Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula Review
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Review of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula
According to our data, this Purina Pro Plan recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for adult cats and growing kittens. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.
Unlike other AAFCO approved cat foods which rely in laboratory testing to substantiate nutritional adequacy, this recipe has undergone feeding trials. In the pet food industry, feeding trials are often considered to be the superior testing method.
Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats and growing kittens.
Review of Ingredients
In our review of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula, we'll examine all 42 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.
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.
Soybean Protein Isolate is a highly digestible plant-based 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.
Brewers Rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate source that provides cats with a source of energy and supports healthy digestion.
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.
Animal fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a rich source of energy and essential fatty acids that support your cat's skin, coat, and immune system health.
Potato Protein is a high-quality, plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle growth and maintenance.
Dried Brewers Yeast is a rich source of B-vitamins, amino acids, and minerals that support your cat's overall health. It also helps maintain a healthy skin and coat, as well as promoting a strong immune system.
Pea Protein is a plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids to support your cat's muscle health and overall well-being, while being a great alternative for cats with food sensitivities.
Natural flavor enhances the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters.
Cassava root flour is a grain-free alternative to traditional grains, providing an easily digestible source of carbohydrates for your cat's energy needs.
Sodium caseinate is a form of milk protein that can provide additional protein in a cat's diet. It is also used as a texture enhancer in pet foods.
Dried whey is a byproduct of cheese production that serves as a source of easily digestible protein and lactose, which can promote healthy digestion and provide energy for your cat.
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.
Calcium carbonate is a common ingredient in cat food, used as a source of dietary calcium to support bone health and several key metabolic functions.
Fish Oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that support your cat's healthy skin, coat, and overall well-being. It also promotes proper brain function and helps maintain a healthy immune system.
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.
Sodium Bisulfate is a safe and effective acidity regulator often used in cat food to maintain the proper pH levels for optimal digestion. It also helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, promoting a healthier gastrointestinal environment for your cat.
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.
Dried Pumpkin is a natural source of fiber and essential nutrients, such as beta-carotene, which can support your cat's digestive health and overall well-being.
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.
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.
Choline chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining cellular function and overall health in cats.
Salt is added in small amounts to cat food to help maintain electrolyte balance and support healthy nerve and muscle function.
Dried Colostrum is a nutrient-dense milk produced by mammals that provides immune system support for kittens. Rich in antibodies, it helps protect your cat from harmful bacteria and viruses, promoting overall health and well-being.
DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that helps maintain healthy skin and coat, supports immune function, and promotes overall well-being 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.
Manganese Proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese that supports your cat's bone and joint health, as well as their metabolism.
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.
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.
Copper Proteinate is an easily absorbed form of copper that supports your cat's immune system, red blood cell formation, and connective tissue 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.
Calcium pantothenate is a form of vitamin B5, which is essential for energy production, metabolism, and supporting your cat's overall health.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support your cat's skin and coat health, as well as their metabolism and nervous system.
Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
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.
Review of Guaranteed Analysis
The guaranteed crude protein minimum of 46.00% in this feline formula is likely attributed to high-protein ingredients such as chicken meal, soy protein isolate, dried egg product, potato protein, and pea protein. Chicken meal, being a concentrated form of chicken with most of the water and fat removed, is a dense source of animal protein. Soy protein isolate is a highly purified form of soy protein with a minimum protein content of 90% on a moisture-free basis, making it another significant contributor to the overall protein content.
The crude fat minimum of 16.00% is primarily provided by the animal fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols and fish oil. Animal fat is a concentrated source of energy for cats and also contributes to the taste and palatability of the food. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin and coat health.
The maximum crude fiber content of 3.00% is relatively low, indicating that this diet is not focused on high fiber but rather on easy digestibility. The fiber present may come from ingredients like brewers dried yeast, powdered cellulose, and cassava root flour. These ingredients provide the necessary fiber to support intestinal health without being too high, which could be counterproductive for cats with certain gastrointestinal issues.
Lastly, the caloric content of 4253.00 kcal/kg is a measure of the energy provided by the food. This is influenced by the combined macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates present in the ingredients. Since fats provide more calories per gram than proteins or carbohydrates, the animal fat and fish oil, along with the protein sources and carbohydrate sources like brewers rice and cassava root flour, contribute significantly to the total caloric value of the diet.
Review of Affordability
According to our data, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula costs approximately $7.44 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 | $23.97 | $37.46 |
| 10 lbs | $40.32 | $63.00 |
| 15 lbs | $54.65 | $85.39 |
| 20 lbs | $67.81 | $105.95 |
| 30 lbs | $91.91 | $143.61 |
| 40 lbs | $114.04 | $178.19 |
| 50 lbs | $134.82 | $210.65 |
| 60 lbs | $154.57 | $241.52 |
| 70 lbs | $173.52 | $271.12 |
| 80 lbs | $191.79 | $299.68 |
| 90 lbs | $209.51 | $327.35 |
| 100 lbs | $226.73 | $354.27 |
Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Customers have found that Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Feline Formula can be beneficial for cats with sensitive stomachs and digestive issues. One cat owner reported significant improvement in their 15-year-old cat's health, with reduced vomiting and better overall condition, suggesting the food may contribute to a longer, happier life alongside necessary medication. The food is also appreciated for its effectiveness in managing digestive problems, as another customer noted improved digestion and firmer stools in their cats.
Several customers have expressed satisfaction with the food's impact on their pets' health, particularly for those with specific ailments such as chronic lymphocytic rhinitis and IBD. One cat, Toby, saw substantial weight gain and decreased symptoms after switching to this diet, and other cats in the same household also took well to the food. Another reviewer highlighted the product's suitability for older cats and those prone to urinary issues, with their cat eagerly eating it year after year.
While some cats may be initially hesitant about the taste, others with gastrointestinal sensitivities have shown a preference for this diet over other prescription foods, indicating its palatability. A cat owner with a sphynx suffering from IBD and pancreatitis praised the food for being well-tolerated and enjoyable for their pet, resulting in no further health issues since the switch.
In response to concerns about the cost, it's worth noting that prescription diets like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets are often formulated with specific, high-quality ingredients to address health issues, which can contribute to a higher price point. However, the benefits to a cat's health and well-being can outweigh the cost for many pet owners, as evidenced by reports of reduced vomiting and better management of diabetes in cats on this diet.
