What They Are Not Telling Us About Cat Food
(Or What's the FUS About Ash?)
That tiny print in the fold of a bag of cat food is supposed to tell us everything we need to know about whether the contents will keep our beloved tabby in the pink, or corrode his kidneys. Yet most brands obscure the information we need by providing too much information, and leaving out what we are really looking for.
The other day I read about a dozen bags in the grocery store. Only one mentioned ash content (it was much too high), and the one that claimed to be good for a cat's urinary tract couldn't explain why it actually is (if it is). If you have ever dealt with a cat's failing kidneys you know that you want to do whatever you can from the first day you bring that cute kitten into your home to keep those innards healthy, and all the plumbing working.
So why can't they just have a urinary tract rating. A 1 would be best for cats, especially male cats who are prone to developing urinary problems. A 10 would be really really bad for them (but they like it the best, kind of like Doritos).
The Real Deal:
Most cats don't even get FUS/FLUTD (feline urologic syndrome/feline lower urinary tract disease), but why not be safe now and not sorry later? Get good quality cat foods for life and you are likely to have a healthy cat.
A good low-ash cat food should not contain more than 6% ash (based on 100% dry weight). Magnesium in a low-ash cat food should be no more than 0.1% and no less than .05%. Try to avoid by-products. Get real chicken, beef, lamb etc. Some say fish is suspect relative to FUS/FLUTD.
If the bag doesn't tell the ash or magnesium content or other information you are looking for, call the company or get another brand.
