The 6 Best Foods For Feeding Feral Cats In 2022

Feral cats require commitment to long-term care and proper feedings. Once you become a “colony manager” the cats become dependent on you. This means providing the best quality food for your cats at the best price.

Dry cat food is most popular when feeding colonies of feral cats, mainly because it is less expensive, easy to transport and won’t freeze in cold weather. Feral cats can benefit from the animal protein that high quality cat food has, but require more calories than the average house cat.

Continue reading to learn about the best cat food for feral cats and their pros and cons.

How we researched the 6 Best Foods for Feral Cats

• We spent several days researching the best food for feral cats.
• We reviewed over 10 cat food options and narrowed it down to 6 in this article.
• This was done by reviewing hundreds of reviews and watching videos to compare the features of each cat food.

Comparison Chart of the Best Foods for Feral Cats

Ingredients To Look For

There are a few things you should look for on labels when looking for the best food for feral cats.

• Quality Protein Source –This is the most crucial ingredient and should always be listed first. Look out for chickens, turkeys, lambs, salmon, and other seafood. They can be followed with named organs, such as chicken liver or chicken heart, both rich in taurine.
• Low Carbohydrates –Cats are obligate carnivores and require meat to survive. However, they don’t need carbohydrates. Some cats may have difficulty digesting certain carbohydrates, and some food allergies can be triggered by high carbohydrate foods. Avoid cat food that is high in fruits, vegetables, and/or grain.
• Fat Source – Always look for a named fat source, like chicken fat. You might also find sunflower oil or other oils in premium foods.
• Vitamins and Minerals – Vitamin C  and Vitamin E  are often added as preservatives, along with other vitamins and minerals.
• Omega-3 –Increasing levels of Omega-3 fatty oils help to reduce inflammation and support kidney health.
• Taurine –Taurine, an amino acid, can be easily produced by the human organism. Taurine is an amino acid that cats need to be able to produce. Taurine deficiency can lead to a heart disease called dilated cardiacmyopathy. This is why cat food manufacturers add taurine.

Reviewed: The Best Foods to Feed Feral Cats

#1 Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Cat Food

Nutrish cat foods are made with simple, natural ingredients like chicken from the United States. A protein source from an animal is the main ingredient. This is combined with wholesome brown Rice, vegetables, essential vitamins and minerals, and taurine.

This cat food contains no soy, wheat, or ground corn. The recipe contains quality proteins such as chicken, salmon, and whitefish as well as healthy vegetables. This is a well balanced kibble for feral cats and won’t break the bank.

This food also has a healthy fiber source that naturally provides prebiotics for healthy digestion. This high-quality protein, dry cat food formula supplies essential nutrients to maintain healthy organs.

#2 Blue Wilderness Dry Cat Food

Due to its high protein and no grains recipe, this kibble works well for feral cats. This food is also free of gluten’s and is good for all stages of cats lives.

This food is made with natural ingredients and contains a precise mixture of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It contains no byproduct meals, corn, wheat, soy or artificial ingredients.

It contains high-quality protein as well as natural fiber sources. This recipe can help cats lose weight. The addition of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants is made to support a cat’s healthy immune system no matter the age or breed.

#3 Instinct Ultimate Protein Dry Cat Food

Instinct Ultimate Protein Cage-Free Chicken Recipe Freezed Raw Coated Dry Cat Food was designed to closely mimic the benefits of a raw diet for cats. It is high in protein from real meat and contains no animal meal.

It also contains guaranteed levels of live, organic probiotics, omegas, vitamin E, and antioxidants that all cats require.

This dry cat food is a protein-rich kibble that’s highly digestible and great for skin, coat, and immune systems which is beneficial for cats who live outdoors.

#4 Purina Beyond Natural Grain Free Ocean Whitefish & Egg Recipe

Purina Beyond dry cat food recipe uses real chicken and fish as its number one ingredient. This recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy, or poultry by-product meal or any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

There is added Taurine, as well as vitamin E & A to help support normal heart muscle function and eyesight. This recipe is gluten-free and grain-free, which may be beneficial for cats with sensitivities.

This high-protein dry cat food, which is 100% complete and balanced with high quality ingredients, would make a great meal choice for feral cats.

#5 NUTRO Wholesome Essentials

#6 IAMS Proactive Healthy Adult

IAMS Proactive Health Adult is a hearty cat food formula that includes high-quality chicken protein as the main ingredient. It helps cats maintain a healthy weight and lean muscle. It also contains an additional fiber blend, which includes probiotics as well as beet pulp to aid with nutrient absorption.

This dry cat food is affordable and rich in antioxidants that can support feral cats’ immune systems. It also has 0% fillers and additional essential nutrients to keep your cat’s heart health.

IAMS cat food is recommended by your veterinarian. They guarantee your satisfaction with their products or you will be replaced or reimbursed your money.

NUTRO Dry Cat Food recipe is made with non GMO ingredients and lists a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient. It contains real salmon, natural fibre for healthy digestion, essential antioxidants for a healthy immune systems, which is what feral cats require.

This kibble is high in lean protein, omega-6 fatty acid and other nutrients to promote healthy skin and shiny coats. It is free from corn, wheat and soy protein, as well as chicken by-product meals, artificial flavors, preservatives, colors, and flavorings.

Conclusion

Although it is hard work, caring for feral cats may be rewarding. These cats will be happy and healthy with your help.

*This article is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Frequently Asked Question

Can feral cats be euthanized if I feed them?

No. They are more likely to return when they get hungry. Even though
Although cats can be wild, they are still domesticated animals that rely on humans to provide food.

How can I feed feral cats to ensure that other animals don’t get the food?

It is recommended to feed your cats on a daily basis and then remove the food after one hour.
short time. A covered feeding station can help birds avoid food. Feeding animals such as skunks and raccoons during the day will keep them away.

How do I care for a feral cat in my home?

You can provide shelter for them all year. For their health and survival, it is important to provide food on a regular basis. Consider contacting a TNR program (trap, neuter and return).

How do you know if your cat is wild?

Stray cats are active during daylight hours, while feral cats are more active at night. Feral cats are more hostile in fearful situations and will run away when approached. Because they are used to being looked after, stray cats can appear disorganized. A feral cat will be well-trained because they are independent.