American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe Review

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Review of American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe

According to our data, this American Journey recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe 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 American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe, we'll examine all 54 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. Duck is an excellent source of lean, easily-digestible protein and contains essential amino acids that your cat requires.

  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. Duck Meal is a high-quality, concentrated source of protein that supports lean muscle development and overall well-being in cats.

  4. Tapioca Starch is a gluten-free carbohydrate source used in cat food. It's easily digestible and can provide energy for your cat.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. Natural flavor enhances the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters.

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

  11. Flaxseed is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy skin and coat, as well as overall well-being in cats.

  12. Pea fiber is a source of dietary fiber which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight in cats.

  13. 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.

  14. Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that helps promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your cat's gut, supporting a healthy digestive system and immune function.

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

  16. 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.

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

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

  19. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber for your cat's overall health. This ingredient also contains antioxidants, which support your cat's immune system and help maintain a healthy weight.

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

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

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

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

  24. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and helps promote healthy digestion in cats.

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

  26. 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.

  27. 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.

  28. 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.

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

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

  31. 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.

  32. 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.

  33. 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.

  34. 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.

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

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

  37. L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps your cat maintain a healthy weight by supporting the metabolism of fats and promoting lean muscle mass.

  38. Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential mineral for bone health and enzyme function.

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

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

  41. 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.

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

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

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

  45. 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.

  46. 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.

  47. 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.

  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.

  49. Yeast Culture is a source of live probiotics and enzymes that help promote healthy digestion and support a strong immune system in cats.

  50. 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.

  51. 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.

  52. Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract is a source of beneficial enzymes that can aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients in your cat's diet, promoting optimal digestive health.

  53. Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract is a source of enzymes which can aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.

  54. Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract is a probiotic ingredient that supports your cat's digestive and immune health. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 40.00%: The high protein content in this cat food is likely contributed by the deboned duck, chicken meal, duck meal, dried egg product, pea protein, and menhaden fish meal. These ingredients are rich in proteins, which are essential for muscle development and maintenance in cats. Chicken meal and duck meal are concentrated sources of protein because they are rendered products with most of the moisture removed, which means they contain a higher percentage of protein by weight compared to fresh meat.

Crude Fat (min) of 15.00%: The fat content is primarily derived from the deboned duck, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), and menhaden fish meal. Fats are an important energy source for cats and also support healthy skin and coat. Chicken fat is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids, while menhaden fish meal provides omega-3 fatty acids which can contribute to overall health.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: Fiber in this cat food likely comes from ingredients such as pea fiber, flaxseed, and inulin. While cats do not require a lot of fiber in their diet, these ingredients can aid in digestion and help maintain bowel health. The maximum of 4% ensures that the food is not too high in fiber, which is appropriate for a cat's carnivorous diet.

Calories of 3770.00 per kg: The caloric content is a result of the combined macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The deboned duck and chicken fat are calorie-dense ingredients, contributing to the overall energy content of the food. Tapioca starch and peas also contribute to the caloric content by providing carbohydrates, which serve as an additional energy source for cats.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe costs approximately $4.12 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $14.98$23.41
10 lbs $25.20$39.37
15 lbs $34.15$53.36
20 lbs $42.38$66.21
30 lbs $57.44$89.75
40 lbs $71.27$111.36
50 lbs $84.25$131.64
60 lbs $96.60$150.93
70 lbs $108.44$169.43
80 lbs $119.86$187.28
90 lbs $130.93$204.57
100 lbs $141.69$221.40

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed that American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Duck Recipe has been a hit with their feline friends, especially for those with chicken allergies and sensitivities. The limited ingredient formula is appreciated by pet owners looking for quality options for their cats with dietary restrictions.

Many reviewers have noted that their cats, both indoor and outdoor, relish the duck flavor, and even hedgehogs have been mentioned as fans. The food's palatability seems to be a strong point, with several customers mentioning their cats' enthusiastic response to the duck recipe, often preferring it over other flavors or brands.

However, some customers have reported that their cats did not take to the food, with a few noting that their pets either lost interest quickly or experienced digestive issues such as vomiting. In response to these concerns, it's important to note that cats can be particular with food changes, and gradual introduction, as well as monitoring for any adverse reactions, is key when switching diets.

Despite some negative feedback regarding changes in kibble size and formula, the majority of reviews remain positive, with many cats enjoying the food and owners appreciating the grain-free aspect and novel protein source. The food has also been credited with improving coat shine and overall health in some cats.

For those concerned about the food's price and quality, it's worth noting that the brand has been praised for its resealable bags to maintain freshness and for being made in the USA. While there are mixed feelings about the cost, the benefits of a healthy and enjoyable diet for their pets seem to outweigh the expense for many satisfied customers.

Overall, American Journey's Duck Recipe appears to be a well-received option among many cat owners, with reports of improved health and vitality in their pets. The brand's commitment to grain-free ingredients and the inclusion of novel proteins like duck is especially valued by those with cats that have specific dietary needs.