Why Cat Nutrition Matters
Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesise certain essential nutrients on their own. Taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A must come from their diet in the form of animal tissue. A diet lacking these nutrients leads to serious health problems including heart disease, vision loss, and reproductive failure.
This is why feeding cats a vegetarian or vegan diet is not appropriate and can be genuinely harmful. Any cat food you choose should list a named animal protein as its primary ingredient.
Wet Food vs Dry Food
This is one of the most common questions among Czech cat owners. Both have their place, and many veterinarians recommend a combination approach.
Benefits of Wet Food
Wet food (pouches, tins, trays) has a moisture content of around 75-80%, which is close to the water content of prey animals. This is important because cats have a naturally low thirst drive and often do not drink enough water when fed exclusively on dry food. Chronic low water intake is a significant risk factor for urinary tract disease and kidney problems, which are common in cats.
- Higher moisture content supports kidney and urinary health
- Generally higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates
- More palatable for many cats, especially older animals
- Easier to eat for cats with dental issues
Benefits of Dry Food
Dry food (kibble) is convenient, has a longer shelf life once opened, and is generally less expensive per calorie. Some dry foods are formulated to support dental health through a mechanical cleaning action. However, the dental benefits are often overstated, and dry food should not replace regular dental check-ups.
- Convenient and easy to store
- Can be left out for free-feeding without spoiling quickly
- Often more economical for multi-cat households
- Some formulas designed for specific health conditions
Nutrition Tip
If your cat eats primarily dry food, make sure fresh water is always available and consider adding a water fountain. Many cats prefer moving water and will drink more from a fountain than a static bowl, which helps prevent urinary issues.
Reading Cat Food Labels in Czech Republic
EU regulations require cat food sold in the Czech Republic to list ingredients by weight in descending order. Learning to read these labels helps you compare products and avoid misleading marketing.
What to Look For
- Named protein first: The first ingredient should be a specific named meat - chicken, turkey, beef, salmon, tuna. "Meat and animal derivatives" is a vague term that can include low-quality by-products.
- Protein percentage: Adult cats need a minimum of 26% protein on a dry matter basis. Many premium foods provide 35-45%.
- Low carbohydrates: Cats have limited ability to process carbohydrates. Avoid foods where grains or starches dominate the ingredient list.
- Taurine listed: Taurine should appear in the ingredients or guaranteed analysis. It is essential for heart and eye health.
Marketing Terms to Be Cautious About
Terms like "natural", "premium", and "gourmet" are not regulated and tell you nothing about actual nutritional quality. Focus on the ingredient list and guaranteed analysis rather than front-of-pack claims.
Cat Food Brands Available in Czech Republic
Czech pet shops including Maxi Zoo, Kika, and online retailers like Zooplus stock a wide range of brands. Here are some options across different price points:
Premium Options
- Orijen Cat & Kitten - high protein, biologically appropriate formula, available online
- Acana - regional ingredients, high meat content, good availability online
- Animonda Carny - German brand, high meat content wet food, widely available in Czech stores
Mid-Range Options
- Royal Canin - breed and life-stage specific formulas, available in vets and pet shops
- Hill's Science Plan - veterinary-recommended, sold in Czech clinics
- Brit Care Cat - Czech brand with grain-free options, good value
- Purina Pro Plan - widely available, good nutritional profile
Budget Options
- Felix - widely available, acceptable for healthy adult cats as part of a varied diet
- Whiskas - ubiquitous in Czech supermarkets, adequate but not optimal long-term
Budget Tip
Feeding a mid-range wet food as the primary diet is often better for your cat's health than feeding a premium dry food. The moisture content benefit outweighs the cost difference in many cases, particularly for cats prone to urinary issues.
Feeding Schedules and Portion Sizes
Obesity is a growing problem in Czech domestic cats, particularly those kept exclusively indoors. Overfeeding is the primary cause. Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging as a starting point, but adjust based on your cat's body condition.
How to Assess Body Condition
You should be able to feel your cat's ribs easily without pressing hard, but not see them. Looking from above, your cat should have a visible waist. If you cannot feel the ribs or your cat has no visible waist, they are likely overweight. Consult your vet for a personalised feeding plan.
Feeding Frequency
- Kittens (up to 6 months): 3-4 small meals per day
- Adult cats (1-7 years): 2 meals per day is ideal
- Senior cats (7+ years): 2-3 smaller meals, monitor weight closely
Special Dietary Needs
Some cats require specific diets due to health conditions. Your Czech veterinarian can prescribe therapeutic diets for conditions including:
- Urinary tract disease (struvite or oxalate crystals)
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Food allergies or intolerances
Never attempt to manage a diagnosed health condition through diet alone without veterinary guidance. For more on finding a vet in Czech Republic, see our Pet Health & Vets guide.
Last updated: February 2026