Food Preferences for Cats

• Flavours: While cat food flavours are available to suit even the most finicky of feline palates, from ocean fish and tuna to rabbit or chicken and beyond, the actual taste may matter less to cats than the food's nutrition. As cited in Animals journal, cats often seek out foods that help regulate their overall health, rather than selecting foods purely for flavour. Still, before purchasing any food in a large quantity, you might consider asking your veterinarian for samples or simply buy the smallest size product available to see how it goes with your own picky eater.
• Texture/Formulation: When it comes to wet vs. dry cat food, some cats seem to prefer softer and wet options for food (or semi-moist kibble), although this will be influenced by what they have been fed since they were young. It is very common for cats to not eat wet food that has been out all day and has started to dry up. Overall, all cats (and dogs) are each individual, and will have their own individual preferences.
• Temperature: According to Cook's Illustrated, scientists have discovered that proteins in human taste buds are quite temperature-sensitive, performing far better at warm (but not too hot) temperatures. This means food seems far more palatable when it's heated. While this limited-topic study focuses just on humans, it may also apply to the feline world. When higher temperatures are applied to food — regardless of who's eating it — scent molecules are released and diffused, further increasing its appeal. If you decide to warm up your cat's meal, only heat the food briefly and always check to ensure the temperature throughout is not too hot before serving it.
• Supplements and toppers: While liquid supplements or powder toppers have their place, especially when a feline is suffering from a chronic illness and reluctant to eat foods, it is generally best to avoid these food additives. Commercially available foods are already nutritionally balanced. Nutrient excesses are a common problem and can be as harmful as deficiencies. If you do want to use a food additive, it's a good idea to check with your vet first.

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Cat Food Preferences

There are several questions to ask your vet to help you pick the most appropriate food for your cat. Reviewing meal choices with your vet is a good habit to incorporate at each appointment, regardless of whether it's for wellness or illness. Here are some questions to consider asking your vet:

• Does my cat like the taste of their food?
• Do you have any specific food recommendations based on my cat's lifestyle or future health risks?
• Do you see any indication for a change in the kind of food my cat eats based on the exam or lab findings? (Annual exams and lab work are great tools to track trends in your cat's health, which allows vets to pick up on illnesses earlier.)
• Is my cat over- or underweight?
• Does my cat have any skin conditions? Dental concerns? Gastrointestinal or urinary problems? Food allergies?

All in all, there is no one-size-fits-all kind of food, texture or flavour for any of our cats and no single way to know exactly what cat food tastes like to cats. In addition to trying samples to identify your cat's individual food preferences, consult your vet for guidance on selecting the best cat food. The adage "you are what you eat" holds true with our feline family members as choosing the right food can help your cat live a longer and healthier life.