Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy Review

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Review of Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy

According to our data, this Natural Balance recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult cats. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult cats.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy, we'll examine all 45 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. 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.

  2. Mackerel is a type of fish that provides cats with omega-3 fatty acids, promoting a healthy coat and heart health.

  3. Sardine is a nutrient-rich fish that provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, supporting your cat's skin, coat, and overall health.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

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

  7. Dried Egg Whites are a highly digestible source of protein that supports your cat's muscle development and overall health. They also provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to ensure a balanced and complete diet.

  8. Potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

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

  10. Dried ground pea is a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

  11. Potato starch is often used as a carbohydrate source and thickening agent in cat food. While it's not harmful, it doesn't contribute much nutritional value for cats.

  12. Sunflower Oil is a source of essential fatty acids, which help maintain your cat's skin and coat health, while also supporting their immune system.

  13. 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.

  14. 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.

  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. Sodium phosphate is used to balance the pH of the food and can help with the digestion process.

  17. Dehydrated alfalfa meal is a natural source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin K, which support bone health.

  18. Dried Plain Beet Pulp is a beneficial source of fiber that helps to promote healthy digestion and support your cat's gut health by maintaining the balance of beneficial bacteria.

  19. 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.

  20. Calcium carbonate is a common ingredient in cat food, used as a source of dietary calcium to support bone health and several key metabolic functions.

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

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

  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. 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.

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

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

  27. 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.

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

  29. 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.

  30. 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.

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

  32. 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.

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

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

  35. 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.

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

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

  38. Potassium iodide is a source of iodine which is necessary for proper thyroid function in cats.

  39. 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.

  40. Sodium Carbonate is a safe and commonly used ingredient in cat food that helps to maintain the proper pH balance in your cat's digestive system. This promotes a healthy gut environment and supports optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

  41. 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.

  42. 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.

  43. 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.

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

  45. Yucca Schidigera Extract is a natural ingredient that helps reduce the odor of your cat's waste. It contains compounds that bind to ammonia, reducing its release and making the litter box more pleasant for both you and your cat.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Starting with the Crude Protein, the minimum value of 7.00% is most likely contributed by the Mackerel, Sardines, Chicken Liver, Chicken, and Dried Egg Whites. These ingredients are all high in protein and are the main sources of protein in this pet food product.

Next, the Crude Fat, with a minimum value of 2.00%, is likely derived from the Mackerel, Sardines, Chicken Liver, and Chicken. These ingredients, especially the fish, are known to contain healthy fats. The Sunflower Oil and Ground Flaxseed could also contribute to the fat content.

The Crude Fiber, with a maximum value of 1.50%, is likely contributed by the Carrots, Ground Dried Peas, Spinach, Ground Flaxseed, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, and Dried Kelp. These plant-based ingredients are known to contain dietary fiber which is essential for healthy digestion.

Lastly, the calorie content of 830.00 per kg can be derived from all the ingredients as they all contain some level of caloric value. However, the main contributors would be the protein and fat sources (Mackerel, Sardines, Chicken Liver, Chicken, and Dried Egg Whites) as they are energy-dense ingredients. The carbohydrates from the Potatoes and Ground Dried Peas will also contribute to the overall caloric content.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy costs approximately $7.89 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your cat.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $203.74
10 lbs $342.66
15 lbs $464.44
20 lbs $576.28
30 lbs $781.09
40 lbs $969.18
50 lbs $1145.74
60 lbs $1313.63
70 lbs $1474.63
80 lbs $1629.96
90 lbs $1780.49
100 lbs $1926.90

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers are generally pleased with the Natural Balance Ultra Platefulls Mackerel & Sardine Recipe Morsels In Gravy, with several noting that even their finicky pets enjoy the flavor. One pet owner was pleasantly surprised that their cat, who has discerning tastes, took to this flavor despite initial skepticism due to its lower price point.

The product has also been a lifesaver for pets with specific health issues, such as a cat with severe stomatitis and a chicken allergy. The grain-free, soy-free, and chicken-free formula has been particularly beneficial, with one owner noting their cat's improved condition after consuming the food. Another customer appreciates the low carbohydrate content, which suits their diabetic cat's dietary needs.

While some customers have mentioned a strong fish smell and the desire for a pate version to ease serving, these points are generally overshadowed by their pets' enjoyment of the meal. Additionally, the product has been recognized for its quality ingredients and good moisture content, making it a recommended choice by some reviewers.

However, it's worth noting that not all cats are fans of this particular flavor, with some refusing to eat it. This suggests that, as with all pet foods, individual preferences can vary greatly, and what works for one pet might not appeal to another. Despite this, the positive reviews suggest that many cats do find this meal to be a delicious and healthy option.