Why is there sugar in cat food?
Apart from the fact that sugar isn't immediately harmful but is unhealthy in the long run—since it puts strain on the teeth, promotes obesity, and increases the risk of diabetes—it's a nutritionally unnecessary substance that's mostly used for appearance or to improve acceptance. When heated, it gives sauces and pieces of meat a more appealing brown colour and enhances the smell and taste of the food, especially when lower-quality ingredients are used.