Instinct Ultimate Protein Real Chicken Recipe Review

Compare Prices To Find The Lowest Price
45.36 + Shipping ($4.95)
$29.48 First Auto-Ship Order
Free 1-3 Day Shipping Orders $49+
35% Off First Auto-Ship
45.36 + Shipping ($5.95)
$36.29 w/ code PawDiet20
20% Off First AutoShip
Use Code: PawDiet20
45.36 + Shipping (Free)
Free Shipping On Orders $35+
45.36 + Shipping (Free)
Lower Price $45.35 ($0.63 / Ounce)
Available From 3rd-Party Seller
35.88 + Shipping ($4.95)
$23.32 First Auto-Ship Order
Free 1-3 Day Shipping Orders $49+
35% Off First Auto-Ship
35.88 + Shipping ($5.95)
$28.70 w/ code PawDiet20
20% Off First AutoShip
Use Code: PawDiet20
35.87 + Shipping (Free)
Lower Price $35.86 ($0.54 / Ounce)
Available From 3rd-Party Seller
35.88 + Shipping (Free)
Free Shipping On Orders $35+

PawDiet has been helping pet owners since 2015. To fund our efforts, articles may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission.


Review of Instinct Ultimate Protein Real Chicken 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 Ultimate Protein Real Chicken 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 Ultimate Protein Real Chicken Recipe, we'll examine all 36 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 broth adds moisture and flavor to your cat's food, making it more appealing and enjoyable while also providing essential nutrients and hydration.

  3. 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.

  4. Egg Product is a highly digestible source of protein that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle development and maintenance. It also contains various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and biotin, which support healthy skin, coat, and immune function.

  5. Dicalcium phosphate is an essential mineral supplement that supports your cat's bone health and overall well-being.

  6. Turkey is a lean, highly digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your cat's overall health and well-being.

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

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

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

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

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

  13. 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.

  14. 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.

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

  17. 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.

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

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

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

  21. 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.

  22. 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.

  23. 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.

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

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

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

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

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

  29. 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.

  30. 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.

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

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

  33. 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.

  34. 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.

  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.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 10.00% is likely contributed by the first few ingredients listed, which are chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, and egg product. These are all high in protein. The turkey ingredient also contributes to the protein content.

The Crude Fat minimum of 7.50% is likely due to the chicken, chicken liver, egg product, and turkey. These ingredients tend to be higher in fat, especially the liver. The ground flaxseed and tuna fish oil are also contributors to the fat content.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 3.00% is likely due to the vegetable ingredients in the recipe, such as peas, carrots, pumpkin, tomato, kale, cabbage, and broccoli. These ingredients are known for their fiber content.

The calories of 1540.00 per kg are derived from all the ingredients, but primarily from the protein and fat sources, which are the chicken, chicken liver, egg product, and turkey. The carbohydrates from the vegetables also contribute to the caloric content.

The minerals and vitamins listed are likely added as supplements to ensure the pet food meets the nutritional requirements for pets. These wouldn't significantly contribute to the protein, fat, or fiber content, but they are essential for overall health and wellbeing of the pet.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Ultimate Protein Real Chicken Recipe costs approximately $8.53 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightKittenAdult
5 lbs $75.99$118.74
10 lbs $127.80$199.69
15 lbs $173.22$270.66
20 lbs $214.93$335.83
30 lbs $291.32$455.19
40 lbs $361.47$564.80
50 lbs $427.33$667.70
60 lbs $489.94$765.54
70 lbs $549.99$859.36
80 lbs $607.93$949.88
90 lbs $664.07$1037.61
100 lbs $718.68$1122.93

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have had a mixed response to the Instinct Ultimate Protein Real Chicken Recipe. Many cat owners have praised the product for its high protein content and quality ingredients. Some have seen improvements in their cats' health, including weight loss, improved skin and coat, and better management of diabetes. A few customers have also mentioned that the food has a good taste that their cats enjoy.

However, some customers have noted that their cats did not like the taste of this food. Some found the food to be too moist or did not like the addition of peas. There were also concerns about the food causing digestive issues in some cats. A few customers mentioned that the food smelled like tuna, which they found odd for a chicken product.

Several customers have noted that their cats seemed to prefer the dry version of this food over the wet version. Some customers were disappointed that the brand had added guar gum to their wet food recipes. A few customers also mentioned that the food is expensive.

Despite the mixed reviews, many customers still recommend the product due to its high protein content and quality ingredients. Some customers have suggested that the food may be more suitable for cats with specific dietary needs, such as those needing to lose weight or manage diabetes.

A few customers were disappointed with changes to the product's formula and consistency, and some had to switch brands due to their cats' negative reactions. Some customers suggested that a sample pack option would be helpful to test if their cats like the food before committing to a full case.