Chicken Bone Broth
Our ingredient score: 3 / 5 · Named animal protein · How We Score
Chicken bone broth is made by simmering chicken bones for a long time, and it adds moisture and flavor to wet food. Because most cats drink little water, the liquid they get from food is helpful, and the taste of broth stimulates the appetite of picky cats. The protein in it is mostly gelatin, which is very poor in some amino acids a cat needs, such as tryptophan. That is why bone broth does not replace meat; it is mainly a source of liquid and flavor. Because it comes from a named animal, it can be used with confidence.
Common Questions
Can bone broth replace meat in a cat's diet?
No. Its protein is mostly gelatin, which is very poor in some amino acids cats need, such as tryptophan.
Is chicken bone broth safe for cats?
Chicken bone broth is liquid made by simmering chicken bones for a long time, and cat foods add it for moisture and flavor. Cornell Feline Health Center notes that wet food is a good dietary source of water, which is the main reason broth shows up in recipes. Its protein is mostly gelatin, so it is not a substitute for meat. For a cat with a medical condition, ask your veterinarian.
Source: vet.cornell.edu
Why is chicken bone broth in cat food?
Chicken bone broth adds moisture and chicken flavor. Many cats drink little water, so liquid that comes with food adds to their daily intake, and the flavor can help a picky eater. Pettings treats it as a source of liquid and taste rather than a meat. Its protein is mostly gelatin, which does not replace muscle meat in the diet.
Why does chicken bone broth score lower than chicken?
Chicken bone broth scores 3 out of 5 on Pettings, while chicken scores 5, because broth adds much less usable protein. Simmering bones pulls out gelatin, and gelatin is low in some amino acids cats need, such as tryptophan. Muscle meat gives a fuller set of amino acids. The broth still comes from a named animal, so the source is clear.
Do cats get enough water from dry food?
Dry food supplies little water, so cats on it need to drink. Cornell Feline Health Center says canned food has a moisture content of at least 75 percent, while dry food contains between 6 and 10 percent water. Cornell also advises that cats should have clean, fresh water available at all times. Broth in a recipe or as a topper is one way owners add liquid.
Source: vet.cornell.edu
How does Pettings score chicken bone broth?
Pettings gives chicken bone broth 3 out of 5 and lists it as a named animal protein. It appears on 1 of the 149 dry cat foods we list. The middle score reflects that broth adds mostly moisture and gelatin. Each food's page shows how the full recipe scores overall.
How Foods With Chicken Bone Broth Compare
Chicken Bone Broth is on the label of 1 of the 149 dry cat foods we list.