5 Best Bone Broth for Cats In 2026

Cats often struggle with staying properly hydrated. They have low thirst drives by nature, which makes finding ways to boost their water intake crucial for their health. Bone broth has become a popular solution among cat owners looking to enhance their feline’s diet with extra moisture and nutrients.

This nutrient-rich liquid provides more than simple hydration. Bone broth contains collagen and amino acids that support digestive health, joint function, and skin quality. For picky eaters who turn their noses up at regular water or food, bone broth can be a game-changer.

The market now offers various bone broth options specifically formulated for cats. From convenient pouches to powder forms, each product brings something different to the table. This guide reviews five top-rated bone broths to help you find the perfect match for your cat.

What Makes Bone Broth Beneficial for Cats

Traditional bone broth preparation involves simmering bones and connective tissues in water for extended periods, breaking down nutrients into an easily digestible liquid. This slow cooking process releases valuable components that support feline health in multiple ways.

Collagen helps strengthen the protective lining of the digestive tract, increasing nutrient absorption and reducing risk of digestive issues. Cats dealing with inflammatory bowel disease or sensitive stomachs often respond well to regular bone broth supplementation.

Joint health represents another major benefit. By supporting cartilage integrity, collagen helps improve and protect joint function. Senior cats or those with arthritis can experience improved mobility when bone broth becomes part of their daily routine.

The amino acid glycine plays a key role in liver function. Glycine helps the liver clear toxins from food, water and treatments. This natural detoxification support keeps your cat’s internal systems running smoothly.

Skin and coat quality also improves with consistent bone broth consumption. Collagen supports skin elasticity and encourages the body to form new collagen naturally, resulting in a shinier coat and healthier skin overall.

For cats with urinary tract concerns, the added moisture from bone broth helps flush the system. The increased liquid intake helps reduce risk of blockages and promotes urinary health. The warm temperature can also encourage cats to drink more than they normally would.

Top 5 Bone Broth Products for Cats

1. Merrick Grain Free Bone Broth – Premium Human Grade Chicken

Product Details

Merrick brings a human-grade bone broth to the market in a convenient 16 oz pouch. The chicken formula includes superfoods like sweet potatoes and apples, enhanced with parsley and turmeric for additional health benefits.

The chicken bone broth is formulated with sweet potatoes and apples, flavored with parsley and turmeric. This combination creates a savory meal topper that appeals to even finicky eaters.

The recipe excludes grain, corn, wheat, and soy. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives make their way into the formula. The product is made from human-grade bone broth with a holistic blend of high-quality ingredients.

How to Use

Feed up to approximately 1/8 cup per 10 pounds of body weight per day. The broth works well as a dry kibble topper, mixed into wet food, or used to rehydrate freeze-dried meals. After opening, refrigerate any unused portion and use within 7 days.

Pros

• Human-grade ingredients provide premium quality
• Convenient pouch makes serving easy
• Suitable for both cats and dogs
• Free from grains and common allergens
• Enhanced with superfoods and beneficial spices
• Made in USA facilities

Cons

• Some pets may be sensitive to spices like turmeric
• Packaging can be difficult to read according to some users
• Must be used within 7 days after opening

Customer Experiences

Geriatric cats and dogs with past illnesses have resumed eating their meals when this broth is added. The formula works particularly well for pets with decreased appetites or picky eating habits.

Pet parents appreciate the thin consistency that mixes well with dry food. The easy-pour pouch design gets positive feedback from users who value convenience during meal prep.

2. CARU Daily Dish Chicken Broth Meal Topper – 1.1 lbs

Product Details

CARU Daily Dish offers a 1.1 lb bottle of chicken bone broth designed for everyday use. The formula is 100% all-natural with no GMOs, preservatives or colors, and is free from onion, garlic, corn and soy.

The broth includes chicken bone broth, carrot, apple, celery, natural flavor, yeast extract, tomato, arrowroot, and turmeric. Each ingredient serves a purpose in creating both flavor and nutritional value.

The broth is prepared in small batches without added colors or preservatives using a proprietary cooking and packaging process. This manufacturing method helps maintain freshness and nutritional integrity.

How to Use

Serve approximately 1/4 cup of broth per meal, adjusting the amount to meet your pet’s individual needs. Pour over dry kibble, freeze-dried food, or dehydrated snacks. The broth can also be warmed and served alone as a special treat.

Nutritional Information

Crude Protein minimum 2.0%, Crude Fat minimum 0.05%, Crude Fiber maximum 1.0%, Moisture maximum 96.0%. The calorie content sits at 8 kcal per 1/4 cup serving.

Pros

• Human-grade ingredients made in USA
• Thick consistency clings well to food
• BPA-free, recyclable packaging
• No harmful ingredients like garlic or onion
• Good value for everyday feeding
• Helps encourage water consumption

Cons

• Mixed reviews on palatability – some cats refuse it
• May cause digestive upset in sensitive pets
• Packaging can tear or leak
• Must be refrigerated after opening
• Some cats find the flavor unappealing

Customer Feedback

Customer experiences vary significantly with this product. Some users report their cats love it and finish their meals completely, while others note their cats refuse to even try it. One user found it more affordable than individual pouches for their four-cat household.

Several reviewers mention digestive issues. Some pets experienced stomach upset after consuming the broth. If your cat has a sensitive stomach, introduce this product gradually.

3. Primalvore Free-Range Bone Broth – Chicken 2 Pack

Product Details

Primalvore takes a minimalist approach with only three ingredients: organic chicken bone broth, collagen peptides, and turmeric. This human-grade formula combines slow-simmered organic chicken bone broth with collagen peptides and turmeric root to support joint health, digestive function, and hydration.

The company uses certified organic bones, slow-cooking them for over 14 hours in small batches. This extended cooking time helps extract maximum nutrients from the bones. The broth remains free from corn, wheat, and soy, making it ideal for cats with dietary sensitivities.

Each 12 oz pouch comes shelf-stable with an easy-pour spout. The translucent packaging allows you to see the product quality before opening.

How to Use

The recommended serving size is 2 teaspoons per meal. Mix it into wet food, pour over dry kibble, or serve alone as a hydrating treat. After opening, refrigerate and use within 7 days.

Nutritional Profile

Protein 5%, Carbohydrates 0%, Fat 0%. The collagen peptides provide the most bio-available form of collagen, making nutrients easy for cats to digest and absorb.

Pros

• Only three high-quality ingredients
• Organic certified chicken
• Added collagen peptides for extra joint support
• Shelf-stable before opening
• Easy-pour spout design
• Small batch production ensures quality
• Free from common allergens

Cons

• 7-day use window after opening may be tight for single-cat households
• Higher price point than some alternatives
• Some cats may not like the consistency
• Limited flavor options

Real-World Results

Pet owners report their cats enjoy the rich formula and show improvements in coat quality and digestive function. Many reviewers specifically mention how the broth helped with their cat’s IBD and other digestive issues.

The liquid format receives praise for mixing easily with both wet and dry food. Senior cat owners appreciate how well it softens kibble for cats with dental problems.

4. Native Pet Bone Broth Powder – Chicken Formula 48 Scoops

Product Details

Native Pet takes a different approach with a powder format. The formula is made with 100% organic chicken broth, using just two simple organic ingredients with no fillers, additives, or artificial flavors.

The powder format offers unique storage advantages. Unlike liquid broths, this product never needs refrigeration before opening and maintains quality for up to a year. This makes it perfect for emergency prep or households that use broth less frequently.

The product is vet-formulated and crafted with premium, human-grade ingredients to support joint health, mobility, and overall wellness. Each container provides 48 scoops, offering excellent value compared to liquid options.

How to Use

Sprinkle powder over food or mix well with warm water, using 1 scoop (1/2 tbsp) for every 25 lbs of body weight. For cats, follow the 1-25 pound instructions. When mixing with water, use 1/4 cup of water for each 1/2 tablespoon of powder.

The powder can be sprinkled directly on food if preferred, though mixing with water creates a more traditional broth consistency that many cats find appealing.

Nutritional Content

The broth provides 27 kcal per tablespoon. The formula is packed with collagen, essential for supporting strong joints and maintaining mobility. The organic chicken provides clean, high-quality nutrition without compromise.

Pros

• Long shelf life without refrigeration
• More servings per container than liquid options
• Two simple, organic ingredients
• Vet-formulated for optimal health benefits
• Can be used dry or mixed into liquid
• Cost-effective for regular use
• Takes up less storage space

Cons

• Some pets prefer liquid broth texture
• Requires mixing if you want liquid consistency
• Contains about 5% ash content
• Mixed broth only keeps 2-3 days in refrigerator
• May have slight odor when mixed

Owner Testimonials

Pet owners report that even picky cats run in circles when they hear the broth being mixed. One user notes that both their dog and cats love it, finding it a great alternative to making bone broth themselves.

The convenience factor wins high marks. Users appreciate that one tin lasts longer than bags of liquid broth, making it more economical for multi-pet households.

5. Applaws Natural Bone Broth Variety Pack – Fish and Chicken (6 x 3oz)

Product Details

Applaws offers variety with their bone broth selection, providing both chicken and fish options in convenient 3 oz pouches. The chicken formula contains only chicken bone broth, chicken breast, and guar gum. The fish version includes similar minimal ingredients with tuna fillet.

The recipes are made with 100% natural ingredients, free from artificial additives, ensuring every serving provides natural goodness. The limited ingredient approach makes these broths suitable for cats with food sensitivities.

The company emphasizes ethical sourcing and sustainability. Applaws is a B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good and creating positive social and environmental impact.

How to Use

Feed as a treat on its own, or serve as a topper with complete dry cat food for a balanced diet. The resealable spout pouches make portion control easy and allow you to save unused portions in the refrigerator.

Each 3 oz pouch typically provides 2+ servings for a single cat, making them economical despite the smaller size. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for best results.

Nutritional Analysis

Crude Protein 3%, Crude Fat 0.1%, Crude Fiber 0.5%, Moisture 95%. Each pouch contains approximately 22.8 calories, making it a low-calorie supplement that won’t interfere with your cat’s regular diet.

Pros

• Variety pack keeps meals interesting
• Very limited ingredients reduce allergy risk
• Resealable pouches maintain freshness
• Single-serving size reduces waste
• Natural source of collagen
• Ethical and sustainable company practices
• Good for hydration support

Cons

• Smaller pouch size means higher per-ounce cost
• Some cats reject the taste entirely
• Formula changes have disappointed some long-time users
• Can be difficult to squeeze out all contents
• Mixed palatability reviews

Customer Reviews

Many cats love these broths, with owners reporting their cats clean their bowls at every meal. Picky eaters particularly benefit from the variety, as having different flavors prevents meal fatigue.

Some reviewers note it’s strange that some cats love this food while others hate it. The resealable design gets consistent praise for convenience and freshness maintenance.

Key Features to Consider When Buying Bone Broth

Ingredient Quality

Look for products made with human-grade ingredients from trusted sources. Grass-fed or free-range animal bones provide higher nutritional value. Avoid broths containing onion, garlic, excessive salt, or artificial additives – these ingredients can harm cats.

Form Factor

Liquid broths offer immediate use and traditional texture that many cats prefer. Powder formats provide longer shelf life and better value per serving. Consider your storage space, usage frequency, and cat’s preferences when deciding between formats.

Protein Source

Chicken and beef represent the most common options, though some brands offer duck or fish varieties. If your cat has protein sensitivities or allergies, select a broth made from a novel protein they’ve tolerated well in the past.

Additional Ingredients

Some broths include vegetables, herbs, or spices for extra benefits. Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory properties. Pumpkin and sweet potato add fiber. However, cats with very sensitive stomachs might do better with minimal ingredient formulas.

Packaging

Resealable pouches and bottles make storage convenient after opening. Single-serve pouches reduce waste but cost more per ounce. Larger containers provide better value if you’ll use them within the recommended timeframe.

Price and Value

Calculate the cost per serving rather than just looking at package price. Powder formats typically offer the best value for regular users. Factor in your cat’s size and how much broth you’ll use daily when comparing options.

How to Introduce Bone Broth to Your Cat

Start slowly to avoid digestive upset. Gradually transition your pet to any new food over 7-14 days to help avoid the digestive issues that abrupt changes can cause. For sensitive cats, taking extra time with the transition works better.

Begin with just a teaspoon mixed into their regular food. Watch for any adverse reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat. If your cat tolerates it well, gradually increase the amount over several days until you reach the recommended serving size.

Some cats take to bone broth immediately, while others need time to adjust to the new flavor and texture. Try different serving methods to find what your cat prefers. Some enjoy it mixed into food, others prefer it served separately, and some like it slightly warmed.

Temperature matters for many cats. Room temperature or slightly warmed broth often proves more appealing than cold broth straight from the refrigerator. Never microwave bone broth, as this can create hot spots that might burn your cat’s mouth. Instead, let it sit at room temperature or warm it in a bowl of hot water.

Common Questions About Feline Bone Broth

How Much Should I Give My Cat?

Overfeeding bone broth can lead to a buildup of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can affect the kidney and other organs. Follow package directions carefully and adjust based on your cat’s size, age, and overall diet.

Most products recommend starting with 1-2 teaspoons per 10 pounds of body weight. Monitor your cat’s response and consult your veterinarian if you plan to make bone broth a regular part of their diet.

Can Bone Broth Replace Water?

No. By feeding a complete and balanced diet, your pet may not need bone broth or supplements added to their food. Bone broth supplements regular water intake but should never be the only source of hydration. Always keep fresh water available.

Is It Safe for Kittens?

Bone broth is safe for kittens as a supplemental addition to their diet, though portion sizes should be suitable for their smaller weight and nutritional requirements. Consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to a kitten’s diet.

Will It Help With Kidney Disease?

Bone broth can help provide essential hydration for cats with urinary and kidney problems, though it depends on your cat’s unique health history. Always consult your veterinarian before using bone broth if your cat has kidney disease, as some products may contain too much phosphorus or protein.

How Long Does It Last?

Unopened shelf-stable liquid broths typically last 12-18 months. After opening, refrigerate and use liquid broths within 3-7 days depending on the brand. Powder formats last longer – up to a year unopened, and several months after opening if stored properly. Prepared broth should be refrigerated and used within 48 hours.

Making Your Own Bone Broth at Home

The process of making bone broth is lengthy, with some recipes calling for a full 24 hours of simmering. However, homemade broth gives you complete control over ingredients and quality.

Place bones in a pot and cover with water. For each gallon of water, add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, which helps break down bones to release their minerals. You can add cat-safe vegetables like carrots for extra flavor.

Never add onions, chives, scallions or garlic – these are all toxic for cats. Keep your recipe simple and safe.

Simmer on low heat until any remaining meat residue falls off the bones. Remove meat and vegetables. Let the bones simmer for another 20-24 hours. The longer cooking time extracts more nutrients.

Once done, skim off any separated fat and discard all bones. Cooked bones can splinter and cause major GI problems for cats, so strain the broth well. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for 6 months.

Making the Right Choice for Your Cat

Each product reviewed here brings unique benefits. Merrick offers premium human-grade quality with added superfoods. CARU provides an economical everyday option despite mixed palatability reviews. Primalvore delivers organic simplicity with added collagen peptides.

Native Pet’s powder format wins on convenience and shelf life, perfect for occasional use or emergency prep. Applaws provides variety through their multi-flavor packs, though individual pouches cost more per ounce.

Consider your cat’s specific needs when making your selection. Senior cats with joint issues might benefit most from formulas with added collagen peptides like Primalvore or Native Pet. Picky eaters might respond better to the variety in Applaws packs. Cats with sensitive stomachs often do best with minimal ingredient formulas.

Budget plays a role too. For daily use, powder formats like Native Pet offer the best value. If you prefer liquid and use broth regularly, larger bottles like CARU make economic sense. Single-cat households using broth occasionally might prefer small pouches that reduce waste.

Test a small amount first before committing to large quantities. Even highly-rated products can receive rejection from individual cats. Their unique preferences and sensitivities mean what works wonderfully for one cat might get completely ignored by another.

Talk with your veterinarian before adding bone broth to your cat’s diet, especially if your cat has existing health conditions. They can provide guidance on appropriate amounts and help you watch for any concerns.

Bone broth can enhance your cat’s health, hydration, and meal enjoyment. With the right product and proper introduction, it becomes a valuable addition to feline nutrition that cats genuinely look forward to at mealtime.