This is our review of the best low phosphorus cat food in 2021.
Phosphorus is a mineral that is required in feline diets. However, excessive phosphorus in cat food might be problematic for cats with renal problems.
The majority of safe low-phosphorus formulations are prescription diets that require veterinary approval. These recipes are not recommended for kittens, as phosphorus deficiency might result in bone deformities .
I’m a nutritionist who conducted research on the best low phosphorus cat diets in order to assist you in selecting a healthy diet for your kitty’s special needs.
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet K+M Kidney + Mobility Support Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is my first choice for the best low phosphorus cat food.
However, certain cats with renal illness require further care. As a result, I’ve examined 6 of the best low-phosphorus recipes for cats with a variety of specific nutritional needs.
Our list of Best Low Phosphorus Cat Food :
- Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet K+M Kidney + Mobility Support Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Forza10 Nutraceutic Active Kidney Renal Support Diet Dry Cat Food
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Early Care Formula Canned Cat Food
- Weruva Truluxe Steak Frites with Beef & Pumpkin in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
- Forza10 Nutraceutic Actiwet Renal Support Wet Cat Food
- Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress + Metabolic, Urinary + Weight Care Chicken Flavor Dry Cat Food
Best Low Phosphorus Cat Food Reviewed:
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet K+M Kidney + Mobility Support Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potato Starch, Pea Starch, Peas, Potatoes
- Phosphorus Content: 0.7% Max
- Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 9% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 425 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Veterinary Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For Overall
The renal support formula from Blue Buffalo provides the optimal nutritional support for cats on low-phosphorus diets. This food contains critical nutrients derived from natural sources such as kelp and turmeric, which promote general health and enhance kidney function.
Minerals at therapeutically regulated quantities alleviate kidney stress in cats with renal disease. This low phosphorus cat diet contains a maximum of 0.7% phosphorus and just 0.35% sodium.
Protein overload also puts the kidneys under additional strain. The low protein level of 26% in deboned chicken is safe for cats with renal issues while yet providing sufficient essential amino acids for normal muscular function.
A protein concentration of 26% decreases the amount of protein waste that must be filtered by the kidneys.
Dried Eggs are a rich source of essential amino acids that do not significantly increase protein content. [1]
L-Carnitine supplementation aids in the development of lean muscle in this low-protein cat food.
Unlike some other kidney support solutions, this one begins with real meat. Additionally, this diet is grain-free, as it relies heavily on potatoes as the major source of digestible carbs.
Omega-3 fatty acids are provided via fish oil and flaxseed in this recipe . These beneficial fats stimulate the skin’s natural oil production and aid in the reduction of inflammation.
Additionally, the natural fiber included in chicory root helps regulate digestive processes, promoting general health.
cat owners recommend this low-phosphorus cat diet for cats with sensitivities to grains and by-products. Numerous parents reported an improvement in their cats’ general health with this diet after being diagnosed with renal disease.
Forza10 Nutraceutic Active Kidney Renal Support Diet Dry Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Rice, Hydrolyzed Fish Protein, Hydrolyzed Potato Protein, Anchovy Meal, Vegetable Oil
- Phosphorus Content: 0.8% Max
- Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 18.5% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 3837 kcal/kg, 461 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Novel protein, Grain-Free, Premium Diet.
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For Cat who needs to gain weight that is lost because of renal problems
This veterinary diet contains hydrolyzed proteins that aid in reducing renal stress. Additionally, these microscopic protein fragments are less likely to elicit an immune response in cats with allergies. [2]
This food has 26% protein because of the hydrolyzed soy protein. When combined with a low-fat content of 10%, this formula provides a reasonable calorie intake that is suitable for the majority of cats.
The recipe is supplemented with chelated minerals to ensure that your cat receives all of the nutrients he needs on a regular basis. However, limiting phosphorus helps reduce the risk of renal disease.
Omega-3 fatty acid levels at therapeutic levels support the health of the skin. Sensitive cats frequently suffer from negative skin reactions as a result of their allergies.
The formula is fortified with bioavailable minerals to ensure that your cat receives all of the nourishment he requires on a frequent basis. However, phosphorus restriction can reduce the risk of renal dysfunction.
Dried Kelp is an excellent source of antioxidants, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, which can help in the battle against disease caused by free radicals. Manganese and zinc are antioxidant minerals that aid in the fight against oxidative stress and may help in supporting your cat kidney.
However, vets and pet owners advocate introducing this prescription diet gradually to allow your cat to adapt to the hydrolyzed proteins.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Early Care Formula Canned Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Water sufficient for processing, meat by-products, liver, rice, chicken by-products
- Phosphorus Content: 0.21% Max
- Guaranteed Analysis: 6.5% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 77% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 1039 kcal/kg, 162 kcal/can
- Type of Product: Veterinary Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For weight management.
Certain high-maintenance cats require specific diets that can help resolve a variety of health issues. This prescription cat food is low in phosphorus and is also appropriate for cats with metabolic abnormalities.
purina’s clinical formulas provide more protein than the majority of renal care diets. However, the mineral level is regulated to ensure that cats at risk of developing renal failure can safely consume this dry cat food.
Chicken meal adds to the protein level of 6%. Due to its reduced fat level, this lean animal meat is appropriate for cats with weight and metabolic disorders. Lean protein is the optimal source of energy for cats on weight-loss formulas.
The low-calorie content and 3% crude fat content contribute to the reduction of excess energy in the diets of overweight cats. The low-calorie content in this diet is achievable because of the decent fiber content of fruit and vegetables (3%), as fiber does not provide energy to cats.
Weruva Truluxe Steak Frites with Beef & Pumpkin in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potato Starch, Pea Starch, Peas, Potatoes
- Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 1,3% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 86% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 124 kcal/6 oz can, 62 kcal/3 oz can
- Type of Product: Veterinary Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For Wet cat food
Blue Buffalo’s grain-free wet cat food is formulated with natural ingredients that promote normal renal function. This canned pate recipe is ideal for fussy cats that refuse to consume dry cat food.
The 86 percent moisture content of this wet diet results in a decrease in the percentages of other crude macronutrients compared to dry alternatives. the most amount of protein content in this recipe is derived from beef, beef broth which provides a high-quality source of amino acids that will not stress your cat’s kidneys.
The low phosphorus level in this recipe is also beneficial for cats with renal problems. Excess mineral content can put a burden on the kidneys and eventually result in kidney failure in these cats.
Sensitive cats with grain allergies may benefit from obtaining their daily carbohydrate need through the potatoes in this diet. Other vegetables, such as carrots, include natural antioxidants that help to prevent tissue damage caused by free radicals.[6]
L-carnitine supports the formation of lean muscle mass when consumed in conjunction with a low-protein diet. Meanwhile, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil promote skin and coat health, which contributes to general well-being.
Cat owners enthusiastically recommend this formula to other pet parents who are having difficulty getting their cats to consume other prescription foods. Due to the absence of common allergens, this canned cat food is an excellent alternative for cats that have allergic reactions.
Forza10 Nutraceutic Actiwet Renal Support Wet Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Salmon, Chicken Liver, Lamb, Rice,
- Phosphorus content: 0.13%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 6% Crude Protein, 4.5% Crude Fat, 0.5% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 806 kcal/kg
- Type of Product: Veterinary Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Allergic cat with renal disorders.
This veterinary food contains limited ingredients that help minimize renal stress. Additionally, these limited sources of protein (salmon, chicken liver, lamb) are less likely to elicit an antibody response in cats with allergies.
This diet has 6% protein because of this limited source of protein. When combined with a low-fat content of 4.5%, this formula provides a reasonable calorie intake that is suitable for the majority of cats. By avoiding stuffing a lot of ingredients, this limited ingredient diet can also help decrease undesirable skin and gastrointestinal reactions in sensitive cats.
The recipe is supplemented with chelated minerals to ensure that your cat receives all of the nutrients he needs on a regular basis. However, limiting phosphorus helps reduce the risk of renal disease.
Omega-3 fatty acid levels at therapeutic levels contribute to skin health. Sensitive cats frequently develop adverse skin responses as a result of their allergies.
Prebiotics and fiber derived from dried beet pulp also contribute to the maintenance of a healthy digestive tract and the reduction of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress + Metabolic, Urinary + Weight Care Chicken Flavor Dry Cat Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Meal
- Phosphorus content: 0.6%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 38.2% Crude Protein, 12.9% Crude Fat, 13.2% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 3,286 kcal/kg, 289 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Veterinary Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: cat with urinary, metabolic disorders.
Cats suffering from kidney dysfunction may also have urinary health issues. While excessive phosphorus can cause strained kidneys, excess minerals can also result in the formation of crystals in the urinary tract.
Corn Gluten Meal and Chicken meal are the main provider of the crude protein in this recipe. And also the main providers of crude fat content including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid.
Protein, fat, and sodium levels that are carefully adjusted also contribute to proper renal function.
This diet, unlike other urinary formulations, does not increase urination. Pet owners who must leave their cats at home for extended periods of time appreciate the fewer accidents that their cat with urinary difficulties have when eating this food. Their cats also appreciate the tastiness of this food.
Purchasing Guide for Best Low Phosphorus cat Food
Phosphorus is a mineral that is required in feline diets. However, excessive phosphorus levels might lead to many problems in cats with renal disease. Therefore, it is vital to learn how to choose a healthy, low-phosphorus cat food for your special needs cat.
Phosphorus Contained In Cat Food
Phosphorus is a macromineral that is required for the growth and development of bones.
All cats require enough phosphorus in their diet to maintain a healthy skeletal structure.
Kittens, per se, require much greater phosphorus content in their food for growing a healthy skeletal system.
Although mature cats’ phosphorus requirements decrease with age, phosphorus deficiencies can still cause serious health concerns. Nonetheless, there are several cases in which an overabundance of phosphorus can be detrimental to cat health.
Which Cats Require a Diet Low in Phosphorus?
Your cat’s kidneys assist in maintaining a healthy mineral balance in his body.
However, when renal function is impaired, excess minerals can accumulate in the organ.
These minerals can cause the kidneys to become overloaded, resulting in stones and, eventually, renal failure.
According to research, phosphorus is quite stressful on damaged kidneys. As a result, providing low-phosphorus Cat meals is critical for managing chronic renal illness.
Consider the Following When Choosing a Low Phosphorus Cat Food
Only a few cat food manufacturers provide pet food with safe phosphorus levels to support renal health. Due to the potential danger of phosphorus deficiency, it is essential to take these considerations into account while selecting the optimal food for your cat.
Content of Phosphorus
The majority of dry cat meals include roughly 2% phosphorus. This satisfies the nutritional needs of an average healthy cat but may be detrimental to kittens with impaired renal function.
The majority of renal care cat diets include less than 1% phosphorus. A phosphorus level of 0.6 percent is optimal for the majority of cats with renal problems.
Source of High-Quality Protein
Additionally, a high protein level might be dangerous to the health of the kidneys.
However, your cat needs an appropriate supply of amino acids to maintain muscular health.
While real meat may not be the first component, search for a kidney care formula that includes a source of high-quality animal protein, such as whole chicken.
Depending on the severity of your cat’s renal disease, your veterinarian may suggest a reduced protein diet. These are almost typically prescription diets that require veterinary approval.
Proteins with a Low Phosphorus Content
While animal proteins should form the basis of a carnivore feline diet, many types of meat are rich in phosphorus. Premium meats such as beef and liver are examples of proteins with a high phosphorus concentration.
Duck, chicken, and turkey are three of the most often utilized low-phosphorus protein sources in cat diets. You should also select diet that is free from animal by-products or has a restricted amount of byproduct as these components can also contain high levels of phosphorus.
Potassium
Not all minerals are detrimental to kidney health. Adequate potassium levels are critical for renal function and low levels may have a role in renal failure.
Numerous renal care formulas incorporate potassium supplementation in their content.
This mineral can aid in filtration and help with the gradual rebuilding of impaired kidneys.
Calcium
Rather than directly lowering phosphorus, some renal care cat diets contain phosphorus binders, which inhibit your cat’s body from absorbing the mineral.
These binders bind to phosphorus in the digestive tract before it is absorbed from the food, enabling excess phosphorus to pass through.
Calcium is the most often used binder for phosphorus. It is also a necessary mineral for cats, as it is necessary for bone formation. Calcium supplementation can assist in limiting the amount of phosphorus that enters your cat’s kidneys.
High Fiber
Prebiotic fibers contribute to the formation of important element which is nitrogen trap. Nitrogen traps, like phosphorus binders, act in a similar manner. However, rather than trapping phosphorus, these traps help the kidneys in reducing their burden by addressing protein waste.
Protein digestion byproducts frequently pass through the kidney and are excreted in the urine. However, nitrogen traps route these molecules to the colon. Therefore, choose a kidney care formula that contains a high fiber content.
Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter Cat Food
Chronically ill cats may require therapeutic nutrition and customized diets to control their ailments. Prescription diets are the most secure approach to ensure that your beloved friend’s food meets his unique nutritional requirements.
Veterinary approval is required for prescription cat meals. And as phosphorus is critical for your cat’s health, I recommend choosing low-phosphorus formulations only if they have been recommended by your veterinarian.
Clinical research guarantees that all veterinary diets are safe and effective for cats with specific health issues. The best approach to ensure that your cat receives the nutritional assistance he requires is to work with your veterinarian to develop a tailored diet.
Conclusion
This list is similar to our list of best low protein cat food. However, We looked at the kidney disorders in a cat from another important perspective which is the adequate amount of phosphorus that should be included in any diet formulated to manage kidney, urinary issues in cats either it is a prescribed diet that requires Vet Authorization or Over the Counter diet that caters to the nutritional needs of cats with kidney and urinary problems which also have a safe level of phosphorus.
A low-phosphorus diet can be a very beneficial nutritional aid for cats with renal disease.
The chronic renal disease greatly impairs the quality of life of your pet. and, excessive phosphorus can overburden the already-weak kidneys, resulting in serious consequences.
As the best overall food low phosphorus diets for cats, I recommend Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet K+M Kidney + Mobility Support Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Kidney care formulas and other prescription diets include recipes that are specifically catered to to match your four-legged friend’s individual requirements. Nonetheless, you should always make sure that you consult with your veterinarian about the best diet for your cat’s health in any given situation.
