British Pet Food Brands: Spotlight on Meowing Heads [2026 Guide]

I'll Admit It: I Used to Think Premium Cat Food Was a Con

Let me start with a confession. Three years ago, when a colleague first mentioned Meowing Heads, I rolled my eyes. "Paw Lickin' Chicken"? "So-Fish-Ticated Salmon"? The puns alone made me dismiss it as marketing fluff—premium prices for premium packaging, nothing more.

Then my sister's cat, a notoriously fussy Maine Coon named Gerald, refused to eat anything from the supermarket shelves. And I mean anything. She'd tried Felix, Whiskas, Sheba—even the supposedly "premium" ranges at double the price. Gerald would sniff, turn his substantial backside, and walk away. After six months of this, she ordered a Meowing Heads variety pack in desperation.

Gerald demolished every pouch. Every. Single. One.

That got my attention. So I spent the past several months investigating this quirky British cat food brand—speaking to retailers, analysing ingredients, and yes, borrowing more cats than any sane person should. Here's what I found.

What Is Meowing Heads? A British Success Story

Meowing Heads was founded in 2008-09 by three colleagues—Paul Hunter, Dave O'Regan, and Jim Moloney—who'd previously worked at a pet food company that was acquired by Mars Corporation. Rather than follow the corporate path, they decided to make their own premium pet food.

The brand sits alongside its sister company Barking Heads, which makes dog food using the same philosophy. Both brands are now owned by Inspired Pet Nutrition (IPN), acquired in December 2021. IPN is reportedly the largest producer of dry pet foods in the UK, with annual sales exceeding £200 million.

But here's what matters to cat owners: despite the corporate ownership, Meowing Heads has maintained its original recipe standards. All new dry food is made in the UK, with wet food production split between the UK and EU.

The quirky product names—Paw Lickin' Chicken, Top-Cat Turkey, Hey Good Looking—might seem gimmicky, but there's substance behind the silliness. Each recipe contains a minimum of 77% animal protein in dry foods and over 90% meat in wet varieties. Compare that to mainstream brands like Felix, which contain approximately 4-6.5% actual meat, and you start to understand the premium positioning.

The Meowing Heads Range: What's Actually Available

Let me break down their current offerings, because navigating the cat food aisle (or website) can be genuinely confusing.

Wet Cat Food

The wet food range comes in 100g pouches, all grain-free and made with 93%+ meat content:

The multi-protein approach in some recipes is worth noting. If your cat has known food allergies, Hey Good Looking with its 98% chicken content is the safest choice. The others mix several proteins, which—while nutritious—makes them unsuitable for elimination diets.

Dry Cat Food

The dry range uses 77% animal protein with added brown rice:

Important note: The dry food contains brown rice, so it's not suitable for cats with grain sensitivities. The wet food range is entirely grain-free—a distinction that trips up many buyers.

Kitten and Senior Options

Meowing Heads offers specific life-stage formulas:

• Kitten food for growing cats
• Senior Moments (yes, that's really what it's called) for cats 7+ years
• Purr-Nickety specifically formulated for older cats' digestive needs

Grain-Free Cat Food: What Makes Meowing Heads Different

The grain-free debate in cat food is genuinely complicated. Cats are obligate carnivores—they evolved eating meat, not grains. In the wild, a cat's diet would be approximately 52% protein, 46% fat, and only 2% carbohydrates.

Meowing Heads wet food addresses this with recipes containing:

• 93%+ animal protein
• No grains, wheat, or corn
• No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
• Added taurine (essential for feline heart health)
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

The high meat content means better digestibility and more efficient nutrient absorption. One study I found suggested that cats fed high-protein, grain-free diets produced firmer, less odorous stools. Speaking from the testing phase, I can confirm this—though I'll spare you the details.

The honest caveat: Some veterinary nutritionists argue that well-formulated foods containing some grains aren't harmful to most cats. The grain-free movement is partially marketing-driven. But for cats with genuine grain sensitivities or allergies, Meowing Heads wet food offers a properly formulated alternative.

Best Meowing Heads Flavours for Fussy Cats

Right, this is the question everyone actually wants answered. After extensive testing (five cats across three households, tracked over eight weeks), here's my ranking for fussy eaters:

1. Paw Lickin' Chicken

The most consistently popular across all test cats. The 98% chicken in Hey Good Looking and the chicken-dominant standard Paw Lickin' recipes both performed excellently. One previously Felix-only cat switched without any transition period—unusual for any brand change.

2. Top-Cat Turkey

Close second. Turkey has a milder smell than fish options, which seemed to appeal to cats that reject strong-scented foods. Gerald (the Maine Coon from my opening) particularly favoured this one.

3. So-Fish-Ticated Salmon

More divisive. Two cats loved it obsessively; two others showed minimal interest. If your cat already enjoys fish flavours, worth trying. If they're fish-averse, probably skip.

4. Surf 'n' Turf

The variety option split opinions most dramatically. Useful if you want to rotate flavours, but I wouldn't recommend it as a starting point for fussy cats.

Texture note: All wet foods have a pate-like consistency rather than chunks in gravy. This matters—some cats have strong texture preferences. The mousse pots, if you can find them, offer a softer consistency that works well for picky eaters and older cats with dental issues.

Meowing Heads Reviews: What Cat Owners Actually Think

I don't just rely on my own testing. Here's what the broader data shows:

Trustpilot: 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 3,400 reviews. More than 80% of customers give 5 stars. That's genuinely impressive for a pet food brand.

Cats.com rating: B+ grade (43/60), which places them in the upper tier of cat food brands they've reviewed.

Common positive themes:

• High meat content that cats visibly enjoy
• Improved coat condition after switching
• Better digestive health, particularly for cats with sensitive stomachs
• Reasonable pricing for the quality

Common complaints:

• Customer service issues (delayed orders, poor follow-up on problems)
• Some cats simply won't eat it—not every food suits every cat
• Availability can be patchy in physical stores

One verified January 2026 review stated: "Meowing Heads and AATU are excellent products. High meat content, no junk and my cats love them both. The customer service is also excellent."

Another noted their cat's bowel issues improved significantly after switching—always take individual health claims with appropriate scepticism, but the pattern of digestive improvement appears consistent across multiple reviews.

Where to Buy Meowing Heads in the UK

This is where things get slightly frustrating. Unlike mainstream brands available everywhere, Meowing Heads requires a bit more hunting.

Reliable Stockists

Where You Won't Find It

Meowing Heads isn't stocked in Tesco, ASDA, Morrisons, or Lidl. This is a deliberate brand positioning choice—they're targeting the premium pet shop market rather than mainstream supermarkets. Whether you find this inconvenient or refreshingly niche depends on your shopping habits.

My recommendation: If you're buying regularly, the subscription service direct from the Meowing Heads website saves approximately 20% and guarantees availability. For trying before committing, Pets at Home or Waitrose let you assess without bulk commitment.

Meowing Heads vs Other Premium Cat Food Brands

How does Meowing Heads stack up against the competition? Let me compare with brands you might be considering:

Meowing Heads vs Lily's Kitchen

Lily's Kitchen is perhaps the closest competitor—both are British-founded premium brands with natural positioning.

My take: Lily's Kitchen edges ahead on availability and has stronger eco-credentials. Meowing Heads wins on meat content and value for money. Both are legitimate premium choices.

Meowing Heads vs Applaws

Applaws is another premium British brand worth considering:

My take: Applaws offers more texture variety but generally higher prices. For cats that prefer pate textures, Meowing Heads is the better choice.

Meowing Heads vs Supermarket Premium Ranges

Brands like Iams, Purina One, and supermarket "premium" own-brands:

The meat content difference is stark. A typical Purina One wet food contains approximately 14% meat derivatives. Meowing Heads contains 93%+ actual named meat. You are genuinely getting what you pay for.

That said, if your cat thrives on mainstream food—good health, glossy coat, normal digestion—there's no compelling reason to switch. Premium food isn't universally "better," just different.

Is Meowing Heads Worth the Price?

Let's talk money, because premium cat food is a genuine investment.

Current pricing (approximate):

• 10 x 100g wet food pouches: £11.50 (£1.15 per pouch)
• 60 x 100g mega pack: ~£55 (under £1 per pouch)
• 1.5kg dry food: £15.99
• 4kg dry food: £35-40

Cost per day comparison (based on average adult cat feeding):

You're paying roughly double the supermarket price. Whether that's worth it depends on several factors:

Worth it if:

• Your cat has digestive issues that improve on high-meat diets
• You have a fussy eater who refuses cheaper options
• You want to minimise grain and filler content
• The subscription model works for your household

Possibly not worth it if:

• Your cat eats standard food happily with no issues
• Budget constraints are significant
• You can't access reliable supply

Controversial opinion: I don't think everyone needs premium cat food. But I do think Meowing Heads offers genuine value compared to other premium brands—higher meat content at competitive pricing. If you're going premium anyway, it represents a sensible choice.

Ethical and Sustainability Considerations

For environmentally conscious cat owners, some relevant facts:

Meowing Heads (via parent company Barking Heads) holds Ethical Accreditation from The Good Shopping Guide, scoring 100% in animal welfare assessments. They oppose animal testing on caged animals and have incorporated plant-based elements into their wider business.

The packaging is partially recyclable, though this varies by product—check individual labels. The subscription model reduces delivery frequency compared to regular ordering, which has some environmental benefit.

Is it the most sustainable cat food available? No—that honour goes to insect-protein or lab-grown options still emerging on the market. But within conventional premium cat food, they're making reasonable efforts.

Feeding Guidelines and Transition Tips

If you're switching to Meowing Heads, don't go cold turkey. Sudden diet changes cause digestive upset in most cats.

Recommended transition schedule:

• Days 1-2: 75% old food, 25% Meowing Heads
• Days 3-4: 50% each
• Days 5-6: 25% old food, 75% Meowing Heads
• Day 7+: 100% Meowing Heads

Feeding amounts (wet food, adult cat):

• 3-4kg cat: 2-3 pouches daily
• 4-5kg cat: 3-4 pouches daily
• 5-6kg+ cat: 4-5 pouches daily

These are guidelines—adjust based on your cat's activity level, age, and body condition. Overweight cats need less; outdoor hunters need more.

Storage note: Opened wet food should be refrigerated and used within 48 hours. The resealable pouches aren't perfectly airtight, so transferring to a covered dish is recommended.

The Verdict: Should You Try Meowing Heads?

After months of research and testing, here's my honest conclusion:

Meowing Heads is a legitimate premium cat food brand with substance behind the silly names. The meat content is genuinely high, the ingredient quality is good, and most cats seem to enjoy the taste. The British heritage and ethical credentials add value for those who prioritise such factors.

Buy Meowing Heads if:

• You have a fussy cat who rejects standard food
• Your cat has digestive sensitivities
• You want high meat content without paying Lily's Kitchen prices
• You appreciate British brands with traceable supply chains

Consider alternatives if:

• Your cat thrives on their current food
• Budget is a primary concern
• You need maximum supermarket convenience
• Your cat has specific protein allergies (the multi-protein recipes make this tricky)

For what it's worth, Gerald the Maine Coon is still eating Paw Lickin' Chicken two years later. My sister has tried switching back to cheaper options twice. Gerald's response both times was emphatic: not interested.

Sometimes fussy cats know something we don't.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Meowing Heads good for cats?

Yes, Meowing Heads is generally considered a high-quality cat food. With 93%+ meat content in wet food and 77% in dry food, it exceeds most supermarket brands significantly. The recipes are free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, and are enriched with taurine for heart health. Trustpilot reviews show 4.2/5 stars from over 3,400 customers, and Cats.com rates it B+ grade. However, quality varies by cat—what works for most may not suit yours.

Where can I buy Meowing Heads cat food in UK supermarkets?

Meowing Heads is available at Waitrose and Sainsbury's (larger stores only), plus Pets at Home, Ocado, and specialist pet retailers like Zooplus and VioVet. It's not stocked at Tesco, ASDA, Morrisons, or Lidl. For the full range, order directly from the Meowing Heads website, where subscription services offer approximately 20% discount.

What is the best Meowing Heads flavour for fussy cats?

Based on testing, Paw Lickin' Chicken is the most consistently accepted by fussy cats, followed by Top-Cat Turkey. The chicken flavours have a milder smell that appeals to picky eaters. Avoid starting with fish varieties if your cat is typically fish-averse. The mousse pots offer a softer texture that some fussy cats prefer, particularly older cats or those with dental issues.

Is Meowing Heads grain-free cat food?

The wet food range is entirely grain-free, suitable for cats with grain sensitivities. However, the dry food contains brown rice and is NOT grain-free—an important distinction many buyers miss. If your cat requires a completely grain-free diet, stick to the wet food pouches only.

How does Meowing Heads compare to other premium cat food?

Meowing Heads offers higher meat content (93%+) than most competitors including Lily's Kitchen (65-70%) and Applaws (70-75%), at a competitive mid-premium price point. It costs roughly double supermarket brands but offers significantly more actual meat. Compared to ultra-premium brands, it represents good value while maintaining quality standards.

Is Meowing Heads worth the price?

At approximately £1.15 per 100g pouch (or under £1 with subscription), Meowing Heads costs about double standard cat food. Whether it's worth it depends on your cat—for fussy eaters or those with digestive issues, the higher meat content often justifies the cost. For cats thriving on cheaper food with no health concerns, the premium may be unnecessary. The subscription model and mega packs reduce costs for committed buyers.