Merrick Purrfect Bistro Healthy Senior Recipe Review

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Review of Merrick Purrfect Bistro Healthy Senior Recipe

According to our data, this Merrick recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult cats. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Merrick Purrfect Bistro Healthy Senior Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult cats.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Merrick Purrfect Bistro Healthy Senior Recipe, we'll examine all 47 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. 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.

  4. Dried potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and essential nutrients for your cat.

  5. 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.

  6. Natural pork flavor is used to enhance the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to your cat.

  7. Potato Protein is a high-quality, plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle growth and maintenance.

  8. Powdered Cellulose is a form of dietary fiber that can help maintain healthy digestion and weight management in cats by providing a feeling of fullness and promoting regular bowel movements.

  9. Natural Chicken Flavor is a natural flavoring that enhances the taste of your cat's food, making it more palatable and enjoyable. It ensures that your cat receives a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

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

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

  12. Ground Flaxseed is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which support your cat's skin and coat health, digestive system, and overall well-being.

  13. Dried Whey Protein Concentrate is a high-quality protein source derived from milk. It is easily digestible and provides essential amino acids, which support your cat's muscle development and overall health.

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

  15. 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.

  16. 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.

  17. Chicken Liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for your cat's overall health. This unique ingredient supports muscle growth, healthy skin and coat, and proper immune function.

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

  19. Organic alfalfa is a nutrient-rich ingredient that supplies fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting digestion and overall wellness in cats.

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

  21. The iron amino acid complex is a chelated form of iron, which is easier for cats to absorb, supporting healthy red blood cell function.

  22. Zinc Amino Acid Complex is a highly bioavailable form of zinc that supports various bodily functions in cats, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and wound healing.

  23. Manganese amino acid complex is a chelated form of manganese that aids in bone development, enzyme function, and nutrient absorption.

  24. Copper amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable form of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports various body functions, such as the production of red blood cells, nerve function, and immune health.

  25. Potassium iodide is a source of iodine which is necessary for proper thyroid function in cats.

  26. The Cobalt Amino Acid Complex is an essential trace mineral that plays a key role in your cat's overall health, including supporting the formation of red blood cells and proper enzyme function.

  27. 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.

  28. 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.

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

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

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

  32. 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.

  33. 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.

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

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

  36. 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.

  37. 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.

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

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

  40. 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.

  41. 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.

  42. 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.

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

  44. Dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for your cat's overall wellbeing.

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

  46. 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.

  47. 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.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 38.50%: This high level of protein is primarily contributed by the first three ingredients: deboned chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal. These are all high-quality sources of animal protein, which are essential for a cat's muscle maintenance and overall health, especially in senior cats. Chicken meal and turkey meal are concentrated forms of protein because they are rendered and contain less water than whole meat.

Crude Fat (min) of 12.00%: The fat content is likely coming from the deboned chicken, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), and to a lesser extent, salmon oil (which also provides omega-3 fatty acids). Chicken fat is a common ingredient in pet foods as a source of energy and to help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Salmon oil not only contributes to the fat content but also provides benefits for joint health and cognitive function, which are important for senior cats.

Crude Fiber (max) of 7.50%: The fiber in this food is derived from ingredients such as dried potato, peas, powdered cellulose, and sweet potatoes. Fiber is crucial for digestive health and can help with weight management by providing a feeling of fullness. Powdered cellulose is often used in pet foods as a source of insoluble fiber, which can aid in controlling hairballs and maintaining bowel regularity.

Calories of 3431.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative result of all the macronutrients – proteins, fats, and carbohydrates – present in the ingredients. The deboned chicken, chicken fat, and carbohydrate sources like dried potato and peas contribute to the overall calorie count. This caloric density ensures that senior cats, who may have a reduced appetite or eat less than younger cats, still receive adequate energy from their food.