Is your cat frequently suffering from digestive or urinary problems? It may very well be time for you to check those ash levels in your cat’s diet.
Ohh, And even with (hopefully) ZERO health problems with your cat, you should not feed high ash content to it. Why? Because, It can cause those clingy bladder stoners, urinary tract issues, and a decline of overall health and activeness as the cat gets older.
Ash is simply a measure of the residue mineral quantity in your cat’s food which is good for nutrition. However, these levels should be monitored and balanced. Ash content in your cat’s food should not exceed 2% at max!
Choosing a low ash cat food has improved the overall health for many of my cat patients. The best low ash cat food that i can vouch for based on both, my personal, and veterinary experience is Purina Pro Plan, Urinary Tract Health.
- Veterinarian-Recommended
- Balanced Nutrition
- Affordable
This low ash cat food reduces the pH of cat’s urine to keep it safe from urinary crystals and stone formation. The higher moisture content in this cat food also kept my cat hydrated and away from upset digestive problems. The high protein content and balanced nutrition makes it an overall great option for a low ash alternative.
I have compiled some of the best low ash cat foods which includes some that require veterinary prescription and others that don’t.
This Article Will Explain & Discuss:
- Detailed Reviews On 7 Best Low Ash Cat Food Based On Personal Experience
- Facts, Precautions, Labels & Issues Regarding Low Ash Cat Foods
- Guide To Buying The Best Low Ash Cat Food
- FAQs For A Better Understanding
Our Quick Comparison On 7 Best Low Ash Cat Food
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BEST DRY  |
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BEST ORGANIC  |
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BEST PROTEIN  |
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Clarity On Best Low Ash Cat Food: Facts, Precautions, Labels & Issues!
Here are some facts regarding low ash cat foods that you should know before buying such foods for your cats.
Is Ash An Absolute Villain?
Ash is a term used for the measurement of crude minerals in pet food, so they are necessary for nutrition. However, if these are in large quantities then they can be harmful for the cat’s urinary tract and digestion.
Hence, if your cat is having these health issues, a vet, like myself, may recommend low ash or low magnesium cat foods after taking down the history of the cat.
Urinary Issues & Overall Health
Constant consumption of high levels of ash in cat food can cause urinary tract problems, kidney damage, digestive issues and stones in urethra, especially in male cats.
Low Ash Cat Foods – Prescription Only?
Low ash cat foods may or may not be prescription only.
Low ash cat foods are generally good for your cat’s health and can be easily ordered online on Amazon, Chewy or other stores.
However, It is always better to work with your vet to find the right kind of low ash cat food for your cat in case of any urinary issues.
Our Detailed Reviews On 7 Best Low Ash Cat Food
I am always looking for ways to provide the best possible care for my furry friends and patients, and so here is a roundup of some of my favorite low ash cat foods.
1) Purina Pro Plan, Urinary Tract Health
- Ash Quantity: 1.5% max
- First 5 Ingredients: Water, Meat By-Products, Chicken, Wheat Gluten, Corn Starch-Modified
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 12.0% min, Crude Fat 3.5% min, Crude Fiber 0.2% max, Moisture 78.0% max
- Caloric Content: 886 kcal/kg, 25.1 kcal/oz
- Food form: Wet Food in the form of Gravy
- Lifestage: Adult
- Type of Product: High-Protein
Why Is It The Best Low Ash Cat Food?
Ever since I tried Purina Pro Plan, Urinary Tract Health, I don’t have to worry about my cats having digestive issues due to the ash content in traditional cat foods. The formula of this cat food is highly digestible which delivers nutrients to cats very easily.
It is especially made to maintain urinary tract health. This is done through the reduction of urinary pH and inclusion of low dietary magnesium in the food. The linoleic acid in it is an omega fatty acid which nourishes the skin and coat of your cat for added health benefits.
It is great for my cats’ bones as the calcium and phosphorus help in the maintenance of bones and teeth so my cats can be active and healthy even as they grow old. Additionally with all the artificial additives in cat food in the market, it is a huge relief that it contains real meat that acts as an excellent source of animal protein.
- Veterinarian-Recommended
- Balanced Nutrition
- Affordability
- May Require Transition Period
2) Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain, Salmon & Venison
- Ash Quantity: Nil
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, fish broth, chicken broth, chicken liver, chicken
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 8.0% min, Crude Fat 3.0% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% max, Moisture 82.0% max
- Caloric Content: 952 kcal/kg, 81 kcal/can (3 oz.)
- Food form: Wet Food in the form of Gravy
- Lifestage: All
- Type of Product: Grain-Free
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain, Salmon & Venison is a good budget-friendly cat food to keep cats healthy, at an affordable price. I use it at the cat shelter where we require a bulk of cat food and it keeps all our rescue cats happy.
It contains real salmon along with other good proteins such as chicken, ocean fish, and roasted venison. The stew keeps cats hydrated and gives lean nutrition and supports muscle building. It keeps cats active and strong.
The peas, blueberries and raspberries provide cats with the essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals which give a good nutritious feed. It is also very digestible to eradicate any digestive disorders through the sweet potatoes that contribute to prebiotic fiber.
- High-Quality Protein Sources
- Natural Ingredients
- Omega Fatty Acids
- May Require Transition Period
3) Tiki Cat, Luau, Puka Puka Chicken
- Ash Quantity: 1% max
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Sunflower Seed Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate, Taurine
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 16.0% min, Crude Fat 2.6% min, Crude Fiber 0% max, Moisture 80% max
- Caloric Content: 863 ME kcal/kg, 245 ME kcal/can
- Food form: Wet Food in the form of Consomme
- Lifestage: All
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Urinary Health
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
Wet food keeps cats hydrated and hence it is some of the best low ash cat foods for their digestive and urinary health. A good wet cat food to consider is Tiki Cat, Luau, Puka Puka Chicken for good overall health.
The chicken used in this food is antibiotic and hormone-free and closely resembles the natural diet of cats in the wild. This meat also provides high protein for healthy muscles. Omegas are found in this formula provided by sunflower oil which keeps the coat and skin shiny and new.
It contains a balanced nutrition for cats of all ages with a mix of amino acids, minerals, taurine and vitamins. This is good for picky eaters as well. It does not contain fillers such as grains, gluten, carbs, flours or starches which pose as digestive threats.
- High-Quality Protein
- Natural Ingredients
- Texture Variety
- Individual Cat Preferences
4) Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care
- Ash Quantity: Calcium 0.95% max, Phosphorus 0.9% max, Magnesium 0.09% max
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30.0% min, Crude Fat 13.0% min, Crude Fiber 1.6% max
- Caloric Content: 349 kcal/cup
- Food form: Dry Food
- Lifestage: Adult
- Type of Product: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet, With Grain
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
Dry food is usually not good for cats with urinary problems but this Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care is recommended by veterinarians all over the world. If your cat does not like the texture of wet food, then this is definitely the way to go.
It is specially formulated to support urinary health and is clinically tested as well as proven to work by many happy cat owners. It lowers the recurrence of the most common signs of urinary problems by 89%. Hill’s Prescription Diet balances the pH levels of urine in cats to achieve desirable results.
This food worked wonders for a cat patient of mine, as it dissolved struvite stones in a week and also helped to reduce relapse risk of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. This is achieved through controlled levels of magnesium, phosphorus and calcium which is presented as ash.
It does not necessarily have to be given to cats when they are facing problems, rather it can also act as a lifelong feed. However, don’t forget to consult your vet for your cat’s specific dietary requirements.
- Veterinarian-Recommended
- Balanced Nutrition
- Urinary Health Support
- Prescription Required
5) Blue Buffalo, Natural Veterinary Diet K+M
- Ash Quantity: 2.0% max
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Potatoes, Potato Starch, Beef
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 4.5% min, Crude Fat 3.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.0% max, Moisture 78.0% max
- Caloric Content: 978 kcal/kg, 153 kcal/can
- Food form: Wet Food in the Form of Pate
- Lifestage: Adult
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Veterinary Diet, Natural
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
I once prescribed Blue Buffalo, Natural Veterinary Diet K+M to a fellow cat owner for kidney disease in her cat and the results were so good that I have to recommend it. It not only helps kidney function but also increases their mobility which in itself promotes a healthy lifestyle in cats.
It has controlled levels of phosphorus and sodium which act as kidney support for all the workload and gives you a happy, and active cat. DHA chondroitin, and glucosamine gives your cats healthy joints so they can run around and jump without pain.
It also does not contain any grains so you don’t have to be worried about fillers. It turns out to be a great wet holistic formula which keeps cat tummies healthy and regulated. The moisture from the broth provides good hydration which also improves kidney and digestive function.
- Veterinarian-Recommended
- Kidney Support
- Mobility Support
- Prescription Required
6) Castor & Pollux Organix, Organic Chicken
- Ash Quantity: 2.0% max
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Potatoes, Potato Starch, Beef
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 9.0% min, Crude Fat 5.0% min, Crude Fiber 1.0% max, Moisture 78.0% max
- Caloric Content: 1,116 kcal/kg, 95 kcal/3-oz can, 174 kcal/5.5-oz can
- Food form: Wet Food in the Form of Pate
- Lifestage: All
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Organic, Non-GMO, Natural
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
This organic cat food can be used by cats of all life stages and so is good for a multicat household. Castor & Pollux Organix, Organic Chicken has free-range chicken as the primary ingredient. This is a great animal protein source that supports muscle development in your cats.
It also contains vegetables and organic cranberries which are good for urinary infections. The essential vitamins, taurine and minerals ensure that your cat has a healthy heart and good vision. The omega fatty acids in the mix give your cats healthy fur and skin.
It is free from any fillers and harmful additives so it works as a great low ash option for cats with allergies. The broth provides hydration and fiber which keeps hairballs out and keeps tummies healthy.
- Organic Ingredients
- No Artificial Additives
- Quality Protein
- May Not Meet Specific Dietary Needs Of Cats With Certain Health Conditions
7) Dr. Elsey’s, Cleanprotein
- Ash Quantity: Nil
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Dried Egg Product, Pork Protein Isolate, Gelatin, Chicken Fat
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 59.0% min, Crude Fat 18.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 12.0% max
- Caloric Content: 4,030 kcal/kg, 554 kcal/cup
- Food form: Dry Food
- Lifestage: All
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Gluten Free, High-Protein, Pea-Free
Why Is It A Good Low Ash Cat Food?
Dr. Elsey’s, Cleanprotein has always been my first choice when it comes to a protein filled treat for cats. It is made up of 90% animal-based protein which gives your cat healthy muscle mass and fulfills the carnivorous appetite.
Foods low in ash should be high in protein for maximum health benefits and a strong body. It is a low glycemic formula which only provides 4% carbohydrates for energy and the rest is all clean and pure protein.
It helps urinary problems through very low oxalate levels which prevent bladder stones and prevent calcium oxalate crystals. The food is completely grain and filler free, and full of healthy ingredients which contain vitamins, taurine, minerals and omega fatty acids.
- Low Carbohydrate Content
- No Artificial Additives
- High-Quality Protein
- Price
Guide To Buying The Best Low Ash Cat Food For Cats With Urinary Tract Problems
Here are some of the features that low ash cat food should have for optimum health benefits.
Contains Enough Protein
Chances of crystal formulation are lowered when normal pH levels are maintained. This can be done through a high protein diet, which fulfills a cat’s natural apetite.
Make sure that the cat food includes real meat instead of meat by-products for a protein filled, low ash diet.
A high protein, low ash diet option is Dr. Elsey’s, Cleanprotein.
Low/No Grain & Vegetable Contents
Some of the best low ash cat food are low in grains or vegetable content.
Since grains are not part of a cat’s natural diet hence they are harder to digest as compared to protein. Digestive and urinary tracts are closely linked so this also helps with urinary issues.
Castor & Pollux Organix, Organic Chicken is an organic, grain-free cat food.
Wet or Dry?
You should opt for food with good moisture content as hydration is the most essential thing to prevent urinary tract issues. Wet cat foods are better for this purpose.
Dry foods go through much more processing which also makes them contain more ash. However, for cats that dislike wet foods or for other reasons, a mixture of wet and dry food can also be considered. In such circumstances, your cat should be encouraged to drink lots of water.
Tiki Cat, Luau, Puka Puka Chicken and Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care are good wet and dry low ash cat food options.
Texture
Sometimes, your cat may not even come near food that is great for its health. For this purpose, try to experiment with different textures of cat food to see what your cat likes.
FAQs: More Clarity On Best Low Ash Cat Food
What Ingredients Are Different In Cat Food For Urinary Tract Health Compared To Regular Cat Food?
Cat food good for urinary tract health contains limited amounts of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. These contribute to urinary crystals and formation of stones by increasing urine pH.
Why Do Some Foods Require a Prescription And Others Don’t?
Cat food which requires a prescription are made to treat some health conditions and work as a sort of medicine. Veterinarians need to prescribe such foods for specific nutrition required to treat a certain disease. Low ash cat foods may or may not require prescriptions.
Purina Pro Plan, Urinary Tract Health is a non-prescription option if you’re looking for one.
How Can I Identify If a Cat Food Is Low In Ash?
You can look at the ingredients list on the cat food packaging to identify ash levels of the food. Ash levels should not be more than 2%.
Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain, Salmon & Venison is a low ash substitute.
What Are The Benefits Of Feeding My Cat a Low Ash Diet?
High ash foods cause urinary problems in cats. Low ash diets provide a balanced nutrition. It also helps to absorb other vital nutrients more effectively.
Are There Specific Ingredients I Should Look For In a Quality Low Ash Cat Food?
Low ash cat foods should contain low quantities of phosphorus, zinc, calcium, iron and magnesium. On the other hand, it should be high in natural protein and low grain.
Dr. Elsey’s, Cleanprotein is a high protein, low ash diet option.
Can Kittens Eat Low Ash Cat Food?
Yes, kittens can have low ash cat food. However, you should consult your vet before finding a suitable cat food brand which suits your kitten’s needs.
How Quickly Will I See The Effects of Switching My Cat To a Low Ash Diet?
You should not immediately change the diet of a cat going through an active urinary problem. Switch the food slowly and give your cat a few weeks before determining if the new food has had an effect.
Are There Any Potential Drawbacks To Feeding My Cat Low Ash Food?
No, there are no drawbacks to feeding low ash food to cats. However, some quantity of ash is required for bone development in cats.
Can I Mix Low Ash Cat Food With Other Types Of Cat Food?
Yes, you can mix low ash food with other types of food but if your cat is facing a health issue then it would not be recommended.
How Do I Transition My Cat To a New Low Ash Cat Food?
You can transition your cat to a new low ash cat food by slowly introducing the new food. You can start by mixing a small amount of the new food to the old one and slowly increase the new food’s quantity until you can completely switch it out.
Is Low Ash Cat Food Suitable For All Breeds Of Cats?
Yes, generally low ash cat food is good for all breeds of cats.Unless, your cat is going through a certain medical or health condition, in which case you should consult a vet before introducing it to low ash food.
Does Royal Canin Have Ash?
Yes, Royal Canin contains ash to a certain level which varies in their different flavors.
How Much Ash Is In Friskies?
Friskies contains variable ash in its cat food differing from one flavor to another. This can range from 2% to 10%.
How Do You Know If Cat Food Has Ash Content?
You can find out the ash content in a certain cat food through the ingredients list on the packaging.
Why Does My Cat Like Eating Ash?
Your cat may like to eat ash due to some nutritional deficiencies. This can be because of any missing element in the cat’s diet.
Our Verdict
Ash is not necessarily bad for your cat however these levels need to be regulated.
Ash is basically just a measure of mineral residue in the cat food ans it’s content in your cat’s food should not be more than 2%. Ash can cause urinary crystals and bladder stones so switching to a low ash diet is your best bet to avoid these problems.
You can experiment with different brands and options from the list above to see what suits your cat’s specific needs most. Purina Pro Plan, Urinary Tract Health is a good place to start.
- Veterinarian-Recommended
- Balanced Nutrition
- Affordable
