Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats (Canned) Review

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Review of Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats (Canned)

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

Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats (Canned) 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 Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats (Canned), we'll examine all 33 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. Lamb is a nutrient-rich meat that provides your cat with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health and well-being.

  2. Pork is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support your cat's muscle development, immune system, and overall health.

  3. Lamb broth is used to increase the moisture content of the food, making it more appealing and easier to chew for your cat.

  4. Pork Liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, copper, and vitamin A, which are vital for your cat's overall health, immune system, and vision.

  5. Boar is a lean, high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle development and overall health. This unique ingredient is low in fat, helping maintain a healthy weight and supporting your cat's well-being.

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

  7. Tricalcium Phosphate is a calcium and phosphorus supplement that helps maintain strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function in cats.

  8. Agar-Agar is a natural, plant-based thickening agent derived from seaweed, which is often used as a gelatin substitute in pet foods. It is safe for your cat and may provide some prebiotic benefits for digestive health.

  9. 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.

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

  11. Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient for cats that supports proper energy metabolism, nervous system function, and skin health.

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

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

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

  16. 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.

  17. 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.

  18. 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.

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

  20. 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.

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

  22. Magnesium Proteinate is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium that supports various bodily functions in cats, such as nerve function, muscle health, and energy production. This chelated mineral is easily absorbed, ensuring your cat receives the full benefits of magnesium.

  23. 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.

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

  25. 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.

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

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

  29. 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.

  30. Ethylenediamine dihydriodide is a source of iodine, an essential trace element that supports your cat's thyroid function and overall metabolism.

  31. Dandelion greens are a natural source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and potassium, which can support your cat's overall health.

  32. Fructooligosaccharides are a type of prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in your cat's digestive system, supporting overall gut health and immunity.

  33. Marine microalgae oil is a sustainable source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat in cats. Additionally, Omega-3s can also support heart health and immune function.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 10.00%: The primary contributors to the crude protein content in this pet food are the animal-based ingredients: lamb, pork, and boar, as well as pork liver. These are all high-quality sources of protein that provide essential amino acids necessary for a cat's health. The inclusion of multiple meat sources ensures a broad profile of different proteins.

Crude Fat (min) of 7.00%: The crude fat content is likely derived from the lamb, pork, and boar, as these meats naturally contain fats. Additionally, the pork liver may also contribute to the overall fat content. Fats are crucial for providing energy as well as supporting cell structure and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Crude Fiber (max) of 1.00%: The crude fiber content is relatively low, which is typical for cat food, as cats require a diet that is low in fiber. The source of fiber in this product may come from minor ingredients like dandelion greens. Fiber is important for digestive health, but in cats, too much fiber can lead to reduced digestibility and nutrient absorption.

Calories of 1365.00 per kg: The caloric content is a measure of the energy provided by the food. This is derived from the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates present in the ingredients. In this recipe, the majority of the calories would come from the proteins and fats provided by the meats and liver, with a smaller contribution from any carbohydrates present in minor ingredients. The specific caloric contribution from each ingredient is not detailed, but meats are typically high in calories due to their protein and fat content.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats (Canned) costs approximately $6.98 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $70.13$109.58
10 lbs $117.95$184.29
15 lbs $159.87$249.79
20 lbs $198.36$309.94
30 lbs $268.86$420.10
40 lbs $333.61$521.26
50 lbs $394.38$616.23
60 lbs $452.17$706.52
70 lbs $507.59$793.11
80 lbs $561.06$876.66
90 lbs $612.88$957.62
100 lbs $663.27$1036.36

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate that Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats provides a limited diet with animal fat instead of plant-based oils, which contributes to their cats' improved digestion and overall health. The high-quality ingredients mean their cats are satisfied with less food by volume, making it a cost-effective choice.

Many cat owners find this food to be a great option for cats with allergies, as it lacks fillers and common allergens. While some cats are picky and may not prefer the canned version, those that do enjoy it seem to love the taste and thrive on it, leading to clean bowls and happy pets.

There have been concerns about white substances in the cans, which some customers feared was mold. However, upon investigation and confirmation from the manufacturer, it was established that this is coagulated fat, not mold. This clarification has helped reassure some customers, who continue to see positive results in their cats' health and appetite.

The food's palatability has received mixed reviews, with some cats loving it and others being more hesitant. However, for those cats that do enjoy it, owners are pleased with the ingredient quality and the health benefits it provides. Some have noted the food's thick consistency, but this can be managed by mixing with water.

Despite some reports of mold and inconsistent quality in the cans, many customers continue to trust Essence for their cats' dietary needs. Positive experiences with the brand's wet and dry food options, especially for sensitive stomachs, have been highlighted, and the fact that the food is made in the USA is a significant plus for many pet owners.

Overall, Essence Original Ranch & Meadow Recipe For Cats seems to be a hit with the majority of feline consumers, with particular praise for its effectiveness for cats with dietary restrictions and sensitivities. Owners of multiple cats have also reported universal acceptance of the food, which is a significant achievement in multi-cat households.