9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care Review
$7.77 First Auto-Ship Order
35% Off First Auto-Ship
$12.79 w/ code PawDiet20
Use Code: PawDiet20
Available From 3rd-Party Seller
PawDiet has been helping pet owners since 2015. To fund our efforts, articles may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission.
Review of 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care
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.
Unlike other AAFCO approved cat foods which rely in laboratory testing to substantiate nutritional adequacy, this recipe has undergone feeding trials. In the pet food industry, feeding trials are often considered to be the superior testing method.
Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care provides complete and balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult cats.
Review of Ingredients
In our review of 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care, we'll examine all 46 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.
Ground whole grain corn provides carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients, supporting energy production and overall health in your cat.
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.
Poultry By-Product Meal is a concentrated source of animal protein derived from the non-rendered clean parts of slaughtered poultry. It is a cost-effective ingredient that can provide essential nutrients for your cat's overall health, but it may not be as easily digestible as whole meats.
Whole Wheat is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet and support digestive health in cats.
Animal Digest is a concentrated source of animal proteins, providing essential nutrients for your cat. It enhances the flavor of the cat food, making it more palatable and appealing to your cat's taste buds.
Animal fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a rich source of energy and essential fatty acids that support your cat's skin, coat, and immune system health.
Meat and bone meal is a concentrated source of animal protein and calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
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.
Calcium carbonate is a common ingredient in cat food, used as a source of dietary calcium to support bone health and several key metabolic functions.
Salt is added in small amounts to cat food to help maintain electrolyte balance and support healthy nerve and muscle function.
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.
Yeast Culture is a source of live probiotics and enzymes that help promote healthy digestion and support a strong immune system in cats.
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.
Tuna Meal is a highly digestible, nutrient-dense source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients for your cat's growth and maintenance.
Choline chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining cellular function and overall health in cats.
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.
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.
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.
Manganous oxide is a source of manganese, a trace mineral that supports various bodily functions including bone development, metabolism, and nerve function.
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.
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.
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.
L-Lysine is an essential amino acid that helps support your cat's immune system and is also vital for the production of certain proteins, enzymes, and antibodies.
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.
Niacin Supplement is a form of vitamin B3 that plays a crucial role in supporting your cat's skin, nervous system, and digestive health, as well as promoting energy production.
D-calcium pantothenate, also known as vitamin B5, is important for energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.
Thiamine mononitrate is a source of Vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function in cats.
Riboflavin Supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which supports your cat's energy production, metabolism, and overall well-being.
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.
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.
Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
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.
Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support your cat's skin and coat health, as well as their metabolism and nervous system.
A vitamin B12 supplement is an essential nutrient for your cat, supporting their nervous system, brain function, and red blood cell production.
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.
Egg Product is a highly digestible source of protein that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle development and maintenance. It also contains various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and biotin, which support healthy skin, coat, and immune function.
DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that helps maintain healthy skin and coat, supports immune function, and promotes overall well-being in cats.
Yellow 5 is a food coloring used to enhance the visual appeal of the food. It has no nutritional benefits.
Red 40 is a widely-used artificial food colorant that adds an appealing color to your cat's food, making it visually more attractive.
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.
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.
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.
Natural Grilled Flavor enhances the taste of your cat's food, making it more palatable and enjoyable for even the pickiest of eaters.
The artificial grilled flavor is used to enhance the taste of cat food, making it more appealing to your pet. However, it doesn't provide any nutritional benefits.
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.
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 31.00%: The high protein content in this cat food is primarily provided by the poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal, meat and bone meal, and tuna meal. These are all protein-rich ingredients, with poultry by-product meal and meat and bone meal being sources of animal protein that are essential for a cat's diet. The corn gluten meal, although a plant-based protein, also contributes significantly to the overall protein content.
Crude Fat (min) of 9.00%: The crude fat content is likely to come from the animal fat that is preserved with mixed tocopherols, as well as fats present in the meat and bone meal, and to a lesser extent from the poultry by-product meal. Animal fat is a necessary component of a cat's diet, providing energy and helping with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Crude Fiber (max) of 3.00%: The fiber in the cat food is likely derived from the whole ground corn and whole wheat. These ingredients are higher in fiber than the animal-based components. Fiber is important for digestive health, but it is kept at a moderate level (3.00%) as cats do not require a high-fiber diet.
Calories of 3322.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative result of all the macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) in the food. The animal fat and carbohydrates from corn and wheat are high-energy ingredients that contribute significantly to the calorie content. The protein sources also add to the overall energy but to a lesser extent compared to fats and carbohydrates.
Review of Affordability
According to our data, 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care costs approximately $1.29 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.
| Adult Weight | Adult |
|---|---|
| 5 lbs | $8.32 |
| 10 lbs | $13.99 |
| 15 lbs | $18.96 |
| 20 lbs | $23.52 |
| 30 lbs | $31.88 |
| 40 lbs | $39.56 |
| 50 lbs | $46.77 |
| 60 lbs | $53.62 |
| 70 lbs | $60.19 |
| 80 lbs | $66.53 |
| 90 lbs | $72.68 |
| 100 lbs | $78.65 |
Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Customers who feed feral and stray cats are particularly fond of 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care, noting that even the pickiest eaters among their outdoor feline friends enjoy the food. While some users mention concerns about cost, they find the product effective for what their cats prefer and appreciate its ability to cater to the tastes of multiple cats.
Many indoor cat owners have observed that their pets have had no urinary issues since starting on this food, which is a significant benefit. Some have tried more expensive brands but returned to 9 Lives because their cats simply prefer it. The brand loyalty seems strong among consumers who have used it for years, with their cats showing a clear preference for this food over others.
Some customers have expressed sadness about the discontinuation of the Daily Essentials variety, as it was particularly gentle on their cats' stomachs. However, they still find that 9 Lives Plus Care is one of the few brands that their cats can eat without vomiting, which suggests that it is still a good choice for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Despite a few reports of cats not liking the flavor or having allergic reactions, the overall sentiment is that 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care is a hit with most cats. The food is also praised for its affordability and effectiveness in maintaining urinary health, which is a common concern for cat owners. The smaller kibble size is also appreciated, especially for senior cats or those with dental issues.
For those feeding multiple cats or managing a colony of ferals, 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care is often highlighted as a cost-effective and well-liked option. Customers appreciate the value for the price and the fact that even wildlife seems to enjoy the leftovers, indicating its wide appeal.
In terms of health benefits, several testimonials attribute the product to preventing urinary tract issues, especially in male cats who are prone to such conditions. Long-term users report that their cats have remained stone-free and healthy on this diet.
The convenience of online ordering and home delivery is also a plus for many customers, especially those who are elderly or disabled. They appreciate the ease of receiving the food directly to their doorsteps, although some suggest improvements in packaging to make handling easier.
Overall, 9 Lives Dry Cat Food Plus Care receives positive feedback for its palatability, urinary health benefits, and value. While there are occasional reports of cats not taking to the food, the majority of reviews suggest that cats not only enjoy it but also experience health benefits from its consumption.
