Quick answer
Our top pick is Royal Canin Long Hair Cat Food, formulated specifically for long-haired cats with balanced fiber and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support coat health and reduce hairballs. For a budget-friendly alternative, Purina Pro Plan Hairball Management provides similar benefits at a lower price. If your cat prefers wet food, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Wet Food is an excellent choice.
What to consider for Cat Food For Long Hair Cats
Long-haired cats have unique nutritional needs. Their luxurious coats require adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to maintain shine and reduce shedding. Additionally, they are prone to hairballs, so a diet with moderate insoluble fiber (like beet pulp or cellulose) helps move hair through the digestive tract. Look for named animal protein as the first ingredient to support muscle maintenance, and ensure the food is AAFCO complete and balanced for the appropriate life stage. Wet food can increase moisture intake, supporting urinary health, which is important for all cats.
What to look for in a cat food
When choosing cat food for your long-haired cat, prioritize a named meat source as the first ingredient, such as chicken, salmon, or turkey. Ensure the food is AAFCO complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage (adult, kitten, senior). Adequate animal protein (30-40% dry matter) and taurine (essential for heart and eye health) are crucial. Wet food provides moisture that supports kidney and urinary tract health, while dry food can be convenient and help with dental health. For hairball control, look for added fiber like psyllium or cellulose. Avoid foods with excessive fillers like corn or wheat gluten.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated ingredient quality: first ingredient should be a named meat source.
- Checked for AAFCO complete and balanced statement for the correct life stage.
- Ensured adequate omega fatty acids for coat health.
- Included fiber sources to help prevent hairballs.
- Considered brand reputation and history of safety.
- Reviewed customer feedback on palatability and digestive tolerance.
- Compared price per pound to offer options at different budgets.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with unnamed meat or by-products as the first ingredient.
- Stay away from recipes that lack a guaranteed taurine amount or are not AAFCO complete.
- Do not feed all-life-stages food to a senior or kitten without verifying it meets their specific needs.
- Avoid abrupt diet changes; transition over 7 to 10 days by mixing old and new food.
- Be cautious of foods with excessive carbohydrates or artificial additives.
For more guidance, explore our cat guides, cat food, and cat health resources.
