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Instinct Original Raw Coated Real Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food (5 lb Bag)

Instinct · 5 lb · Cat

Instinct Original Dry Cat Food, Raw Coated Kibble, High Protein, Grain Free Recipe - Real Chicken, 5 lb. Bag
$5.60/ lb·$27.99total

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Overview

Instinct Original Raw Coated kibble offers a unique bridge between the convenience of dry food and the nutritional philosophy of a raw diet. This 5 lb bag of the Real Chicken recipe is designed for cat owners seeking to provide a high-protein, nutrient-dense meal without the complexities of preparing raw food from scratch. The core of the product is a high-quality, grain-free kibble made with real chicken as a primary protein source. This foundation is then enhanced through a special process where each piece is tumbled with a coating of freeze-dried raw chicken. This raw coating not only amplifies the food's aroma and flavor, making it highly enticing for even picky felines, but also adds minimally processed nutrients that can be damaged during high-heat cooking. By focusing on a protein-first, grain-free formula, this Instinct Original recipe aligns with a cat's needs as an obligate carnivore, supporting strong, lean muscles and providing sustained energy. It's a sophisticated, "best-of-both-worlds" approach to feline nutrition.

Key features

  • Freeze-Dried Raw Coating: Every piece of kibble is coated with freeze-dried raw chicken, delivering pure, real nutrition and an irresistible taste.
  • High-Protein, Real Chicken Recipe: Features responsibly sourced chicken as the leading ingredient to support strong, lean muscle development.
  • Grain-Free and No Fillers: Formulated without grain, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, or artificial colors and preservatives, making it suitable for cats with certain food sensitivities.
  • Supports Overall Health: Typically fortified with probiotics for digestive health, a blend of omegas for skin and coat, and antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
  • USA-Made Quality: Crafted with care in the USA using high-quality ingredients from around the world.

Pros

  • Exceptional Palatability: The freeze-dried raw coating makes this an excellent choice for finicky eaters who may reject other dry foods.
  • High-Quality Protein: Prioritizes real chicken, aligning with a cat's carnivorous needs for optimal health.
  • Convenient Introduction to Raw Benefits: Allows owners to incorporate the taste and nutritional advantages of raw food with the ease and long shelf-life of kibble.
  • Great Value in its Class: Priced below the median for premium, small-bag cat foods, offering advanced features without a top-tier price tag.

Cons

  • Not a True Raw Diet: While beneficial, the raw coating does not provide the same profile as a 100% raw feeding program.
  • Higher Price-Per-Pound: More expensive than many conventional, grain-inclusive kibbles found in grocery stores.
  • Rich Formula: The high protein and fat content may require a slow transition period for cats accustomed to lower-quality foods to avoid digestive upset.

Best for

This Instinct Original recipe is ideal for adult cat owners who want to boost their pet's nutrition and mealtime excitement. It's particularly effective for encouraging picky cats to eat and for households seeking the benefits of raw-inspired feeding without the associated preparation time, storage requirements, or high cost of a fully raw diet.

Feeding guide

Feeding amounts can vary significantly based on your cat's age, activity level, and metabolism. As a general guideline, most adult cats thrive on approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food per 8-10 lbs of body weight per day. This total amount should be split into two meals, morning and evening. Always provide fresh, clean water. For precise portions, consult the feeding chart on the Instinct Original packaging and adjust as needed to maintain a healthy body condition. When switching foods, do so gradually over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.

Ingredients & nutrition note

This product is marketed as a 'Real Chicken' recipe. In high-quality cat foods, this typically means deboned chicken or chicken meal is the first ingredient. As a grain-free formula, it avoids common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, often substituting them with legumes or other carbohydrates. Recipes in this premium category also tend to be fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics for digestive health, and omega fatty acids for skin and coat support. PetFoodPrice.com does not have access to the full ingredient list or guaranteed analysis; always refer to the product's packaging for a complete and accurate breakdown.

Price comparison

At $5.04 per pound, this 5 lb bag of Instinct Original Raw Coated Chicken kibble offers significant value within the premium, small-bag cat food market. While many comparable grain-free, high-protein foods are available, this recipe's price point sits comfortably below the category's median price of $6.85 per pound. Shoppers are getting the benefits of a specialized raw-coated formula without paying the top-tier price often associated with such features. It strikes an excellent balance between advanced nutrition and affordability, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious owners who don't want to compromise on quality.

Frequently asked questions

What is the benefit of a 'raw coated' kibble?

The 'raw coating' on Instinct Original kibble means that after the traditional kibble is cooked, it's tumbled with a coating of freeze-dried raw chicken. This process adds the concentrated flavor and some of the minimally processed nutrients found in raw meat, making the food more palatable and nutritionally boosted compared to standard kibble alone.

Is a grain-free diet better for my cat?

For many cats, yes. Cats are obligate carnivores and don't require grains in their diet. Grain-free recipes can be easier for some cats to digest and may help avoid sensitivities to common fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. This type of diet more closely mimics what a cat would eat in the wild, focusing on protein and fat for energy.

How should I store this food to keep the raw coating fresh?

To protect the integrity of the freeze-dried raw coating and the kibble itself, it's best to store the food in its original bag, tightly sealed, in a cool, dry place. Avoid transferring it to a plastic container, as this can trap moisture and cause the food to become stale or spoil faster. Keeping it sealed preserves the aroma and flavor that makes it so appealing to cats.

Can I mix this food with my cat's current food?

Yes, mixing is a great way to introduce a new food. A gradual transition over 7-10 days is recommended to allow your cat's digestive system to adjust. Start with about 25% new food and 75% old food, slowly increasing the proportion of Instinct Original until you have fully switched over.

Is this food suitable for kittens or senior cats?

This specific Instinct Original recipe is formulated for the maintenance of adult cats. Kittens and senior cats have different nutritional requirements. Instinct offers other formulas specifically designed for those life stages, such as their kitten or senior recipes, which would be more appropriate.

My cat is overweight. Is this high-protein food a good choice?

High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets can be beneficial for weight management in cats as they support lean muscle mass. However, portion control is critical. It's essential to follow the feeding guidelines for your cat's ideal weight, not its current weight, and consult with your veterinarian to create a comprehensive weight loss plan.

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