10 Best Cat Food for Weight Gain (High Calorie)

*This page contains affiliate links, and we receive a purchase commission after clicking on these links.

Best cat food for weight gain. Choosing a cat to gain weight food can be a simple thing. At our store, you can find all the data and help you require! We’ll talk about the different types of food that are available, as well as which ones are the most calorie-dense. We’ll also give you tips on getting your cat to eat more if they’re struggling to put on weight.

Table of Contents

Read Also: Weight gain food for bengal cats

Best cat food for weight gain

Before you decide which of the best cat food for weight gain to buy, it is wise to evaluate your cat’s age, activity level, and health. You will also need to make sure your pet receives sufficient calories and nutrients to support its healthy weight.

Take all relevant things into consideration when picking the best food to encourage weight gain: Use the list below as guidance.

  1. Look for a food that is high in calories and fat. Cats need more calories than dogs, so you will want to ensure that the food you choose is high in calories—food with at least 30% more calories than the average cat foods.
  2. Avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates. Cats do not process carbohydrates like dogs, which can lead to weight gain. Foods that are high in carbohydrates should be avoided.
  3. Look for high-protein food for your pet cat. Protein is an essential nutrient for felines, and it will help them maintain their muscle mass as they gain weight. The good rule of thumb is to look for food containing at least 30 more protein than the average cat foods.
  4. Make sure that the food that you select is appropriate for your cat’s life stage. Kittens and older cats are unique when it comes to the nutritional requirements they have, so select a suitable food appropriate for your cat’s age.

Why weight gain in cats is important

Cats Coming

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal-based protein to keep healthy. Animal proteins include all the essential nutrients animals require to remain healthy.

Cats use protein for energy, to build and repair tissue, and to produce enzymes and hormones. Protein is an important part of a cat’s diet because it provides the essential amino acids that cats need to survive.

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Twenty different amino acids can be used to make proteins, and 11 of these amino acids are essential for cats. This means that cats must consume these 11 amino acids in their diet to stay healthy.

Weight gain is important for cats because it helps them maintain their ideal body condition. Cats who are overweight or obese are at risk for health problems such as diabetes, joint problems, and respiratory difficulties.

The simplest way to be certain that your cat keeps a healthy weight is to provide them with a nutritious diet that is appropriate for their life stage and current activity level. Consult your vet regarding the ideal diet for your cat.

The best foods to help your cat gain weight

If your cat is underweight, you may wonder what foods are to help them gain weight. While many factors can contribute to weight loss in cats, such as illness or old age, a poor diet is often to blame.

There are several things you should look for in a portion of best cat food for weight gain to help your cat gain weight. First, it should be high in calories. This means that there should be more fat and proteins than carbohydrates. Fat is the most calorically dense of the three main macronutrients, so foods that are higher in fat will help your cat pack on the pounds more quickly.

Another thing to look for in a best cat food for weight gain for cats is its high protein content. Protein is necessary for muscle growth, so foods high in protein will help your cat build muscle mass and add extra calories.

Finally, you’ll want to choose a highly palatable and nutritious food. Cats are notoriously picky eaters, so it can be not easy to get them to eat enough to gain weight if they don’t find their food appealing. Good weight-gain food will be packed with nutrients and flavors that will make your cat want to eat more.

Our List of Best Cat Food for Weight Gain

1. Best cat food for weight gain in older cats (Hill’s Science Diet Canned Wet Cat Food)

2. High-calorie dry cat foods for weight gain (Royal Canin Feline Care Nutrition Weight Care Adult Dry Cat Food)

3. Best value of weight gain cat food (Nulo Freestyle Cat & Kitten Food, Premium Grain-Free)

4. High-calorie wet cat foods for weight gain (Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free)

5. Best for Kittens (Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Kiten Natural Dry Cat Food) 

6. Best canned cat food for weight gain (Instinct Original Grain Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned)

7. Best cat food for weight gain in older cats (Purina Pro Plan Senior 7+ Nutrient Dense, High Protein Senior Dry Cat Food)

8. High-calorie dry cat food for weight gain (IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food)

9. High-calorie wet cat food for weight gain (Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free)

10. Our pick of best cat food for weight gain (Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wet Cat Food)

Best Cat Food for Weight Gain

We’ve done the legwork for you in our comprehensive roundup of the best cat food for weight gain, and we’ll discuss everything you should be aware of when picking the right product. In addition, we’ll include reviews to give you an in-depth look at how to decide whether a cat foods matches what’s on the label. We’ll explore how to assess cat foods based on the information in the title. Let’s begin!

Best cat food for weight gain in older cats

Hill’s Science Diet Canned Wet Cat Food 

Best cat food for weight gain in older cats
amazon.com

Hill Science Diet Weight Loss Adult Cat Food contains main ingredients consisting of chicken and pork. Among the most important of its many fatty acids are coconut oil and omega-3 fatty acids. Your pet will develop healthier skin and hair because of the additives. The product has fifteen grams of dietary fiber, which will sustain your pet’s fullness.

The good news for cat owners is that in French, “kennel” is the same as “cat foods.” You are also required to feed them two 1-pint cans to keep the weight of a 10-pound cat on the low end of this scale. The fat content of the kibble plays a significant role here. Some vegetables, such as carrots and spinach, are added to increase their consistency to a more stew-like consistency.

Pros

  • High protein food of best cat food for weight gain.
  • Designed to be nutritionally complete for dogs.
  • Affordable and easy to find in stores.

Cons

  • Includes cheap fillers and by-products.
  • Some dogs may be allergic to the ingredients in this food.
  • This food is not grain free, which may not be ideal for some dogs.

High-calorie dry cat foods for weight gain

Royal Canin Feline Care Nutrition Weight Care Adult Dry Cat Food 

High-calorie dry cat food for weight gain
amazon.com

Royal Canin Weight Care’s Dry Cat Foods is a great product if you want a particular weight management program. This specialty pet food has excellent protein content, and chicken is a nutritious source of protein and fat. We love the fact that it doesn’t contain any filler ingredients. It is a balanced diet that covers all bases.

Some pet owners will appreciate how rosemary, citric acid, and tocopherols can keep food fresh in fabricated pet food. It contains psyllium seed husk, a healthy source of fiber. The price tag is higher than that of comparable brands. We can excuse the expenditure as long as the calories per cup are significantly higher. It comes in three, six, and 14-pound bags.

Pros

  • Formulated to help maintain a healthy weight.
  • Promotes lean muscle mass.
  • This best cat food for weight gain reduces fat absorption and metabolism.
  • Enriched with L-carnitine.
  • Supports urinary health.

Cons

  • Some cats may not like the taste.
  • More expensive than some other brands.
  • Contains grains.
  • High in carbohydrates.
  • May cause digestive issues in some cats.

Best value of weight gain cat food

Nulo Freestyle Cat & Kitten Food, Premium Grain-Free

Best value of weight gain cat food
amazon.com

An excellent option for cats that require the additional crunch of dry kibble, the Nulo FS Cat and Kitten Stage grain-free food is totally devoid of carbohydrates, wheat, or corn. Unwanted flavors or preservatives are omitted, and there is plenty of protein to help your cat’s growth.

Also enticing for weight gain, this best cat food for weight gain is low in carbohydrates, which means you can control your cat’s weight. Additionally, it has an age-old probiotic that will help your cat absorb nutrients more efficiently, which may be critical if your cat refuses to eat a substantial number of full bowl portions as they are not hungry.

Pros

  • Holistic variety of flavor choices.
  • Good for providing vegetarian cats with a grazing schedule.
  • Eighty-two percent of proteins from organic meat.
  • Supplement for improved nutrient absorption.

Cons

  • Cats prefer a topper that is high on the menu.
  • Protein content may be higher.

High-calorie wet cat foods for weight gain

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free 

High-calorie wet cat food for weight gain
amazon.com

The best cat food for weight gain is the Blue Buffalo Wilderness high-protein cat foods. This cat foods has a high protein content which helps in weight management and maintenance. This food supports adult cats’ skin, coat, and muscle mass health. Taurine has been added to the formula for vision and heart health.

The food provides sufficient protein, antioxidants, and high-quality carbohydrates to your cat to support its weight loss, related to dietary supplements, amino acids, and cereals. The mixture of chicken, sweet potatoes, and organic grains has been made just for these pets. Holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists selected the ideal recipe for losing weight for your furry friend.

Pros

  • Grain-free.
  • High in protein.
  • Natural best cat food for weight gain ingredients.
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives.
  • Made in the USA.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Cats may not like the taste.
  • Excessive carbohydrate content.

Best for Kittens

Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Kitten Natural Dry Cat Food 

Best for Kittens
amazon.com

The main ingredient in this recipe for kitten food is nutrient-rich chicken, which helps kittens stay strong, even during weight gain. This recipe also includes protein- and fiber-rich things such as whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruits for better health and immune system support. This recipe specifically meets the nutritional requisites for healthy growth and development in kittens.

Providing a good amount of protein to your feline friend and encouraging weight gain are just a few of the advantages that this food can provide. In addition to those advantages, it also supplies your animal with great quantities of vitamins and nutrients as well as allergens that may be problematic.

This best cat food for weight gain product is a great way to supply kittens under 12 months of age with nourishment, as it’s affordable. The weight of this product is minimal, making it a poor option for long-term usage.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Grain free.
  • Weight control formula.
  • Complete and balanced nutrition.

Cons

  • Small portion size.
  • May cause digestive upset in some kittens.
  • Kittens may outgrow this food.

Best Canned Cat Food for Weight Gain

Instinct Original Grain Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned

Best Canned Cat Food for Weight Gain
amazon.com

Instinct Original Grain Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned Cat Food is formulated with the highest-quality ingredients. Made with natural and cage-free chicken as the first ingredient. This cat food provides a balanced diet of protein, fat, and carbohydrates for cats of all ages.

This natural wet cat food contains no grains or gluten to help provide a healthy digestive system and optimal nutrient absorption.

Instinct Original Grain Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned Cat Food is crafted with added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to ensure your cat gets all the essential nutrients they need in every meal.

Your feline will love this moist formula’s delicious taste of real chicken! This grain-free canned cat food is an easy way to give your pet the nutrition they need with a flavor they will love.

This convenient can of wet cat food makes it easy to serve a nutritious meal in no time! Just pop open the lid and let your kitty enjoy their delicious dinner.

Pros

  • It contains antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system.
  • Complete and balanced for all life stages.
  • Natural preservatives for freshness and taste.

Cons

  • Contains added artificial colors, which may be linked to cat health problems.
  • It may contain trace amounts of carrageenan, an additive linked to inflammation in cats.
  • It contains fish meal, a common allergy trigger in cats.

Best Cat Food for Weight Gain in Older Cats

Purina Pro Plan Senior 7+ Nutrient Dense, High Protein Senior Dry Cat Food

Best Cat Food for Weight Gain in Older Cats
amazon.com

Purina Pro Plan Senior 7 Dry Cat Food is packed with high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and other vital nutrients to help support the nutritional needs of your senior cat. This nutrient-dense food contains seven protein sources plus vitamins and minerals to help keep cats healthy as they age.

Senior cats need more protein than their younger counterparts, so Purina Pro Plan Senior 7 Dry Cat Food has been specially formulated with higher protein levels to help meet their needs. This high-protein recipe supports strong muscles, allowing your senior cat to stay active and healthy.

Older cats can often have difficulty digesting certain types of food due to age-related changes in their digestive system. Purina Pro Plan Senior 7 Dry Cat Food is made with easy-to-digest ingredients to help ensure that your cat gets all the nutrition they need without any stomach upset or discomfort.

Purina Pro Plan Senior 7 Dry Cat Food is formulated with the flavor, and texture cats love, and our Taste Test Guarantee backs it. If your cat doesn’t love it, we’ll gladly replace it—so you never have to worry about whether your cat will enjoy this food.

Veterinary experts recommend Purina Pro Plan Senior 7 Dry Cat Food for its nutritionally complete formula designed specifically for older felines. With all the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients needed for a happy and healthy life, you can trust that you’re providing your senior kitty with top-quality nutrition every time!

Pros

  • High protein content helps maintain muscle mass and strength.
  • It contains essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
  • It contains antioxidants to support a strong immune system.
  • Optimal nutrient blend supports the senior cat’s specific needs.

Cons

  • May include some fillers, such as rice and corn, which can be allergenic for some cats.
  • It may contain artificial preservatives or flavors.

High-calorie Dry Cat Food for Weight Gain

IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food

High-calorie Dry Cat Food for Weight Gain
amazon.com

IAMS Proactive Health High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken & Salmon Cat Kibble is designed to provide your cat with the high-quality protein they need to stay healthy and active. This food is specially formulated with real chicken and salmon as the #1 ingredients, providing your cat with 25% more protein than many other leading brands.

This dry cat food is made without grains and is gentle on cats’ digestive systems. The recipe contains natural fiber for healthy digestion and prebiotics for overall health. This grain-free formula also helps reduce the number of fillers in their diet, offering your furry friend a nutrient-dense meal.

This formula includes essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids that help support a strong immune system, keeping your cat happy and healthy.

An essential part of keeping your pet healthy is supporting their skin & coat health. IAMS Proactive Health High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken & Salmon Cat Kibble has added vitamin E that helps maintain a beautiful coat while keeping their skin nourished from within.

Cats love the taste of IAMS Proactive Health High Protein Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken & Salmon Cat Kibble! Your cat won’t be able to resist the delicious combination of real chicken and salmon in every bite of kibble. It’s sure to become their new favorite meal!

Pros

  • Formulated with high-quality protein sources like chicken and salmon.
  • It contains clinically proven antioxidants to help support a strong immune system.
  • Includes essential nutrients to help maintain healthy skin and coat.
  • Crafted with omega fatty acids to promote healthy digestion and well-being.

Cons

  • Contains chicken by-product meal which may not be suitable for some cats.
  • The kibble size is relatively small, so it may be difficult for older cats to chew correctly.
  • Not all cats enjoy the taste.

High-calorie Wet Cat Food for Weight Gain

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free

High-calorie Wet Cat Food for Weight Gain
amazon.com

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Mature Pate Wet Cat Food provides a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals to fuel your cat’s active lifestyle. It is made with real chicken as the first ingredient, plus added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for superior nutrition. This grain-free recipe is free of fillers and artificial preservatives and is designed to meet your cat’s nutritional needs.

The savory morsels in this wet cat food are crafted with real chicken that cats naturally crave. The taste will have your feline coming back for more! Plus, there’s no corn, wheat, or soy, so you can rest assured that your cat is getting only the best quality ingredients.

Cats need high protein levels for energy, growth, and muscle development. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Mature Pate Wet Cat Food contains deboned chicken as the first ingredient to provide your cat with the necessary protein they need daily.

This wet cat food is packed with essential nutrients like omega three fatty acids and taurine to help support healthy vision and immune system health. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain joint health for older cats or cats prone to joint stiffness or arthritis.

The convenient packaging makes it easy to store and use when you’re ready to feed your cat. Easy peel-tear top lid opener access allows you to quickly open up the package without making a mess. And each can have just the right amount of food that’s perfect for one serving!

Pros

  • It contains high protein content to support muscle health.
  • Grain-free formulation suitable for cats with grain sensitivities or allergies.
  • Real meat, the first ingredient, provides a natural and balanced nutrition source.
  • Wet food format makes it easy to digest for cats of all ages and sizes.

Cons

  • Expensive price tag compared to other wet cat foods on the market.
  • Not all cats may prefer pate texture, leading to less consumption of their meals than desired.
  • It may contain potential allergens such as eggs, chicken, turkey, or fish.

Our pick of best cat food for weight gain

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wet Cat Food

Our pick of best cat food for weight gain
amazon.com

Our choice of best cat food for weight gain and best-quality cat foods for animals’ weight gain includes this kibble recipe that contains chicken, turkey, and chicken liver, all of them sourced by Wellness. It is a high-calorie, dry meal that is very suitable for older cats and pets with sensitive teeth.

This formula mainly comprises highly digestible and bio-accommodating animal protein sources, such as the poultry, turkey, and humoral chicken deposited within this element. The ingredients contain low levels of carbohydrate additions and protein omega-3 fatty acids from ground fish liver.

This healthy and worthwhile formula has a considerable amount of nutrient-filled protein and an abundance of hydrating moisture, as indicated in its animal protein content and great water content. This promotes its digestibility for your feline.

Pros

  • Grain-free formula.
  • The real meat as the first ingredient of best cat food for weight gain.
  • No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
  • Pate texture that most cats enjoy.
  • Suitable for all life stages.

Cons

  • More expensive than some other brands.
  • Some cats may not like the pate texture.
  • It May cause digestive issues in some cats.
  • It May contain too much protein for some cats.
  • Some flavors contain carrageenan.

Here are some of the best foods to help your cat gain weight:

1. Wet Food

Wet food is generally higher in calories than dry food because it contains more fat and protein. It’s also palatable for cats, which means they’re more likely to eat enough to gain weight. Look for wet foods that are high in calories and protein, such as chicken or turkey-based formulas.

2. Raw Food

Raw food diets are becoming increasingly popular for cats, and for a good reason – they’re packed with nutrients and flavors that appeal to cats’ natural preferences. Raw diets are also usually high in calories and protein, making them perfect for cats who need to gain weight. If you’re considering switching your cat to a raw diet, be sure to speak with your veterinarian first to ensure it’s the right decision for your pet’s health.

3. High-Calorie Treats

Treats can be a great way to increase your cat’s calorie intake without switching their entire diet to a higher-calorie food. Look for treatment options that are high in fat and protein, such as freeze-dried chicken or fish treats. You can also give your small cat amounts of canned tuna or salmon as an occasional treat – be sure not to overdo it, as too much seafood can lead to health problems down the road.

How to get your cat to eat more

Lina Kivaka

You can do a few things to encourage your cat to eat more:

  1. First, ensure your cat has a constant supply of fresh water. Cats can quickly dehydrate, which can lead to a loss of appetite.
  2. Second, try offering your small cat meals several times a day instead of one or two large meals. Some cats prefer to nibble all day long.
  3. Third, pay attention to your cat’s food bowl. Some cats don’t like to eat from bowls that are too close to the ground. Try raising the bowl a few inches off the ground, or get a bowl that has a built-in stand.
  4. Fourth, add some wet food to your cat’s diet. Wet food is more aromatic and often more appealing to cats than dry food.
  5. Finally, consider using a puzzle feeder toy to allow your cat to work for her food. These toys require cats to use their pawing and hunting skills to get at the food inside, making mealtime more fun and exciting.

The benefits of gaining weight for your cat

A number of benefits come with letting your cat gain a little weight. Here are just a few:

  1. A plumper kitty is a healthier kitty. Extra weight can help cushion your cat’s joints and organs, making them less susceptible to injury and disease.
  2. A bigger cat can better tolerate the cold. If your feline friend lives outdoors, or if you keep the house on the cool side, a few extra pounds can help him stay warm and cozy.
  3. A heavier cat is less likely to be eaten by predators. This may not be a concern if your cat lives indoors, but it’s definitely something to consider if he spends any time outdoors.
  4. A chubby cat is simply adorable. Who doesn’t love a fluffy kitty?

The risks of overfeeding your cat

Like people, cats come in all shapes and sizes. Some are big and strong, while others are smaller and more delicate. And just like people, some cats are overweight while others are underweight.

If your cat is overweight, it’s important to help them slim down to a healthy weight. Being overweight can lead to health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and even shortened life span.

But if your cat is underweight, you may be wondering how to help them gain weight safely and healthily. This article will explore the best ways to help your underweight cat gain weight.

Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s diet or feeding schedule.

The best way to ensure your cat gains weight safely

There are a few things you can do to help your cat gain weight safely:

  1. Ensure you feed them high-quality cat foods rich in calories and nutrients. You may also want to add some canned food to your diet to boost calories.
  2. Make sure they are getting plenty of exercise. Daily playtime can help them burn off any excess energy and build muscle mass.
  3. Take them to the vet regularly for checkups to ensure they are gaining healthy weight.

Tips for Helping an Underweight Cat Gain Weight

If your cat is underweight, there are some things you can do to help them gain weight safely. Here are a few tips:

  • Visit the vet to rule out any health conditions causing weight loss.
  • Feed multiple small meals throughout the day instead of fewer large meals.
  • Choose a high-calorie best cat food for weight gain that is nutritionally complete and balanced.
  • Add healthy fats to your cat’s diet, such as olive or fish oil.
  • Encourage your cat to exercise by playing with them for 10-15 minutes daily.

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best High-Calorie Cat Foods for Weight Gain

If your cat is underweight, you may be looking for a portion of high-calorie cat food to help them gain weight. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the best cat food for weight gain:

  1. Look for a food that is high in calories and fat.
  2. Avoid foods high in carbohydrates, as these can contribute to weight gain without providing the necessary nutrients for your cat.
  3. Choose a best cat food for weight gain with highly digestible food, as this will help your cat absorb more nutrients.
  4. Ask your veterinarian for the best high-calorie food for your cat’s needs.

What Makes a Food High in Calories?

A food is considered high in calories if it contains more than 30% of the daily caloric needs of an average-sized cat. To maintain a healthy weight, your cat needs a certain number of calories each day. The number of calories your cat needs will depend on age, size, and activity level. A food is considered high in calories if it contains more than 30% of the daily caloric needs of an average-sized cat.

The caloric content of a food is proportional to the amount of fat, protein, and carbohydrates it contains. Fat is the most caloric-dense of the three macronutrients, followed by protein and carbohydrates. A diet that is high in sugar contains more calories than a diet high in fat.

In general, wet foods contain more calories than dry foods. This is because wet foods contain more water, which makes them less calorie-dense. For example, when the water is removed, a can of wet food that contains 100 calories might only contain 75 calories.

Some best cat food for weight gain are fortified with vitamins and minerals to make them more nutritionally complete. These added nutrients can also add to the calorie content of the food.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to take the time to research and find the best cat food for weight gain. By considering your cat’s nutritional needs, you can choose a food that will ensure they remain healthy and happy. Be sure to look for a product that contains high-quality proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

About
Allan Osdlo

This man is really like and enthusiastic about pets. He is animal lovers can make the most of their pet's nutritional well-being by educating themselves on the options in pet feeding.