petfoodprice.com

ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dry Cat Food, 4lb Bag: An In-Depth Review

ORIJEN · 4 lb · Cat

ORIJEN Grain Free WHOLEPREY Dry Cat Food Six Fish Recipe 4lb. Bag | 90% Animal Ingredients, Freeze Dried, Grain Free, Nutrients and Flavor Preserved, Biologically Appropriate
$9.00/ lb·$35.99total

Verified 29 days ago on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, petfoodprice.com earns from qualifying purchases.

Overview

ORIJEN's Six Fish recipe for cats is built on a compelling 'biologically appropriate' philosophy, aiming to mirror the nutrient-rich, varied diet of a feline's ancestors. This 4lb bag contains a formula where a remarkable 90% of the ingredients come from animal sources, specifically a diverse blend of six different fish. This approach provides a diet dense in protein and fats, with minimal carbohydrates. The 'WholePrey' concept means the recipe incorporates not just the muscle meat of the fish, but also the organs and cartilage, delivering a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals in their most natural form. To further enhance its appeal, especially for discerning eaters, the kibble is coated with freeze-dried liver, a technique that preserves intense, natural flavor and nutrients without artificial additives. This grain-free formulation is designed for cat owners who prioritize high-quality, animal-first ingredients to support their pet's overall health and lean muscle mass.

Key features

  • High-Content Animal Ingredients (90%): A significant portion of the recipe is derived from a variety of fish, providing a protein-rich diet for obligate carnivores.
  • Biologically Appropriate WholePrey Formula: Incorporates a mix of fish, organs, and cartilage to mimic a natural ancestral diet and provide a comprehensive nutrient profile.
  • Diverse Six-Fish Blend: Utilizes multiple types of fish, which can offer a broader spectrum of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
  • Grain-Free Recipe: Formulated without wheat, corn, or soy, using alternative carbohydrate sources. This may be suitable for cats with certain grain sensitivities.
  • Freeze-Dried Liver Coating: The kibble is infused with freeze-dried fish liver to create a savory, natural flavor enhancement that boosts palatability.

Pros

  • Exceptionally high in animal-based protein, which is ideal for supporting a cat's lean muscle development and maintenance.
  • The WholePrey ratios of meat, organs, and cartilage provide a robust and natural source of vitamins and minerals, reducing the need for extensive synthetic supplements.
  • A diverse blend of fish offers a more complex omega fatty acid profile than single-protein foods, which can contribute to a healthier coat and skin.
  • The intense, natural flavor from the freeze-dried coating is often highly appealing to picky or food-selective cats.

Cons

  • The price-per-pound is notably higher than the median for its category, representing a premium investment.
  • A recipe with six types of fish can be problematic for cats with undiagnosed fish allergies, making it difficult to pinpoint the trigger.
  • The strong, fish-heavy aroma of the food may be unappealing to some pet owners.
  • The 4lb bag size is not the most economical choice for multi-cat households or for long-term feeding.

Best for

This recipe is tailored for cat owners seeking a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that closely mimics a natural, ancestral feline eating pattern. It's particularly well-suited for active adult cats, thanks to its dense caloric and nutrient content. The diverse fish proteins can be excellent for promoting a healthy coat and skin. Owners prioritizing ingredient quality and a 'biologically appropriate' philosophy over budget will find this food aligns with their values.

Feeding guide

Feeding amounts can vary significantly based on your cat's age, metabolism, and activity level. As a general starting point, most adult cats thrive on approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food per 10 lbs of body weight daily. This should be split into at least two meals. Always have fresh, clean water available. For the most accurate feeding amounts for ORIJEN Six Fish, consult the detailed chart on the product packaging and adjust as needed to maintain a lean, healthy body condition.

Ingredients & nutrition note

This product page is based on the title's description. We do not have the complete ingredient panel or guaranteed analysis. ORIJEN's 'WholePrey' approach typically means ingredients include not just fish muscle meat, but also organs and cartilage. The 'Six Fish' likely includes a blend of wild-caught mackerel, herring, flounder, redfish, monkfish, and hake, but always check the bag for the definitive list. As a grain-free food, carbohydrates are likely supplied by sources like lentils or whole peas.

Price comparison

At $9.00 per pound, this 4lb bag of ORIJEN Six Fish sits in the premium tier of the small-bag cat food category. A comparison of over 150 similar products shows that its cost is noticeably above the median price of $7.50 per pound. While it is not the most expensive specialty diet available, its price point clearly reflects the brand's focus on high-cost ingredients, such as the 90% animal-source formulation and the diverse blend of whole fish. This food represents a significant financial commitment compared to mainstream grocery brands but is positioned as a high-value option for its dense, species-appropriate nutritional profile.

Frequently asked questions

Is ORIJEN Six Fish suitable for kittens?

While many of ORIJEN's 'Biologically Appropriate' diets are formulated for all life stages, it is crucial to check the packaging for a specific AAFCO statement confirming it is balanced for growth. Kittens have unique requirements for calories, calcium, and other nutrients for healthy development.

What does '90% Animal Ingredients' actually mean?

This figure refers to the total proportion of the recipe's inputs that come from animal sources before cooking. It does not mean the final kibble is 90% protein. The final guaranteed analysis for protein in these types of formulas is typically in the 38-42% range. This high level of animal inclusion is central to the brand's philosophy.

Will my picky cat enjoy this food?

The freeze-dried liver coating is specifically designed to enhance taste and aroma, making it very appealing to many selective eaters. However, some cats dislike the taste or strong smell of fish. Given the premium cost, starting with a small 4lb bag is a sensible way to see if your cat enjoys the recipe.

Is a fish-only diet good for cats?

A diet based on high-quality fish sources like this one is excellent for many cats, providing ample protein and omega fatty acids. However, it's not ideal for cats with known poultry allergies who are being switched to a 'novel protein,' as some ORIJEN recipes share manufacturing facilities. It's also unsuitable for cats with specific fish allergies due to the complex blend.

What is the benefit of a 'WholePrey' diet?

The 'WholePrey' concept involves using the whole animal—meat, organs (like liver and heart), and cartilage—to create the food. This mimics a natural diet more closely and provides a wider range of nutrients in their natural, highly bioavailable forms, reducing the need for a long list of synthetic vitamin and mineral additives.

Why is this food grain-free?

Grain-free diets are formulated for cats who may have sensitivities or allergies to common grains like corn, wheat, or soy. Instead of grains, these recipes use alternative carbohydrate sources like lentils, chickpeas, or sweet potatoes to help bind the kibble and provide energy.

Ready to buy?

View on Amazon →

Compare similar cat foods