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14 Best Cat Foods For Sensitive Stomachs & Vomiting

We've all seen how picky cats can be when it comes to food. Aside from their pickiness, some people have extremely sensitive stomachs that respond poorly to particular substances.

Because cats are obligate carnivores, diets high in grains, vegetables, and other additives might cause stomach difficulties. Other cats may be allergic to specific protein sources.

In any case, if your cat is reacting negatively to their present food, it's time to look at other possibilities.

BestForPets (bestforpets.org) took the liberty of compiling evaluations of the best cat foods for sensitive stomachs & vomiting we could discover, all of them are specifically designed to soothe your feline's stomach.

Reviews

Purina ONE Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food – Best Value
 

If you have a sensitive kitty but are on a tight budget, Purina ONE Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food is a fantastic choice.

It’s the most affordable cat food for sensitive stomachs and vomiting. Despite its low cost, this recipe is designed with your pet’s best interests in mind.

One advantageous feature of this cat chow is that it has turkey as the first component. Turkey is less likely to irritate a cat’s digestive tract than chicken, turkey, or fish.

It has no toxic fillers or harsh ingredients that can irritate the cat’s stomach, instead relying on rice flour and oats.

This dish contains 34% crude protein, 13% fat, 4% fiber, and 12% moisture. Higher moisture percentages guarantee that your cat gets enough hydration in their food. Per cup, there are 430 calories.

This cat chow is high in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that help to replenish the body. Because this food contains corn, wheat, and soy, it is not suitable for all cats.

Having said that, this is unquestionably our best value option for finest dry cat food for sensitive stomachs.

Pros

  • The main ingredient is turkey.
  • Simple to understand
  • High protein content

Cons

  • This product contains corn gluten meal.

 

Sensitivities to Hill’s Prescription Diet Food that is dry
 

Prescription Diet by Hill’s Authentic Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Cat Food is a wonderful choice that is both distinctive and nutrient-dense. It’s a touch more expensive than comparable food brands, but it’s well worth it if your cat requires a more specialized diet.

This type of meal can help with everything from sensitive stomachs to severe allergies. So, if you have a cat who suffers from food allergies, this is a perfect answer for most food-related problems.

This recipe has a protein content of 29%, a fat content of 10.5%, a fiber content of 4.5%, and a moisture content of 9%. Per cup, there are 408 calories.

The first component is a highly digestible animal protein that has been hydrolyzed, which means it has been broken down into small particles.

Because this meal is designed for food sensitivities, it may not be the best choice for every cat. Before placing a purchase, you must first obtain permission from your veterinarian.

Pros

  • For severe food allergies
  • Protein hydrolyzed
  • Dietary restrictions

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Veterinarian permission is required.

 

Merrick Purrfect Bistro Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food Recipe
 

Grain-Free Sensitive Stomach Merrick Purrfect Bistro Complete Care Recipe Dry Cat Food aids in almost every nutritional aspect. It is a well-rounded, precisely balanced meal designed to alleviate stomach distress and vomiting.

The first ingredient is deboned chicken, so you know your cat is getting a tough protein source. This recipe is grain-free and contains no irritants like maize, wheat, or soy. Instead, sweet potatoes are used in this recipe for easy digestion.

This bag has 34% crude protein, 16% fat, 2.5% fiber, and 11% moisture. Per cup, there are 406 calories. L-carnitine is also used in this recipe to help with metabolism.

Each bag contains live probiotics to promote healthy gut flora growth. Each ingredient is chosen for its nutritious benefits, with no hazardous additives that could disrupt the natural flow of things.

If you have a more relaxed home cat, the low-calorie quality is also a plus. However, a highly active cat may require more.

Pros

  • High protein content
  • Low caloric intake
  • Probiotics that are alive
  • Grain-free

Cons

  • Cats that are more active require more calories.

 

Dry Cat Food Halo Holistic Sensitive Stomach
 

If you’re looking for an all-natural alternative to commercial kibble, Halo Holistic Seafood Medley Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food is a great choice. Whole wild-caught whitefish and salmon are used in the seafood medley.

It’s produced using a new protein, which means it contains animal proteins that your cat may have never encountered before. Refined grains like oatmeal and pearled barley aid in the digestion of your cat’s diet.

There is also sweet potato, which provides nutritious carbohydrates. This dish has 34% crude protein, 16% fat, 5% fiber, and 10% moisture. Per cup, there are 414 calories.

All of the ingredients are non-GMO and free of hormones, antibiotics, artificial additives, and preservatives. There are no animal byproducts or meat dishes. It does, however, contain soy, which some kitties dislike.

Pros

  • Produced with new proteins
  • GMO-free ingredients
  • All-natural

Cons

  • Soy is present.

 

Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food
 

Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Adult Dry Cat Food is well-known for providing nutritious recipes for cats that keep them feeling their best. Blue has no dangerous substances that could affect your cat’s system or cause allergies.

This mixture is designed specifically for cats with sensitive stomachs to keep their digestive tracts operating properly. Brown rice, oatmeal, and barley are alternatives to corn, wheat, and soy.

These alternate grains degrade quickly in their system. The first two ingredients are deboned chicken and chicken meal, so you know your cat is getting a complete protein supply.

There is 32% crude protein, 16% crude fat, 3.5% crude fiber, and 9% moisture in this bag. A cup contains 422 calories. Taurine and magnesium have also been included for maximum nourishment.

This recipe contains Blue’s trademark LifeSource Bits, which are little pieces of nutrient-rich, flavor-packed soft kibble in each bite. It also contains probiotics and prebiotics to improve digestion and keep your cat regular and symptom-free.

Pros

  • Bits from LifeSource
  • Grain that is easily digested
  • There are no hazardous ingredients.
  • Prebiotics and probiotics have been included.

Cons

  • Not suitable for all sensitivities

 

Diet with Few Ingredients by Instinct Genuine Turkey Wet Cat Food
 

If your cat dislikes dry food, the Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Turkey Pate wet cat food formula appeals to a cat’s taste palate, allowing them to enjoy the same delectable wet food flavor without the unwanted side effects.

This diet is not expressly designed to treat sensitive stomachs; nonetheless, because it is a limited ingredient mix with alternative protein, it works well for many kittens, as the odds of sensitivity are minimized.

The dish has no other protein, fat, or flavor, as well as no chicken, beef, fish, dairy, eggs, grain, potato, corn, wheat, or soy.

Each can have 11.5% crude protein, 7% fat, 2% fiber, and 76% moisture. This meal is also an excellent choice for cats that do not get enough fluids in their diet.

This recipe is high in vitamins and minerals and works well as a standalone diet or as a topper for dry food. It can also help if you have a cat who has difficulty chewing.

Wet food, on the other hand, can promote plaque, tartar, and accumulation, so make sure your cat gets regular dental treatment.

Pros

  • Moisture content is high.
  • Only turkey protein is used in this recipe.
  • No maize, wheat, soy, or potatoes.

Cons

  • Wet foods can harm your teeth.

 

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food
 

Consider Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin if you want a specific diet that works wonders. Instead of harsh fillers, this recipe employs mild foods such as rice, oats, and eggs for easy digestion.

This dish is loaded with immune-boosting antioxidants as well as potent vitamins and minerals. It is designed specifically to address stomach disorders and skin allergies, so your cat does not break out, itch, vomit, or exhibit other negative consequences.

This cat food contains 29% crude protein, 17% fat, 3% fiber, and 10% moisture. Each cup contains 524 calories. Because it contains more calories, this may not be the healthiest diet for an overweight cat.

Hill’s Science Diet creates all of their meals in the United States using high-quality components. While this kibble is beneficial to most kitties with sensitive stomachs, it does include corn, wheat, and soy. As a result, it is not suitable for gluten-intolerant cats.

Pros

  • Ingredients that are gentle
  • Made in the United States
  • Aids digestion and the skin

Cons

  • Not suitable for gluten-intolerant cats.

 

Adult Sensitive Stomach Solid Gold Winged Tiger Dry Cat Food
 

Adult Dry Cat Food Solid Gold Winged Tiger with Quail & Pumpkin Grain-Free Sensitive Stomach is ideal for gluten-sensitive cats. If your cat is allergic to maize, wheat, or soy, this is an excellent remedy for both stomach problems and allergies.

Pumpkin is a well-known ingredient for upset stomachs due to its calming characteristics. Probiotics have also been introduced to help with digestion. This formula contains no toxic colours or artificial additions, which reduces interior irritation.

This cat food has a protein content of 30%, a fat content of 13%, a fiber content of 3%, and a moisture content of 10%. There are 385 calories in one cup.

The first ingredient is quail, a rare, nutritious protein that is followed by a succession of vitamin-packed delectableness for your cat to enjoy.

Grain-free recipes aren’t necessary for every cat, therefore it’s best for cats who have been identified with gluten sensitivity by their veterinarian.

Pros

  • Grain-free
  • The main ingredient is quail.
  • Probiotics

Cons

  • Grain-free isn’t suitable for all cats.

 

Go! SENSITIVITIES Duck Grain-Free Dry Limited Ingredient
 

Go! is another fantastic dry cat food for sensitive stomachs. SENSITIVITIES Duck Grain-Free Dry Cat Food with Limited Ingredients this dish contains no grains, soy, wheat, gluten, or maize.

It is also potato-free. It is a restricted ingredient cat food that is based on animal protein derived from duck meat and eggs and contains as few ingredients as possible, making it an excellent choice for cats with allergies and food sensitivities!

Chicory root provides fiber to aid digestion, and the addition of flaxseed adds a second source of fiber. The omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and a smooth coat, so your cat will be healthy on the inside and out.

Pros

  • Duck flesh protein and eggs from a single source
  • Grain-free
  • Omega-3 fatty acid content

Cons

  • Because it contains chicken eggs and lipids, it is not completely devoid of chicken.

 

Sensitive Chicken, Rice, and Peas Dry Nutro Wholesome Essentials
 

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Sensitive Cat Chicken, Rice, and Peas Recipe is an excellent choice for cats who have sensitive digestion.

It contains real chicken meat as the first ingredient and is devoid of corn, wheat, and soy protein, which are typical allergies for cats with sensitive stomachs. The beet pulp provides fiber to aid in digestion.

This recipe contains natural antioxidants that will help your cat’s immune system as well as omega-6 fatty acids that will promote healthy skin and a beautiful coat.

Pros

  • High protein content
  • Ingredients that are acceptable
  • It lessens vomiting.

Cons

  • Not suitable for all allergy problems.
  • Wheat, soy, corn, and byproducts are present.

Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Sensitive Stomach Cat Food

Many things can aggravate a cat’s sensitive stomach. It may be difficult to pinpoint exactly what is causing your kitty’s general distress at first.

Once you’ve worked with your veterinarian to determine the problem, you’ll be able to adapt their food properly.

Here, we’ll look at potential causes of GI discomfort and vomiting so you know what to look for when choosing the finest cat food for sensitive stomachs.

Of course, none of this material should be used in place of veterinary advice, but it can help you restrict your search.

Cats with Dietary Sensitivity

Your cat may exhibit both exterior and internal symptoms of a food allergy or irritant—or just one. Every cat will react uniquely.

However, the following are the most prevalent symptoms of intolerances or irritation:

Irritation of the Cat’s Skin

  • Itching that is excessive
  • Hair Fall
  • Redness

Cat Gastrointestinal Discomfort

  • Gas
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Rumbling stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Itching or redness in the rectum

Cats with Recurrent Infection

  • Infections of the ears
  • Infections caused by yeast

Cat Respiratory Problems

  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing

Interference with Cat Growth

  • Slow expansion
  • Growth has been slowed.

If your cat has to go through food trials, it could take several weeks or months to figure out what’s wrong. It could be as easy as a common substance that isn’t compatible with your cat’s system, or it could be a severe allergy.

Regurgitation vs. Vomiting in Cats

You may be alarmed if you notice your cat upchucking its supper. However, there is a distinction between vomiting up food and regurgitating it.

Vomiting is typically watery, stinky, and full of partially digested food. Regurgitated food is usually semi-solid and occurs very immediately after eating.

Eating too soon usually causes regurgitation. It’s typical to see a cat vomit up their supper if they eat it quickly. This form of evacuation is frequently associated with bingeing rather than having a sensitive stomach.

It normally takes a little longer after meals if they are vomiting. Heaving, gagging, and salivating are all symptoms. Vomiting soon after meals could be due to food, but it could also be a sign of another problem.

What Makes a Cat Vomit?

If your cat vomits more than once a month, you should be concerned. It could be diet-related, but you should consult with your veterinarian to rule out any other possibilities.

Your veterinarian can do a few tests to rule out common causes and provide you with advice depending on the results.

Feline Vomiting Categories

  • Feline Vomiting is a typical activity that occurs around once a month. It does not happen to all cats, but it is a common occurrence in certain.
  • Acute vomiting is defined as vomiting that occurs suddenly and violently. There is frequently an underlying issue, such as ingesting something they shouldn’t (not that cats would ever do that).
  • Chronic Vomiting—occurs frequently over a lengthy period of time. It’s the most common technique to determine that it’s most likely diet, but you’d have to look at all health areas to be sure.

Other Causes of Vomiting:

  • Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections—worms, for example, can cause vomiting in cats.
  • Hairballs—this is more common in longer-haired breeds and is an unwanted side effect of clean grooming.
  • Eating inedible objects—Some cats may eat houseplants and other random items that are lying about the house. Because your cats cannot digest them, they will just eject them (probably on your carpet).
  • Gallbladder issues—problems with this tiny filter can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and tiredness.
  • Food allergies—just like people, some foods simply do not work in your cat’s system. They are unable to digest these compounds for whatever reason. Internal and external reactions can occur.

Food Allergy Common Triggers

Cats cannot develop allergies to things they have never been exposed to, according to VCA Hospital. Allergies are frequently inherited, passing down from either parent.

However, keep in mind that cats will not respond until the allergen is present in their body. It could take months or even years for symptoms to appear.

Allergies occur when the immune system incorrectly classifies a source as a threat rather than food. While veterinarians are still investigating the origins of allergens in pets, a few chemicals have been identified as triggers.

  • Many common animal proteins in commercial cat food can induce allergic responses. Typically, meat, chicken, or fish are the culprits. Proteins that are less common, such as quail, duck, salmon, or venison, may work better for any cat who is sensitive to animal protein.
  • Fillers—the most common fillers found in recipes are maize, wheat, and soy. Unfortunately, while these nutrients may be beneficial to some, they are the leading causes of allergic reactions caused by food.
  • Dairy—cats are lactose intolerant by nature. Their bodies lack the enzymes required to break down lactose. Food containing dairy ingredients may be the source of stomach distress in cats.

Using the most natural ingredients available in your cat food can help to eliminate many of these problems.

Ingredients that Help with Digestion

When commercial cat food firms produce commercial recipes for various nutritional demands, they blend a number of components to aid in certain diets.

If your cat has a sensitive stomach, there are a few items that can help calm digestion and keep your cat from feeling sick.

You’ll Frequently Find One or More of the Following Ingredients:

  • Rice for brewers
  • Yummy sweet potatoes
  • Oatmeal
  • Barley
  • Pumpkin

Furthermore, entire or new protein sources assist the body in correctly compartmentalizing the food.

Proteins That Have Been Hydrolyzed

Many cat food manufacturers employ new, whole, and hydrolyzed proteins in their diet rather than meat meals to counteract inflammation and comfort the stomach.

  • Novel Protein—the term “novel protein” literally translates to “new” protein. So, if your cat has demonstrated adverse reactions to conventional meat sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish, you can try a new animal protein to alleviate this issue.
  • Hydrolyzed Protein—a protein supply is broken down into tiny molecular particles in hydrolyzed diets. The cat’s digestive system can then absorb it without eliciting an immunological response.

When protein is identified as a cause, many cats improve after switching diets.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you’ve discovered a solution to your kitty’s gastrointestinal problems.

Sensitivities to Hill’s Prescription Diet Food is our recommendation for the finest cat food for sensitive stomachs due to its overall good nutrition and promising outcomes.

Furthermore, Hill’s Prescription Diet Food is a reputable brand that caters to various pet nutrition requirements.

Consider Purina ONE Sensitive Stomach Dry Cat Food if you want to save money while still getting good results. Your cat will like the tasty, easy-to-digest diet, and you will appreciate the savings.

If neither of BestForPets‘ (bestforpets.org) top two cat food reviews of the best cat foods for sensitive stomachs & vomiting piqued your interest, we hope that another option resolves your sensitive stomach troubles once and for all.

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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