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The Best Sensitive Stomach Cat Food: Benefits, Reviews, and Ingredient Analysis
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What is the Best Food for a Cat With a Sensitive Stomach?
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  | Premium quality and grain-free cat food suitable for cats with food sensitivities to common grains. | Get 30% Off The Honest KitchenGet on Amazon | |
Best Grain-Free  | This cat food is grain-free and gluten-free for cats with allergies or sensitive GI tracts. | Get on JustFoodForDogs | |
Best Human-Grade  | Ideal for cats with tummy issues, made with selected limited ingredients, free from grains, fillers, and preservatives. | Get on Smalls | |
Best Adult  | A high-protein wet food formula that is highly suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs. | Get on Raised Right | |
Best Nutrient-Dense  | A top choice for sensitive stomachs, this cat food uses premium ingredients. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy | |
Best Natural  | Made using natural ingredients, this cat food is great if your feline friend suffers from a sensitive stomach. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy | |
Most Premium  | This dry cat food contains premium ingredients that offer beneficial nutrients that help boost your cat’s immunity. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy | |
Best For Skin Health  | If your cat suffers from skin conditions, this cat food works to remove inflammation and also stops itching. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy | |
Most Affordable  | This cat food for sensitive stomachs is easy on the pocket for most pet parents. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy | |
Best For All Ages  | Unlike dry cat foods, this sensitive stomach cat food is great for cats who find it difficult to digest dry kibble. | Get on Amazon | |
Most Popular  | Additive-free cat food is among the most popular choices available on various online platforms such as Amazon. | Get on Amazon | |
For Improved Digestion  | If your cat has digestive troubles, this particular product comes to the rescue as it helps to improve digestion. | Get on AmazonGet on Chewy |
What is Sensitive Stomach Cat Food?
Sensitive stomach cat food is pet food formulated to be easy on the stomach and support overall digestive health. It is made with easily digestible, high-quality ingredients whose presence does not disturb the cat’s digestion system.
Sensitive stomach cat food contains all essential nutrients such as protein, fat, carbs, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, taurine, vitamin A, vitamin E, prebiotics for cats, probiotics for cats, and other nutrients.
However, to minimize the risk of upset stomach, sensitive stomach cat foods are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They should also be free from fillers, by-products, and ingredients that can irritate the cat’s gastrointestinal tract.
Why Would a Cat Need Sensitive Stomach Food?
Digestive problems are common in cats. They can stem from various issues such as food allergies and sensitivities. In such cases, sensitive stomach cat food is recommended.
Here are some benefits of switching your cat’s diet to a sensitive stomach formula.
- Improved Health. You can expect to see an improvement in your cat’s overall health once you start giving them food that is meant for sensitive stomachs. This is because a cat with stomach upset is not feeling at its best.
- Efficient Digestion. Since food meant for a sensitive stomach solves digestive issues, the cat’s body will be able to absorb the essential nutrients it needs for sustaining itself. This makes digestion more efficient and supports overall digestive health.
- Strong Immune System. Since this food helps nutrient absorption, your cat’s immune system gets a boost in its ability to fight off infections. This makes the cat more resistant to potential pathogens and less prone to health issues.
- Litter Box Management. Cat food for sensitive stomachs helps prevent cat diarrhea as the most common sign of stomach upset. Diarrhea makes a mess in the litter box and preventing it will help keep the box as hygienic as possible.
The Best Sensitive Stomach Cat Food Reviewed
Sensitive stomach formulas come in dry and wet cat food options. Some are limited ingredient diets, and others are exclusively prescription diets. If the terms are confusing and you cannot choose the right product for your cat, take a look at our review of the best sensitive stomach cat food recipes.
Summary: Only organic, minimally processed, and human-grade ingredients are used in The Honest Kitchen’s nutrient-rich pet food. These grain-free, protein-rich, bite-sized chicken clusters were developed in collaboration with a veterinary nutritionist using a range of cage-free chicken, organic foods, and a probiotic boost to aid in digestion. Probiotics and other calming elements support healthy digestion, while flax seeds keep your cat’s coat healthy and reduce hairballs. Cranberries also boost your cat’s urinary health. Customers can also get 30% off on their first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30.
Best for: Adult cats
Price: $7.99/lb
- 30% off on first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30
- All-natural, Non-GMO ingredients
- Rich in moisture and protein
- No preservatives, artificial colors, and meat meals
- Human-grade quality
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Irresistibly delicious
- High in calories
- High in fat content
Ingredient Analysis
- Cage-free chicken: This can give cat kibble more weight and is an excellent source of natural protein. It also provides essential nutrients and is easy to digest.
- Turmeric: This supports cats with arthritis as well as those who may be battling with cancer. Additionally, it aids with feline digestion, treats skin conditions, and promotes cardiovascular health.
- Organic Barley: This aids digestion in cats, encourages healthy skin and fur, and freshens breath. Additionally, it may boost energy levels, particularly in senior cats.
- Rosemary extract: This aids in preventing free radical damage to a cat’s brain.
Review: Many devoted customers claim that the Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Clusters recipe has considerably benefited in the right weight management of their cats as well as helped them develop a good set of teeth and a healthy coat. Some of them have also stated that their cats have been eating The Honest Kitchen’s dry cat food for a number of years and that it is of unmatched quality.
Summary: This cat food is grain-free and gluten-free for cats with allergies or sensitive GI tracts. This recipe includes a blend of fiber sources to support digestive health. It is also high in protein and low in carbohydrates to support a balanced diet. Wild-caught Alaskan Pacific cod is an excellent low-fat source of protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Type: Wet cat food formula
Best for: Adult cats
Price: $14.29
- Ideal for cats with allergies or sensitive GI tracts
- Moisture-rich and naturally hydrating
- Meets AAFCO standards for adult cat nutrition
- Perfect for cats with grain allergies
- Great source of healthy fats and is high in protein
- Only available in one flavor
Ingredient Analysis:
Wild-caught Alaskan Pacific cod: This is an excellent source of low-fat protein with omega-3 fatty acids.
Chicken thighs, chicken hearts, and chicken liver: Since cats are true carnivores this recipe also includes organ meats that help build muscle and maintain good health. They also help support digestion and the immune system.
Tapioca starch: Tapioca starch is the only carbohydrate source and is easily digested. It is an excellent source of iron, manganese, and calcium and acts like a fiber to help maintain gut health.
Whole Atlantic sardines: These sardines are sourced from the purest and cleanest waters in the Atlantic. Sardines are also high in omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain healthy skin and coat.
JustCats nutrient blend: This blend includes Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Iodide, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Choline Bitartrate, Manganese Gluconate, Vitamin E Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Niacinamide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate.
Review: Pet owners say this food has helped their cat’s GI and IBD issues to promote a healthier digestive tract. Customers also appreciate the customer service and fast shipping. With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, cat owners love JustCats.
Summary: Smalls Cat Food offers human-grade food for cats in three flavor options (Bird, Other Bird & Cow) and three textures (smooth, ground, and pulled). All recipes are AAFCO-approved, fresh or freeze-dried, and made with high-quality ingredients. The brand offers customizable subscription and meal plans as well as discounts.
Type: Fresh & Freeze-dried cat food
Best for: Cats of all life stages
Price: $1.25-1.93/meal
- Nutrient-dense, human-grade food
- Easily digestible, homemade recipes
- Suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs
- Three flavor and three texture options
- No grains, fillers, or artificial additives
- No significant cons
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken Recipe: Contains chicken, chicken liver, green beans, peas, chicken hearts, and kale. Plus, it is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and taurine.
- Other Birds Recipe: Contains turkey thigh, turkey liver, green beans, peas, and kale. Plus, it is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and taurine.
- Cow Recipe: Contains beef, beef liver, green beans, and spinach. Plus, it is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and taurine.
Review: Cat owners are noticing an improvement in their cats’ physical health and mood after using Smalls. They are also happy with the convenience of the brand and the customizable plans.
Summary: Raised Right’s Original Chicken Cat Recipe is a high-protein wet food formula that is highly suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs. At Raised Right, safety food standards are highly valued and food is prepared at minimal temperatures, which are hot enough to eliminate pathogens like salmonella and E. coli while remaining cool enough to preserve moisture and nutritional content. Before shipping, each batch is lab-tested to make sure it is pathogen-free, and the findings of each test are made available online. Moreover, Raised Right does not only produce human-grade, grain-free cat formula—each menu comes in compostable packaging, hence adhering to their plastic neutrality and sustainability missions.
Type: Wet cat formula
Best for: Cats of all life stages
Price: $10.99 per bag
- A human-grade wet formula perfect for cats with sensitive stomachs
- Grain-free and limited-ingredient
- Made with 100% whole foods and real meat
- Free from synthetic vitamins and minerals
- Rich in complex B vitamins and minerals
- Needs to be defrosted before serving
Ingredient Analysis:
- Chicken Thigh, Chicken Heart, & Chicken Liver: Chicken is abundant in high-quality proteins and contains Vitamin B12, tryptophan, choline, zinc, iron, and copper.
- Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and are a fair source of Vitamin C, Niacin, and Vitamin B6.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and potassium.
- Organic Spearmint: Organic spearmint is rich in antioxidants and other healthy plant substances that may support hormone balance, regulate blood sugar, and improve digestion for your dogs.
- Cod Liver Oil: Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, an essential nutrient for immune system function, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in your dog’s body.
- Eggshell Powder: Eggshell Powder is high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium
- Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseed oil is rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
- Organic Dried Kelp: Together with folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6, organic dried kelp also contains vitamins K, A, C, and E. It also provides moderate levels of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid.
- Taurine: Taurine is essential for good immune function, healthy gestation and fetal development, normal vision, digestion, and heart muscle function.
- Thiamine mononitrate: Thiamine, often known as vitamin B1, is a necessary vitamin for cats and is crucial to the proper functioning of the brain and other high-energy organs.
Review: Many pet owners loved Raised Right’s Original Chicken Recipe for their cats. They reported that this formula smells great and their cats don’t hesitate to munch it. They also praised the product’s high-quality ingredients, which don’t cause their cats stomach upset, as well as its sustainable packaging.
Summary: This brand of cat food offers specialized nutrition to support your cat’s sensitive systems making it our top pick. In addition to improving stomach health, it also boosts skin health and prevents itching, dandruff, and dermatitis. It also contains natural prebiotic fiber for added benefits which make your cat feel healthy and stay nourished. Omega-6 fatty acids present in the food help keep your cat’s immunity functioning at peak performance. Additionally, contains no artificial colors or flavors, and has 25 essential vitamins and minerals.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult Cats
Price: $3.5/pound
- Made with real turkey
- Fiber blend to support digestive health
- Contains 25 essential vitamins and minerals
- 100% complete and balanced nutrition
- No added artificial flavors or preservatives
- The packaging could be stronger
Ingredient Analysis
- Turkey By-Product Meal: In addition to imparting a delicious flavor to the food, this is a great source of protein and is relatively easy to digest for cats with a sensitive stomach.
- Rice: In addition to being a great source of carbohydrates, rice is easy to digest and contains fiber that improves bowel movement.
- Corn Gluten Meal: While this is not a recommended ingredient according to some vets, corn is usually added to cat food as a source of carbs.
- Soybean Meal: This is a great source of plant protein and also is easier to digest. However, this product might not suit some cats.
Review: This sensitive stomach cat food is crunchy and made with high-quality protein, including real farm-raised turkey. It is great for sensitive stomachs.
Summary: This cat food is not only easily digestible, but it also improves your cat’s skin and coat health. It also contains a significant amount of antioxidants that help to boost your cat’s immunity. As a result, your cat falls ill a lot less often and is protected from seasonal allergies. This cat food also reduces itching and other skin problems as it is formulated with Vitamin E and Omega-6. It also contains prebiotic fiber that makes it easy for your cat to digest food, especially if they have a sensitive stomach.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult Cats
Price: $3.5/pound
- Contains real turkey as the no.1 ingredient
- Easily digestible formula
- Improves skin and coat health
- Veterinarian recommended product
- Contains high protein content
- The smell might not suit some cats
Ingredient Analysis
- Turkey: This is a great source of natural protein and can add bulk to cat food. It is easy to digest and contains beneficial nutrients.
- Chicken By-Product Meal: This is usually not recommended by vets, but it adds a great flavor to your cat’s meal, making them come back for more.
- Whole Grain Corn: A great source of fiber, corn helps improve digestion. However, it might not suit some cats.
- Beef Fat: This not only adds a great flavor to the meal but also provides sustained energy for your cat to play all day.
Review: This sensitive stomach cat food contains antioxidants and omega fatty acids that boost their immune system while nurturing sensitive skin.
Summary: This cat food is made with the finest natural ingredients. In addition to real meat as the first ingredient, the food also contains grains, veggies, fruit, and the brand’s trademark LifeSource Bits. Carefully balanced proteins and fat help maintain an ideal body weight in your cat, especially if they have an erratic eating pattern. Additionally, it contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for immune system support.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult Cats
Price: $3.2/pound
- Real chicken meat is the first ingredient
- With health-boosting LifeSource Bits
- Supports hairball and weight control
- Helps maintain strong muscles
- Promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin
- Some cats dislike the use of fruits & veggies
Ingredient Analysis
- Deboned Chicken: This is a great source of lean protein for cats and is among the top favorite ingredients in cat recipes.
- Chicken Meal: This adds a great poultry flavor to the cat food making your cat come back for more and more.
- Whole Ground Brown Rice: In addition to antioxidants, brown rice contains carbohydrates and fiber that boost digestion.
- Oatmeal: This helps ‘cool’ your dog’s skin, especially if they have been suffering from itching and inflammation.
Review: In addition to the real meat, this sensitive stomach cat food also contains cranberries, blueberries, apples, and blackberries. These provide an antioxidant and fiber boost for enhanced digestion.
Summary: This cat food provides optimal digestive health to your feline friend while nourishing the skin & promoting lustrous fur. It contains probiotics that build beneficial gut bacteria in your cat’s gastrointestinal tract improving digestion and an easy bowel movement. It contains easy-to-digest ingredients that allow your cat’s stomach to process nutrients quickly. Additionally, this cat food does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal and provides clinically proven antioxidant benefits.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult Cats
Price: $3/pound
- A great source of prebiotic fiber
- Helps build beneficial gut bacteria
- Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption
- Helps nourish an adult cat's skin with vitamin E
- Made with natural ingredients
- Contains gluten (an issue with some cats)
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken: This is a great source of protein for cats and is among the top favorite ingredients for lean muscle and overall feline health.
- Corn Gluten Meal: While this is not a recommended ingredient according to some vets, corn is usually added to cat food as a source of fiber.
- Brewers Rice: In addition to being a great source of carbohydrates, rice is easy to digest and contains fiber that improves bowel movement.
- Chicken Fat: This not only adds a great flavor to the meal, but it also gives sustained energy for your cat to play all day.
Review: The Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach is well-balanced and with a unique flavor that cats find really appealing. It also helps enhance digestion and coat health.
Summary: This cat food is made using premium ingredients and sustainable practices. It offers a holistic blend of nutritious whole meat along with non-GMO fruits and veggies. Additionally, it also contains essential vitamins and minerals that your cat needs to look and feel its best. It does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It is easy to digest for cats with sensitive stomachs. Overall, the food’s taste and crunchy texture are also highly palatable and perfect for picky eaters.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult cats & kittens
Price: $3.5/pound
- Does not contain chicken meal or fish meal
- Contains high-quality chicken
- Made with non-GMO fruits and vegetables
- Ingredients sourced from the US
- Tailored for the nutritional needs of growing kittens
- The dry food might be difficult for kittens to chew
Ingredient Analysis
- Salmon: This not only provides a delicious seafood flavor to the meal, but it also contains fatty acids that improve coat health.
- Dried Egg Product: This adds great flavor and also essential nutrients that your cat might need for their daily sustenance.
- Oats: This helps reduce inflammation on your cat’s skin and reduces itching. It also supports easy digestion.
- Dried Peas: This is a great source of plant protein and dietary fiber.
Review: If your cat is a picky eater, you can be sure that they will love this sensitive stomach cat food. It is also great for cats with digestive troubles.
Summary: This sensitive digestion cat food is made with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient formulating it with high levels of protein. The food is easy for your feline friend’s sensitive stomach to handle since it contains no corn, wheat, artificial colors, or preservatives. It is formulated with 25 essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including taurine, an essential amino acid. It is enriched with natural prebiotic fiber, which helps support your cat’s digestive health. The brand also includes antioxidants in this grain-free cat food for a healthy immune system.
Type: Wet cat food
Best for: Adult Cats & kittens
Price: $1.7/can
- Made with real meat
- Contains no artificial colors or preservatives
- Provides focused nutrition
- High moisture content for healthy hydration
- Contains 25 essential vitamins and minerals
- Portion sizes might be small for some cats
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken: This is a great source of lean and nutritious protein for cats.
- Liver: This is not only a great source of protein, but it also contains iron that helps build more blood in your cat’s body.
- Meat By-Products: These are additional sources of protein. However, some veterinarians do not recommend this ingredient.
Review: This sensitive stomach cat food is expertly formulated to give your cat outstanding nutrition that supports skin and coat nourishment plus antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
Summary: This high-protein cat food formula starts with real lamb as the first ingredient and is rounded out with easily digestible rice and oatmeal. Each serving contains probiotics that support your cat’s digestive and immune health. Additionally, it also contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A to nourish your cat’s skin and coat. Furthermore, the food is 100% complete and balanced for adult cats.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult cats
Price: $3.47/pound
- Easily digestible, high protein formula
- Real lamb is the first ingredient
- Fortified with live probiotics
- Gentle on the digestive system
- Relatively affordable price tag
- Contains gluten which might not suit some cats
- The product might not be affordable to some pet owners
Ingredient Analysis
- Lamb: This is a great source of protein for cats and is among the top favorite ingredients for lean muscles and healthy weight maintenance.
- Rice: In addition to being a great source of carbohydrates, rice is easy to digest and contains fiber that improves bowel movement.
- Corn Gluten Meal: While this is not a recommended ingredient according to some vets, corn is usually added to cat food as a source of fiber.
- Dried Egg Product: Adds great flavor and also essential nutrients that your cat might need for their daily sustenance.
Review: This sensitive stomach cat food contains high levels of protein and is easy on your cat’s sensitive stomach. It also provides all the essential nutrients for added benefits.
Summary: This dry cat food offers tailored nutrition that is made to support your cat’s sensitive stomach. Prebiotics and highly digestible proteins promote digestion and a balanced intestinal tract so that your feline can enjoy their food. The three unique cat kibble shapes offer maximum appetite appeal. Even a small serving contains a large number of nutrients. So even if your cat is not eating a lot, it will still get the required nutrients per serving.
Type: Dry cat food
Best for: Adult Cats
Price: $5.4/pound
- Formulated for adult cats with digestive tract sensitivities
- Contains prebiotics and highly digestible proteins
- Unique kibble shapes offer maximum appetite appeal
- Higher concentration of nutrients in a small serving size
- 100% complete and balanced nutrition
- The product is expensive compared to similar cat foods
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken Meal: Meat meals are good additional sources of animal protein. However, some vets do not recommend this product.
- Brewers Rice: In addition to being a great source of carbohydrates, rice is easy to digest and contains fiber that improves bowel movement.
- Chicken Fat: This not only adds flavor to the meal but also provides sustained energy for your cat to play all day.
- Corn Gluten Meal: While this is not a recommended ingredient according to some vets, corn is usually added to cat food as a source of fiber.
Review: This sensitive stomach cat food is a combination of the right nutrient balance with a satisfying kibble texture, shape & size, savory aroma, and desirable flavors.
- Easy-to-clean, food-grade stainless steel bowl
- Smart app control and 1080P HD Camera
- Built-in advanced microphone and speaker
- Motion detection, smart notifications, and indicators
- Use the code Vets15 for 15% off
What Should I Look for in Sensitive Stomach Cat Food?
The best cat foods that are meant for sensitive stomachs are usually easily digestible, grain-free, and contain real meat as the protein source and first ingredient. They also contain healthy, easily digestible carbohydrates.
Here’s what you should expect to find in sensitive stomach cat food.
- Natural Ingredients. Natural ingredients offer more benefits to your cat, especially because they replicate their natural diets. Real turkey and real chicken recipes, for instance, are not only filling but also provide the nutrition your cat needs.
- High-Quality Protein. The first ingredient in the food should be real meat to provide animal-sourced proteins. Turkey, chicken, chicken liver, and whitefish are the perfect examples of high-quality animal protein.
- Healthy Fats. Healthy fats such as omega fatty acids help to reduce inflammation in your cat’s body and help boost their digestion. These are found in both cat and kitten food.
- Easily Digestible Carbs. Carbohydrates like sweet potato, brown rice, or oats contain enough calories to provide your cat with the energy to stay active the whole day. It also contains fiber that is easy to digest.
- Complete and Balanced Formula. Cat foods for sensitive stomachs need to be nutritionally balanced and offer a complete package when it comes to constituent ingredients.
- Beneficial Supplements. Ideally, the sensitive stomach cat food recipe should have beneficial supplements like probiotics and prebiotics. These promote healthy digestion.
- Use code VETERINARIANS30 for 30% off
- World’s first human-grade dry food.
- Made by mixing human-grade nutrient-rich whole foods.
- Free of feed-grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, and artificial preservatives.
What Ingredients Should Not be in Sensitive Stomach Cat Food?
There are a few ingredients that you need to be aware of before you enter the market to buy sensitive stomach cat food. These include:
- Grains and cereals in general
- Simple and hard-to-digest carbs
- Gluten, lactose & potential allergens
- Artificial additives & preservatives
These ingredients are difficult to digest and can make things a lot worse for your cat.
If your cat has a sensitive stomach, you need a veterinary diet (prescribed by your vet). While you can find a lot of sensitive stomach cat food options on online platforms such as Amazon and Chewy, you should consult a vet before you decide to start a new food or special diet for your cat.
