For many cat parents, finding a cat food their picky eaters will enjoy is no easy task. First, you will need to try different types and brands to find the one your pet likes.
This can require a lot of trial and error, as even the most expensive wet food may be rejected and ignored by your cat, leading to wasted money.
Not to mention all the hours wasted trying to find something, your kitties will gobble up right away. But the dilemmas don’t end there.
Things can get even more complex if your picky eater has any health issues or allergies. So what’s the best wet cat food for a picky eater?
Our favorite food is Fancy Feast Savory Centers Canned Cat Food.
This wet food comes in a variety of different flavors, including chicken, beef, and real salmon, so you can find one that appeals to your fussy eater.
The dual pate and gravy texture will make for a more enjoyable eating experience, so your cat won’t get bored of the same old thing.
But we did not end there. We compiled a list of the best wet cat food for picky eaters with detailed information to help you make an informed decision. Here are our top choices.
Our Top Picks: Best Wet Cat Food For Picky Eaters
- Fancy Feast Savory Centers Canned Cat Food (Best Overall Food)
- Tiki Cat After Dark Canned Cat Food (Best For All Life Stages)
- Sheba Perfect Portions Grain Free Wet Cat Food (Best Tasting Food)
- Weruva Cats in the Kitchen Grain-Free Cat Food (Best Chicken Free Food)
- Merrick Backcountry Grain-Free Cat Food (Best Natural Food)
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Canned Cat Food (Best Premium Food)
- Royal Canin Canned Cat Food (Best For Kittens)
7 Best Wet Cat Food for Picky Eaters Reviewed
There are many reasons why your cat may be picky, but most often, it’s because they simply don’t like the taste or texture of their food.
The formulas below are designed to appeal to picky eaters with unique flavors and textures, as well as provide them with all the essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins they need.
We looked at the ingredients list to ensure they met the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for cats.
Fancy Feast Savory Centers Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein, 5.5% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
Caloric Content: 82 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Liver, Meat By-Products, Fish
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: N/A
Pros:
- Variety pack of four different flavors
- Dual texture of pate and gravy for a more enjoyable mealtime experience
- Contains quality sources of animal proteins
- Grain free formula for easy digestion
- Purrfect taste that cats love
Cons:
- Contains added artificial flavors and meat by-products
Fancy Feast Savory Centers comes in four different flavors, designed to appeal to picky eaters. The different flavors include chicken, beef, salmon, and tuna.
Its high-quality animal proteins provide optimal energy levels and help maintain muscle growth. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
The dual texture of pate and gravy provides a more enjoyable mealtime experience, and the grain-free formula is easy to digest for cats with grain sensitivities.
Cat parents with senior kitties appreciate the soft pate texture as older cats often struggle with dry cat food.
However, this food does contain added artificial flavors and meat by-products, which may not be suitable for some cats.
Tiki Cat After Dark Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 12% Crude Protein, 2.4% Crude Fat, 0.7% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
Caloric Content: 125 kcal/5.5 oz can
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Gizzard, Chicken Heart
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Sliced
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, Pea-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Natural, Non-GMO, Premium
Pros:
- Grain-free formula with no corn, wheat, or soy
- Premium quality animal-based proteins
- Contains fish oils for healthy skin and coat
- High moisture content for optimal hydration
- Complete and balanced diet suitable for all life stages
Cons:
- Some cat parents complain it contains too much broth
This grain-free wet cat food contains high-quality proteins from real chicken and duck to provide cats with the essential amino acids they need for healthy muscles.
It also contains fish oils from tuna, essential for healthy skin and coat. The high moisture content helps keep your picky cats hydrated.
This formula from Tiki is suitable for all life stages, so you can also give it to kittens. Plus, a vitamin D content of 2,210.56IU/kg is great for strong bones and teeth.
However, some cat parents have complained that it contains too much broth and little meat.
Sheba Perfect Portions Grain Free Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 7% Crude Protein, 2.5% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 84% Moisture
Caloric Content: 31 kcal ME/serving
First 5 Ingredients: Water, Chicken, Poultry By-Products, Animal Plasma, Tapioca Starch
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Minced
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free
Pros:
- Grain-free formula for easy digestion
- Includes taurine to promote healthy eyesight and heart health
- Portion controlled trays for convenience and freshness
- Great balance of chicken and gravy
- Multiple flavors available
Cons:
- Contains animal by-products and artificial colors
Sheba Perfect Portions contains real chicken, providing a high-quality source of protein for cats. This formula comes in portioned trays that can be served right away for convenience, freshness, and less mess.
The grain-free formula is easy to digest and contains essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet. It also includes taurine, which helps promote healthy eyesight and heart health.
Fish oil provides the bulk of healthy fatty acids in this recipe, which help keep your cat’s coat and skin healthy.
With this cat food, you get an excellent balance of chicken and gravy in a minced texture for an enjoyable mealtime experience. Plus, there are multiple flavors available to choose from.
Unfortunately, this food does contain animal by-products and artificial colors.
Weruva Cats in the Kitchen Grain-Free Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein, 1.4% Crude Fat, 0.5% Crude Fiber, 85% Moisture
Caloric Content: 60 kcal/3-oz pouch
First 5 Ingredients: Fish Broth, Tuna, Pumpkin, Tapioca Starch, Sunflower Seed Oil
Type of Product: Wet cat food, Treats
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Gluten Free, Grain-Free, Pea-Free, Non-GMO, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Natural, Chicken-Free
Pros:
- High-quality proteins from fish provide essential amino acids
- Grain free formula is easy to digest
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
Cons:
- Some cat parents complain it is too brothy
Weruva Cats in the Kitchen is a grain-free wet food cat parents love. It contains skipjack tuna, a high-quality animal protein source that provides essential amino acids and helps maintain muscle growth.
Skipjack tuna has lower levels of mercury compared to other types of tuna according to this research carried out. The food also contains essential vitamins and minerals as well as Omega 3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
This formula is not only grain-free but also contains pumpkin, promoting healthy digestion. Plus, the chunks in gravy texture is an excellent choice for picky eaters as it is soft and easy to chew.
Cat parents appreciate the high moisture content for cats who don’t drink enough water. However, some cat parents complain that the formula is too brothy and not very filling.
Merrick Backcountry Grain-Free Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 1.2% Crude Fiber, 81% Moisture
Caloric Content: 80 kcal/3-oz pouch
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Rabbit, Lamb Broth, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Deboned Lamb
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten Free, Grain-Free, High-Protein, Pea-Free, Natural, Premium
Pros:
- Contains quality sources of animal proteins and fats for optimal energy levels
- Grain free formula for easy digestion
- Variety of different flavors to choose from
- Can be used as a topper or served on its own
Cons:
- Pricey
- Chunks may be too big for some cats
This food contains real deboned rabbit as the first ingredient, an excellent source of animal-based protein for cats.
It also has other high-quality animal proteins such as beef liver and deboned lamb, giving your cat all the essential amino acids they need for a balanced diet.
The grain-free formula is easy to digest and can be used as a topper or served on its own.
Your cat will also benefit from the salmon oil in this formula which provides healthy fats for a shiny coat.
The chunks may be too big for some cats, so you may have to blend them into pate before serving. Merrick Backcountry is also pricey, so this might not be an ideal choice for those on a budget.
Purina Pro Plan Adult Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 2% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 80% Moisture
Caloric Content: 73 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Water, Salmon, Wheat Gluten, Chicken, Liver
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: High-Protein, With Grain
Pros:
- Rich in protein from real salmon
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
- Formulated to support healthy skin and coat
Cons:
- Pricey
Purina Pro Plan is formulated with real salmon, providing a source of animal-based protein that helps support lean muscles and healthy energy levels.
Salmon is not the only source of high-quality proteins in this wet food, as it contains chicken and liver.
This wet food is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure your cat gets a balanced diet. The inclusion of vitamin A and taurine helps support eye health.
Plus, it contains omega-6 fatty acids that help promote healthy skin and coat.
This is not a grain-free formula. But it includes easy-to-digest grains such as rice to give your cat energy and help maintain healthy digestion.
It is on the pricier side compared to other wet cat foods. But many cat parents say their cats love this flavor and texture, so it is worth the extra cost.
Royal Canin Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 3.2% Crude Fat, 1.7% Crude Fiber, 80% Moisture
Caloric Content: 76 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Pork By-Products, Chicken By-Products, Chicken Liver, Pork Liver
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: Kitten
Key Feature: With Grain
Pros:
- Specially formulated for kittens
- Contains quality sources of animal proteins
- Includes digestible fibers to help with digestion
- Contains vitamin E and antioxidants to support a kitten’s immune system
- Easily digestible formula
Cons:
- Pricey
- Contains pork by-products, chicken by-products
Royal Canin is specially formulated for kittens and contains quality sources of animal proteins for lean muscle growth. Its formula includes chicken, chicken liver, and pork liver.
The pate texture is soft enough for sensitive tummies and palates while still providing the necessary nutrition for growing kitties.
This wet food also contains vitamins E, C and antioxidants to promote a kitten’s developing immune system. It is easily digestible even though it’s a grain-inclusive formula.
Fish oil is an excellent source of omega fatty acids and DHA which helps support healthy brain development in growing kittens.
Cat parents appreciate the inclusion of digestible fibers in this recipe that help support a healthy digestive system.
Unfortunately, it does come with a hefty price tag and contains chicken and pork by-products.
Why are Cats Picky Eaters?
Cats are predators, and they naturally have a strong instinct to hunt. This means they feed primarily on meat, relying on their superior sense of smell to find their prey.
When it comes to cat food, flavor, and aroma are the primary drivers for cats, so if they don’t find the food appealing, they won’t eat it. This is why pet companies have developed various flavors and textures in cat food.
A cat’s food preferences are also formed when they are young, so if they are exposed to a particular food during their kittenhood, they may be more likely to accept it in adulthood. That is why it is vital to introduce a variety of foods to your kitten early on.
But only do so in small amounts and over many days, as sudden changes in their diet can cause stomach upset and other health issues.
Other possible reasons for picky eating behavior include health issues such as kidney disease or dental issues, stress or anxiety, boredom, and wrong food texture.
Health Issues
Health issues can also be the reason why cats become picky eaters. Cats with dental pain may prefer softer or wet food over dry food. It is essential to monitor your cat’s eating habits, and if you think that they are avoiding food because of an illness, it is best to bring them to the vet for a check-up.
Wrong Texture of Food
Another reason why cats may be picky is because of the texture of their food. Some cats may prefer wet food over dry food or vice versa. Experiment with different textures and types of cat food to find the one your pet likes.
Bored Eating the Same Food
Cats can become bored with their food if they eat the same thing daily. To combat this, try topping off their meals with a food topper or getting a variety of flavors in a variety pack. Mix wet and dry foods together, as this will give them something new to explore.
Wrong temperature of Food
Cats may not be interested in their food if it is cold or too hot. On a cold day, your cat may prefer their food to be warm, while on a hot day, they may want it cooler. Generally, cats prefer their food to be at a temperature of about 37℃.
Stress
Cats may become picky because they are not feeling hungry due to stress. If your cat is stressed, try to identify the source and take steps to reduce it.
Some cats may also be more sensitive to changes in their environment than others so if you have recently moved or introduced a new pet, that could be why they are not eating. A sudden change of food may also be the culprit.
How do I Get my Picky Cat to Eat?
Getting your cat to try a new food can be difficult. But there are some tricks that you can use to make mealtime more enticing for your picky cat.
Add Variety to their Diet
Mixing up their food every now and then can help keep your cat interested in mealtimes. You can switch the protein sources from chicken to turkey, salmon, duck, or venison.
Also, try adding different flavors and textures or a food topper. This will allow your picky eater to explore their mealtime options and find something they enjoy.
Follow Strict Feeding Times
Sticking to strict feeding times instead of letting them graze all day will help you maintain a better schedule and get your picky eater back on track.
Routine is important for cats, so feed them at set times each day. This will help your cat’s appetite stay regular and consistent, leading to better mealtime habits.
You can also try eating with your cat to encourage them to eat. If you are not home during mealtimes, you can try automated feeders or timed food dispensers to keep up with your cat’s eating schedule.
Make Food Aroma more Appealing
A cat’s powerful sense of smell draws them to food that smells appetizing. Warm up cold food in the microwave for a few seconds to release more of its aromas and tempt your picky eater.
You can also add water or chicken broth if your cat prefers more moisture in their wet food. Adding wet food to dry kibble can also give it a more exciting flavor.
Offer a Wet Food Diet
If your picky eater still isn’t eating enough, you can offer them a wet diet or a mix of dry and wet food. Wet food is typically more flavorful and contains more moisture, which helps keep your cat hydrated.
Enhance the Fat Content
Dietary salmon oil is a source of healthy fats that can help boost the food’s palatability. This can be a great way to get your picky eater interested in their food and more willing to try something new.
What to Look for When Buying Cat Food for a Picky Cat
If you have a finicky eater at home, you know how challenging it can be to find food they will enjoy. Here is everything you need to know when buying cat food for a picky eater.
Protein Source
Cats need protein as their primary source of energy. However, not all proteins are the same. For cats, look for foods that contain real animal-based protein, such as chicken, salmon, or turkey.
Some cats may prefer the taste of a particular protein source over another. Your cat may like fish-based proteins such as salmon and tuna or poultry-based proteins such as chicken or turkey.
Therefore, it’s essential to experiment with different protein sources and find the one your cat prefers.
Moisture
Cats tend to prefer wet food over dry. Wet cat food also contains more moisture content which helps keep them hydrated.
The moisture level of canned food is close to that of a cat’s natural diet, making it more appealing for picky cats.
Texture and Shape
When it comes to texture and shape, cats tend to prefer smaller pieces with softer textures.
For cats new to wet food, try starting with a smoother texture, such as pureed chunks or pate-style foods. For kibble, cats tend to prefer easy-to-grasp, crunchy shapes.
Quality of Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients in your cat food is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for high-quality natural ingredients and ensure it contains no genetically modified meat.
Age
Aging cats may experience changes in their sense of smell and taste, so they may prefer more aromatic and flavorful foods.
What to Avoid
Picky cats are sensitive and can quickly tell if their food contains anything she doesn’t like. Here are some ingredients that you should avoid when it comes to feeding your picky eater.
- Dairy Products: Cats are lactose intolerant, and dairy products can cause digestive issues.
- Artificial Flavors and Colors: These are added to cat food to make it more appealing but offer no nutritional benefits. They can sometimes even cause allergies or upset stomachs. What you see as your cat’s picky behavior may be a reaction to these additives.
- Sugar and Sweeteners: Cats don’t need added sugar in their diet as it can cause health problems in the long run. In fact, they can’t even taste sweetness.
- Grains: While some cats may not have a problem with grains, grain-free diets are often easier to digest. Grains such as corn, wheat, and soy can be harder for cats to process, leading to digestive issues and disinterest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will a Picky Cat Eat?
A picky cat will eat whatever appeals to their senses. That means they may prefer certain textures, flavors, or types of food.
Experiment with different flavors and textures to see what your cat prefers. Wet food is usually more flavorful than dry kibble and is more appealing to picky cats.
How Long Can a Picky Cat Go Without Eating?
A picky cat may go up to two weeks without eating. If your cat does not eat for more than 48 hours, take them to the vet right away, as they could be suffering from an underlying health issue.
When Should You Start to Worry About Picky Eaters?
You should be concerned if your cat is consistently refusing food or starts to lose weight. Take them to the vet as soon as possible, as this could indicate an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
Which is Better for Picky Cats – Wet or Dry Food?
Wet food is generally better for picky cats as it contains more moisture and flavor. Wet food also tends to be more palatable, so getting your cat to eat is usually easier. Dry food can be a good option for cats that need a dental health boost.
What do I do If My Cat Refuses to Eat?
If your cat refuses to eat, it may be a result of whisker fatigue. Whiskers are sensitive and can feel uncomfortable when they touch the sides of food bowls. Try switching to a shallow, wide feeding bowl instead to see if it helps.
How Can I Add Moisture to my Cat’s Dry Food?
Add some canned food, broth, or warm water to your cat’s dry food.
How Do I Make Food More Appealing for my Cat?
Adding food toppers or chicken broth to your cat’s food can make it more appealing and tasty.
Serving your cat warm food can also make it more appetizing. You can also add fish oils like salmon oil to your cat’s food.
How Should I go About Introducing a New Food to my Cat?
When introducing new food to your cat, start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current diet.
Gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of their old diet for at least one week. This will help them adjust to the taste of the new food without feeling overwhelmed.
Always monitor your cat’s reaction to the new food. If your cat starts exhibiting signs of digestive upset or refuses to eat the new food, go back to their old diet for a while and try introducing something else later on.
Our Verdict
Picky eaters can be a challenge when providing them with the nutrition they will love. But understanding what your cat likes and needs is key to finding the best tasting cat food for picky eaters.
Our top choice is Fancy Feast Savory Centers Canned Cat Food.
Its dual texture of gravy and pate will appeal to your picky cat’s taste buds. This wet food also comes in various flavors, so there is something for every fussy eater out there.
And if your cat has specific preferences, like only eating grain-free or fish-based proteins, plenty of other options are available in our list too.