Dr Marie Menniti - Miss Cats Team

Dr. Marie Menniti's Veterinary Advice

Pancreatitis in cats manifests in a wide variety of clinical signs. If you suspect your cat has pancreatitis, book an appointment with your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis. 

As with any illness, diet will play a role in management of the condition. It is challenging to make a single diet recommendation due to the complexity of pancreatitis. However, the following tips can get you started on how to choose the best one.

1. Choose a high moisture food

Pancreatitis is frequently accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea. Both these symptoms can quickly dehydrate your kitty.

Wet cat food will be able to help restore lost fluids in the body. These diets have an added advantage of being able to be easily warmed up which can help to release the food’s meaty aroma and entice even the most finicky eaters.

2. Choose a diet with a low to moderate fat content

The ability to digest fat can become limited in a cat with pancreatitis.

It is generally recommended that cats with a diagnosis be fed a diet containing no more that 25% fat, on a dry matter basis.

For cats that are overweight or other clinical symptoms, a veterinarian may recommend a diet that is less than 15% fat, on a dry matter basis.

3. Choose a diet with a moderate protein content

Protein in the diet stimulates the pancreas and can cause additional irritation in a cat with a pancreatitis diagnosis. This nutrient is also very important in supporting a cat with an inflammatory condition.

It is advised that the chosen diet contains 30-40% protein, on a dry matter basis.

Depending on your cat’s specific condition, their protein requirements may be different. Ask your veterinarian at your cat’s checkup for a more specific recommendation.

(Note: The nutrients on your food label will most likely be given on an “as fed” basis. You can learn how to convert these values to dry matter basis here.)

4. Consider possible food reactions

Some cats may get additional gut irritation from the consumption of certain ingredients.  The best choice for a suspected adverse food reaction or allergy is a hydrolyzed protein diet.

This diet uses proteins that are broken down into tiny pieces that are too small to trigger a reaction as their amino acid source. These diets are also a top choice to use for clinical dietary trial to pinpoint the exact ingredient causing the problem.

5. Choose a food that your cat enjoys

Anorexia and weight loss are common in cats that have pancreatitis. To avoid these, ensure to choose a food that your cat finds irresistible. 

Diets differ in their water content, texture, and flavor. Some cats prefer crunchy dry kibbles while others thrive on high moisture canned foods. If your cat continuously refuses food for over 24 hours, it is best to consult with your veterinarian.

What is the Best Cat Food for Pancreatitis?

Author:
Last updated June 28, 2021
IMAGE RECOMMENDED PRODUCTSPRODUCT FEATURES
Top Pick
Purina Pro Plan Hydrolyzed Protein
  • Type: Dry food
  • Calories: 350 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 30%
Royal Canin Veterinary Gastrointestinal
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 60 kcal/can
  • Protein: 38.7%
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet
  • Type: Dry food
  • Calories: 430 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 30%
Hill's Prescription Digestive Care
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 161 kcal/5.5 oz can
  • Protein: 37.9%
Purina Pro Plan Gastroenteric Formula
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 159 kcal/can
  • Protein: 43%

Pancreatitis Cat Food Reviews

Purina Pro Plan Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Cat Food for Pancreatitits

SEE MORE →
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS PRICE FEATURES
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS
  1. Rice Starch
  2. Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Isolate
  3. Partially Hydrogenated Canola Oil Preserved with Tbhq
  4. Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver
  5. Tricalcium Phosphate
 PRICE
VIEW LATEST PRICE → 		FEATURES
  • Type: Dry food
  • Calories: 350 kcal/cup
  • Lifestage: Adult
NUTRITION
Fat
9%
9%
Protein
30%
30%
Fiber
4%
4%
REVIEW

Purina Pro Plan Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Cat Food for Pancreatitits Review

This hydrolyzed formula from Purina Pro Plan is an excellent option for cats that struggle with pancreatitis. This low ingredient formula contains a single source of hydrolyzed protein as well as a single source of carbohydrates. Hydrolyzed proteins are very easy for your cat’s digestive system to break down, so they can better absorb the essential nutrients in the formula.

The carbohydrates in this formula are specifically formulated to be low in allergens, so they are less likely to cause a reaction within your cat’s digestive system. It is fortified with additional vitamin and mineral supplements for a complete diet, including vitamins E, A, and B-12. With gentle yet nutritious ingredients, this is the best cat food for pancreatitis right now.

BUY HERE →

Royal Canin Veterinary Gastrointestinal Wet Cat Food for Pancreatitis

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TOP 5 INGREDIENTS PRICE FEATURES
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS
  1. Water Sufficient For Processing
  2. Chicken Liver
  3. Pork By-Products
  4. Chicken By-Products
  5. Pork Liver
 PRICE
VIEW LATEST PRICE → 		FEATURES
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 60 kcal/can
  • Lifestage: Adult
NUTRITION
Fat
9.68%
9.68%
Protein
38.7%
38.7%
Fiber
12.9%
12.9%
REVIEW

Royal Canin Veterinary Gastrointestinal Wet Cat Food for Pancreatitis Review

If you’re on the hunt for the best canned cat food for pancreatitis, this is an excellent option from Royal Canin. It’s very high in moisture and has a good ratio of protein to fat, which provides your cat with the energy they need. They’re made with a blend of chicken and pork by-products to create a delicious savory taste for your cat.

This formula contains prebiotics as well as soluble fibers, which help support a regular and healthy digestive system. Omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA help keep the gastrointestinal tract healthy, but they also help to keep your cat’s skin and coat healthy. Finally, Royal Canin’s S/O Index helps prevent urinary tract issues later on in life.

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Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Cat Food for Pancreatitis

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TOP 5 INGREDIENTS PRICE FEATURES
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS
  1. Salmon Hydrolysate
  2. Peas
  3. Potatoes
  4. Pea Starch
  5. Canola Oil (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids)
 PRICE
VIEW LATEST PRICE → 		FEATURES
  • Type: Dry food
  • Calories: 430 kcal/cup
  • Lifestage: Adult
NUTRITION
Fat
14%
14%
Protein
30%
30%
Fiber
4%
4%
REVIEW

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Cat Food for Pancreatitis Review

The Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet is hydrolyzed for easy digestion. It uses salmon as a lean source of protein with a very appealing flavor. It also doesn’t contain grains, corn, soy, or other ingredients that could irritate cats with sensitive stomachs.

This formula is enhanced with natural antioxidant-rich ingredients like pumpkin and kelp, as well as essential vitamins C and E. These support your cat’s immune system, which is particularly important for cats with any health challenges. It also contains fish oils, which are an excellent source of essential omega-3 fatty acids. This tasty dry food has all of the nutrients your cat needs, but is gentle enough for cats with pancreatitis.

BUY HERE →

Hill's Prescription Digestive Care Chicken Canned Cat Food for Pancreatitis

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TOP 5 INGREDIENTS PRICE FEATURES
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS
  1. Water
  2. Pork Liver
  3. Chicken
  4. Rice
  5. Potato Protein
 PRICE
VIEW LATEST PRICE → 		FEATURES
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 161 kcal/5.5 oz can
  • Lifestage: Adult
NUTRITION
Fat
23.2%
23.2%
Protein
37.9%
37.9%
Fiber
2.7%
2.7%
REVIEW

Hill's Prescription Digestive Care Chicken Canned Cat Food for Pancreatitis Review

The Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care is an excellent gentle formula for cats with pancreatitis. It has a very high moisture content and is full of high-quality ingredients that are easy for your cat to digest. This formula contains an optimal balance of protein and fat to support healthy muscles.

A blend of mixed fibers and added prebiotics in this formula support a healthy and regular digestive system. It is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and other essential ingredients that are a crucial part of a balanced diet, and helps your cat replenish their electrolytes. It has a pate texture with an appealing savory taste that cats love.

BUY HERE →

Purina Pro Plan Gastroenteric Formula Canned Cat Food for Pancreatitis

SEE MORE →
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS PRICE FEATURES
TOP 5 INGREDIENTS
  1. Water
  2. Meat By-Products
  3. Turkey
  4. Soy Protein Isolate
  5. Rice
 PRICE
VIEW LATEST PRICE → 		FEATURES
  • Type: Wet food
  • Calories: 159 kcal/can
  • Lifestage: Adult
NUTRITION
Fat
18%
18%
Protein
43%
43%
Fiber
9%
9%
REVIEW

Purina Pro Plan Gastroenteric Formula Canned Cat Food for Pancreatitis Review

Finding the best cat food for cats with pancreatitis can be tricky, but this diet has been specifically designed to address gastrointestinal challenges. This minced wet cat food from Purina contains 43 percent protein, but is formulated for easy digestion and optimal nutrient absorption.

In addition to protecting against gastrointestinal issues, this food is also designed for optimal urinary health. It prevents calcium oxalate and struvite crystals from forming, which can cause kidney stones and other urinary issues. Although this food is easy on the stomach, it is high in protein and helps your cat keep their energy up.

BUY HERE →