Cat food toppers and mix-ins are the fastest-growing segment of the pet food market -- and for good reason. They solve picky eating, add targeted nutrition, increase hydration, and make mealtime exciting for cats bored with the same daily food. Used wisely, they are a powerful tool in your feeding arsenal.
Table of Contents
Types of Toppers
| Type | Examples | Calories | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lickable purees | Churu, Delectables Squeeze Up | 6-8 per tube | Picky eaters, medication hiding |
| Bone broth | Primal, Brutus, Solid Gold | 5-15 per serving | Hydration, flavor enhancement |
| Freeze-dried toppers | Instinct Raw Boost, PureBites | 5-15 per serving | Protein boost, variety |
| Gravy/sauce toppers | Fancy Feast Broths, Tiki Cat Stix | 10-20 per pouch | Flavor, moisture |
| Fresh food toppers | Cooked chicken, egg, pumpkin | Varies | Natural nutrition boost |
Top Topper Products
- Churu (Inaba): The viral lickable treat. Cats go insane for it. Use as topper to encourage eating.
- Primal Bone Broth: Low calorie, high moisture, collagen for joints. Pour over food.
- Instinct Raw Boost Mixers: Freeze-dried raw pieces to add protein and variety.
- Fancy Feast Broths: Affordable, widely available, cats love the flavor.
- Stella & Chewy's Meal Mixers: Freeze-dried raw nutrition boost.
Benefits of Toppers
- Increased hydration: Broth-based toppers add significant moisture
- Improved palatability: Can make prescription or transition food acceptable
- Nutritional boost: Freeze-dried and fresh toppers add quality protein
- Enrichment: Variety prevents food boredom without full diet changes
- Medication delivery: Churu tubes hide pills brilliantly
Topper Rules
- 10% calorie rule: Toppers should not exceed 10% of daily calories
- Do not replace meals: Toppers supplement, not substitute
- Check ingredients: Avoid toppers with onion, garlic, excessive sodium
- Prescription diet caution: Adding toppers to prescription food may alter the therapeutic nutrient balance -- ask your vet first
DIY Topper Ideas
- Warm water: Free, zero calories, releases aroma -- the simplest topper
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Check label for no onion/garlic
- Plain cooked chicken: Shredded, tiny amount on top
- Canned pumpkin: 1/2 tsp for fiber and flavor
- Nutritional yeast: Tiny sprinkle -- savory, cheesy, most cats love it
Frequently Asked Questions
Can toppers make my cat reject plain food?
Yes -- this is the main risk. If you always add toppers, some cats learn to refuse untopped food. Strategy: rotate -- some meals with toppers, some without. Keep toppers as occasional enhancements rather than every-meal requirements. If your cat already refuses plain food, gradually reduce the topper amount over 2 weeks rather than removing it abruptly.
