Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that their bodies are designed to digest and use only animal-based proteins. In the wild, cats typically eat small prey – rodents, birds, and reptiles – that are high in moisture. As a result, their diet is relatively low in carbohydrates and fat. When cats are fed dry kibble, they consume more carbohydrates and fat than they would in the wild. While some carbs and fat are essential for cats, too much can lead to obesity and a host of other health problems. Canned food more closely resembles the natural diet and is high in moisture, which helps keep cats hydrated and prevents urinary tract infections. For all these reasons, cats have a better chance at optimal health when they’re fed canned food instead of dry kibble.