Healthy food for cats in Portugal: how to choose the best cat food and snacks

Diet is one of the fundamental pillars of a cat's health and happiness.
In Portugal, the number of conscious pet parents about what they put on their feline's plate has greatly increased in recent years — and that is excellent news.
But with so many options for dry food, wet food, snacks, and supplements, the question arises: what is truly the best choice for my cat?

In this article, MewChel explains everything you need to know to ensure a balanced, tasty, and safe diet for your cat — based on the reality and products available in Portugal.

🐱 The importance of the right diet

Cats are obligate carnivores — this means their bodies are designed to digest animal proteins, not large quantities of grains or vegetables.
Therefore, a good diet should contain:

  • High-quality animal protein (such as chicken, fish, turkey, or beef);

  • Few carbohydrates;

  • Good fats, essential for energy and a shiny coat;

  • Vitamins and minerals in adequate balance.

When the diet is not balanced, signs appear: hair loss, weight gain or loss, strong-smelling urine, loose stools, and even mood changes.

Therefore, choosing the right food is a decision of love and responsibility.

🏷️ Types of cat food available in Portugal

In Portuguese pet shops and supermarkets, there are three main categories of cat food:

1. Standard (economy) food

Cheaper, but usually with lower nutritional value.
Contains by-products and excess grains, which can cause allergies or slow digestion.
👉 Only suitable for occasional situations or very tight budgets.

2. Premium food

Made with real protein sources and more natural ingredients.
Provides better digestion, less odor in stools, and more energy.
👉 Ideal option for most domestic cats in Portugal.

3. Super premium / natural food

Composition very close to the natural feline diet, without artificial colors, flavorings, or grains.
👉 Perfect for those looking for a clean, balanced, and high-quality diet.
👉 Popular brands in Portugal include Royal Canin, Purizon, Farmina N&D, and Lily’s Kitchen.

🥫 Dry food vs. wet food: which to choose?

Many pet parents ask: "Which is better — dry or wet food?"
The ideal answer lies in balance.

Type Advantages Disadvantages
Dry food More practical and economical; helps clean teeth Low water content; can cause dehydration if the cat doesn't drink much
Wet food Naturally hydrating; tastier and lighter More expensive and less durable after opening

👉 The ideal combination:
Serve quality dry food during the day and a portion of wet food at night — the cat feels more satiated and stays hydrated, especially in hot or dry climates.

🍗 Snacks and treats: the balance between pampering and health

Giving snacks is a gesture of love, but it also requires care.
Many industrialized products contain sugars, salt, or artificial colors that, in the long run, harm the kidneys and liver.

Prefer snacks that are:

  • Natural and rich in protein (such as freeze-dried chicken, tuna, or dried salmon);

  • Grain-free, no artificial colors or preservatives;

  • Made for occasional use — 1 to 2 per day is enough.

👉 MewChel Tip: turn snack time into a bonding ritual.
While your cat enjoys the treat, take the opportunity to pet them and strengthen the bond between you.

💧 Hydration: the often-forgotten secret

Cats tend to drink little water, especially if they only eat dry food.
Lack of hydration is one of the main causes of urinary problems in felines.

To encourage water intake:

  • Use automatic fountains, which mimic the sound of running water (cats love them);

  • Distribute several bowls around the house;

  • Add a little wet food to their routine.

👉 And remember: the water should always be fresh and clean.

🍃 Natural and homemade food: yes or no?

Interest in natural or homemade food for cats is growing in Portugal — especially among more conscious pet parents.
However, caution is needed: not all human foods are safe.
Onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, coffee, among others, are toxic to cats.

If you want to follow this path, always consult a vet to define a balanced diet, with supplements and adequate proportions of proteins, fats, and vitamins.

💛 The MewChel philosophy: nutrition with affection

For MewChel, good nutrition is much more than a full bowl — it's a daily act of love and care.
Everything your cat eats influences not only their physical health but also their behavior, energy, and mood.

That's why when we create the MewChel boxes, we think about experiences that nourish the body and the heart: stimulating toys, calming aromas, and carefully selected guilt-free snacks.

We want to inspire every cat parent in Portugal to rethink feline nutrition with consciousness, affection, and elegance.
Because a well-nourished cat is a cat that lives longer, plays more, and loves more. 💛🐾

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