Acana First Feast With Free-Run Chicken & Whole Herring For Kittens Review

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Review of Acana First Feast With Free-Run Chicken & Whole Herring For Kittens

According to our data, this Acana recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for growing kittens and pregnant/nursing cats. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Acana First Feast With Free-Run Chicken & Whole Herring For Kittens is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for growing kittens and pregnant/nursing cats.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Acana First Feast With Free-Run Chicken & Whole Herring For Kittens, 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.

  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. 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.

  4. Oat Groats provide essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, that support digestive health, heart health, and overall well-being in cats.

  5. Whole peas are a source of plant-based protein and provide dietary fiber, supporting digestive health in your cat.

  6. Chicken Fat is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids, such as omega-6, which support healthy skin and coat, as well as overall health and immune system function.

  7. 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.

  8. Whole Green Lentil is a nutritious ingredient in cat food that provides essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. These nutrients contribute to your cat's overall health and well-being, supporting a healthy immune system, digestion, and weight management.

  9. Whole Chickpea is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and B-vitamins, promoting digestive health and muscle development.

  10. Whole Herring is a nutrient-dense fish that provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's overall health, skin, and coat. It is also a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals.

  11. Egg is a high-quality 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.

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

  14. Lentil fiber is a good source of dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight in cats.

  15. Quail is a high-quality source of protein that can support your cat's muscle development and maintenance.

  16. 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.

  17. Chicken Heart is a rich source of protein, taurine, and essential nutrients for your cat's heart health and overall well-being.

  18. Whole cranberries are used in cat food for their natural antioxidant properties and potential to support urinary tract health.

  19. 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.

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

  21. 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.

  22. Mixed Tocopherols are a type of vitamin E used as a natural preservative in cat food to maintain freshness and prolong shelf life.

  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. 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.

  25. 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.

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

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

  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. DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that helps maintain healthy skin and coat, supports immune function, and promotes overall well-being in cats.

  30. 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.

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

  32. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is essential for your cat's growth and overall health, as it helps support energy production and the maintenance of a healthy coat and skin.

  33. Calcium pantothenate is a form of vitamin B5, which is essential for energy production, metabolism, and supporting your cat's overall health.

  34. 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.

  35. 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.

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

  37. Ascorbic Acid, also known as vitamin C, is an antioxidant that helps support your cat's immune system, combat oxidative stress, and promote overall health. Although cats can produce their own vitamin C, supplementation can be beneficial in certain situations or for specific health needs.

  38. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of your cat's food while also providing a tangy flavor that can stimulate your cat's appetite.

  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.

  40. 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.

  41. Dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product is a type of probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your cat's digestive tract, supporting overall digestive health.

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 36.00%: This high protein content is essential for the growth and development of kittens. The primary contributors to this value are the animal-based ingredients such as chicken, chicken meal, herring meal, turkey meal, whole herring, eggs, quail, chicken liver, and chicken heart. These ingredients are rich in protein, which supports the muscle development and overall health of kittens.

Crude Fat (min) of 18.00%: Fats are crucial for providing energy and supporting cell function. The chicken fat, fish oil, and fats naturally present in the chicken, herring, and turkey meals likely contribute most to this guaranteed analysis value. These sources provide essential fatty acids that are important for skin and coat health, as well as for the proper development of kitten's brains and eyes.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: Fiber aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health. The ingredients that contribute to this fiber content are likely the oat groats, whole peas, whole green lentils, whole chickpeas, lentil fiber, and dried kelp. These plant-based ingredients provide the necessary fiber to help regulate the digestive system of kittens without being excessively high, which could interfere with nutrient absorption.

Calories of 3850.00 per kg: The caloric content is influenced by the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the food. The high-calorie count per kilogram is indicative of the energy-dense nature of the food, suitable for the active lifestyles and growth needs of kittens. The main contributors to the calorie content are the protein-rich meats and the fat sources, such as chicken fat and fish oil, as well as the carbohydrate sources like oat groats and legumes.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Acana First Feast With Free-Run Chicken & Whole Herring For Kittens costs approximately $5.25 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKitten
5 lbs $18.69
10 lbs $31.43
15 lbs $42.60
20 lbs $52.86
30 lbs $71.65
40 lbs $88.90
50 lbs $105.09
60 lbs $120.49
70 lbs $135.26
80 lbs $149.51
90 lbs $163.32
100 lbs $176.75

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers generally praise Acana First Feast for its small kibble size, making it easy for kittens to chew and consume. Many kittens seem to take to the food immediately, with owners noticing improvements in weight and overall health. The food is also appreciated for its high-quality ingredients and the positive impact it has on kittens' energy levels and bowel movements.

Despite a few reports of digestive issues, the majority of feedback is positive, with kittens showing a preference for Acana over other brands. The kibble's smell is noted to be minimal, which is seen as an indicator of its quality. Owners of older cats and those with dental issues also find the small kibble size beneficial.

Some reviewers have mentioned the food's higher price point but feel it is justified by the noticeable benefits to their kittens' well-being. The food is also recommended for picky eaters, as even selective kittens seem to enjoy the flavor. Moreover, the inclusion of grains is defended by some customers who argue it is a necessary part of a cat's diet, countering the trend of grain-free pet foods.

While a few customers had concerns about specific ingredients or the lack of larger bag options, the overall consensus is that Acana First Feast is a high-quality, nutritious choice for kittens that supports their growth and health.