Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula Review
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Review of Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula
According to our data, this Natural Balance recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.
Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula 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 Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula, we'll examine all 38 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.
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.
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.
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.
Fish Broth is a flavorful, nutrient-rich liquid that can help maintain your cat's hydration levels and provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall health and well-being.
Whitefish is a lean and easily digestible source of protein, providing essential amino acids and nutrients for your cat's muscle development, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.
Dried Egg is a highly digestible source of protein and essential amino acids that support your cat's muscle development and maintenance, as well as overall health and wellness.
Ground Brown Rice is a source of carbohydrates and fiber that can help provide energy and maintain healthy digestion for cats. While it should not be the primary ingredient in a cat's diet, it can be a healthy and nutritious addition when used in moderation.
Carrot is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support your cat's digestive health and overall well-being.
Natural flavor enhances the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters.
Choline chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining cellular function and overall health in cats.
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.
Thiamine mononitrate is a source of Vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function in cats.
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.
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.
Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
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.
D-calcium pantothenate, also known as vitamin B5, is important for energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.
Riboflavin Supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which supports your cat's energy production, metabolism, and overall well-being.
A vitamin B12 supplement is an essential nutrient for your cat, supporting their nervous system, brain function, and red blood cell production.
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.
Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support your cat's skin and coat health, as well as their metabolism and nervous system.
Cranberry is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help support your cat's immune system and urinary tract health.
Guar Gum is a natural thickening agent and stabilizer, which helps to maintain the texture and consistency of wet cat food while also providing a source of soluble fiber for digestive health.
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.
Zinc sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports your cat's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.
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.
Iron proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of iron that helps support optimal red blood cell production, oxygen transport, and overall vitality in cats.
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.
Copper Proteinate is an easily absorbed form of copper that supports your cat's immune system, red blood cell formation, and connective tissue health.
Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential mineral for bone health and enzyme function.
Manganese Proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese that supports your cat's bone and joint health, as well as their metabolism.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Salt is added in small amounts to cat food to help maintain electrolyte balance and support healthy nerve and muscle function.
Dicalcium phosphate is an essential mineral supplement that supports your cat's bone health and overall well-being.
Carrageenan is a natural thickening and gelling agent derived from seaweed, used to improve the texture and consistency of wet cat food. However, some studies have raised concerns about its safety, linking it to gastrointestinal issues in pets. Some pet owners may choose to avoid products containing carrageenan.
Review of Guaranteed Analysis
The Crude Protein minimum of 10.00% is primarily contributed by the first few ingredients listed: Salmon, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Fish Broth, Whitefish, and Dried Egg. These are all high-protein ingredients, with salmon and chicken being particularly rich sources.
The Crude Fat minimum of 6.00% is likely to come from the salmon, chicken, chicken liver, and whitefish. These ingredients not only provide protein but also contain a good amount of fats.
The Crude Fiber maximum of 1.50% comes from the inclusion of carrots and cranberries. These ingredients provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. The ground brown rice may also contribute to this value, although it primarily serves as a source of carbohydrates.
The Calories of 1250.00 per kg is a cumulative result of all the ingredients, but primarily from the protein and fat sources like salmon, chicken, chicken liver, and whitefish, as well as the carbohydrates from the ground brown rice.
The vitamins and minerals listed, such as Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, and others, are added to ensure the cat food meets the nutritional requirements for cats. The same goes for the minerals listed, like Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, and others.
Taurine, an essential amino acid for cats, is also added. The Guar Gum, Dicalcium Phosphate, and Carrageenan are likely used as thickeners and stabilizers in the food.
Review of Affordability
According to our data, Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula costs approximately $6.07 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.
| Adult Weight | Kitten | Adult |
|---|---|---|
| 5 lbs | $79.61 | $124.39 |
| 10 lbs | $133.89 | $209.20 |
| 15 lbs | $181.48 | $283.56 |
| 20 lbs | $225.18 | $351.84 |
| 30 lbs | $305.21 | $476.88 |
| 40 lbs | $378.70 | $591.72 |
| 50 lbs | $447.69 | $699.52 |
| 60 lbs | $513.29 | $802.02 |
| 70 lbs | $576.20 | $900.32 |
| 80 lbs | $636.90 | $995.15 |
| 90 lbs | $695.72 | $1087.06 |
| 100 lbs | $752.93 | $1176.45 |
Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Many cat owners have found that their pets enjoy the taste of Natural Balance Original Ultra Salmon Formula, with some noting that their cats have a particular preference for this brand and flavor. For example, one customer mentioned that their 16-year-old cat has been loyal to this specific formula for over five years, showing great health and a shiny coat, suggesting high-quality ingredients in the product.
Several reviews highlight that even picky eaters or cats with dietary restrictions have taken well to this food. A rescue cat named Vinny was mentioned to love this food, and another review pointed out that all nine of their cats unanimously enjoy this particular canned food. This indicates that the product has a broad appeal among different cats.
There have been reports of a recent change in the formula, which has received mixed reactions. While some cats still enjoy the new version, others seem to prefer the previous recipe. However, a positive takeaway is that the new formula appears to have more moisture, which some pet owners appreciate for the health benefits and ease of serving. Despite some negative experiences, the brand retains loyal customers who trust in the overall quality and nutritional benefits of Natural Balance products.
