petfoodprice.com

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Mackerel & Lamb Recipe (14oz)

ZIWI Peak · 0.875 lb · Cat

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Cat Food – Mackerel & Lamb - All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free, Limited Ingredient w/ Superfoods (14oz)
$30.61/lb·$26.78total

Verified 36 days ago on Amazon.

View on Amazon ↗

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

Overview

ZIWI Peak's Mackerel & Lamb air-dried recipe for cats offers a unique approach to dry cat food, focusing on high-density nutrition inspired by a whole-prey diet. This 14oz bag contains a food that is gently air-dried, a method designed to preserve the nutritional integrity of its raw ingredients without the need for high-temperature cooking. The core of this recipe is a novel pairing of wild-caught blue mackerel and free-range lamb, providing a rich, dual-source protein base that mirrors a cat's natural carnivorous diet. Formulated for all life stages, it's a limited-ingredient food, making it a potential option for cats with sensitivities. By using air-drying, ZIWI creates a food that is as nutrient-dense and digestible as a raw diet but with the convenience and safety of a conventional dry kibble.

Key features

  • Gently air-dried to lock in nutrients, offering the benefits of raw food with the convenience of dry.
  • Features a unique protein blend of wild-caught blue mackerel and New Zealand free-range lamb.
  • Grain-free and made with limited ingredients, suitable for cats with certain food sensitivities.
  • Enhanced with superfoods like New Zealand Green Mussels, a natural source of chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health.
  • 96% meat, organs, and bone formula mirrors a natural, whole-prey diet.
  • High-protein and nutrient-dense, meaning smaller serving sizes are required compared to traditional kibble.

Pros

  • Exceptional ingredient quality, using wild-caught fish and free-range lamb.
  • Air-drying process preserves more natural enzymes and nutrients than high-heat extrusion.
  • Extremely high meat content aligns closely with a cat's biological needs.
  • Grain-free and potato-free formula reduces common allergens and unnecessary fillers.
  • Includes superfoods that provide functional benefits, such as joint support.

Cons

  • Carries a significantly higher price-per-pound compared to most dry cat foods.
  • The rich, dense nature of the food may require a slow transition period for some cats to avoid digestive upset.
  • The unique texture and strong scent, while appealing to many cats, might not be preferred by all.

Best for

This premium, air-dried food is best suited for cat owners seeking a high-protein, limited-ingredient diet that mimics a raw feeding model without the associated hassle. It is an excellent choice for all life stages, from kittens to seniors, particularly for cats with sensitivities to grains or common proteins, or for owners who prioritize exceptionally high-meat-content foods with ethical sourcing.

Feeding guide

Due to its high nutrient density, serving sizes for ZIWI Peak are smaller than for typical kibble. For an average 10 lb adult cat, a general starting point is about 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup per day. This amount should be divided into two separate meals. Always provide fresh, clean water. It is critical to consult the feeding chart on the product packaging for precise measurements and adjust the amount based on your cat's age, activity level, and overall body condition to maintain a healthy weight.

Ingredients & nutrition note

This is a limited-ingredient, grain-free recipe. While we can confirm the primary proteins are Mackerel and Lamb, we do not have the complete ingredient list or guaranteed analysis. Lamb and fish-based formulas are typically rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are known to support skin and coat health. Foods in this category often feature organs and bone as part of their "whole prey" philosophy, providing a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Price comparison

Priced at $30.61 per pound, this 14oz bag of ZIWI Peak Mackerel & Lamb is positioned at the premium end of the market. When compared against 173 other small-bag dry cat foods, its cost is substantially higher than the category median of $7.99 per pound. While it is far from the most expensive specialty food on the market, it represents a significant investment in nutrition, sitting well above the average price for conventional dry cat food.

Frequently asked questions

What does "air-dried" mean and how is it different from kibble?

Air-drying is a gentle, dual-stage process that slowly removes moisture from the raw ingredients using air, without aggressive heat or cooking. This preserves the nutritional value of the meat, organs, and superfoods in a way that high-temperature extrusion (used for making most kibble) cannot, resulting in a food that is closer to its natural raw state but is shelf-stable and safe to handle.

Is this food suitable for kittens?

Yes, the ZIWI Peak air-dried recipes are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of cats at all life stages, including growing kittens. Its high-protein, nutrient-dense profile is beneficial for their development. However, always follow the specific feeding guidelines on the bag for kittens, as their needs are different from adult cats.

Why is this food so expensive compared to other dry cat foods?

The price reflects the high cost of its premium, ethically sourced ingredients (wild-caught mackerel and free-range lamb), the high percentage of meat (96%), and the specialized, slow air-drying manufacturing process. You are paying for nutrient density and ingredient quality, which means you feed less per day compared to a starchy, grain-based kibble.

My cat is a picky eater. Will they like ZIWI Peak?

Many cats are highly attracted to the strong, natural scent and jerky-like texture of ZIWI Peak. However, like any food, some cats may have a preference. We recommend a slow transition, mixing a small amount of ZIWI with their current food and gradually increasing the proportion over 7-10 days to allow them to adjust to the new taste and texture.

What are the "superfoods" in this recipe?

While the full list isn't available, ZIWI Peak recipes typically include New Zealand Green Mussels, a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, and organic kelp, which provides essential minerals and antioxidants. These are included to offer functional health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Is a limited ingredient diet better for my cat?

A limited ingredient diet (LID) can be very beneficial for cats with known food allergies or sensitivities. By using fewer ingredients and a novel protein combination like Mackerel & Lamb, it reduces the chance of triggering an adverse reaction and makes it easier to identify potential allergens.

Ready to buy?

View on Amazon ↗

Compare similar cat foods