Is Canned Cat Food Real Meat?

Canned cat food often contains a combination of animal proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The majority of canned cat foods are made with real meat, however, some products may contain by-products or plant-based proteins. In order to be sure that the canned cat food you are feeding your pet is made with real meat, it’s important to read the label carefully.

Real meat can include muscle meat from fish, poultry or other animals, as well as organs like hearts and livers.

By-products are parts of animals that are not typically eaten by humans such as intestines, brains, feet and feathers. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), by-products may include “the non-rendered clean parts of carcasses from slaughtered mammals” in addition to “meat from animals which have been inspected and passed for human consumption”.

In some cases, plant-based proteins such as soybean meal can be used in place of animal protein in canned cat food. While this is not necessarily a bad thing for cats, pet owners should be aware that such ingredients may not provide the same nutritional value as real meat.

Conclusion:

When shopping for canned cat food it is important to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure that the product contains real meat rather than by-products or plant-based proteins. While these ingredients can provide adequate nutrition for cats, real meat is typically a better source of essential nutrients.