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I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Cat Food: Chicken & Duck Recipe

I and Love and You · 3.4 lb · Cat

I AND LOVE AND YOU Naked Essentials Dry Cat Food, Chicken & Duck | 3.4lb
$3.44/lb·$11.69total

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Overview

I and Love and You brings a grain-free, high-protein approach to the accessible premium cat food space with their Naked Essentials Chicken & Duck recipe. Designed to appeal to a cat's carnivorous instincts, this food leads with real poultry, including chicken and duck, to provide the amino acids necessary for lean muscle development and maintenance. The "Naked Essentials" name signifies a commitment to leaving out common fillers like corn, wheat, soy, and rice, which some owners prefer to avoid. Instead, it uses alternative carbohydrate sources like peas and chickpeas to provide energy and structure to the kibble. This formulation is often chosen by owners looking for a balanced diet that prioritizes animal protein and avoids ingredients that may be associated with digestive sensitivities in some felines. The inclusion of both chicken and duck offers a more complex flavor profile which can be beneficial for maintaining a cat's interest in their food.

Key features

  • Grain-free recipe featuring real chicken and duck as primary protein sources.
  • Formulated without corn, wheat, soy, or rice fillers.
  • Includes a blend of alternative carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and peas.
  • Marketed as an accessible premium option for owners seeking high-quality ingredients.
  • A multi-protein source formula to provide a rich and varied flavor.

Pros

  • Excellent value, with a price-per-pound well below the average for small-bag premium cat foods.
  • Leading with two animal protein sources (chicken and duck) is a strong sign of quality.
  • Grain-free formula is suitable for cats with sensitivities to corn, wheat, or soy.
  • The small 3.4lb bag size is ideal for sampling the food without a large commitment.

Cons

  • The use of multiple protein sources (chicken, duck) may not be suitable for cats with specific food allergies requiring a single-source or novel protein.
  • As a grain-free food using legumes, it may not be the preferred choice for every owner or veterinarian.
  • Kibble size may not be specified, which can be a concern for very small kittens or cats with dental issues.

Best for

Cat owners seeking a budget-friendly, grain-free dry food that prioritizes real poultry ingredients without the high price tag often associated with premium brands. It's a strong starting point for transitioning a cat from a lower-quality, grain-heavy diet to a more protein-focused one.

Feeding guide

A general guideline for adult cats is to feed approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup of dry food per 10 pounds of ideal body weight each day. This amount should be split into two separate meals. Always monitor your cat's body condition and adjust the feeding amount based on their specific age, activity level, and metabolism. Consult the feeding chart on the product packaging for the most accurate instructions. Ensure a bowl of fresh, clean water is always available.

Ingredients & nutrition note

This is a grain-free formula that uses chicken and duck as its named protein sources. While the full ingredient list and guaranteed analysis are not provided here, recipes of this nature typically feature chicken and/or chicken meal as the first ingredient. They often supplement the protein with legumes like lentils and peas, and include a mix of vitamins and minerals to ensure a complete and balanced diet. Taurine, an essential amino acid for feline heart and eye health, is a standard inclusion in any quality commercial cat food.

Price comparison

Priced at $3.44 per pound, this small 3.4lb bag of I and Love and You Naked Essentials offers exceptional value in the premium cat food category. It sits significantly below the median price of $8.25 per pound for similarly sized bags, making it one of the most affordable grain-free, poultry-based options available. For shoppers comparing prices, this product provides access to a high-protein, grain-free diet at a cost more typical of budget-friendly, grain-inclusive brands.

Frequently asked questions

Is this food suitable for kittens?

The product title does not specify a life stage. While it may be an "all life stages" formula, it is best to look for a food specifically formulated for kitten growth, which has different nutritional requirements for development, unless the packaging explicitly states it meets those needs.

What does "grain-free" mean for my cat?

"Grain-free" means the food does not contain common grains like corn, wheat, soy, or rice. Instead, it uses alternative carbohydrate sources like peas or sweet potatoes. This can be beneficial for cats with sensitivities or allergies to those specific grains.

My cat is a picky eater. Is this a good choice?

The use of two flavorful poultry sources, chicken and duck, can make this food highly palatable and appealing to many cats. The small 3.4lb bag is a great way to test the food with your cat to see if they enjoy the flavor and texture before committing to a larger purchase.

How does this compare to other "I and Love and You" recipes?

Naked Essentials is one of the brand's core lines, focusing on grain-free formulas with high protein. The Chicken & Duck recipe is a classic poultry option. Other recipes in the brand's portfolio might feature different proteins (like salmon or rabbit) or may be formulated for specific needs (like indoor cats or sensitive stomachs).

Where is this cat food made?

I and Love and You is a Boulder, Colorado-based company. While specific manufacturing information isn't in the title, they state on their website that their dry foods are made in the USA.

Should I be concerned about a grain-free diet?

Some studies have explored a potential link between certain grain-free diets and heart conditions in pets. However, the issue is complex and not fully understood. It is always best to have a conversation with your trusted veterinarian about the most appropriate diet for your individual cat's health needs and history.

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