Health Extension Dry Cat Food Original Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Review

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Review of Health Extension Dry Cat Food Original Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

According to our data, this Health Extension recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Health Extension Dry Cat Food Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Health Extension Dry Cat Food Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, we'll examine all 75 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. Brown Rice is a whole grain ingredient that provides a source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients to support your cat's energy levels and digestive health.

  4. Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber, promoting digestive health and providing a steady release of energy for your cat.

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

  6. Menhaden Meal is a high-quality protein source derived from menhaden fish. This ingredient provides essential amino acids for your cat's overall health, supports muscle growth, and contains omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat.

  7. Herring oil is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system in cats.

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

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

  10. 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.

  11. Tomato pomace is a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that support a healthy immune system and digestion in cats.

  12. 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.

  13. Chicory root is a prebiotic fiber that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora and supports optimal digestion in cats.

  14. Dried beet pulp is a fiber source that aids in digestion, helping your cat maintain a healthy weight and control hairballs.

  15. Coconut Oil is a healthy fat source that provides energy and supports your cat's skin and coat health. Rich in medium-chain triglycerides, it is easily digestible and may also help support brain function in older cats.

  16. Organic apple cider vinegar is a natural ingredient that supports digestive health and helps maintain the proper pH balance in your cat's digestive system.

  17. Organic Turmeric contains natural anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit your cat's joint health and overall well-being, and it also acts as a natural antioxidant, supporting your cat's immune system.

  18. Organic Ginger is a natural herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help support your cat's digestive health, alleviate nausea, and promote overall wellness.

  19. Bovine Colostrum is a nutrient-rich substance that supports a strong immune system and gut health in cats by providing essential antibodies and growth factors.

  20. Organic blueberries are a great source of antioxidants, which can help to maintain your cat's immune health.

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

  22. 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.

  23. Dried Seaweed Meal is an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support your cat's immune system and overall health.

  24. New Zealand green mussel is an excellent source of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to support joint health in cats.

  25. Organic carrot is a source of important vitamins and minerals, like beta-carotene, which supports eye health.

  26. Organic Pumpkin is a great source of dietary fiber, which helps support healthy digestion and bowel function in cats.

  27. Green Tea Extract is a natural source of antioxidants, which help protect your cat's cells from damage and support overall health.

  28. Sage Extract is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can help support your cat's immune system and overall well-being.

  29. Organic parsley is a fresh herb that provides a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your cat's overall health and well-being.

  30. Organic spinach is a superfood packed with vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins. It also provides dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion.

  31. Organic Kale is a nutrient-rich green that provides cats with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and well-being.

  32. Sweet basil can add flavor to cat food and is known to have antioxidant properties, although it is typically used in very small amounts.

  33. Vitamin A Acetate is a supplemental form of vitamin A that supports your cat's vision, immune system, and overall health.

  34. 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.

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

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

  37. 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.

  38. 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.

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

  40. 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.

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

  42. 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.

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

  44. Inositol is a type of sugar alcohol that plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including nerve function and fat metabolism.

  45. Dehydrated Organic Kelp is a natural source of essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants for your cat. This ingredient supports a healthy thyroid function, immune system, and overall well-being.

  46. Zinc Polysaccharide Complex is an essential trace mineral that supports your cat's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.

  47. The iron polysaccharide complex is a form of iron supplement that is easier on the digestive system and better absorbed by your cat's body. Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells and certain enzymes.

  48. Manganese Polysaccharide Complex is a highly bioavailable source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that supports your cat's bone and joint health, as well as enzymatic functions.

  49. Copper Polysaccharide Complex is a highly bioavailable form of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports your cat's skin and coat health, enzyme function, and immune system.

  50. Cobalt Polysaccharide Complex is a source of trace mineral cobalt, which plays a crucial role in the formation of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 supports your cat's nervous system, brain function, and the production of red blood cells, promoting overall health and vitality.

  51. 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.

  52. 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.

  53. 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.

  54. Pectin is a type of fiber that can aid in digestion and help maintain bowel health.

  55. 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.

  56. Dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic used to promote a healthy gut flora, which can boost overall health and immunity in cats.

  57. 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.

  58. Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product is a probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system and promotes a balanced gut flora in cats, enhancing nutrient absorption and overall well-being.

  59. Dried Bacillus Licheniformis Fermentation Product is a probiotic ingredient that helps support your cat's digestive health by promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This can lead to improved nutrient absorption and overall well-being.

  60. Dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product is a type of probiotic that can help maintain a healthy digestive system in your cat.

  61. The dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation product is a source of enzymes that can help improve your cat's digestion and nutrient absorption.

  62. Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Product is a beneficial probiotic ingredient that supports your cat's digestive health. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, aids in nutrient absorption, and contributes to overall gastrointestinal wellness.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 36.00% is likely contributed by the chicken, chicken meal, and menhaden fish meal listed in the ingredients. Chicken and chicken meal are high-quality sources of protein that provide essential amino acids necessary for a cat's health. Menhaden fish meal further adds to the protein content and also provides omega-3 fatty acids.

The Crude Fat minimum of 16.00% is primarily provided by the chicken fat, herring oil, and to some extent the flaxseed included in the ingredients. Chicken fat is a high-energy source that also contains essential fatty acids. Herring oil is rich in DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that is important for cognitive function and vision.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 6.00% comes from ingredients such as brown rice, oatmeal, sweet potato, cranberries, blueberries, tomato pomace, and chicory root. These ingredients contain varying amounts of dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health.

The calorie content of 3719.00 per kg is a measure of the energy that the food provides. This is influenced by the combined macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) in the food. The protein from the chicken and fish meal, the fat from chicken fat and herring oil, and carbohydrates from ingredients like brown rice and oatmeal all contribute to the total caloric value of the food.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Health Extension Dry Cat Food Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe costs approximately $3.52 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $12.98$20.28
10 lbs $21.83$34.11
15 lbs $29.59$46.24
20 lbs $36.72$57.37
30 lbs $49.77$77.76
40 lbs $61.75$96.49
50 lbs $73.00$114.06
60 lbs $83.70$130.78
70 lbs $93.96$146.81
80 lbs $103.85$162.27
90 lbs $113.44$177.26
100 lbs $122.77$191.83

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have found Health Extension Dry Cat Food to be a hit with their pets, including those with specific dietary needs. One hedgehog owner appreciates the small, thin pieces that are easy for her pet to chew, and the convenient 1lb bag size. Cat owners have observed a remarkable increase in their pets' activity levels and improved coat health, attributing these positive changes to the holistic and healthy ingredients in the food, which are free from corn and other fillers.

Several reviews highlight the food's digestibility and appeal to pets with sensitive stomachs, with one customer noting that their cat, prone to vomiting, had no issues after switching to Health Extension. The food's natural ingredients and lack of preservatives are also appreciated, as is the fact that it is made in the USA.

While some negative reviews mention issues such as a cat developing crystals or pets not being attracted to the taste, it's important to recognize that individual pets can have unique reactions to different foods. The majority of customers have had positive experiences, with one even noting that their cat prefers Health Extension over a previous brand and that it pairs well with wet food without becoming soggy.

Lastly, a customer expressed relief at being able to return to Health Extension after a temporary switch to other brands, observing that their cats resumed normal eating habits and avoided obesity thanks to the quality of the product. This underscores the brand's commitment to creating a healthy, additive-free option for pet owners.