High Protein Meal Topper & Crunchy Cat Treats for Indoor Cats w/Vitamins
Rating: 9.3/10
Give your feline friend a nutritional boost with Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ Cat Food Toppers. This versatile product can be used as a meal topper or a crunchy treat, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support your cat’s health from the inside out. It’s designed to benefit cats of all ages, especially those indoors.
What We Like:
- Packed with high protein from plasma to help your cat’s digestion and immunity.
- Amino acids in the plasma support nutrient absorption, making it great for picky eaters or cats with sensitive tummies.
- Fuels daily energy and supports lean muscles for an active lifestyle.
- Made with simple, holistic ingredients; no fillers or artificial flavors. It’s grain-free too!
- Super flexible! Sprinkle it on dry food, mix with wet food, or give it as a standalone treat.
- Adds exciting variety to mealtime while offering functional health benefits.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1lb bag size might be gone through quickly for multi-cat households.
- While it’s great for sensitive stomachs, some cats might still react differently to new ingredients.
This Solid Gold NutrientBoost™ topper offers a delicious and healthy way to enhance your cat’s diet. It’s a fantastic choice for promoting overall well-being and adding excitement to their meals.
2. Under the Weather Pet Electrolytes Ready Cal Plus Gel for Cats
Rating: 8.9/10
When your feline friend isn’t feeling their best, the Under the Weather Pet Electrolytes Ready Cal Plus Gel for Cats can be a lifesaver. This vet-formulated, high-calorie supplement is designed to help cats and kittens regain their strength and appetite. It’s packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and electrolytes to support their recovery and overall well-being. The tasty salmon flavor makes it easy to administer, even for picky eaters.
What We Like:
- Vet-formulated and approved, ensuring quality and safety for cats of all ages.
- High-calorie content helps promote weight gain in underweight or recovering felines.
- Contains essential electrolytes, vitamins, and fatty acids for overall health and energy boost.
- Easy-to-use squeezable tube with a palatable salmon flavor that most cats enjoy.
- Made with all-natural ingredients and manufactured in the USA.
- Supports a good cause by helping fund pet adoption initiatives.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shelf life of 24 months is good, but some pet owners might prefer longer.
- While generally well-received, some extremely picky cats might still be hesitant.
This gel is a fantastic tool for supporting your cat’s health when they need it most. It offers a convenient and effective way to ensure they get the nutrition they require for a speedy recovery.
3. Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gainer for Dogs & Cats – Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement Gel
Rating: 9.4/10
Is your furry friend struggling to gain weight or maintain a healthy physique? The Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gainer is a powerful multivitamin and nutritional supplement gel designed to support dogs and cats of all ages. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fish oil, this gel aims to boost your pet’s overall health, energy levels, and coat condition.
What We Like:
- High-calorie formula specifically for weight gain in pets.
- Contains 29 essential vitamins and minerals for comprehensive nutrition.
- Omega-3 Fish Oil promotes healthy skin, coat, and provides energy.
- Easy to administer, whether mixed with food, used as a topper, or added to water.
- Acts as an appetite stimulant for picky eaters.
- Vet-reviewed and made in the USA with natural ingredients.
- Suitable for puppies, seniors, and even prenatal pets.
What Could Be Improved:
- The gel consistency might not appeal to all pets initially.
- Specific dosage instructions for different pet sizes and needs could be clearer.
This versatile supplement offers a holistic approach to pet wellness, addressing weight gain, nutritional gaps, and overall health. It’s a great option for pet parents seeking a high-quality, vet-approved solution to help their companions thrive.
4. Cat Hyperthyroid & Gentle Weight Gain Support for Cats and Kittens – Natural Feline Thyroid Balance for All Ages in Odorless Easy to Use Tiny Pills That Improve Appetite
Rating: 9.5/10
Is your kitty acting a little off? Maybe they’re restless, seem weak, or their fur isn’t as shiny as it used to be. Sometimes, a cat’s thyroid gland can get a bit overactive, causing these issues and even weight loss. The Cat Hyperthyroid & Gentle Weight Gain Support for Cats and Kittens from BestLife4Pets offers a natural way to help. It’s designed to support your feline friend’s thyroid balance and can be a gentle alternative to stronger treatments.
What We Like:
- Effective Natural Care: This supplement can help if your cat shows signs of an overactive thyroid, like restlessness, weakness, or a dull coat. It’s a natural option to consider.
- Balances Hormones Naturally: It works to help balance feline hormones. This can aid in weight gain and stimulate appetite. It also helps restore healthy fur and can ease vomiting or hyperactivity.
- Easy to Use for All Cats: The tiny pills are odorless and flavorless, making them easy to give to picky eaters. You can give them whole, mix them with food, crush them, or dissolve them in water. They work for indoor, outdoor, and even feral cats.
- Safe for All Ages: These pills are safe for kittens, adult cats, and senior cats, and for all breeds. They are also safe for long-term use and can be used alongside other medications or supplements.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s presented as a weight gain support, some cats might need more significant interventions if weight loss is severe.
- As with any natural supplement, results can vary from cat to cat.
This natural support offers a kind approach to helping your cat feel their best. It’s a simple way to support their well-being from kittenhood through their senior years.
5. Royal Canin Feline Care Nutrition Weight Care Adult Thin Slices in Gravy Cat Food
Rating: 8.9/10
If your feline friend is carrying a few extra pounds, Royal Canin Feline Care Nutrition Weight Care Adult Thin Slices in Gravy Cat Food can help. This wet food is made for adult cats that need to shed a little weight or tend to gain it easily. It offers complete and balanced nutrition to help your cat reach and maintain a healthy weight.
What We Like:
- Helps slightly overweight cats lose weight: Over 90% of cats in a study lost weight within two months.
- Supports healthy metabolism: It contains L-carnitine to help burn fat and enough protein to keep muscles strong.
- Keeps cats feeling full: The special fiber blend helps your cat feel satisfied, preventing overeating.
- Appealing texture and taste: Cats love the thin slices in gravy, making mealtime enjoyable.
- Flexible feeding: You can mix it with Royal Canin Weight Care dry food for variety.
- Tailored nutrition: Royal Canin offers many food options for cats of all ages and needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cost: Royal Canin products can be more expensive than other brands.
- Availability: Sometimes, specific formulas can be harder to find in stores.
This wet food is a good option for helping your cat manage their weight. It provides the nutrients they need while making them feel full and satisfied.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Helping Your Feline Friend Pack on Pounds
Is your cat a little too skinny? Don’t worry, many cats can struggle to gain weight. Choosing the right food can make a big difference. This guide will help you find the best cat food to help your furry friend gain healthy weight.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for weight-gain cat food, keep these important features in mind:
- High Calorie Content: This is the most important thing. Look for foods with more calories per serving than regular cat food. More calories mean more energy and potential for weight gain.
- High Protein: Cats are carnivores. Protein is essential for building muscle. Foods with a high percentage of animal-based protein will help your cat build lean muscle mass, not just fat.
- Healthy Fats: Fats provide concentrated energy. Look for foods with good sources of fat, like chicken fat or fish oil. These fats also support a shiny coat and healthy skin.
- Digestible Ingredients: Even if a food has lots of calories, your cat needs to be able to digest it properly. Foods with easily digestible ingredients mean more nutrients are absorbed.
- Palatability: Your cat has to *want* to eat the food! Look for foods that are known to be tasty. Often, wet food is more appealing to picky eaters.
Important Ingredients to Consider
The ingredients list tells you what’s really in the food. For weight gain, focus on these:
- Meat as the First Ingredient: Chicken, turkey, salmon, or beef should be at the very top of the ingredient list. This ensures a good source of animal protein.
- Taurine: This is an essential amino acid for cats. It’s crucial for heart health and vision. Most good quality cat foods will have it.
- Vitamins and Minerals: A balanced mix of vitamins and minerals supports overall health as your cat gains weight.
- Avoid Fillers: Watch out for foods with a lot of corn, wheat, or soy as the main ingredients. These don’t offer as much nutritional value for weight gain.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make cat food better, while others make it worse for helping your cat gain weight.
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Brands that have been around and are recommended by vets often have high-quality standards.
- AAFCO Statement: Look for a statement on the packaging from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This means the food is complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage.
- Limited Ingredient Diets (if needed): If your cat has a sensitive stomach, a limited ingredient diet might be easier to digest and absorb.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Artificial Colors, Flavors, and Preservatives: These don’t add nutritional value and can sometimes cause digestive upset.
- Generic Meat By-products: While some by-products are nutritious, vague terms like “meat by-products” can mean lower quality.
- Low Protein and High Carbohydrates: This combination isn’t ideal for muscle building and healthy weight gain in cats.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how the food will fit into your life and your cat’s routine.
- Wet vs. Dry Food: Wet food often has higher moisture content and can be more appealing to cats. It’s a great choice for encouraging increased intake. Dry food is convenient and can be left out for grazing, but it might not be as palatable for some cats. Some owners use a mix of both.
- Feeding Schedule: You might need to feed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help your cat consume enough calories without feeling too full.
- Transitioning Food: If you’re switching to a new food, do it slowly. Mix a little of the new food with the old food, gradually increasing the new food over a week or so. This prevents digestive upset.
- Consult Your Vet: The best use case for weight-gain food is always under the guidance of your veterinarian. They can help you determine if your cat has underlying health issues causing weight loss and recommend the most appropriate food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main goal of cat food for weight gain?
A: The main goal is to provide more calories and nutrients to help your cat build healthy weight, usually by increasing muscle mass.
Q: How much more calorie-dense should the food be?
A: Look for foods that are significantly higher in calories per serving than standard cat food. Your vet can give you specific recommendations.
Q: Is high protein important for weight gain?
A: Yes, high protein is very important. It helps build muscle, which is healthier than just gaining fat.
Q: Can I just feed my cat more of their regular food?
A: Sometimes, but foods specifically designed for weight gain have a better balance of nutrients and higher calorie density to be more effective.
Q: What if my cat is a picky eater?
A: Try wet food options, as they are often more appealing. Look for flavors your cat enjoys and consider brands known for palatability.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: It varies by cat, but you might start to see gradual weight gain within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Q: Should I mix wet and dry food for weight gain?
A: Yes, mixing can be beneficial. Wet food increases hydration and can be tastier, while dry food offers convenience.
Q: What are some signs that the food isn’t working?
A: If your cat isn’t gaining weight, is losing more weight, or shows signs of digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea, the food might not be right.
Q: Can I add supplements to my cat’s food for weight gain?
A: Always ask your vet before adding any supplements. They can recommend safe and effective options if needed.
Q: When should I see a veterinarian about my cat’s weight?
A: You should see a vet if your cat is losing weight unintentionally, has no appetite, or if you’re concerned about their overall health.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!