Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon Review

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Review of Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon

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

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon 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 Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon, we'll examine all 39 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. Salmon is a high-quality source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's muscle development, healthy skin and coat, and overall well-being.

  2. 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.

  3. Whitefish Meal is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your cat's overall health. It supports strong muscles, a healthy immune system, and proper growth and development.

  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. Herring Meal is a highly concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's muscle development, immune system, and coat health. It also provides essential nutrients for overall well-being.

  6. Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid) is a source of healthy fats and essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, brain function, and overall wellness in cats.

  7. Tapioca is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and supports your cat's overall health. This ingredient is easily digestible, making it an excellent option for cats with food sensitivities or digestive issues.

  8. 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.

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

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

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

  12. Montmorillonite Clay is a natural source of minerals and can help support your cat's digestive health by binding toxins and promoting regular bowel movements.

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

  14. Apple is a great source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion, as well as providing essential vitamins and minerals.

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

  16. 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.

  17. 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.

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

  19. 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.

  20. 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.

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

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

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

  24. 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.

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

  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. 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.

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

  29. Zinc proteinate is a chelated form of zinc that is easier for cats to absorb, promoting skin and coat health, and aiding in immune function.

  30. Iron proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of iron that helps support optimal red blood cell production, oxygen transport, and overall vitality in cats.

  31. Copper Proteinate is an easily absorbed form of copper that supports your cat's immune system, red blood cell formation, and connective tissue health.

  32. Manganese Proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese that supports your cat's bone and joint health, as well as their metabolism.

  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. Ethylenediamine dihydriodide is a source of iodine, an essential trace element that supports your cat's thyroid function and overall metabolism.

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

  36. 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.

  37. Freeze dried cod is a protein-rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote skin and coat health and support overall wellness.

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

  39. 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

The guaranteed analysis of Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon shows a minimum crude protein content of 42.00%. This high protein content is primarily contributed by the first few ingredients listed, which are Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, White Fish Meal, and Herring Meal. These are all high-quality animal-based protein sources.

The crude fat content is guaranteed to be at least 18.00%. This is likely to come from the Salmon, which is a fatty fish, as well as the Canola Oil, which is a direct source of fat. These ingredients contribute to the overall fat content of the food, providing essential fatty acids and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

The crude fiber content is a maximum of 3.00%. This is a relatively low fiber content, which is expected in a grain-free diet. The fiber in this food is primarily contributed by the Peas, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Carrots, and Apples. These ingredients provide necessary dietary fiber for healthy digestion.

The calorie content is 4470.00 per kg, which is relatively high. This high caloric content is due to the high protein and fat content of the food, both of which are calorie-dense nutrients. The primary contributors to the calorie content are likely the protein and fat sources, particularly the Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, White Fish Meal, Herring Meal, and Canola Oil.

Overall, the guaranteed analysis and ingredients list for this pet food product suggest a high-quality, high-protein, and high-fat diet, with a moderate amount of fiber and a high caloric density. This would make it suitable for active dogs, or those with specific dietary needs that require a high protein and fat intake.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon costs approximately $5.65 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $17.34$27.10
10 lbs $29.17$45.57
15 lbs $39.53$61.77
20 lbs $49.05$76.64
30 lbs $66.49$103.88
40 lbs $82.50$128.90
50 lbs $97.52$152.38
60 lbs $111.82$174.71
70 lbs $125.52$196.12
80 lbs $138.74$216.78
90 lbs $151.55$236.80
100 lbs $164.02$256.28

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have mixed reviews about the Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon cat food. Some cats seem to love the taste, with owners noting that their pets seem healthier and more energetic after eating it. There are also mentions of the product being beneficial for cats with specific dietary needs, such as allergies or digestive issues. However, some customers reported that their cats did not like the food, or experienced digestive problems after consuming it.

The product's strong salmon smell was a common point of discussion among customers. Some found it overwhelming, while others did not mind it as long as their pets were happy. The size of the kibble was also mentioned, with some customers appreciating the small pieces that their cats could easily chew.

Many customers praised the quality of the product, comparing it favorably to other brands. Despite its higher price point, some customers felt that the benefits were worth the cost. However, some customers did not have a positive experience with the product, citing issues like their cats refusing to eat the food or experiencing health problems after consuming it.

Some customers found this food to be a great solution for cats with specific dietary needs, such as grain allergies or a preference for fish flavors. However, a few customers noted that their cats did not like the flavor or had adverse reactions to the food. One customer mentioned that the food improved their cat's skin condition, while another said it helped their underweight cats gain weight.

A few customers had negative experiences with the product, stating that their cats refused to eat the food or experienced digestive issues. Some customers also mentioned the strong fish smell of the food, which they found unpleasant. Despite these issues, some customers still recommended the product, highlighting its grain-free formula and high-quality ingredients.

A few customers noted that their cats did not like the food and had adverse reactions to it. However, others stated that their cats loved the food and experienced positive health benefits from it. Several customers also mentioned the strong salmon smell of the food, with some finding it off-putting, while others did not mind it. Despite the mixed reviews, some customers still recommended the product due to its high-quality ingredients and grain-free formula.