Top Cat Food for Gassy Kittens

8 Best Cat Foods For Gassy Kittens-Kitten Food Review

(Meta Description: Kittens fart but they are not usually smelly. If your cat has flatulence, you need to find the best cat food for gassy kittens that are high in protein.

You must have heard the famous American sitcom dialogue, ‘Smelly cat, smelly cat, what are they feeding you?’. Turns out that it is correct because diet plays an important role in this matter.

Kittens start weaning when they are 3–4 weeks old and chances are that your kitten may get a gassy stomach in any part of its life.

Has your kitten started farting when you switched it to solid food? Are you confused about what to feed your furry friend if it is experiencing tummy problems?

We have compiled a complete guide for you about flatulence in kittens and the food you should consider if your cat does not smell great.

How Do I Know If a Kitten Has Flatulence?

About 50 percent of cats experience stomach upsets due to one or more ingredients. Flatulence means the presence of excessive gas in your kitten’s stomach. Before we dive deep into why kittens are gassy, we talk about some symptoms that are related to it.

• Smelly Cat

Let’s be honest. Our kittens love to play with us. You can use this time to examine your kitten to see if anything is wrong. Mostly, cats pass odorless gas. The real concern starts when these farts begin to grab your attention.

If you feel that your kitten is faring excessively and the fur is starting to smell, it is time for a trip to the vet.

• Pungent Stool

Monitoring the litter box is a great way to access the gastrointestinal health of the kitten. If the poop is moist and solid, it means that the stomach is healthy. Diarrhea is characterized by runny stools.

You should keep the litter box clean at all times. If the smell starts to spread in the whole room and is more putrid than before, it might be a symptom of flatulence.

• Bloated Stomach

A bloated stomach can be due to many reasons but most of them are characterized by flatulence. KIttens that are not dewormed develop a potbelly and gas gathers in their stomach.

Constipation is another factor that contributes to a bloated stomach. Too many carbs in your cat’s diet can also lead to a gassy tummy which we will talk about later in this article

If you notice that your cat has not pooped in a while and is farting a lot, it can be a sign of a gassy and uncomfortable stomach.

• Vomiting or Runny Poop

Vomiting means that the stomach of your kitten does not accept the food. Therefore, it rejects it by regurgitation or anti-peristalsis. Diarrhea is a severe condition in which water remains unabsorbed in the intestine leading to watery and runny poop.

Both of these conditions are diet-related and can prove to be contributing factors in causing flatulence.

What Causes a Gassy Stomach?

By now you must be wondering what are the reasons behind a gassy stomach. There are many but most of them are related to the gastrointestinal health of your kitten. Kittens love to eat. They will eat their heart out until they have polished the bowl with their tongue.

Due to this, their diet must be checked closely. Here we discuss the things that cause flatulence:

• Diet with High Fiber Content

Cats are carnivores. Although they can digest a small number of carbohydrates and fibers, their stomachs are designed to digest protein more effectively. Cheaper alternatives of dry cat food contain a large number of grains and fillers. These are designed to fill their tummies but do not provide the required nutritional benefits for the normal growth of a kitten.

The key is to have a balanced diet for your kitten. Fresh or boiled meat should be a part of your cat’s food. Feeding your kitten by just shaking a grainy cat food packet might seem convenient but it is far from your best option. To avoid a gassy stomach altogether, a balanced diet regimen should be put in place.

• Sudden Change in Diet

Cats don’t take sudden changes in diet very well. Kittens are known to get diarrhea when their owners switch their cat food abruptly. Their stomach and intestines develop a receptive relationship with the food you give to them usually. So, they develop flatulence in their stomach. Some cats also refuse to accept a new cat food brand. So, if you are looking to find an alternative, make sure it is tasty enough for your cats.

• Spoiled or Expired Food

Spoiled food is an absolute no-go for your kittens. As a cat parent, it is your responsibility to track and check the expiry date of the kitten food. If you have a habit of giving meat to your kitten, make sure it is fresh. Eating raw or expired food can cause stomach-related problems that can give rise to a gassy stomach in your furry friend.

You should avoid giving raw defrost meat because it contains Salmonella. Always boil the meat and make sure it is not raw from the inside.

• Cow Milk or Diary with High Lactose Content(100 words)- Reference

You must have seen a cat drinking from a milk bowl happily. Classic, right? But it is not accurate for all cats. Most cats cannot digest lactose because their stomach is lacking an enzyme called ‘Lactase’. Similarly, when your kitten has started weaning, they slowly lose their ability to digest milk or dairy products.

Kittens love the high content of fat in the milk but it is bad for their tummies. It can cause flatulence and runny stools. So avoid giving dairy products but you can give them KMR(Kitten Milk Replacer) because it is designed to mimic the queen’s milk.

• Lethargy:

Kittens are pretty active but your kitten might be going through some tummy issues. There is a difference between resting for a while and spending the whole day lying around. If your kitten is lethargic and passing a lot of smelly gas, your kitten may have indigestion or trouble passing stool. Also, contact your vet right away when you feel that the kitten is weak or less responsive.

• Stomach and Intestinal Infections:

Gastrointestinal diseases in cats are serious. There are a plethora of viral and bacterial infections that may have flatulence as a symptom. Blockage of the intestines may also cause gas to build up.

Excessive farting by cats can also be a symptom of intestinal or colon cancer. However, young kittens are rarely known to develop cancer in their alimentary canal.

Ulcers, constipation, and inflammation of the stomach can also contribute to flatulence. Parasites can prove to be a nuisance when it comes to the gastric health of a kitten. Make sure your kitten is dewormed. If the deworming is not done, the kitten may release a lot of gas which is characterized by a gurgling sound of the stomach.

• Free-Feeding

You might be inclined to fill the bowl to the maximum and leave it for your kitten to devour all day. Kittens tend to over-eat. Their brain signals them to eat whenever they see food. This is not a healthy practice for your beloved kitten.

If cats are free-fed they regurgitate most of the food because their stomach can digest it. The stomach is filled up beyond its capacity, This can develop unwanted gas in their stomach and give them a gassy stomach. Moreover, it can prove to be harmful to your kitten in the long run because there are serious risks of developing obesity.

• Human Food

Home-cooked cat food that is high in protein is great but that does not mean food prepared for humans is fit for cats. Food for humans has spices and garlic etc. cats don’t react well to these ingredients.

Onions, garlic, and ginger are bad for your kitten’s stomach. Onions and garlic are known to cause blood cell damage in cats. Although a small amount doesn’t hurt you should avoid feeding them human food altogether.

How Do I Prevent Flatulence In My Kitten?

If you have only one kitten then you would have to become its playmate. Purchase toys for your cats and experiment. Use its favorite toy for your kitten to exercise and get the blood flow going. The movement of muscles will help with digestion and releasing flatulence.

Another thing cat-owners take for granted is proper hydration. Your kitten needs fresh water all the time. If the water is still and exposed for a long time, your kitty will not quench its thirst. You should replace the water in the bowl at least twice. If your cat refuses to drink then mix some chicken stock with water. It enhances the taste and is a good source of fat.

Here is a list of the best kitten foods for gassy kittens:

1.Smalls Cat Food (Premium and Best)

Smalls Cat Food offers both wet and dry food. This food is formulated keeping in mind the kitten’s biology. You also have the choice to formulate your recipe according to your kitten’s needs. Their website has a feature that will suggest you suitable cat food for your kitten based on age, sex, and reproductive ability. (Neutered or Spayed)

All of these cat foods are freshly prepared for your cat and delivered to your doorstep. It is ‘Human Grade’ meaning that it is even safe for consumption for human beings. You can even choose your preferred meat choices like beef or bird meat or you can mix them to get the perfect blend for your kitten.

It has got Vitamin A, B3, and minerals to supplement your kitten’s diet and get rid of the gassy stomach. It has virtually no grain and only good carbohydrates like kale for a strong heart and digestive system.

Pros

• Monthly deliveries
• Available in various meat choices
• You get it in Smooth and Ground mouthfeel
• No preservatives

Cons

• Shorter shelf life

*Based on the chicken variety

2.Dr. Elsey’s Clean Protein Dry Cat Food (Amazon’s Choice)

This cat food is formulated and prepared under the keen eyes of expert veterinarians. Almost all of its protein is gathered from animal sources. It contains the minerals and vitamins(Omega 3 fatty acid) to prevent heart diseases and increase immunity in cats

It has no grains and is free of unnecessary fillers. The kittens will eat less but get more nutrition than conventional cat foods. It is available in small dry kibbles which give them longer shelf life. The bag lasts for a greater time because the kittens get full quickly by high protein content

It is best for cats with allergies as it is gluten-free and easy on the tummy.

Pros

• Available in two meat choices: Chicken and Salmon
• Two different packet sizes
• For all life stages

Cons:

• Costlier than other dry foods

3. TikiCat Grain Free Wet Food

TikiCan Grain-Free Wet Food is one of the best foods on our list. Your cats will devour these. Every cat has unique behavior and likings. This one is made for kittens that love seafood and fish-based diets.

Fish meat is one of the best protein sources out there. It is made with real fish in broth. The broth also acts as a good source of nutrition and hydration for your cat. It is so tasty that your kitten will go crazy for it.

It is free of carbs and fillers that make it one of the best foods for a gassy kitten.

Pros

• More than six can sizes
• Different varieties of fish
• Great for all ages of cats
• No artificial flavors and by-products

Cons

• Rare reports of fish bones in food

Note: The product listed is a fish variety

4. Blue Buffalo Wet Food:

Blue Buffalo is a brand known for delivering high-quality products for pets. This wet food paté fulfills all the requirements of good wet food.

Grains such as wheat and corn are used to give wet food a thicker consistency. This cat food is free of any grain fillers. Some cat foods also have poultry by-products to fulfill the protein requirements. These are processed and are not healthy for your kitten. Blue Buffalo Cat food uses only real meat to make their products which makes them suitable for kittens that have flatulence.

The blend of DHA and good-quality protein assists cognitive development and improves vision. It has trace minerals such as zinc, potassium, and iron. They are required in small quantities but are essential for your kitten’s development.

Pros

• Packed with real chicken and salmon
• Available in 3 can sizes
• Kittens love the paté texture

Cons

• Pricier than other wet foods

5.Nulo Freestyle Canned Kitten Wet Food (Best Wet Food)

Nulo Freestyle Kitten Wet Food comes in many flavors and meat varieties. This wet food is specifically designed for kittens. It is made with premium materials and no fluff ingredients. Every gram of this wet food is designed to give your kitten a healthy and flatulence-free stomach.

It sources its carbohydrate content from fruits rather than other cheap alternatives like corn or grains. It has a paté texture that speaks volumes about why kittens love it so much. It is also suitable for adult and senior cats.

It is made with high-quality protein from duck, chicken, and organ meat like liver. Fish variety is available as well. One of its main highlights is Taurine which is one of the essential amino acids. It supplements your kitten’s diet and is important for overall health.

Pros:

• BPA-free packaging
• Great for diabetic cats
• Bang for the buck

Cons

• None that we could find

6. Merrick Purrfect Bistro Kitten Dinner

This bistro-style cat food is flavor heaven for kittens. This product is made in small batches and everything is cross-checked by the production team to formulate the perfect wet food every time.

They use hand-made recipes keeping in mind the physiology and nutritional needs of cats.

It is completely grain-free but uses cranberries as its carbohydrate source. The protein content is made from the perfect combination of chicken and salmon. It is cooked in its gravy which is equally nutritious.

It has anti-oxidants, Omega-3 and Omega-6 which increase immunity and reduce the risk of cancer. It has Yucca Schidigera which promotes digestion and makes it one of the best foods for gassy kittens.

Pros

• Available in two can sizes
• Made in the USA
• Meets AAFCO guidelines

Cons

• Rare reports of dented cans

7. Farmina N&D Prime Kitten Dry Food

Farmina N&D Prime Food is formulated for the gentle tummies of kittens. Thus, it reduces the chances of flatulence in kittens. Its protein is derived from boneless chicken. The source of carbohydrates of this product is sweet potatoes, dried fruit, and vegetables.

It has essential minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium for bone and heart development. This cat food is clinically tested to ensure the best quality for growing kittens. It has a low glycemic index which means that it does not contain any processed foods or unnecessary grains. Most of its protein is from animals with no by-products.

Pros

• Longer shelf life
• You don’t need supplements with this food

Cons

• Some cats don’t like the taste

8. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Kitten Dry Cat Food(Best Dry Food)

This dry cat food gives other brands a run for their money. Another product from Blue Buffalo is on this list. If your cat does not like wet food or you already have chosen wet food for your kitten then this is a strong contender for dry food.

We rate it the best dry food on our list because it has high protein for brain and muscle development and no grains like corn, wheat, or soy. It provides energy to the kitten for a playful and productive day.

Antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins are put together in such a way that they cater to all the needs of a healthy gut.

Pros

• Small kibble size for better feeding
• Available in 3 bag sizes
• Well-balanced nutrition

Cons

• Rare reports of bad breath in kittens

Price and Caloric Content

Product

Calories

Price

Small Cat Food (bird)

1600kcal/kg

9$(11.5oz. serving)

Dr. Elsey’s Clean Protein Dry Cat Food

4,030 kcal/kg

$41.87

Tiki Cat Grain Free Wet Food

918 kcal/kg

$13.93

Blue Buffalo Wet Food

975 Kcal/kg

$8.99

Nulo Freestyle canned Kitten Wet Food

1,356 Kcal/kg

$45.36

Merrick Purrfect Bistro kitten Dinner

3,755 Kcal/kg

$45.36

Farmina N&D Prime Kitten Dry Food

2060 kcal/kg

$26.65

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Kitten Dry Food

3,954 kcal/kg

$24.99

Things to Consider Before Buying the Right Food

• Grain Percentage

Low grain percentage is the first thing you should consider before buying cat food. We have provided a complete analysis of the grainy content of each product on the list. It should not be higher than 3–4%. If you want grain-free food then wet food will be your best choice. Dry foods on this list have carbohydrates but their source is fruits and vegetables.

• High-Quality Protein

As mentioned earlier, cats are carnivores. Most of their energy comes from meat. Meat is made up of amino acids and these molecules make up the muscles and organs of your cats. However, the meat should be sourced from animals only. Many cheap cat foods contain by-products of meat.

• No Artificial Ingredients

Processed foods are as harmful to cats as they are to humans. They may contain heavy metals which act as carcinogens. They also present the danger of allergic reactions in kittens. Also, it should not contain any preservatives as they can cause organ damage.

• Prefer Wet Food over Dry Food

One big advantage that wet food has over dry food is hydration. Some kittens are picky with their water. Wet foods submerged in gravy are a great source of water for cats. With that said, you must always keep the water bowl fresh or purchase a water fountain for cats as they like running water.

FAQs

• What should I do if my kitten has a gassy stomach?

The first thing you should do is visit the vet as soon as possible if the flatulence does not subside. A gassy stomach can be caused by many reasons but most of them are related to the digestive system of your kitten. Ensure proper hydration and a good diet.

• How should I feed my kitten?

The meals for your kitten should be given throughout the day. The portions should be small so that the food is digested before the next meal. In case of dry food, keep the bag in a dry and cool place and fold it from the opening to prevent moisture from going in. The wet food should b allowed to come to room temperature before feeding

• Can I give adult food to my kitten?

In context, older kittens can eat adult cat food but it is not preferred. Every life stage of the cat comes with different nutritional requirements. The metabolism of kittens is very high and they need the energy to support their immune system and muscle development. So, always go for cat foods that are specially derived for kittens.

• Is wet food better than dry cat food?

The answer is wet food. The manufacturing process and the moisture content are different. Kittens love the former because it is more palatable and rich in protein. Most dry foods have increased carbohydrate content in the form of grains, fruits, and vegetables. Giving your cat a balance of both is even a better choice.

Digestive problems are common in cats. It is time for a diet change when your cat starts feeling gassy or bloated. Our guide covers every aspect of good kitten food for flatulence.

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