7 Best Cat Foods for American Wirehair

The loving and wiry-coated American wirehair is the perfect breed for just about every household. 

Unfortunately, these cats don’t always receive the most optimal diet. This significantly reduces their lifespan and quality of life.

That’s why we’ve created a list of the top 10 cat foods for American wirehairs, so your cat can get the nutrition they deserve.

So if you’re ready, let’s dive into it!

The Best Cat Foods For American Wirehairs

1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Pea Protein, 4. Menhaden Fish Meal, 5. Chicken Fat 

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Cat Food mimics the diet of wild cats and is perfect for a muscular breed like the American wirehair. The recipe consists of at least 40% protein sourced from real chicken to maintain your cat’s muscular physique and power them throughout the day.

It also uses sweet potatoes and peas instead of grains so your cat can digest carbohydrates more effectively. Apart from that, the cat food also contains Blue Buffalo’s proprietary LifesourceBits, which supply essential antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for your cat’s overall well-being. The diet is also enriched with omega fatty acids, which are essential to nourish the American wirehair’s unique coat.

2. ORIJEN Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Deboned Turkey, 3. Eggs, 4. Whole Atlantic Mackerel, 5. Chicken Heart

Orijen Cat & Kitten Cat Food is designed after the nutrients a cat would get from a whole prey. That’s why 90% of the formula comprises animal ingredients like meat, fat, and ground bones. All of these portions are sourced from chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs, so your cat can get a variety of nutrients and tons of proteins.

The remaining 10% of the cat food consists of wholesome fruits and vegetables that deliver a range of micronutrients. Moreover, the kibbles are coated with freeze-dried liver to make the cat food more delicious and appealing. And since the diet is wilderness-inspired, it’s also free from corn, soy, wheat, and tapioca.

3. Iams ProActive Health Healthy Adult Original with Chicken Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken By-Product Meal, 3. Ground Whole Grain Corn, 4. Corn Gluten Meal, 5. Dried Plain Beet Pulp

Iams ProActive Health is one of the best all-around cat foods available for the American wirehair breed. It provides complete holistic nutrition so that your cat’s health can flourish in every possible way. The formula includes chicken that encourages muscle nourishment and growth while keeping your cat active.

Apart from that, the diet is rich in fibers and prebiotics that promote quicker digestion and better nutrient absorption. The diet is also filled with micronutrients, including omega fatty acids, which are crucial for good skin and coat health. Moreover, the cat food’s crunchy kibbles improve dental health by gently scrubbing off excess plaque from your cat’s teeth. 

4. American Journey Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Turkey, 2. Turkey Meal, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Dried Egg Product, 5. Deboned Chicken

American Journey Turkey & Chicken Cat Food is crafted with premium-ingredients to support the daily adventures of energetic American wirehairs. It consists of 40% protein sourced from both deboned turkey and chicken, along with easily-digestible carbs like peas to power your cat throughout the day. In addition, the cat food delivers a range of micronutrients that support different functions throughout your cat’s body. 

The list includes taurine that supports heart and vision health, omega fatty acids that improve coat and skin health, and antioxidants for a stronger immune system. American Journey manufactures this cat food in the USA without using any by-products, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial ingredients to ensure that your cat receives the highest-quality nutrition. 

5. Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Peas, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Roasted Venison, 5. Smoked Salmon

Taste of the Wild is truly one of the best manufacturers to replicate the instinctual diet of cats and dogs, and their Rocky Mountain formula is no different. It features premium-quality proteins such as venison and salmon to support the muscular body of your cat. The formula also contains peas and sweet potatoes, both of which are easy to digest and excellent sources of carbohydrates for cats.

Aside from that, the recipe also includes a bunch of vitamins and minerals, most of which are sourced from real fruits and vegetables. The cat food is enriched with omega fatty acids that support coat health and a probiotic blend that improves your cat’s digestive efficiency. The brand is also popular for its in-house manufacturing and advanced quality protocols.

6. Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Liver, 3. Turkey, 4. Chicken Broth, 5. Carrots

Wellness Complete Health Chicken Canned Food is an optimal pick for the vibrant and active American wirehair. The formula is built to support the five essential health criteria in cats; strong immunity, soft fur, effective digestion, great dental health, and high energy levels.   

To fulfill those requirements, the cat food is packed with high-quality proteins from real chicken that encourage muscle growth and repair. It also enriched lots of micronutrients such as taurine, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Since the wet food contains moisture, it’s also beneficial for your cat’s urinary health. Most of the ingredients in the cat food are sourced from real foods, and the formula is kept free from grains, carrageenan, and artificial ingredients. 

7. Royal Canin Indoor Adult Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Corn, 3. Brewers Rice, 4. Brown Rice, 5. Pea Fiber

Royal Canin’s Indoor Cat Food is crafted through years of research on the lifestyle of indoor cats to provide them with the most optimal diet. The formula emphasizes high digestibility and uses chicken and specific dietary fibers to promote effective digestion and nutrient absorption in indoor cats.

In addition, the cat food is enriched with plenty of vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients necessary for cell repair and overall well-being. It also contains slightly reduced fat levels as indoor cats don’t get much activity and are at a higher risk of obesity. The formula is rated for all cats aged 1 to 7 years and will serve as an excellent choice throughout your cat’s adult and senior life stage.

8. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Corn Gluten Meal, 3. Chicken Fat, 4. Chicken Meal, 5. Chicken Liver Flavor

Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Cat Food is another premium-quality formula produced to keep indoor breeds like the American wirehair in optimal shape and health. The cat food is manufactured with high-quality ingredients like real chicken for muscle nourishment and dietary fibers to promote effective digestion. 

Moreover, the formula is enriched with antioxidants and a range of vitamins to promote overall growth and well-being. It’s designed for cats aged 1 to 6 years so it will suffice well past adulthood for most American wirehairs. The cat food is manufactured in the USA under strict quality standards and without artificial ingredients, so your cat receives only the best diet.

9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Healthy Metabolism Formula Chicken Entrée in Gravy Adult Canned Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Liver, 3. Wheat Gluten, 4. Meat By Products, 5. Corn Starch Modified

While the formula is specifically made for neutered or spayed cats, the Purina Pro Plan Healthy Metabolism Cat Food is perfect for just about every American wirehair. It mainly consists of protein and fat from savory chicken, which helps maintain your cat’s lean muscular structure.

One special compound this cat food contains is L-carnitine. This amino acid effectively converts fat into energy to fuel your cat’s energy reserves without making them obese. It’s worth mentioning that the formula is still 100% nutritionally complete and can be fed on its own. It contains omega fatty acids, various vitamins, and other micronutrients to support your cat’s overall health.

10. Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Chicken Pate Canned Cat Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Chicken Broth, 3. Chicken Liver, 4. Dried Egg Product, 5. Dried Cranberries

Merrick’s Purrfect Bistro Canned Food is a delicious and highly-nutritious formula that’s perfect for American wirehairs that can be picky with their food. The cans contain tender chicken bites dipped in a tasty gravy, a combination that can attract even the most stubborn cats with its appeal.

The grain-free cat food also contains plenty of proteins and helps breeds like the wirehair maintain their muscular physique. The formula is also enriched with various micronutrients required for maintenance and growth, so it’s perfect for both kittens and adults. The canned food is manufactured exclusively in the USA and contains zero grains, wheat, soy, and artificial ingredients.

Buyer’s Guide

Feeding your American wirehair the right cat food is crucial to their lifespan and good health. Unfortunately, most owners use the wrong formula or practice unhealthy feeding habits, which is detrimental to their cat’s health in the long run. 

Like all felines, the American wirehair is also an obligate carnivore. Their digestive system is similar to that of wild cats and is primarily designed to break down meat and fat, so carbohydrates have a very limited role in their diet. Because of that, their diet must always consist of:

• High quantities of protein
• Moderate amount of fats
• Multiple micronutrients
• Limited carbohydrates

Here’s a detailed break-down of what an American wirehair’s diet should look like:

Basic diet of American wirehairs

All cat foods are made up of four common types of nutrient groups; proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and micronutrients. The composition and nutrient balance is different for each cat, and the following are for the American wirehair breed specifically:

1. Proteins

As American wirehairs are obligate carnivores, their body primarily survives on meat. These cats have a muscular physique that requires lots of protein to function and maintain muscle mass. Because of this, their diet must consist of a minimum of 30% protein from premium-quality sources so they can stay healthy and active.

The best kind of protein for cats is meat. Most brands source meat from chicken, turkey, fish, beef, or duck. As long as your cat isn’t allergic to any particular type of meat and the cat food’s protein composition is above 30%, you’re free to choose whichever source you like. 

Some cat food brands also use vegetable-based proteins, such as pea protein. This type of protein is more suited for cats that are sensitive or allergic to meat items. Unless your cat suffers from either, you should choose cat foods that use whole animal meat as this type contains the most nutrients and amino acids.

2. Fats

After protein, fats are the second-most important part of an American wirehair’s diet. They’re responsible for fueling your cat’s energy reserves, nourishing their skin and coat, and absorbing fat-soluble micronutrients. 

Cats usually require two types of fatty acids, namely Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids can come from both animal-based and vegetable-based sources. Most of the time, cat food manufacturers use chicken fat, beef fat, salmon oil, and flaxseed oil as fat sources, all of which are easily digestible and full of nutrients. 

As unusual as it may sound, cats can remain healthy on a diet that consists of up to 50% fats. However, we recommend choosing a formula that consists of a minimum of 10% fat for optimal health.

3. Micronutrients

Even though proteins and fats fulfill most nutritional needs, a cat food is incomplete unless it contains micronutrients. Many organs and functions in a cat’s body are dependent on micronutrients, namely vitamins and minerals. Cats cannot produce most of these micronutrients on their own and require supplements in their diet. 

Kittens need higher amounts of micronutrients to fuel their growing body. If they suffer from any deficiency, their organs, senses, and general health can be seriously affected. We highly recommend taking your vet’s advice on any cat food you pick. They’ll check the ingredient list thoroughly and let you know if the formula contains all the essential micronutrients your cat needs.

4. Carbohydrates

Although carbohydrates aren’t an essential part of a cat’s diet, they’re an excellent energy source and are harmless in limited quantities. Especially when we consider energetic breeds like the American wirehair, carbohydrates play an important role in keeping these cats active and fulfilled all day long. 

One thing you need to ensure is that these carbohydrates are obtained from easily-digestible sources. Most brands either use grains or vegetables for carbohydrates. Grains can cause allergies or digestive issues in cats with sensitive stomachs. In that case, potatoes and peas are the go-to sources for carbs as they digest easily and don’t cause allergies. 

Many brands also use carbohydrates as fillers in their cat foods. Cats should derive most nutrients from proteins and fats. If any cat food contains excessive amounts of grains or carbs, avoid feeding it to your cat as it contains empty calories. 

Factors to consider when purchasing cat food

Every American wirehair is unique and has different nutritional needs. To choose the best food for your particular cat, you need to keep the following factors in mind while shopping:

1. Age

As American wirehair passes through different life stages, their diet and nutritional needs change. When they’re kittens, they need more calories, proteins, and micronutrients to support their growing body and organs. A kitten formula is usually the best choice until your cat is at least one or two years old because American wirehairs mature slowly. 

As for adults and seniors, the basic diet is the same, but calories are reduced for seniors. Some older cats also require glucosamine and chondroitin to keep their joints and bones functioning properly. You should always try to get any cat food you pick approved by your vet so they can choose the right formula according to your cat’s age. 

2. Activity levels

American wirehairs are known to be both energetic and affectionate cats. They enjoy taking part in physical activities just as much as sleeping on their owner’s lap. Because most cats get different amounts of activity, their diet must also be adjusted to ensure that they aren’t in a caloric deficit or surplus.

This can easily be adjusted by altering your cat’s food intake. However, we recommend that you let your vet be the judge and figure out the most accurate figure. They will consider your cat’s weight and activity levels and then calculate the maintenance calorie level, which will prevent them from becoming obese or underweight.

FAQ’s

How many times should an American wirehair eat?

An American wirehair kitten should be fed three meals a day, while adults and seniors should be fed two meals a day. Kittens need more frequent meals to fuel their growing body, but this need decreases as they age.

Should you free feed an American wirehair?

If your American wirehair is active and isn’t overweight, you can free feed them from time to time. However, this free feeding should be kept under constant check, and you should always take your vet’s permission before doing so to prevent obesity.

How much do American wirehairs weigh?

American wirehairs weigh 8 – 12lbs (3.5 – 5.5kg) on average, which is equivalent to the average weight of American shorthairs. They have a medium-sized, muscular, broad body and dense bones, which adds to their bulky appearance.

Can American wirehair become obese?

Yes, if your American wirehair is constantly being overfed and doesn’t get much activity, they can easily gain weight. It’s difficult to recognize obesity in this breed due to their bulky physique, so try to avoid overfeeding and excessive laziness with these cats.

Should American wirehairs eat wet or dry cat food?

You can choose to feed whichever type of cat food you and your American wirehair like as long as they’re properly hydrated. If your cat is a lazy drinker, feeding some portions of wet food will help prevent urinary and kidney diseases in the long run.