Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon Review

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Review of Instinct Raw Boost 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 Raw Boost 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 Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon, we'll examine all 48 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. Freeze-dried beef provides a concentrated source of protein, essential for your cat's healthy growth and muscle maintenance. The freeze-drying process retains the nutritional value of beef, while removing moisture for preservation.

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

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

  13. Freeze dried beef liver is a nutrient-rich ingredient that provides high-quality protein and a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin B12, and iron.

  14. Pumpkin seeds are a source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut environment for your cat.

  15. Freeze dried beef heart is a rich source of taurine, an essential amino acid for cats, and also contains protein and other vital nutrients.

  16. 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.

  17. Freeze Dried Beef Kidney is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients, such as iron and vitamin A, to support your cat's overall health and vitality.

  18. Freeze dried beef spleen is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides high-quality protein along with vitamins and minerals, promoting optimal health.

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

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

  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. 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.

  23. 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.

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

  25. 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.

  26. 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.

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

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

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

  30. 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.

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

  32. 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.

  33. 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.

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

  35. 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.

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

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

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

  39. 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.

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

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

  42. 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.

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

  44. 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.

  45. Salmon Oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat, supporting brain function, and promoting a healthy immune system. Salmon oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit cats with joint issues or allergies.

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

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

  48. 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 42.00%: This high protein content is primarily contributed by the first few ingredients listed, which are animal-based proteins. Salmon, menhaden fish meal, white fish meal, herring meal, and salmon meal are all rich in protein and are likely the main contributors to this percentage. The inclusion of freeze-dried beef and its organs (liver, heart, kidney, spleen) also adds to the protein content. These ingredients are dense in nutrients and provide a variety of proteins that increase the overall protein level of the pet food.

Crude Fat (min) of 18.50%: The fat content is likely coming from the salmon, which is naturally oily, and menhaden fish meal, as well as canola oil and salmon oil. These oils are high in essential fatty acids, which contribute to the total fat percentage. Fats are an important source of energy for pets and contribute to the taste and texture of the food.

Crude Fiber (max) of 3.50%: Fiber in this pet food is likely provided by plant-based ingredients such as peas, tapioca, dehydrated alfalfa meal, pumpkin seeds, and various fruits and vegetables (carrots, apples, cranberries). Fiber is crucial for digestive health, although it's present in a much lower percentage compared to protein and fat, which aligns with the carnivorous dietary needs of cats and dogs.

Calories of 4488.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative result of all macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) present in the food. Given the high protein and fat content, these two macronutrients are the primary sources of calories in this pet food. The inclusion of carbohydrates from peas, tapioca, and other vegetables also contributes to the overall caloric content, albeit to a lesser extent compared to the animal-based ingredients.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon costs approximately $7.55 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $23.08$36.06
10 lbs $38.81$60.64
15 lbs $52.60$82.19
20 lbs $65.27$101.98
30 lbs $88.47$138.23
40 lbs $109.77$171.52
50 lbs $129.77$202.76
60 lbs $148.78$232.47
70 lbs $167.02$260.97
80 lbs $184.61$288.46
90 lbs $201.66$315.10
100 lbs $218.24$341.01

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed satisfaction with the Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon, noting that their cats have a preference for the freeze-dried pieces over the kibble. Several reviews highlight the health benefits observed in their pets, such as reduced vomiting, improved coat quality, and healthy weight gain, which they attribute to the switch to this food. These improvements are particularly noted in senior cats and those with sensitive stomachs.

While there was a mention of delivery issues with a different product, the last order containing Instinct Raw Boost was received on time and to the customer's satisfaction, indicating that any previous concerns were resolved. Positive effects of the food have been consistent across reviews, with cats immediately taking to it upon introduction to their diet.

Despite a few instances of cats having allergic reactions or showing a preference for other flavors, the overall sentiment remains positive. Owners appreciate the quality ingredients and the beneficial impact on their cat's health. Some have even found creative ways to incorporate the food into their pet's diet, such as mixing it with other favored brands or soft food to enhance nutritional intake. The brand loyalty is further evidenced by those who have had success with other Instinct dry food varieties, such as the duck raw boost.