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Natural Balance Ultra Protein Plus, Real Chicken & Chicken Meal, 5 lb

Natural Balance · 5 lb · Cat

Natural Balance Ultra Protein Plus, Real Chicken & Chicken Meal, 5 lb
$6.00/lb·$29.98total

Verified 20 days ago on Amazon.

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Overview

Natural Balance's Ultra Protein Plus formula in this Real Chicken & Chicken Meal recipe focuses on delivering a high-concentration of animal-sourced protein for cats. This 5 lb bag is built around a dual chicken protein foundation—real chicken and chicken meal—to support the nutritional needs of felines, who are obligate carnivores. By using both fresh chicken and concentrated chicken meal, the formula aims to create a protein-dense kibble. This approach is often chosen to help maintain lean muscle mass, support metabolic function, and provide sustained energy. The "Ultra Protein Plus" name suggests this recipe is one of the brand's most concentrated formulas, positioning it for cat owners who prioritize high animal protein content in their pet's diet.

Key features

  • Formulated with real chicken as a primary ingredient, providing a high-quality source of amino acids.
  • Includes chicken meal, a concentrated protein source that boosts the overall protein content of the kibble.
  • Designed as a high-protein diet to support lean muscle development and maintenance in cats.
  • Comes in a smaller 5 lb bag, which is convenient for trying the food, feeding a single cat, or ensuring freshness.
  • Aims to provide a complete and balanced nutritional profile for adult cats.

Pros

  • High concentration of animal-based protein from two chicken sources (real chicken and chicken meal) is ideal for a cat's carnivorous needs.
  • The 5 lb bag size is excellent for owners who want to test the food with a picky eater before committing to a larger, more expensive bag.
  • Natural Balance is a well-established brand known for its focus on limited ingredient and high-protein formulas.
  • A chicken-first recipe is often highly palatable to most cats.

Cons

  • The $6.00/lb price point, while below the median for its category, is still significantly higher than budget-friendly brands.
  • A high-protein formula may not be the ideal choice for all cats, particularly those with specific health conditions or sensitivities; consult a vet first.
  • The kibble size in a high-protein formula may be denser and larger, which could be a challenge for some senior cats or very small kittens.
  • Lacks the diverse range of animal proteins found in some other multi-protein formulas.

Best for

This food is best suited for owners of adult cats who are seeking a high-protein, chicken-based diet to support lean muscle mass and an active lifestyle. Its formulation is particularly geared towards felines who thrive on energy-dense, carnivore-centric nutrition. The smaller bag size also makes it a practical choice for single-cat households or for those wishing to trial the food for palatability and digestibility before purchasing in bulk.

Feeding guide

Feeding amounts can vary significantly based on a cat's age, metabolism, and activity level. As a general guideline, most adult cats require approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry kibble per 8-10 lbs of body weight per day. This total amount should be divided into two separate meals, for instance, morning and evening. Always provide constant access to fresh, clean water. This is only a starting point; it is critical to consult the official feeding chart on the product packaging and adjust portions as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.

Ingredients & nutrition note

At petfoodprice.com, we do not have access to the full, verified ingredient list or guaranteed analysis for this product. The formulation is centered on "Real Chicken & Chicken Meal" as stated in the title. Dry foods in this high-protein category typically supplement the primary meat ingredients with digestible carbohydrates for energy and structure, along with essential fats, vitamins, and minerals to create a nutritionally complete diet. Always refer to the product's packaging for the most accurate and complete ingredient and nutritional information.

Price comparison

With its current price of $6.00 per pound, this 5 lb bag of Natural Balance Ultra Protein Plus sits comfortably below the median price of $8.25 per pound for small-bag dry cat foods. While it is priced higher than the most economical options in the category (which can be as low as $1.63/lb), it offers a more affordable entry into the premium, high-protein segment compared to the category average. This makes it a solid value proposition for shoppers looking for quality protein content without paying top-tier prices.

Frequently asked questions

Is this food suitable for kittens?

The product title does not specify a life stage, suggesting it is likely formulated for adult cats. Kitten-specific formulas have different nutritional requirements for growth. Always check the packaging for AAFCO life stage statements or consult your vet.

What is the benefit of using both real chicken and chicken meal?

Real chicken is highly palatable and provides high-quality protein. Chicken meal is a rendered, concentrated protein source that significantly boosts the total protein percentage in the kibble, helping to create a nutrient-dense food.

Why is a high-protein diet important for cats?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to derive primary energy from animal-based proteins and fats, not carbohydrates. A high-protein diet supports lean muscle, a healthy metabolism, and provides essential amino acids like taurine.

Is a small bag more expensive in the long run?

Generally, buying in bulk results in a lower price-per-pound. This 5 lb bag is more expensive per pound than a larger 15 or 20 lb bag of the same food would be. However, its lower upfront cost and below-median price point make it a good value for testing or for single-cat homes where a large bag might go stale.

How does this compare to a "Limited Ingredient Diet"?

While Natural Balance is famous for its L.I.D. line, this "Ultra Protein Plus" product focuses on maximizing protein content rather than minimizing ingredients. It may still have a relatively simple formula, but its primary goal is protein density, not catering to specific food sensitivities that L.I.D. foods are designed for.

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

It can be, but it depends on the specific situation and the food's calorie content. High-protein, lower-carbohydrate diets can sometimes help with weight management by promoting satiety and lean muscle. However, you must manage portion control carefully. Please consult with your veterinarian to create a safe and effective weight loss plan for your cat.

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