Do Cats Need Carbohydrates in Their Diet?

Carbohydrates in the feline diet is a highly contested subject within the veterinary community. Some experts argue that there is no biological need for carbs in a cat's diet, while others insist they are a great energy source for our feline fur-iends. So, which is it?

In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of including carbs in a feline diet and attempt to answer the decades-old question of whether or not cats should have carbohydrates.

Carbs, protein, and fats are the macronutrients that give our furbabies energy in the form of calories. A gram of fat has 9 calories, making it the most calorie-dense macronutrient. In contrast, carbs and protein only have around 4 calories per gram.

Carbs can be broken down into two categories: simple carbs (also known as simple sugars, which are found in sugar, white potatoes, and processed grains) and complex carbs, or starches, which are found in whole grains and vegetables like sweet potatoes. Simple carbs are absorbed rapidly, but the body has to work harder to digest complex carbs. Complex carbs are considered healthier since they keep our pets fuller for longer and do not cause as significant spikes in blood sugar as simple sugars.

Carbohydrates aren't a biological necessity for non-reproducing felines of any age. The only carbs in your cat's ancestors' diet would've been coincidentally consumed by eating partially digested grains, veggies, and fruits found in the stomach contents of their prey.

This doesn't mean that carbs are nutritionally void for cats, though. 

Felines have evolved over millennia to be able to digest most carbs — the main exception being fructose — a simple sugar derived from fruit that cats can't digest.

Even though carbs aren't a nutritional necessity for our feline friends, a very low or no-carb diet may not be suitable for all cats either, especially those with certain illnesses or health risks.

The standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) are generally regarded as the standard for pet food manufacturers. Even though they aren't a regulatory agency per se, many states have adopted their guidelines as their pet food production standards since there isn't a federal standard or governing agency.

AAFCO has no set standard for carbs in their cat food nutrient profiles and guidelines, and pet food manufacturers are not required to list the carb content of their foods in the guaranteed analysis section. Because of this, most cat food products don't specify their carb content on their packaging.

Carbohydrates may compromise anywhere from 10% to over 30% of the calories in commercial cat food, averaging around 25% carbs. Even cat foods that are marketed as low carb typically get 10% to 15% of their calorie content from carbs.

Even so, some cats benefit from lower carb and lower calorie foods, like cats with diabetes who need to keep their weight and blood sugar stable.

If you have questions about your cat's carb intake, reach out to your vet. They can help you find the right diet for your cat's life stage and health factors.

Carbs have been attributed to obesity and weight gain over the years. However, it's important to remember that a calorie is a calorie. Too many calories, regardless of whether they come from protein, fat, or carbs, can cause weight gain.

500 calories is 500 calories, regardless of if they come from cake or carrots. While the vitamin levels are likely much higher in that many carrots, the calorie content is still the same. When your cat eats more calories than they are burning through metabolic processes and exercise, it will cause weight gain, regardless of where the calories come from.

An article published by Veterinary Practice News on the matter states, "Extensive research has failed to show dietary carbohydrates of the type and quantity used in typical cat foods are harmful."

The article goes on to say, "Lower-carbohydrate diets may be useful in some circumstances, such as in managing diabetes, but they can also be harmful if they are higher in fat and calories and encourage obesity."

Carbs aren't inherently bad for cats. Certain carb sources have nutritional benefits and are a source of essential micronutrients. However, it is important to realize that every cat is an individual, and what one cat tolerates can cause stomach upset or an allergic reaction in others.

Cats typically tolerate carbohydrates well, but food allergies can happen. Proteins are more often than not the culprit, but occasionally, grains and starchy veggies can be to blame. What's more, some cats can have digestive issues or conditions that make it more difficult to break down carbohydrates.

According to an article published by The Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, "most carbohydrate sources traditionally used in pet foods are more complex, such as whole grains, and provide nutrients such as fiber, antioxidants, essential fatty acids (both omega-3 and omega-6), vitamins, and minerals."

Sweet potatoes and carrots for instance are great sources of complex carbohydrates and have beta-carotene which acts as an antioxidant for cats.

Other veggie-based complex carbs, such as peas and green beans, help cats meet their daily requirements of minerals like zinc, magnesium, and potassium, and Vitamins A, C, and K.

While the vitamin and mineral content varies from veggie to veggie, they all have one thing in common — fiber! Fiber ensures food moves through your cat's digestive system at a healthy rate and can help prevent constipation.

Here are a few healthy sources of carbs for cats:

• Sweet potatoes (contains beta carotene, which functions as an antioxidant for cats)
• White potatoes (source of potassium)
• Green Beans (source of iron, manganese, and magnesium)
• Peas (source of Vitamins C, B6, and D)
• Lentils (high in protein and fiber)
• Carrots (source of potassium, calcium, and iron)

• Carbs are macronutrients like protein and fats and help to comprise the calorie content of food.
• Carbs are divided into two different types: simple carbohydrates (aka simple sugars) and complex carbohydrates.
• Cats aren't able to digest certain simple carbohydrates like fructose and eliminate them through urination.
• Cats don't have a natural need for carbohydrates, but they can still benefit from them. 
• Complex carbs from veggies are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Most cats have no issue digesting carbs, but occasionally cats can have issues with food sensitivities or have trouble breaking down complex carbohydrates from their diet.
• Some vets suggest low-carb diets for cats with diabetes or obesity.
• Cat food companies aren't required to list the carb content in their foods and rarely have it listed on the product packaging.
• Regular adult cat food typically contains around 25% carbohydrates, while low-carb cat foods usually contain 10-15% carbohydrates.
• Experts suggest that cats should get no more than 30% of their daily calorie intake from carbs.