What Are Carbs in Cat Food

Carbohydrates in cat food are often misunderstood. While cats are obligate carnivores and don’t require carbs, many commercial diets include them for texture, cost, and processing. Understanding the types, amounts, and impacts of carbs helps you make smarter feeding choices in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Cats are obligate carnivores: Their bodies are designed to thrive on animal-based proteins and fats, not carbohydrates.
• Carbs aren’t toxic but aren’t essential: While cats can digest some carbohydrates, they don’t need them in their diet for optimal health.
• Common carb sources include grains, potatoes, and legumes: These are often used as fillers or binders in dry kibble.
• High-carb diets may contribute to obesity and diabetes: Especially in sedentary indoor cats, excess carbs can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Low-carb and grain-free options are rising in popularity: Many premium brands now offer high-protein, low-carb formulas tailored to feline biology.
• Always read ingredient labels: Look for whole meat sources first and minimal plant-based fillers to ensure your cat gets a species-appropriate diet.
• Consult your vet before switching diets: Especially if your cat has health issues like diabetes or kidney disease, professional guidance is key.

What Are Carbs in Cat Food?

If you’ve ever glanced at the back of a bag of cat food and seen words like “corn,” “wheat,” “peas,” or “potato starch,” you’ve encountered carbohydrates. But what exactly are carbs in cat food, and why are they there? In 2026, as pet parents become more informed and selective about their cats’ nutrition, understanding carbohydrates has never been more important.

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of sugars, starches, and fibers. In human food, they’re a primary energy source. But cats? They’re a different story. Unlike dogs or humans, cats are obligate carnivores—meaning their bodies are biologically built to get energy and nutrients from animal tissue, not plants. Their digestive systems are short and acidic, optimized for breaking down protein and fat, not fermenting plant matter.

So why do so many cat foods—especially dry kibble—contain carbs? The answer lies in manufacturing, cost, and texture. Carbs act as binders, helping kibble hold its shape. They’re also cheaper than meat, allowing brands to keep prices low. But just because they’re common doesn’t mean they’re ideal. As we move further into 2026, the conversation around feline nutrition is shifting. Pet owners are asking tougher questions: Are these carbs helping or harming my cat? And how can I choose a diet that truly supports their natural biology?

Why Do Cats Need (or Not Need) Carbohydrates?

Let’s clear up a common myth right away: cats don’t need carbohydrates to survive. Unlike humans, who rely on glucose from carbs for brain function and energy, cats have evolved to produce glucose internally through a process called gluconeogenesis. This means their bodies can make the sugar they need directly from protein—no bread, rice, or potatoes required.

The Feline Digestive System: Built for Meat

Cats have a highly specialized digestive tract. Their stomachs are highly acidic (pH around 1–2), perfect for breaking down raw meat and killing bacteria. Their small intestines are short, which is efficient for absorbing nutrients from animal proteins but not ideal for fermenting plant fibers. They also lack certain enzymes—like amylase in their saliva—that humans use to start breaking down starches in the mouth.

This biological design tells us one thing: cats are meat-eaters. Their teeth are sharp for tearing flesh, not grinding grains. Their metabolism runs on amino acids like taurine and arginine, which are found almost exclusively in animal tissue. When cats eat carbs, their bodies can process them—but not efficiently. Excess carbs are often stored as fat, which can lead to obesity over time.

Can Cats Digest Carbs at All?

Yes, but with limits. Cats can digest simple carbohydrates like glucose and maltose, especially when cooked. That’s why some cats seem to enjoy sweet treats or lick yogurt off a spoon. However, complex carbs—like those in grains, legumes, and root vegetables—are harder to break down. The enzymes needed to digest starch (like pancreatic amylase) are present in cats, but in much lower amounts than in omnivores.

Studies from 2024 and 2025 show that while cats can tolerate moderate levels of cooked carbs, high-carb diets can lead to digestive upset, including gas, bloating, and loose stools. More concerning is the long-term impact: research from veterinary nutritionists at Cornell and UC Davis suggests that diets with more than 10–15% carbohydrates (on a dry matter basis) may increase the risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and even feline diabetes.

The Role of Fiber

Not all carbs are created equal. While starches and sugars are the main concern, dietary fiber—a type of carbohydrate—can actually be beneficial in small amounts. Soluble fiber (like that in pumpkin or psyllium) helps regulate digestion and can aid in hairball control. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stool and supports gut motility.

However, too much fiber—especially from low-quality sources like beet pulp or cellulose—can reduce the absorption of essential nutrients. It’s all about balance. A little fiber can be helpful; a lot can be counterproductive.

Common Sources of Carbs in Cat Food

Now that we know cats don’t need carbs, let’s look at where they’re hiding in your cat’s food. Most commercial cat foods, especially dry kibble, contain carbohydrates for several reasons: cost, texture, shelf stability, and processing ease.

Grains: The Usual Suspects

Grains like corn, wheat, rice, barley, and oats are common in many cat foods. They’re cheap, readily available, and help bind kibble together. Corn, in particular, is a frequent ingredient—not because it’s nutritious for cats, but because it’s affordable and high in starch.

However, grains can be problematic. Some cats are sensitive or allergic to certain grains, leading to skin irritation, ear infections, or digestive issues. Even if your cat isn’t allergic, grains offer little nutritional value for felines. They’re primarily used as fillers.

In 2026, many premium brands are moving away from grains, offering “grain-free” options. But be cautious: just because a food is grain-free doesn’t mean it’s low-carb. Many grain-free formulas replace grains with other starchy ingredients like potatoes or peas.

Root Vegetables and Tubers

Sweet potatoes, white potatoes, tapioca, and cassava are increasingly common in “natural” and “grain-free” cat foods. These ingredients are high in carbohydrates and are used as binders and energy sources. While they’re often marketed as “healthy” or “natural,” they’re still plant-based and not ideal for obligate carnivores.

For example, a popular grain-free kibble might list “deboned chicken” first, followed by “peas,” “potato protein,” and “tapioca.” Sounds good—until you realize the second, third, and fourth ingredients are all carb-heavy. This can push the total carbohydrate content well above what’s optimal for cats.

Legumes and Pulses

Peas, lentils, chickpeas, and fava beans are showing up more in cat food, especially in “high-protein” or “ancestral” formulas. These ingredients are rich in protein—but also in carbohydrates and fiber. While they may boost the protein percentage on the label, they’re not animal-based, so they don’t provide the same amino acid profile as meat.

Moreover, there’s growing concern in the veterinary community about legumes and heart health. In 2023, the FDA issued a warning about a potential link between diets high in legumes and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. While the evidence in cats is less clear, many experts recommend caution, especially for breeds prone to heart issues.

Sugars and Sweeteners

You might not expect to find sugar in cat food, but it’s there—sometimes hidden under names like “molasses,” “corn syrup,” or “sucrose.” These are added to improve palatability, especially in dry food. Cats can’t taste sweetness the way humans do (they lack the sweet taste receptor), but they may still be attracted to the smell or texture.

Added sugars offer no nutritional benefit and can contribute to obesity and dental problems. In 2026, more brands are eliminating added sugars, but it’s still worth checking labels.

How Many Carbs Should Be in Cat Food?

There’s no official recommended daily allowance (RDA) for carbohydrates in cats—because they don’t need them. However, veterinary nutritionists agree that the lower the carb content, the better, especially for indoor, sedentary, or overweight cats.

Understanding Dry Matter Basis

To compare carb levels across different foods (wet vs. dry), you need to look at the “dry matter basis.” This removes the water content so you’re comparing apples to apples.

For example, a wet food might list 5% carbohydrates, but when you calculate the dry matter, it could be 15%. Dry kibble, which is only about 10% water, will have a higher concentration of carbs on a dry matter basis.

Here’s a quick guide to interpreting carb levels:

• Low-carb: Less than 10% dry matter
• Moderate-carb: 10–20% dry matter
• High-carb: More than 20% dry matter

Ideally, you want to feed your cat a diet with less than 10% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. This is achievable with high-protein, low-carb wet foods or carefully selected dry kibbles.

Wet vs. Dry Food: The Carb Difference

Wet food naturally contains fewer carbohydrates because it’s mostly water and meat. Many high-quality wet foods have less than 5% carbs on a dry matter basis. Dry food, on the other hand, relies heavily on starches to form kibble, so even “premium” brands often have 20–40% carbs.

For example, a popular dry food might list “chicken meal” first, but the next five ingredients could be corn gluten meal, brewers rice, and pea fiber—pushing the carb content through the roof. In contrast, a wet food with “chicken, chicken liver, and broth” as the top ingredients is likely to be much lower in carbs.

This doesn’t mean dry food is bad—many cats thrive on it. But if you’re concerned about carbs, wet food is generally the better choice. You can also mix wet and dry to balance convenience and nutrition.

Special Diets: Diabetic, Obese, and Senior Cats

For cats with health issues, carb intake becomes even more critical.

• Diabetic cats: High-carb diets can spike blood sugar. Low-carb, high-protein diets are often recommended to help regulate glucose levels. In 2026, many vets prescribe therapeutic diets like Hill’s m/d or Royal Canin Glycobalance, which are specifically formulated for diabetic cats.
• Obese cats: Excess carbs contribute to weight gain. Switching to a low-carb, high-protein diet can help cats feel fuller longer and lose weight safely.
• Senior cats: Older cats often have reduced kidney function and lower activity levels. A diet moderate in protein (but not excessive) and low in carbs can support kidney health and prevent obesity.

Always work with your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for cats with medical conditions.

Are Grain-Free and Low-Carb the Same Thing?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions in cat nutrition today. Many pet owners assume that “grain-free” means “low-carb,” but that’s not always true.

Grain-Free ≠ Low-Carb

Grain-free simply means the food doesn’t contain wheat, corn, rice, or other grains. But manufacturers often replace grains with other starchy ingredients like potatoes, peas, or tapioca—which are still carbohydrates.

For example, a grain-free kibble might have:

• Deboned chicken
• Peas
• Potato protein
• Tapioca
• Chickpeas

Even without grains, this food could have 25–30% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. So while it’s grain-free, it’s not low-carb.

What to Look for Instead

Instead of focusing on “grain-free,” look for:

• High animal protein: The first ingredient should be a named meat (e.g., “chicken,” not “poultry by-product meal”).
• Minimal plant-based ingredients: Avoid foods where peas, potatoes, or legumes appear in the top five ingredients.
• Low carbohydrate content: Use online calculators or ask the manufacturer for dry matter carb percentages.
• Transparency: Reputable brands will provide detailed nutritional analysis, including carbohydrate content.

In 2026, more brands are offering truly low-carb options, often marketed as “biologically appropriate” or “species-specific.” These diets mimic what cats would eat in the wild—primarily meat, with minimal plant matter.

How to Choose the Best Low-Carb Cat Food in 2026

With so many options on the market, choosing the right food can feel overwhelming. Here’s a practical guide to help you pick a low-carb diet that supports your cat’s health.

Read the Ingredient List

Start with the first five ingredients. Ideally, you want:

• A named animal protein (chicken, turkey, salmon, etc.)
• Animal fat (chicken fat, salmon oil)
• Minimal or no grains, potatoes, or legumes

Avoid foods where plant-based ingredients dominate the list.

Check the Guaranteed Analysis

Look for:

• Crude protein: At least 30–40% on a dry matter basis
• Crude fat: 15–20%
• Crude fiber: Less than 5%
• Nitrogen-free extract (NFE): This is a rough estimate of carbohydrates. Lower is better.

If NFE isn’t listed, you can estimate carbs using this formula:

Carbohydrates (%) = 100 – (% protein + % fat + % fiber + % ash + % moisture)

Consider Wet Food

Wet food is generally lower in carbs and higher in moisture, which supports kidney and urinary health. Look for pâtés or mousses with meat as the primary ingredient and no added grains or starches.

Try a Rotation Diet

Some experts recommend rotating between 2–3 high-quality, low-carb foods to provide variety and reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies or sensitivities.

Monitor Your Cat’s Response

After switching foods, watch for:

• Improved coat and skin
• Healthy weight
• Regular digestion
• Increased energy

If your cat develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, consult your vet.

The Future of Carbohydrates in Cat Food

As we move through 2026, the pet food industry is evolving. Consumers are demanding transparency, sustainability, and species-appropriate nutrition. This has led to innovations in low-carb, high-protein formulas, including:

• Insect-based proteins: Sustainable and low-carb alternatives like black soldier fly larvae are gaining traction.
• Lab-grown meat: Cultured chicken and beef could offer pure, carb-free protein sources in the near future.
• Personalized nutrition: DNA testing and AI-driven diets may allow for customized feeding plans based on a cat’s genetics and health.

Regulatory bodies are also stepping up. In 2025, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) updated its guidelines to require clearer labeling of carbohydrate sources and dry matter percentages. This makes it easier for pet owners to make informed choices.

Conclusion

Carbohydrates in cat food are a complex topic—but understanding them is key to feeding your feline friend a diet that supports their natural biology. While cats don’t need carbs, many commercial foods include them for practical reasons. The good news? In 2026, more options than ever exist for low-carb, high-protein diets that align with what cats are meant to eat.

By reading labels, choosing quality ingredients, and consulting your vet, you can ensure your cat gets the nutrition they need—without unnecessary fillers. Remember: a healthy cat is a happy cat, and that starts with what’s in their bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cats need carbohydrates in their diet?

No, cats do not need carbohydrates to survive. As obligate carnivores, their bodies are designed to get energy from protein and fat, not plant-based carbs. They can produce glucose internally through gluconeogenesis.

Can high-carb cat food cause diabetes?

Yes, especially in overweight or sedentary cats. Diets high in carbohydrates can lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of feline diabetes. Low-carb, high-protein diets are often recommended for diabetic cats.

Is grain-free cat food always low in carbs?

No. Grain-free foods may still contain high-carb ingredients like potatoes, peas, or tapioca. Always check the ingredient list and calculate the dry matter carbohydrate content.

What’s the best type of cat food for low-carb intake?

Wet food is generally lower in carbs than dry kibble. Look for pâtés or mousses with meat as the first ingredient and minimal plant-based fillers.

How can I calculate the carbohydrate content in cat food?

Use the formula: Carbohydrates (%) = 100 – (% protein + % fat + % fiber + % ash + % moisture). This gives you the dry matter carbohydrate percentage.

Should I switch my cat to a low-carb diet?

It depends on your cat’s health, age, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian before making any dietary changes, especially if your cat has medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.