Cancer is a common disease that affects our feline companions. According to research, 1 out of every 5 cats develop some form of cancer in their lifetime. Cancer affects cats of all ages and breeds, making it a serious concern for any cat parent.
With early detection and treatment, many cats can live long, happy lives even after a cancer diagnosis.
One of the best ways to help your feline friend with cancer is to provide a diet that supports their unique nutritional needs.
The best food for cats with cancer should contain omega fatty acids to help boost their immune system. It should also provide premium animal protein and be highly enticing to encourage your cat to eat.
Our number one choice is Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Wet Cat Food.
This formula is specifically designed for cats with cancer and contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids to support your cat’s immune system. It is also flavorful and tasty, perfect for encouraging your cat to eat.
But if you are looking for other options like raw food, we’ve got you covered there too.
Our Top Picks: 05 Best Cat Food For Cats With Cancer
- Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Wet Cat Food (Best Overall Cat Food)
- Nulo FreeStyle Recipe Raw Cat Food (Best High Protein Food)
- Wellness Complete Health Canned Cat Food (Best Wet Food)
- Stella & Chewy’s Dinner Morsels Raw Cat Food (Best Raw Food)
- Vital Essentials Raw Cat Food (Best Premium Food)
05 Best Cat Food For Cancer Reviewed
The cat food brands we have reviewed are all-natural, high-quality options offering complete nutrition for cancer support and boosting immune health.
They all follow the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines. However, always consult your vet before changing your cat’s diet, especially if they are diagnosed with cancer.
Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 7% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 936 kcal/kg
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Pork Liver, Chicken, Carrots, Wheat Gluten
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Stew
Life Stage: All Life stages, Adult
Special Diet: Veterinary Diet
Pros:
- Highly digestible protein to maintain ideal weight
- Fortified with Omega fatty acids
- Veterinary diet formulated for cats with cancer
- Flavorful stew texture to entice appetite
- Plenty of moisture for hydration
Cons:
- More expensive compared to non-prescription options
- Requires a vet’s authorization to purchase
Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC wet cat food specifically supports cats with cancer and meets their unique nutritional needs. It contains high-quality protein from chicken and pork liver to maintain muscle mass and strength.
This cat food contains omega 3 and 6 acids from fish oil and coconut oil. These fatty acids help to support the immune health and reduce inflammation.
Coconut oil also has antioxidant properties that can help fight against free radicals, which is beneficial for cats with cancer.
The stew-like texture is highly palatable and can help entice even the pickiest eaters. It also provides plenty of moisture to keep your cat hydrated and energized. My usually picky cat found this enticing enough to try. I was relieved that we finally got the food she liked.
Veterinarians recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC as it is highly digestible, easy on the gut, and contains all the necessary nutrients to promote your cat’s health.
I have since noticed an improvement in my cat’s dull coat appearance, and her overall energy levels have increased.
The inclusion of l-carnitine and taurine helps support metabolism and heart function, while added vitamins and minerals help maintain overall health.
However, one downside to consider is the cost of this prescription diet. Most cat parents will find it more expensive than non-prescription options. Additionally, a vet’s authorization is required to purchase this food.
You might be hesitant to spend more or go through the hassle of getting a prescription, but isn’t your cat’s health and well-being worth it? Seeing your furry companion gain back their strength and vitality is priceless.
Nulo FreeStyle Recipe Raw Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 42% Crude Protein, 37% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 5% Moisture
Caloric Content: 235 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Necks, Turkey Liver, Duck, Duck Liver
Type of Product: Raw cat food
Food Form: Freeze-Dried, Food Topping
Life Stage: All Lifestages, Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, Low Glycemic, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Raw
Pros:
- Ultra-rich protein content
- Contains probiotics for gut health
- Low glycemic
- Used as a meal or delicious topper
- Made with real meat and organs for a natural source of essential nutrients
Cons:
- The formula may have changed
Nulo FreeStyle Recipe Raw Cat Food offers a high-quality, protein-rich diet for cats with cancer. The inclusion of real meat and organs provides essential nutrients in their most natural form, making it easier for cats with compromised digestive systems to absorb and utilize.
With an impressive 42% crude protein content, this raw cat food helps your cat build lean muscle.
For a dose of omega fatty acids, this recipe includes salmon oil, which provides DHA and ARA for cognitive function and healthy skin.
But what sets this cat food apart is its probiotics, which can help promote a healthy gut. This is important for cats with cancer as they may experience digestive issues due to their treatment.
Thoughtful ingredients such as spinach and cranberries provide additional antioxidants to support your cat’s immune system. Taurine and other essential vitamins and minerals help make this food a complete and balanced diet for your feline friend.
The natural ingredients give this food a premium feel and help ensure your cat gets the best nutrition. Most cats will eat it right out of the bag, but it can also be used as a delicious topper on their regular food for those with a finicky appetite.
However, some cat parents have noted that the formula may have changed recently, resulting in some cats not liking the taste as much as before.
Wellness Complete Health Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10.5% Crude Protein, 5% Crude Fat, 1% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 98 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Whitefish, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Salmon
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: All Life stages, Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free, Natural
Pros:
- Contains high-quality animal proteins
- Grain-free formula
- Pate texture is easy to eat and digest
- Plenty of moisture for hydration
Cons:
- Inconsistent quality
Wellness Complete Health Canned Cat Food features high-quality proteins such as turkey, whitefish, and salmon. These are all premium sources of animal proteins that provide your cat with essential amino acids needed for muscle growth.
The smooth, soft pate texture makes this food easy for kitties of all ages to eat and digest. My cat licks her bowl clean every time!
Every bite is rich in omegas from flaxseeds that help foster a healthy skin and coat. This grain-free formula is also free from common allergens like soy, wheat, and corn. This makes it an excellent choice for cats with sensitivities to these ingredients.
The added dried chicory root supports a healthy digestive system. It acts as a natural prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Taurine, vitamins, and minerals make it a complete and balanced meal for your feline friend. They will get all the necessary nutrients to maintain their overall health.
As you pour the food into your cat’s bowl, notice how she becomes more alert and excited. This is because the food has a strong aroma that your cat will find irresistible.
While this product has received mostly positive reviews from other cat parents, I found it to have inconsistent quality between batches, with some being more liquid than others.
Stella & Chewy’s Dinner Morsels Raw Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 40% Crude Protein, 37% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 5% Moisture
Caloric Content: 208 kcal/oz.
First 5 Ingredients: Turkey (Ground With Bone), Turkey Liver, Turkey Gizzard, Pumpkin Seed, Potassium Chloride
Type of Product: Raw cat food
Food Form: Freeze-Dried
Life Stage: All Life stages, Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Limited Ingredient Diet, Raw, Pea-Free, Natural, Premium
Pros:
- High protein content
- Limited ingredient formula
- Contains Probiotics
- Grain-free with natural ingredients
- Easy to reconstitute with water
Cons:
- Morsel pieces are too big
This raw diet contains real turkey as the primary source of protein. It also contains turkey liver and gizzard to increase the protein content further. These organ meats provide the amino acids to support your cat’s muscle repair and growth.
The addition of pumpkin seeds provides a healthy source of fiber for digestive health. One stand-out feature of this product is that it contains numerous probiotics, which aid in balancing the bacteria in the digestive system to support overall gut health.
This freeze-dried formula makes it easy to reconstitute with water, creating a soft and moist meal for your cat. Its raw texture closely mimics a cat’s natural diet and can aid in maintaining a healthy weight.
Stella & Chewy’s Dinner Morsels offers a limited ingredient formula, making it an ideal option for cats with food sensitivities or allergies. It also contains natural ingredients without artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
The ground bones in this formula provide calcium and other essential minerals for bone and teeth health. It also contains taurine, an amino acid that promotes heart and eye health in cats.
One potential downside of this product is that the morsel pieces are too large for my cat’s liking. However, you can quickly rectify this by breaking the pieces into smaller sizes before serving.
Vital Essentials Raw Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 36% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
Caloric Content: 295 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Chicken, Beef Liver, Beef Kidney, Herring Oil
Type of Product: Raw cat food
Food Form: Freeze-Dried
Life Stage: All Lifestages, Adult
Key Feature: Limited Ingredient Diet, Raw, Gluten Free, Grain-Free, High-Protein
Pros:
- High protein content from real meat sources
- Limited ingredient formula
- Packed with natural vitamins and minerals
- Gluten and grain-free
Cons:
- Pricey
Vital Essentials Raw Cat Food features real beef and chicken as the first two ingredients. This means your cat is getting a high-protein meal needed for their carnivorous diet.
The limited-ingredient formula also ensures that your cat is not consuming any unnecessary fillers or potential allergens. This is especially beneficial for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Herring oil, rich in omega fatty acids, helps boost your cat’s immune system and promotes a shiny coat.
It also provides a flavorful addition to the food. This raw cat food can, therefore, be served on its own or mixed with wet food to give your kitty the diet nature intended.
Every bite of this food contains natural sources of vitamins and minerals, making it a complete and balanced option for your feline friend. The freeze-dried form locks in the natural nutrients and flavor of the ingredients.
Unfortunately, with its high-quality ingredients, this product does come at a higher price point, which may not be suitable for cat parents on a budget.
What to Look For When Buying Cat Food for Cancer?
The best cat food for cancer should contain premium animal protein(s) and immune-boosting properties such as omega-3s and probiotics. But that’s not all; let’s dive deeper into the key factors that make a meal perfect for your kitty diagnosed with cancer.
High-Quality Animal Protein
Protein is a must-have nutrient for cats. It provides essential amino acids used for maintaining and repairing cells. Focus on highly digestible proteins like chicken, beef, turkey, or fish. Not only are these rich in essential amino acids, but they also resemble a cat’s natural prey in the wild and are easier to digest.
Rich in Omega Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids, specifically omega-3s, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help support a cat’s immune system. They also help to promote a shiny coat and skin.
Brands that contain fish oil or flaxseed are superb sources of omega fatty acids.
Probiotics for Gut Health
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that benefit a cat’s digestive system. They help maintain a balance of good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which can improve digestion and overall health.
With probiotics, your cat’s stomach can absorb nutrients better, which is crucial for cats with a decreased appetite.
Taste Preferences
Cats with cancer may experience a decrease in appetite, making it challenging to get them to eat. You will need to buy food your cat will enjoy eating or make it enticing. Warming up the food or adding some low-sodium chicken broth will make it more appealing to your cat.
Complete Balanced Diet
The diet you choose for your cat should provide all the essential nutrients in their diet. Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, E, C, and zinc, help support the immune system and promote overall health. Other nutrients like taurine and vitamin B are also essential for your cat’s overall wellness.
What are the Causes of Cancer in Cats?
Abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth in the body causes cancer in cats. These cells can form tumors or spread throughout the body, disrupting normal bodily functions.
About 6 million cats are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States, making it a common and serious health concern for cat parents. Regardless of the type of cancer, it can have a significant impact on your cat’s quality of life and require treatment.
Many factors can contribute to the development of cancer in cats, including:
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This virus can suppress a cat’s immune system and increase their risk of developing cancer. It is one of the most common diseases in cats.
- Exposure to smoke and asbestos: Cats living in homes with smokers or exposed to asbestos fibers have a higher likelihood of developing cancer.
- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Similar to FeLV, FIV can also weaken a cat’s immune system and make them more susceptible to cancer.
- UV exposure: Cats that spend a lot of time outdoors are more likely to develop skin cancer due to exposure to UV rays.
- Age of Getting Spayed: Cats who are spayed one year or older have a higher chance of developing mammary tumors.
- Breeds: Certain cat breeds, such as Siamese and Persian, are genetically predisposed to certain types of cancer.
Types of Cancers in Cats
Cancer can affect any part of a cat’s body. Many different types of cancers can develop, including:
Lymphoma: This is the most common type of cancer in cats, which affects the lymphatic system. It commonly appears in the lymph nodes but can also affect other organs such as the spleen, liver, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and bone marrow.
Mammary tumors: These are tumors that develop in the mammary gland tissue of female cats. They are commonly seen in unspayed cats and can be benign or malignant.
Fibrosarcoma: This is a type of cancer that originates in fibrous tissue. It spreads slowly but can be locally aggressive. It is often associated with vaccine or medication injection sites.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This affects the skin and mucous membranes. It quickly spreads and often affects white or light-colored cats exposed to sunlight outdoors.
Osteosarcoma: This is bone cancer that commonly affects large-breed cats. It usually occurs in the long bones and can cause lameness, swelling, and pain.
Mast Cell Tumors: These tumors affect cells in the immune system called mast cells. These cells are made in the bone marrow and distributed throughout the body.
Hemangiosarcoma: This type of cancer affects the blood vessels and can occur in any organ or tissue in the body.
Transitional cell carcinoma: This type of cancer affects the bladder of cats. It may present with symptoms such as difficulty urinating or blood in the urine.
Symptoms of Cancer in Cats
Cancer symptoms may vary depending on the type of cancer. Not all symptoms appear immediately; some develop over time. Common signs of cancer in cats include:
- Pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in appetite and eating habits
- Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
- Digestive distress
- Lumps or bumps on the body that grow or do not disappear
- Lethargy and lack of energy
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty passing urine or feces
- Foul odor/bad breathe
- Blood in urine or blood in stool
If you notice these symptoms, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your vet will review your cat’s medical history and conduct a physical examination. They will also carry out additional tests such as:
Blood Tests: to identify any abnormalities in the cat’s blood
Urine Tests: to detect signs of infection or other issues
X-rays: to check for signs of cancer in the bones or chest
Ultrasounds: to get a detailed look at internal organs and tissues
Endoscopy: entails inserting a thin tube with a camera attached to it into the cat’s mouth or rectum to examine the digestive tract
Biopsy: involves taking a small tissue sample from a suspicious area and examining it under a microscope for cancer cells.
Computed Tomography: also known as a CT scan, this imaging test provides high-resolution and contrast images of the cat’s internal structures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the cat’s body.
After making a diagnosis, your veterinarian will discuss treatment options with you. The best course of treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of your cat. Treatment options may include:
Surgery: to remove the tumor localized in one area.
Chemotherapy: uses drugs to kill cancer cells. This treatment is used for systemic or widespread cancers.
Radiation Therapy: uses high-energy beams to eradicate cancerous cells and shrink tumors. This treatment is often used for localized cancers that cannot be removed surgically.
Immunotherapy: involves using the cat’s immune system to fight against cancer cells. This treatment may include administering vaccines or other substances that help boost the immune response against cancer.
Palliative Care: focuses on improving the quality of life of your cat and managing symptoms rather than curing the disease. This may include pain management, nutritional support, and other supportive therapies.
Veterinarians often recommend a combination of treatments to ensure that all the cancer-causing cells are killed. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best suited for your cat.
What Other Ways Can I Help a Cat with Cancer?
Aside from medical treatments, your main goal is keeping your cat comfortable, well-fed, and pain-free.
- Provide your cat with a quiet, warm, and comfortable resting space. Make sure your cat has easy access to food, fresh water, and a litter box.
- Regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.
- Monitor your cat closely and keep a log of symptoms or changes in behavior. This can help your veterinarian determine the effectiveness of treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some unanswered questions? Let’s break down some common queries about cats with cancer.
How Long Can a Cat Live with Cancer?
The lifespan of a cat with cancer can vary greatly depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the overall health of the cat.
Some cats may live for several years with proper treatment and care, while others may only have a few months. In general, early detection and treatment can significantly increase a cat’s chances of living longer with cancer.
Is it Possible to Prevent Cancer in Cats?
There is no surefire way to prevent cancer in cats. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk potentially. These include:
- Regular vet check-ups.
- Avoid exposure to carcinogens such as secondhand smoke, asbestos, and toxic chemicals.
- Minimize your cat’s exposure to UV.
- Reduce the likelihood of FeLV infection by keeping vaccination up to date.
Can Cancer Be Treated?
Yes, cancer in cats can be treated through various methods such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The type of treatment will depend on the type, location, and stage of cancer your cat has been diagnosed with.
If my Cat Has Cancer, Does that Mean they are Going to Die?
No. It does not necessarily mean that your cat will die. If detected early, many cats can live with and even overcome cancer through treatment and management of their symptoms.
Are Some Cat Breeds More Prone to Cancers than Others?
Yes. Certain cat breeds may be more genetically predisposed to developing certain types of cancer. For example, Siamese and Persian cats are known to have a higher likelihood of developing mammary tumors. However, regardless of breed, all cats can develop cancer.
Conclusion
Cancer is an unfortunately common disease in cats. But it doesn’t have to mean discomfort and pain for your kitty. Instead, a complete and balanced nutrition that meets their needs can help keep those symptoms away.
For us, the best cat food for cancer is Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Wet Cat Food.
With plenty of omega-3 fatty acids to support your cat’s immune system and irresistible flavor, it is the perfect choice for your cat.
But if you need a specific type of food — like a limited-ingredient diet, we have included that on our list too. All the formulas are perfect to help cats with cancer get better.