As a cat parent, you know the struggle. You want to give your feline friend the absolute best, but navigating the world of cat food can feel like a maze. Between finding something nutritious, avoiding ingredients that upset their tummy, and—most importantly—finding something your picky cat will actually eat, the search can be exhausting. That’s what led me to take a closer look at “I and love and you” Naked Essentials Dry Cat Food. It promises high-quality, grain-free nutrition, and I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype.
Finding a food that supports digestive health while also being packed with real, delicious protein is the holy grail for many of us. If you’ve got a cat with a sensitive stomach or one who turns their nose up at everything, this review is for you.
What Makes “I and love and you” Stand Out?
This isn’t just another bag of brown kibble. The brand puts a heavy emphasis on holistic, high-quality ingredients, and it shows in their formula.
✅ Real Fish is the #1 Ingredient: The first ingredients listed are salmon and trout. This is a huge green flag. Cats are obligate carnivores, and a diet rich in animal-based protein is essential for their health, energy, and lean muscle mass. This formula boasts an impressive 34% protein content.
✅ Prebiotics & Probiotics for Happy Tummies: This is a game-changer for cats with sensitive digestion. The added prebiotics and probiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome, which can lead to better digestion, less gas, and firmer stools.
✅ Grain-Free and No Fillers: You won’t find any wheat, corn, soy, or rice in this food. It’s also free from cheap fillers that offer no nutritional value. This is great for cats with grain sensitivities and helps ensure every bite is packed with nutrition.
✅ Holistic Vet-Approved: The formula is balanced with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats like fish oil and sunflower oil to support everything from a shiny coat to a strong immune system. It’s reassuring to know it’s been developed with veterinary oversight.
How to Switch Your Cat to This Food
If you decide to give this food a try, don’t just swap it out overnight! A slow transition is key to avoiding an upset stomach. The brand recommends a 10-day transition period, and I agree this is the best approach.
- Days 1-3: Mix 25% of the “I and love and you” food with 75% of your cat’s old food.
- Days 4-6: Adjust the ratio to a 50/50 mix.
- Days 7-9: Increase to 75% new food and 25% old food.
- Day 10: You can now feed 100% “I and love and you.”
Important Tip: Always have a bowl of fresh, clean water available, especially when feeding dry kibble.
What Are Real Customers Saying?
With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 800 reviews, the feedback is largely positive.
Many pet owners, like Jessica (5 stars), raved about how it solved their cats’ digestive issues. She mentioned her cat, who used to throw up frequently, has been doing much better since switching. Another reviewer, David (5 stars), noted that all three of his cats, including the notoriously picky one, absolutely love the salmon and trout flavor.
However, it’s not a perfect match for every cat. Maria (3 stars) said that while she appreciated the quality ingredients, her cat simply sniffed it and walked away. A few others mentioned the smell was a bit strong for their liking, though this is common with fish-based foods.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality, real fish ingredients | Some picky cats may not like the taste |
| Grain-free and no cheap fillers | Higher price point than many grocery brands |
| Includes prebiotics and probiotics | Fishy smell might be strong for some owners |
| Great for cats with sensitive stomachs |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this food suitable for kittens? A: Yes! The “I and love and you” Naked Essentials formula is designed for all life stages, from kitten to senior. The bag includes specific feeding guidelines to ensure your growing kitten gets the extra calories and nutrients they need.
Q2: My cat has allergies. Is this a good choice? A: It can be. Since it’s grain-free and uses novel proteins like salmon and trout, it’s often a great option for cats with sensitivities to common allergens like chicken or grains. However, always consult your vet if you suspect your cat has a food allergy.
Q3: What makes this food good for a cat’s coat? A: The formula is rich in omega fatty acids from fish oil and flaxseed. These healthy fats are fantastic for nourishing the skin, which can lead to a softer, shinier coat and reduced shedding.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
“I and love and you” Naked Essentials Dry Cat Food is an excellent choice for cat owners who prioritize high-quality, natural ingredients and want to support their cat’s digestive health. It’s particularly well-suited for cats with sensitive stomachs or suspected grain allergies. The inclusion of probiotics is a standout feature that sets it apart from many other brands on the shelf.
While it might not win over every single picky eater on the planet, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests it’s a hit with most felines. If you’re willing to invest a little more in your cat’s nutrition for a food that’s packed with goodness and free of junk, this is definitely one to try.
Ready to see if your cat falls in love? You can Buy on Amazon and have it delivered right to your door.