Hi All, Can someone explain the following to me. In the article “Best Dry Cat Foods in Canada” the #1 brand is listed as Open Farm. Under dry matter basis, carb levels are 35.56%. The #2 brand, Nutrience, has a carb level of 21.11%. One critique of the #2 product is an issue with the dry matter carb levels of over 20%, however, the same issue is not raised with the OpenFarm product that has a MUCH higher level. Am I misreading this somehow or can someone explain please. Thanks!
Carbs are not the end of the world. They pose no danger to your cat. The only issue is making sure they eat the right amount of food for their target weight. That being said, I have other problems with Open Farm -- the package looks nice, but after being on Open Farm dry for a year (the little bugger won't eat wet, but drinks a of of water), my little guy got some crystals almost leading to a blockage. The thing with these boutique foods is that they do no feeding trials, and are their own judge of whether they are AAFCO-complaint.
@michelel He's fine, thanks. Hydration was not an issue -- he's actually a big water drinker -- loves the tub faucet. Some male cats are prone to this. He now switches between Science Diet c/d and Royal Canon SO and the problem has not recurred.
Thanks. My issue isn’t with the carb levels per se but with the discrepancy between 21.11% targeted as being high vs no comment at all about the 35.56% level. I hear you about the lack of feeding trials, however meeting AAFCO minimum nutrient profile standards is not a gold star recommendation either. When feeding dry food only it is essential a cat drinks enough water — maybe could that have contributed to your guy’s problems? Hope he is feeling better!