Finding the perfect cat food can feel like a never-ending quest. If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent countless hours in the pet food aisle, scrutinizing labels and trying to decipher ingredient lists. The challenge is real: you want something nutritious and high-quality, but it also has to pass the ultimate test—your cat’s discerning palate. This is especially true if your feline friend struggles with a sensitive stomach, itchy skin, or allergies to common proteins like chicken or fish.
That’s what led me to take a closer look at Evanger’s Grain-Free Meat Lover’s Medley with Rabbit. Evanger’s has a reputation as a family-owned company that prioritizes quality, and this recipe seemed to tick all the right boxes for a cat with special dietary needs. It’s grain-free, features a novel protein, and is formulated to support a healthy lifestyle for indoor cats. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
Key Features
Here are some of the standout features of this cat food:
✅ Grain-Free Formula: This is a huge plus for cats with grain sensitivities. By eliminating corn, wheat, and soy, this food reduces the risk of digestive upset and skin irritations, making it a gentler option for many cats.
✅ Novel Protein Source (Rabbit): Rabbit isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s a fantastic novel protein. This means it’s less likely to trigger an allergic reaction in cats who are sensitive to more common proteins like chicken or beef. It also closely mimics a cat’s natural prey diet.
✅ Formulated for Healthy Weight: This recipe is specifically designed with the lifestyle of an indoor cat in mind. It provides the essential nutrients they need without the extra calories that can lead to weight gain in less active cats.
✅ Digestive & Anti-Inflammatory Support: The inclusion of ingredients like turmeric offers natural anti-inflammatory benefits, which can aid in digestion and support overall joint health—a great bonus for cats of all ages.
How to Introduce It to Your Cat
Switching your cat’s food too quickly can lead to an upset stomach. To ensure a smooth transition to Evanger’s, follow these simple steps:
- Start Small: For the first 2-3 days, mix about 25% of the new Evanger’s food with 75% of your cat’s old food.
- Increase Gradually: Over the next few days, slowly increase the ratio to 50% new food and 50% old food.
- Go for More: Continue to gradually increase the amount of Evanger’s food while decreasing the old food over a period of 7-10 days.
- Full Transition: By day 10, you should be able to feed your cat 100% Evanger’s food.
Tip: Always have a bowl of fresh, clean water available, especially when feeding dry kibble.
What Other Cat Owners Are Saying
With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, it’s clear that many cat owners are happy with this food.
Sarah T. (5/5 stars) mentioned that her incredibly picky Siamese cat, who turns her nose up at almost everything, “devoured this food from day one.” She was thrilled to finally find a healthy option her cat actually enjoys.
Mark R. (5/5 stars) shared that his cat had been suffering from chronic digestive issues and itchy skin. After switching to Evanger’s Meat Lover’s Medley, he saw a “noticeable improvement in both digestion and coat health within a few weeks.”
However, it’s not a perfect match for everyone. Jessica L. (3/5 stars) said that while she appreciated the high-quality ingredients, her two cats “just wouldn’t eat it.” She suggested that the rabbit flavor might be a bit too “gamey” for some cats used to chicken or fish.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Excellent for cats with food allergies | ❌ Higher price point than standard brands |
| ✅ Grain-free and easy to digest | ❌ Some picky eaters may not like the flavor |
| ✅ Novel protein source (rabbit) | ❌ Only available in larger bag sizes |
| ✅ Supports healthy weight for indoor cats |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this food suitable for kittens? A: This formula is designed for adult cats and their maintenance. While it’s a high-quality food, kittens have specific nutritional requirements for growth. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to choose a food specifically formulated for the kitten life stage.
Q: Why is rabbit considered a good protein for cats? A: Rabbit is a lean meat that is high in protein and low in fat. Because it’s not commonly used in most commercial cat foods, it’s considered a “novel” protein, making it an excellent choice for cats with allergies or sensitivities to chicken, beef, or fish.
Q: The kibble seems small. Is that okay for my large cat? A: The smaller kibble size is generally easy for most cats to chew and digest. In fact, it can be beneficial for older cats or those with dental issues. Unless your cat has a known preference for very large kibble, the size should be perfectly fine.
Final Verdict
Evanger’s Grain-Free Meat Lover’s Medley with Rabbit is a top-tier choice for cat owners who are willing to invest in their pet’s health. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Cats with known or suspected food allergies to common proteins.
- Cats with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
- Owners looking for a high-quality, grain-free diet to support a healthy weight.
If you’re on a tight budget or have a cat that is notoriously picky about new flavors, you might want to start with a smaller bag if possible. However, for those struggling to find a food that solves persistent health issues, this recipe from Evanger’s is a fantastic option that could make a world of difference for your feline companion.
Ready to give it a try? You can find it here: BuyonAmazon Commodity.