Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon Recipe Review

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Review of Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon Recipe

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

Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon 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 Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon Recipe, 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Beef is a high-quality source of protein that helps to build and maintain your cat's muscles.

  4. Beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your cat's overall health and well-being.

  5. Beef Liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It's particularly high in vitamin A, which supports vision, and B vitamins, which aid in energy metabolism.

  6. Ground Flaxseed is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which support your cat's skin and coat health, digestive system, and overall well-being.

  7. Tuna Oil is a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's heart, brain, and joint health. This ingredient adds flavor and enhances the nutritional profile of your cat's food.

  8. 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.

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

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

  11. Tomato is a source of dietary fiber and contains antioxidants that promote overall health.

  12. Kale is a nutrient-dense green that provides cats with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and immune function.

  13. Cabbage is a source of fiber and antioxidants, but should be given in moderation to prevent digestive upset.

  14. While cats are obligate carnivores, small amounts of vegetables like broccoli can provide additional nutrients and fiber, potentially aiding in digestion and overall health.

  15. 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.

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

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

  18. Parsley is a natural ingredient that contains essential vitamins and minerals, which contribute to your cat's overall health and well-being, as well as freshening their breath.

  19. 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.

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

  21. 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.

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

  23. L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate is a source of Vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cat's cells from damage and promotes a healthy immune system.

  24. 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.

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

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

  27. 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.

  28. 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.

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

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

  31. Vitamin D Supplement is essential for your cat's bone health and calcium absorption, helping to maintain strong teeth and bones, as well as supporting immune system function.

  32. Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.

  33. 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.

  34. 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.

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

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

  37. Magnesium Sulfate is an essential mineral for maintaining proper nerve and muscle function in cats.

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 10.50% is primarily contributed by the salmon, beef, beef heart, and beef liver. These are all very high in protein and are the first few ingredients listed, indicating they are the most abundant.

The Crude Fat minimum of 4.00% is likely contributed by the salmon, beef, beef heart, beef liver, and tuna fish oil. These ingredients are all high in fat. The ground flaxseed also contributes to this value as it is a good source of healthy fats.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 2.00% is contributed by the vegetables and fruits in the recipe such as peas, carrots, pumpkin, kale, cabbage, broccoli, cranberries, and blueberries. These ingredients are all high in dietary fiber. The ground flaxseed also contributes to this value as it is a good source of fiber.

The Calories of 1183.00 per kg is a cumulative value from all the ingredients. However, the main contributors would be the protein and fat sources such as the salmon, beef, beef heart, beef liver, and tuna fish oil. These ingredients are energy-dense and contribute a significant amount of calories. The carbohydrates from the vegetables and fruits also contribute to the calorie content, but to a lesser extent.

The vitamins and minerals listed are likely added as supplements to ensure the pet food meets the nutritional requirements for pets. Some of these may also naturally occur in the ingredients used, especially the meat and vegetables. For example, beef liver is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and iron. Similarly, vegetables like kale and broccoli are rich in various vitamins and minerals.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon Recipe costs approximately $9.14 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $105.95$165.54
10 lbs $178.18$278.41
15 lbs $241.51$377.35
20 lbs $299.66$468.22
30 lbs $406.16$634.63
40 lbs $503.97$787.45
50 lbs $595.78$930.91
60 lbs $683.08$1067.31
70 lbs $766.80$1198.13
80 lbs $847.57$1324.33
90 lbs $925.85$1446.64
100 lbs $1001.98$1565.59

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many customers have praised the Instinct Original Canned Real Salmon Recipe for its high-quality ingredients. Some pet owners have found that this product has helped their cats overcome stomach issues and food allergies. Some cats, especially those who are picky eaters, reportedly love this food and finish their meals quickly. The brand has been recommended by a pet nutritionist and has helped some cats avoid food allergies.

However, recent changes to the formula have been a cause for concern for some customers. They have noticed a difference in the texture and smell of the food, and some cats have reportedly fallen sick after consuming the new formula. There are also reports of the food being different in color and the can being made of a different metal.

Some customers have found success with this brand and flavor when trying to introduce something different to their cats' diets. There have been cases where even fussy cats have taken a liking to this food. One cat owner noted that their cat's coat luster and energy levels improved after switching to this food.

Despite the positive reviews, some cats have not taken well to this product. Some pet owners have reported their cats refusing to eat the food or experiencing digestive issues after consumption. Some customers have also noticed the addition of guar gum to the product, which has been a point of disappointment.

A few customers have expressed concern over the product's manufacturing location changing from the USA to Thailand. They have noticed a change in the ingredients and the texture of the food, which has led to their cats rejecting it. Some customers have had to switch to different brands because of these changes.

Despite the negative reviews, some cats have shown a preference for this product over others. One cat owner noticed that their cat, who is allergic to chicken byproducts, loved this food and found it tasty and juicy. Another customer mentioned that their cat, who is picky with fish varieties, liked this product.