Expert: KC - 1/24/2008

Question
Hi KC,
I adopted a 5 month old kitten from an adoption agency about 2 months ago. They told us that they had already switched him over to Iams Adult food and at first I was surprised since I thought most cats didn't switch over to adult food until 1 year but I assumed that since they are a great organization that this was fine. Over the past month or so he has had terrible kitty gas and a grumbling stomach but is still in good spirits and does not seem to be ill. We would like to switch foods and are wondering if we should put him back on kitten food since he's only 6 months; he's also been drinking a lot of water too. I am thinking of switching him to organic/holistic food and getting away from the store bought Iams :) Any suggestions? Thank you!!

Answer
Hi Jen,

First off, I'm assuming that intestinal parasites have been ruled out?  Worms and protozoan parasites often cause bloating and gas, in addition to loose stools.  If this has been ruled out, there is also a chance of a bacterial infection causing the problem.  However, with all of these conditions you will usually notice diarrhea and very frequent bowel movements.

Many many cats are sensitive to commercial pet food...and sadly, most owners never even notice.  One of the major things I've seen is cats being sensitive to the grain products in cheap commercial foods as well as the preservatives and colorings...not to mention the fillers and by-products.  The effects of these additives often causes intermittent vomiting, gas, stomach upset, and a whole plethora of problems later in life.  If your cat is on a truly premium food and a truly proper diet...it won't really matter if it's "kitten" food or not.  However, I'm very anti-Science Diet, Iams, and the other big name brands.  The pet food industry's standards are horrible...they buy the cheapest stuff possible for the biggest markup and profit.  They are all loaded with grains (carbs and sugars) which carnivores DO NOT need.  All of the other ingredients are literally trash sources...even containing fillers (labeled as cellulose or plant proteins) that are paper mill by-products...these alone are basically sawdust remnants loaded with chemicals and give the bulk consistency to dry kibble.  ...and people wonder why so many cats have intestinal problems...and many vomit dry immedietly after eating.    

Please read my main AllExperts page for some brief info on commercial foods.  There are also a few links there:
http://www.allexperts.com/ep/3490-83830/Cat-Food/KC.htm

If your cat is sensitive to food (and even has problems on the premium foods), then the protein in rabbit meat is quite different from other meats and is much more easily digested.  Nature's Variety makes an excellent rabbit based canned cat food...it is truly premium, contains no by-products, fillers, or grains.  You can either order it online or purchase it from an individual pet store...huge chains like PetSmart do not sell it...they only sell the cheapest commercial foods.  Wellness also makes some great foods which I have all of my pets on.  In addition, you can also feed raw, but not solely unless it is properly supplemented.  If you want more information on brands, raw diet, supplements, or anything along that line, don't hesitate to ask.  And, as a general rule, ONLY feed twice per day...cat's were not meant to 'graze' all day and it only contributes to intestinal problems and obesity, among other things.

At around 6 months old, feeding twice a day is perfectly fine.  Feel free to give a few small treats during the day, such as raw meat, a grain-free dry (a few kibbles), etc.  Wellness does make a food line for kittens.  However, their products are so fully supplemented and loaded with nutrients that an adult food would be fine for him also...which ever you and he both prefer.  Just be sure to never let him "graze" on dry all day...it only leads to obesity, pickiness, etc...

Please read some of my past answers here, as you will find a lot of info on diet, food brands, and feeding schedules:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Cat-Food-3490/indexExp_83830.htm
In particular, check out the answers titled "fussy cat" and "sensitve stomach and needs tarter control (2 part answer)".  Both of those contain a lot of information about food brands and dealing with cats who have specific problems, etc.  There are also two articles on Nutro Brand food which gives more specifics on what foods NOT to buy and what to look for in premium foods.  Plus, after reading all those you will understand why it might be hard to get him to eat another food and how to change him over to something different that he will eat.

I am very optimistic that by changing his diet, his problem will completely clear up in as little as a few days to two weeks.  I've seen many cats with similar problems.  By changing to a truly premium brand you will also notice other differences too like a super shiny coat and less shedding...and they aren't that much more expensive than brands like Science Diet.  
Hope this helps!  :-)