Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support Review

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Review of Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support

According to our data, this Blue Buffalo 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 Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support provides complete and balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult cats.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support, we'll examine all 68 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. Chicken is a high-quality source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth, healthy skin, and coat, and supporting your cat's overall well-being.

  2. Chicken meal is a highly concentrated source of protein that provides essential amino acids, supporting strong muscles, healthy skin, and a shiny coat in cats.

  3. Tapioca Starch is a gluten-free carbohydrate source used in cat food. It's easily digestible and can provide energy for your cat.

  4. Pea is a nutrient-dense ingredient that provides a natural source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients for a balanced diet and healthy digestion in your cat.

  5. Pea Protein is a plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids to support your cat's muscle health and overall well-being, while being a great alternative for cats with food sensitivities.

  6. Turkey Meal is a high-quality protein source made from dehydrated and ground turkey meat. It provides essential amino acids and nutrients for your cat's muscle development, immune system, and overall health.

  7. Dried Egg Product is a highly digestible source of protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and maintenance. It also offers important vitamins and minerals.

  8. Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids that helps support skin and coat health in cats.

  9. Flaxseed is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy skin and coat, as well as overall well-being in cats.

  10. Pea fiber is a source of dietary fiber which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight in cats.

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

  12. Potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

  13. Apple pomace is a source of dietary fiber that can support digestive health in cats.

  14. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and helps promote healthy digestion in cats.

  15. 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.

  16. DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that helps maintain healthy skin and coat, supports immune function, and promotes overall well-being in cats.

  17. Cranberry is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help support your cat's immune system and urinary tract health.

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

  19. Calcium Sulfate is added to cat food as a source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

  20. L-Threonine is an essential amino acid that supports your cat's immune system, muscle development, and overall well-being.

  21. Dried kelp is a natural source of essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that can help support your cat's immune system, thyroid function, and overall well-being.

  22. Dried chicory root is a natural source of inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, aiding digestion and enhancing nutrient absorption.

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

  24. Calcium Chloride is a mineral supplement used to ensure your cat receives the necessary calcium for optimal bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission.

  25. Alfalfa nutrient concentrate is a nutrient-dense ingredient that delivers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, including vitamin K, calcium, and antioxidants, to support your cat's overall health and well-being.

  26. 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.

  27. 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.

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

  29. L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in your cat's mood regulation, sleep cycle, and overall well-being. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety in your cat.

  30. 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.

  31. Sweet Potato is a healthy, nutrient-rich carbohydrate source for your cat, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to support digestive health.

  32. Carrot is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support your cat's digestive health and overall well-being.

  33. Mixed Tocopherols are a type of vitamin E used as a natural preservative in cat food to maintain freshness and prolong shelf life.

  34. Iron amino acid chelate is a highly bioavailable form of iron that helps support your cat's red blood cell production and overall health.

  35. Zinc Amino Acid Chelate is a highly bioavailable form of zinc that supports your cat's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.

  36. L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate is a source of Vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cat's cells from damage and promotes a healthy immune system.

  37. Vegetable juice color is a natural food coloring derived from vegetables. It is used to make the food more visually appealing without adding any artificial substances.

  38. 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.

  39. Copper amino acid chelate is a highly bioavailable form of copper, essential for your cat's overall health, including bone development, connective tissue formation, and iron absorption.

  40. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and provide natural sweetness to cat food, contributing to a balanced diet.

  41. Barley Grass is a nutrient-dense plant source that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your cat's overall health. It can also help support your cat's digestion and immune system by providing dietary fiber and natural enzymes.

  42. Parsley is a natural ingredient that contains essential vitamins and minerals, which contribute to your cat's overall health and well-being, as well as freshening their breath.

  43. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that may help support your cat's immune system and overall health.

  44. Yucca Schidigera Extract is a natural ingredient that helps reduce the odor of your cat's waste. It contains compounds that bind to ammonia, reducing its release and making the litter box more pleasant for both you and your cat.

  45. Manganese Amino Acid Chelate is a form of manganese, which is important for bone health and enzyme function in cats.

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

  47. 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.

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

  49. 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.

  50. 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.

  51. Calcium pantothenate is a form of vitamin B5, which is essential for energy production, metabolism, and supporting your cat's overall health.

  52. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is essential for your cat's growth and overall health, as it helps support energy production and the maintenance of a healthy coat and skin.

  53. 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.

  54. Zinc sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports your cat's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.

  55. 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.

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

  57. 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.

  58. 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.

  59. Dried Yeast is a nutrient-rich ingredient that provides essential B vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for your cat's overall health. This ingredient can help support a healthy immune system, digestion, and skin and coat condition.

  60. The Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product is a probiotic ingredient that promotes healthy digestion and supports your cat's immune system. It helps maintain a balanced gut flora, contributing to your cat's overall well-being.

  61. Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your cat's gut, aiding in digestion and supporting overall health.

  62. Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract is a source of beneficial enzymes that can aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients in your cat's diet, promoting optimal digestive health.

  63. Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract is a source of enzymes which can aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.

  64. Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract is a probiotic ingredient that supports your cat's digestive and immune health. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

  65. Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential mineral for bone health and enzyme function.

  66. 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.

  67. 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.

  68. Oil of Rosemary is a natural antioxidant and flavor enhancer used in cat food. It helps to preserve the freshness of the food while also providing a pleasant aroma. Additionally, it supports your cat's immune system and overall health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The crude protein of 36.00% in this pet food comes largely from the deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and dried egg product. These are all high-quality sources of animal protein. Pea protein also contributes to this value.

The crude fat of 14.00% is likely to come primarily from the chicken fat and flaxseed. Chicken fat is a rich source of linoleic acid, which is beneficial for skin and coat health, while flaxseed is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.

The crude fiber maximum of 5.00% is contributed by the peas, pea fiber, apple pomace, pumpkin, dried kelp, dried chicory root, and dehydrated alfalfa meal. These ingredients provide dietary fiber which aids in digestion.

The calorie content of 3622.00 per kg is derived from the total macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbohydrates) in the food. All the ingredients contribute to this value, but the main contributors are likely to be the protein sources (chicken, turkey, and egg), fat sources (chicken fat and flaxseed), and carbohydrate sources (tapioca starch, peas, and potatoes).

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support costs approximately $7.00 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $41.39
10 lbs $69.61
15 lbs $94.34
20 lbs $117.06
30 lbs $158.67
40 lbs $196.88
50 lbs $232.74
60 lbs $266.85
70 lbs $299.55
80 lbs $331.10
90 lbs $361.68
100 lbs $391.42

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many customers have reported that Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support has been highly beneficial for their cats with digestive issues. One user mentioned that their cat, who suffers from Inflammatory Bowel Disease, experienced a significant reduction in vomiting after switching to this food from Royal Canin gastrointestinal. Another customer noted that their constipated cat remained unconstipated after starting this diet.

Some customers have also highlighted that this food is not only effective for cats with gastrointestinal problems, but also well-liked by their pets. One user mentioned that not only their kitten with a sensitive tummy loves it, but the rest of their cats do too. Another customer found that their cats, one with IBD and the other with constipation, both loved this food and it helped them stay regular.

Despite the positive reviews, a few customers have noted that their cats did not respond well to the food. One customer mentioned that their cat picked out other food and spat out this one. Another user reported that their cat initially loved the food but then refused to eat it. However, it is important to remember that every cat is different and what works for some may not work for others.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support is also appreciated for being grain-free and more affordable than other prescription foods. A customer with a 12-year-old cat with constipation liked that this food is grain-free and less expensive than other prescription options.

Despite some cats not taking to the food, many customers have found it to be a successful solution for their pets' digestive issues. One user's cat had ongoing diarrhea on a different prescription diet, but after switching to Blue Buffalo, the diarrhea ceased, suggesting a possible wheat and corn allergy. The small kibble size was also appreciated as it prevented choking.