9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete Review

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Review of 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete

According to our data, this 9 Lives recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult cats. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult cats.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete, we'll examine all 42 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.

While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.

  1. Ground whole grain corn provides carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients, supporting energy production and overall health in your cat.

  2. Chicken By-Product Meal is a concentrated source of protein, containing essential amino acids and nutrients that support your cat's overall health, muscle development, and growth.

  3. Soybean meal is a source of protein that can support your cat's muscle development and tissue repair.

  4. Meat and bone meal is a concentrated source of animal protein and calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.

  5. Beef Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a highly palatable source of energy and essential fatty acids, promoting a healthy skin and coat for your cat.

  6. Corn gluten meal is a by-product of corn processing and is used as a source of protein. However, it's not as beneficial as meat-based proteins.

  7. Whole Wheat is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet and support digestive health in cats.

  8. Natural flavor enhances the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters.

  9. Soybean hulls are a source of fiber, which can aid in digestion for cats.

  10. Salmon meal is a high-quality protein source that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's healthy skin, coat, and overall well-being.

  11. Phosphoric acid is used in small amounts as a pH adjuster and preservative to ensure optimal shelf life and safety for your cat's food.

  12. Dehydrated alfalfa meal is a natural source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin K, which support bone health.

  13. Salt is added in small amounts to cat food to help maintain electrolyte balance and support healthy nerve and muscle function.

  14. Titanium Dioxide is a food-safe colorant used in small amounts to maintain a consistent appearance in your cat's food. While it does not provide any nutritional benefits, it is considered safe for consumption in regulated quantities.

  15. Choline chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining cellular function and overall health in cats.

  16. Vitamin E Supplement is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in supporting your cat's immune system, skin health, and overall well-being. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cat's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  17. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that aids in energy metabolism and supports your cat's nervous system, skin, and coat health.

  18. Vitamin A Supplement is an essential nutrient that supports your cat's vision, immune system, and overall health. It is crucial for maintaining a well-balanced diet and proper body function.

  19. Thiamine mononitrate is a source of Vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function in cats.

  20. Riboflavin Supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which supports your cat's energy production, metabolism, and overall well-being.

  21. D-calcium pantothenate, also known as vitamin B5, is important for energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.

  22. Pyridoxine hydrochloride, also known as Vitamin B6, plays a vital role in your cat's metabolism, immune system function, and nerve health, ensuring their overall well-being.

  23. A vitamin B12 supplement is an essential nutrient for your cat, supporting their nervous system, brain function, and red blood cell production.

  24. Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.

  25. Vitamin D3 Supplement is an essential nutrient that supports your cat's bone health and immune system. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels, ensuring strong bones and teeth, and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being.

  26. Folic Acid is a B vitamin that is essential for your cat's health. It plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and the production of red blood cells. A deficiency in folic acid can lead to anemia and other health problems, making it an important ingredient in cat food.

  27. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support your cat's skin and coat health, as well as their metabolism and nervous system.

  28. Ferrous Sulfate is an essential source of iron for your cat, which helps support the production of red blood cells and maintains healthy energy levels. It also plays a vital role in your cat's overall health and well-being.

  29. Zinc Oxide is a source of essential trace mineral zinc, which plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system, skin and coat health, and supporting various metabolic processes in your cat's body.

  30. Manganous oxide is a source of manganese, a trace mineral that supports various bodily functions including bone development, metabolism, and nerve function.

  31. Copper sulfate is used in cat food as a source of copper, a vital mineral that supports various body functions including iron absorption and blood cell formation.

  32. Calcium Iodate is an essential mineral supplement that provides your cat with the necessary iodine to support thyroid function and overall metabolic health. It helps maintain a healthy coat, skin, and immune system.

  33. Sodium Selenite is an important source of selenium, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in your cat's antioxidant defense system. Selenium helps protect your cat's cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system, thyroid function, and overall health.

  34. Taurine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in your cat's heart function, vision, and reproduction. Cats cannot synthesize taurine in sufficient amounts, making it a vital addition to their diet.

  35. Potassium Chloride is a vital mineral that supports your cat's overall health by maintaining proper muscle function, nerve communication, and fluid balance in the body.

  36. Red 40 is a widely-used artificial food colorant that adds an appealing color to your cat's food, making it visually more attractive.

  37. Yellow 5 is a food coloring used to enhance the visual appeal of the food. It has no nutritional benefits.

  38. Lactic Acid is a natural preservative and pH regulator used in cat food to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. It is a safe and effective way to preserve the quality of your cat's food.

  39. Yellow 6 is a synthetic food coloring used to give cat food an appealing appearance. Though considered safe in regulated amounts, it does not provide any nutritional benefits.

  40. BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is a synthetic antioxidant used as a preservative in some cat foods to maintain freshness and extend shelf life. However, it is a controversial ingredient due to potential health concerns, and many pet owners prefer to avoid it in their cat's diet.

  41. Blue 1 is an artificial colorant that may be used in some cat foods to enhance their appearance. While it is generally considered safe for consumption, it is always best to prioritize natural and nutritious ingredients for your pet's overall health and well-being.

  42. Rosemary Extract is a natural antioxidant and preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of your cat's food while also providing potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 30.00%: The crude protein content is a measure of the total amount of protein in the food. In this cat food, the high protein content is likely contributed by chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, and soybean meal, which are all high in protein. Meat and bone meal and salmon meal also add to the protein content, providing essential amino acids that cats need.

Crude Fat (min) of 9.00%: Fats are an important energy source for cats. The minimum crude fat content in this food comes from ingredients such as animal fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) and the fats naturally present in meat and bone meal, as well as the chicken by-product meal. These ingredients help maintain the cat's energy levels and support a healthy coat and skin.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: Fiber aids in digestion and helps with weight management, particularly for indoor cats that may have lower activity levels. The maximum crude fiber content likely comes from ingredients like soybean hulls, whole wheat, and dehydrated alfalfa pellets. These are less digestible plant materials that contribute to the overall fiber content of the food.

Calories of 3360.00 per kg: The caloric content is an indication of the energy provided by the food. The calories in this cat food are derived from the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates present in the ingredients. Whole ground corn and the various meals (chicken by-product, corn gluten, soybean, and meat & bone) are energy-dense ingredients that contribute significantly to the total calorie count. The animal fat included also boosts the caloric content, as fats are more calorie-dense than proteins or carbohydrates.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete costs approximately $1.05 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $6.67
10 lbs $11.21
15 lbs $15.19
20 lbs $18.85
30 lbs $25.55
40 lbs $31.71
50 lbs $37.48
60 lbs $42.98
70 lbs $48.24
80 lbs $53.33
90 lbs $58.25
100 lbs $63.04

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed high satisfaction with 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Indoor Complete, noting that even their picky eaters have taken a liking to it. Many appreciate the food's affordability, especially those caring for multiple cats or feral communities. The food is described as economical and nutritious, with some cats showing a preference for it over other brands.

Several reviewers have mentioned that their cats' health appears to be positively impacted, with fewer instances of vomiting and shinier coats. The food is also appreciated for being made in the USA, which is an important factor for some buyers. Some customers have found the food to be a good value for their indoor kitties, as well as for outdoor cats.

While there are a few negative comments about cats not being interested in the food or experiencing digestive issues, the positive reviews suggest that these cases are not the norm. Many cats seem to enjoy the taste and texture, and owners are happy with the product's ability to maintain a healthy weight and reduce hairballs in their pets.

In response to concerns about packaging and shipping issues, it seems that these incidents are relatively isolated and do not reflect the overall quality of the product itself. The majority of customers are satisfied with the product and have had good experiences with their orders.