Our team of experts has researched and tested a wide range of cat products and compiled a comprehensive list of reviews to help you make informed decisions. With factors such as price, durability, and safety considered, our reviews provide accurate and up-to-date information.
Whether you’re a new cat owner or have been caring for your feline friend for years, our reviews will help you find the best options for your cat’s health and happiness. So, sit back and let us guide you through the world of cat products and gear with our comprehensive reviews.
Cat Food
Dry Food
Choosing the right cat dry food can be challenging, as many options are available. Here are some tips to help you find the best dry food for your cat:
- Look for a complete, life-stage-appropriate dry food that meets your cat’s nutritional needs. A complete food contains all the nutrients your cat needs, while life-stage-appropriate food is tailored to your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.
- Check the ingredients list and the guaranteed analysis on the food packaging. The ingredients list shows what the food is made of, while the guaranteed analysis shows the percentages of protein, fat, fiber, moisture, and other nutrients.
- Opt for a dry food low on carbs and high on protein. Cats are obligate carnivores and need animal-based protein to stay healthy. The more meat protein in the food, the better. Protein derived from plant sources, such as soy and other legumes, is less preferable. Grain-free is a good starting point in identifying a healthier dry food, as grains can cause allergies in some cats.
- Avoid dry foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or fillers. These can harm your cat’s health and cause digestive issues or allergic reactions. Look for natural ingredients and avoid by-products, meat meals, or generic meats.
- Choose a dry food that has a good balance of fats and oils. Fats and oils provide essential fatty acids, help absorb vitamins, and add flavor and texture to the food. Cats need both saturated and unsaturated fats, but avoid feeding them too much fat, which can cause obesity and other health problems. Look for foods containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which benefit your cat’s skin, coat, and immune system.
- Consider your cat’s preferences and needs. Some cats may prefer certain flavors or textures of dry food over others. You may need to try different brands or varieties until you find one your cat likes. You should also consider your cat’s specific needs, such as allergies, dental health, hairball control, urinary tract health, weight management, or senior care. Some dry foods are specially formulated to address these issues and may help your cat stay healthy and happy.
Wet Food
When choosing the right cat wet food, it’s essential to consider factors such as moisture content and nutritional values. Wet food contains up to 80% water, which can help keep your cat hydrated. It’s also important to consider your cat’s overall health needs and any special dietary requirements they may have. You should consult with your veterinarian to determine if your cat has any special health needs that should be considered.
When choosing a brand of wet cat food, it’s a good idea to choose one that is known for its quality and has been around for a while. You can also look for a “complete” wet food that contains all the nutrients your cat needs to stay healthy. Avoid foods that contain grains and carbohydrates, such as corn and wheat, and make sure the product contains vital minerals.
Cat Treats
When choosing suitable cat treats, it’s important to consider the ingredients. Look for treats that are made with recognizable ingredients, such as meats, grains, and vegetables. Avoid treats with unnecessary fillers, dyes, and preservatives that are not good for your cat. Since cats have more carnivorous tastes, meat treats are best. Ensure the treats are cooked and do not contain added salt, preservatives, or artificial coloring.
You can also choose treats for specific conditions your cat may have, such as grain-free for allergies, tartar control for dental health, hairball prevention, joint health, and protein-rich for a high protein concentration. It’s also a good idea to buy treats made in safe countries and ensure they have not been recalled.
Cat Food Toppers
Cat food toppers come in various forms:
- liquid (like chicken broth or goat’s milk),
- wet toppers, and
- dry toppers.
Some cat parents also opt to add their own whole food toppers to their pet’s meal, like pumpkin puree, kefir, or a raw egg. Non-salty tuna is also a winner with feline picky eaters.
When choosing the right cat food topper, it’s important to consider the ingredients and nutritional value. Look for toppers that are made with recognizable ingredients such as meats, grains, and vegetables. Avoid toppers with unnecessary fillers, dyes, and preservatives that are not good for your cat.
Cat Feeding
Food & Water Bowls
Safety, convenience, and durability should be the priority when choosing the right bowls. The best food bowls for cats are made with durable and safe material, slightly elevated to avoid straining your cat’s neck, wide and shallow, and easy to clean.
Choosing bowls made of safe materials such as stainless steel or ceramic with a lead-free glaze is important. Plastic bowls should be avoided as many cats are allergic to plastic and develop a skin condition on their chins resembling acne.
When choosing a location for your cat’s water bowl, look for a quiet location that’s separate from food bowls, and litter boxes and not easily accessed by other pets. Ideally, your cat has water bowls in several locations since cats prefer variety when it comes to their water options.
Automatic Cat Feeder
If you live a busy lifestyle and may not always be home to feed your cat, an automatic cat feeder that can be linked up to an app on your phone may be a good option. This allows you to release food into a bowl at the tap of a button.
If your cat has a routine and is accustomed to a set feeding time, it may be beneficial to get a feeder where you can program your cat’s specific meal times. If you have multiple cats and need to prevent food stealing, a microchip cat feeder can help. The feeder uses your pet’s microchip to identify the correct cat for the food and only opens the lid once it has detected the microchip.
If you need to monitor your cat’s weight, there are pet bowls with built-in scales so you can weigh out your cat’s meal. They can be used with an app to further monitor your pet’s diet and any eating habits.
Puzzle Feeder
When choosing the best puzzle feeder or slow feeder for your cat, it’s essential to consider your cat’s play style and food preferences. The type of puzzle feeder that is best for your cat will depend on a few factors, which should be considered to improve compliance and enjoyment from your new puzzle feeder.
The type of cat puzzle you choose will also depend on whether you want to use it for meals, treats, or both. Slow feeders are great for full meals because they can hold a larger amount of food, while licking mats are suitable for both meals and soft treats.
Water Fountain
We found that the materials of your cat water fountain will matter a lot over time. Plastics are light but very susceptible to scratches and hard to clean. Dirt and bacteria that accumulate in the scratches can cause cat acne. The steel is easy to clean but can affect the taste of water. The best choice is ceramics.
Choose a model with a quiet pump as cats are easily frightened and a loud pump may discourage them from drinking. Choose a low-maintenance model that is easy to clean and maintain.
Cat Feeding Mat
The size and material of a feeding mat are essential for your cat. The mat should be large enough to accommodate your cat’s food and water bowls with at least 4 inches of free space from the food bowls. The mat should also be made of a durable and easy-to-clean material.
Some popular materials for cat feeding mats include silicone and rubber. These materials are non-slip, waterproof, and easy to clean. Some mats also have raised edges to help contain spills and messes.
Grooming
Brush
When choosing the right cat brush, it’s important to consider your cat’s fur type and preferences. A cat with long fur will need a different brush than a shorthair. Many types of brushes are available such as rubber brushes, rakes, slicker brushes, and more. It’s a good idea to try out a few different brushes to see which one your cat likes best.
It’s also important to consider the reason why you are brushing your cat. If you are brushing your cat to remove tangles and mats, you may need a different type of brush than if you are brushing your cat to remove loose fur.
Flea Control
Before choosing the best preventative treatment, always consult your veterinarian to discuss which treatment suits your cat’s health and lifestyle. Many options include collars, spot-on topical treatments, and chewable tablets. Your vet can help you choose the best and most effective long-term method of flea control for your cat.
It’s also important to consider the safety of the flea treatment. You should purchase products from reputable retailers as they are safer and more reliable for your pet3. Look for solutions marked as “NFA-VPS,” as this means they can only be sold by someone who knows about the products and can confirm your pet is healthy and receiving the correct dose.
Cat Shampoo
It’s crucial to choose a shampoo specifically formulated for cats. The shampoo should be mild, unscented, and unmedicated. If your cat requires a medicated shampoo, you should ask your vet for recommendations before using it on your kitty.
If you can, try to choose a clinically tested shampoo that has proven effective and safe for cats. When choosing a shampoo, you should also consider your cat’s specific needs, such as skin sensitivity or allergies.
Hair Clippers
Choose a clipper that is the right size for your cat. The blade is the most important part of your clippers, so ensure the blade is sharp and will not cause irritation to your cat’s skin. Ideally, pick cat clippers with a combination of power and speed to slice through mats and thick hair. You’ll need that extra power if you groom a cat with a thick coat or matted fur.
Cat Litter Box
When choosing the best cat litter box, it’s essential to consider the size and depth of the box. The box should be large enough to accommodate your cat with at least 3 inches of diggable litter. The box should also have a spacious area inside to provide your cat with enough room to move around comfortably. Then, decide whether you want an open or closed litter box. Is your cat still growing, and is it going to have enough space if it’s closed?
It’s also important to consider the location of the litter box. Pick an active area of the house that is away from food and water bowls. Consider your cat’s needs when choosing a location for the litter box. If you have an elderly cat, don’t put the litter box in a far corner of the basement.
Cat Sand
Cats tend to prefer fine particle litters, as opposed to pellet and crystal-type ones. This is because cats were originally desert-dwelling animals that buried their waste in the sand. Finer particles also feel better on their paws.
It’s also important to choose a litter that offers exceptional odor control. Unpleasant odors come from ammonia, which is formed when the cat’s urine comes into contact with oxygen. Ideally, choose a litter that blocks and neutralizes ammonia formation.
As a rule of thumb, you should scoop out solid waste and clumps daily and completely change the litter every 1-2 weeks. However, if you notice any unpleasant odors or the litter appears dirty, you may need to change it more frequently. It’s also important to clean the litter box itself regularly. Wash the box with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly before adding fresh litter.
Toys
Cat Wand
Always consider your cat’s play style and preferences. Cat wands encourage engaging play in a way that mimics natural hunting behavior. They also offer kitty guardians the opportunity to get involved in the game without encountering claws.
It’s also essential to choose a wand design that will likely keep your cat intrigued and eager to play. A wand toy can be great for mimicking the movements and sounds of insects and bugs. When pretending to be a bug, a wand toy attachment that makes a little bit of noise, like the Buzzer or Cuttlefish, can work well.
Cat Condo
When choosing a cat condo, several features and characteristics must be considered. You should evaluate the quality of the materials used to make the condo, such as the wood and coverings. The wood should be of good quality and covered by carpet that is not looped, which can get caught in their nails. Fake fur and fleece may also be a good choice. The scratching post should be covered in sisal rope. You should also study how the condo is put together. Putting the frame together using screws is better than nails.
You should also consider your cat’s personality and habits. Consider the number of cats you own; each cat should have their own area in the cat condo. Determine the weight limit on the condo to ensure it can safely hold your cat and then some.
It’s also important to consider your available space and your cat’s temperament and physical condition when choosing the right size cat tree. Cat trees generally fall into three types: freestanding, hanging, and wall-mounted.
Kicker Toys
Check the products’ materials to ensure they can stand up to your cat’s teeth and claws. Durable materials are best because your cat may get aggressive with their sharp claws when bunny kicking. You should also consider whether or not a kicker toy is safe. Look for toys that are made of non-toxic materials.
Many toys will have extras, such as catnip, silvervine, feathers, or a crinkle sound. These features may entice your kitty to pounce, bunny kick, and bite. Just keep in mind that, when it comes to catnip toys, selecting one that is refillable can help ensure the scent will always be strong enough to attract your feline companion.
Outdoor Needs
Cat Collar
The material and design of the collar are the main characteristics. Materials such as soft leather and smooth silicone allow your cat’s fur to move freely, while lightweight options such as nylon make it easy for your cat to forget the collar is even there. A collar made of high-quality materials designed to last will ensure that your cat is safe and comfortable.
It’s also essential to choose a collar with a safety release mechanism. This will allow the collar to break away if it gets caught on something, preventing your cat from getting stuck or injured.
Cat Leash
When choosing the right cat leash, it’s important to consider the material and length of the leash. Leash durability depends on the material used and the attachment clip quality. Avoid metal models since they are too heavy for the cat. If your budget is not limited, your first choice should be a leather leash. Even though nylon is slippery, it is the most common choice for most cat owners.
Most cat leashes come in size ranging from 3 to 6 feet (0.9 – 1.8 m). You should pick out an adequately long leash with a soft, rubber-covered handle1. That will make walking convenient for your kitty without getting stuck the leash in its paws.
Harness
Ensure that the harness fastens in a way that is impossible for your cat to squirm out of. Be mindful of the comfort level of your cat. Then, the most important factor in choosing a harness is fit. It’s essential to look closely at the manufacturer’s sizing guides and measure your cat carefully to ensure the harness fits perfectly.
Cat House
We recommend you consider the size and number of compartments and the dimension of the cat house you want to buy.
A cat house should have several compartments to give your cat some variety. If you have more than one cat, the cat house should be large and have multiple compartments to ensure enough space for the cats to move freely. The dimensions of the cat house should be ideal for your home but also large enough for your cat to feel comfortable.
Carrier
To find the right size carrier for your cat, start by measuring its length and height. Place your cat in a natural standing position next to a wall, and take measurements of its height and length. This will help you determine the minimum space your cat needs to be comfortable in their carrier.
The ideal cat carrier should be strong, lightweight, secure, and easy to clean. Other things to consider when buying a carrier include size – the carrier needs to be large enough for your cat to lay down comfortably and adjust their position but snug enough to ensure they don’t fall about inside.
Insect Repellant
You should choose citronella or sandalwood oil repellents, as these are not dangerous to your cat. Permethrins, a synthetic chemical, are toxic to cats and should never be used on them. Likewise, DEET has been known to poison cats when used on them and should also be avoided.
When buying the ideal insect repellent, you should consider your cat’s age and weight. A tablet too strong could make your cat sick, while a dose that’s too small will not work. You can also choose a product made from natural plant extracts, which is both practical and completely safe.
Beddings
Cat Bed
When choosing the right cat bed, it’s important to consider the size and material of the bed. The bed must be the right size for your feline. Your cat needs to have enough space to move around comfortably. You should choose a bed that is made from a comfortable material that they can snuggle in, such as fleece or faux fur.
It’s also essential to choose a bed that is washable and durable. Cat beds with removable covers mean you can wash the areas in regular contact with your cat. Keeping it clean with regular washing will help reduce any foul odors and the spread of bacteria. The best cat beds are durable and can survive scratching, kneading, or biting.
Cat Basket
The ideal cat basket should be strong, lightweight, secure, and easy to clean. Other things to consider when buying a basket carrier include size – the carrier needs to be large enough for your cat to lay down comfortably and adjust their position but snug enough to ensure they don’t fall about inside.
Hammock
First, you need to decide which type of hammock your cat needs. Three main types are:
- window hammocks,
- tower hammocks, and
- cage hammocks.
Once you’ve picked the right type, you must consider specific features like size, weight capacity, fabric and blend, levels, durability and strength, and maintenance.
Other Cat Needs
DNA Test Kit
According to Annette Louviere, veterinary expert at Wisdom Panel, the main factors to consider when shopping for a cat DNA testing product are the size of the company’s breed reference database, the number of genetic markers the test can detect, and the type of information reported after the test (examples include health related to ancestry, traits related to ancestry, genetic diversity measurement).
Scratcher
First, you need to note the material that appeals to your cat. Depending on whether your cat has spent more time indoors or outdoors, they may prefer certain materials over others, such as wood, fabric, carpet, or rope. Depending on your cat’s scratching preferences, you should also choose between a horizontal or vertical scratching post. The scratcher should be tall enough so that the cat can stretch out its full body length when scratching but not too tall so that it’s unstable.