As a dedicated cat parent, I know the struggle is real when it comes to finding the perfect food for our feline friends. Whether you’re dealing with a finicky eater, a cat with a sensitive stomach, or simply want to ensure your furry companion is getting the best possible nutrition, the choices out there can be overwhelming. That’s where products like Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food come into play. This particular formula, featuring real duck, aims to solve some of these common dilemmas by offering a high-quality, grain-free option packed with natural ingredients.
Many commercial cat foods are loaded with fillers, artificial ingredients, and grains that aren’t ideal for a cat’s carnivorous diet. This can lead to digestive issues, allergies, or simply a lack of enthusiasm at mealtime. Instinct’s approach is different – they focus on what cats are naturally meant to eat, providing a “raw-inspired” diet that supports overall health and well-being. If you’ve been searching for a food that not only satisfies your cat’s taste buds but also contributes to their vitality, keep reading.
Key Features That Make a Difference
Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food isn’t just another can of cat food; it boasts several features designed with your cat’s health in mind:
- ✅ High-Quality Ingredients & Duck First: This formula is made with 95% real duck and turkey liver, ensuring a protein-rich meal that aligns with a cat’s natural dietary needs. Duck is often a novel protein, which can be great for cats with sensitivities to more common protein sources like chicken or fish.
- ✅ No Unnecessary Fillers or Allergens: One of the biggest wins here is what’s not in the food. It’s completely free of grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, carrageenan, by-product meals, artificial colors, or preservatives. This makes it an excellent choice for cats prone to food sensitivities or allergies.
- ✅ Nutrient-Rich & Palatable Pate: Beyond the core proteins, this food includes 5% vegetables, fruits, and other wholesome ingredients like peas, carrots, pumpkin, and cranberries. The pate texture is smooth and highly palatable, making it a hit even with notoriously picky eaters.
- ✅ Complete & Balanced for All Life Stages: From energetic kittens to wise seniors, this wet cat food provides complete and balanced nutrition. It’s formulated to support strong, lean muscles and overall health throughout your cat’s life.
- ✅ Trusted Brand Philosophy: Instinct prides itself on its “raw-inspired” philosophy, crafting foods from real ingredients with a focus on animal protein. They aim to provide nutrition that mimics a cat’s ancestral diet.
How to Serve Up a Happy Meal
Feeding your cat Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food is straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure your feline friend gets the most out of every meal:
- Serve at Room Temperature: Cats generally prefer their food at room temperature, as it enhances the aroma and palatability. If you store the cans in the fridge, let them sit out for a bit before serving, or warm them slightly (never microwave in the can!).
- Portion Control: The recommended feeding amounts vary based on your cat’s age, weight, and activity level. For adult cats, the general guideline is 2 cans per 6 to 8 lbs of body weight per day. Kittens and pregnant/nursing females will need more – up to twice or three times the adult amount, respectively. Always check the specific directions on the packaging for precise guidance.
- Refrigerate Unused Portions: Once opened, any unused portion should be refrigerated promptly to maintain freshness. It’s best to use it within 2-3 days.
- Always Provide Fresh Water: No matter what your cat eats, always ensure they have access to clean, fresh water. Wet food contributes to hydration, but water is still essential.
What Cat Parents Are Saying
With an impressive 4.0 out of 5 stars from over 5,200 ratings, it’s clear that many cat owners are happy with Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food. Here’s a snapshot of what customers are saying:
- Sarah P. (5 Stars): “My senior cat, who has become incredibly picky in her old age, absolutely devours this! Her coat looks healthier, and she’s more energetic. The duck flavor is a huge hit.”
- Mark T. (4 Stars): “Switched my cat to this due to digestive issues, and it’s made a noticeable difference. Less vomiting and more consistent stools. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for her health.”
- Jessica L. (3 Stars): “My two cats are split on this one. One loves the pate, the other turns her nose up. Quality seems great, but my pickier cat just isn’t a fan of the texture.”
- David R. (5 Stars): “Finally, a grain-free food my cat actually eats! He’s sensitive to chicken, so the duck recipe is perfect. No more itchy skin or upset stomach.”
Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the food for solving issues with picky eaters, food sensitivities, and improving coat health. The main critique, if any, often revolves around the cost, which is typical for premium, high-quality pet foods.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality, real duck as #1 ingredient | Higher price point than many alternatives |
| Grain-free and no common allergens | Some cats might not prefer pate texture |
| Rich in animal protein for lean muscles | |
| Complete & balanced for all life stages | |
| Often palatable even for picky eaters | |
| Supports digestion and overall health |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this food suitable for kittens? A1: Yes, this Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food is formulated for “All Life Stages,” meaning it provides complete and balanced nutrition for kittens, adult cats, and senior cats. Kittens and pregnant/nursing females will require larger portions.
Q2: What is the texture of this wet food? A2: This is a pate-style wet cat food, which means it has a smooth, consistent, and finely ground texture, similar to a soft loaf.
Q3: How should I store opened cans? A3: Unused portions of the wet food should be covered and refrigerated immediately after opening. It’s recommended to use the refrigerated portion within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Here’s a look at the Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food:
Ready to give your cat a taste of Instinct’s quality? You can find it here:
Buy on Amazon: Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food
Final Thoughts: Is Instinct Original Right for Your Cat?
Instinct Original Pate Wet Cat Food with Real Duck is an excellent choice for pet owners who prioritize high-quality, natural ingredients and want to avoid common allergens and fillers. If your cat has a sensitive stomach, allergies to more common proteins like chicken or fish, or is simply a picky eater who turns their nose up at lesser foods, this duck recipe might just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
While it sits at a higher price point than some other brands, the investment often pays off in terms of your cat’s health, vitality, and overall happiness. It’s particularly well-suited for owners looking for a grain-free, protein-rich diet that supports a healthy coat, strong muscles, and good digestion. If you’re committed to providing a biologically appropriate diet for your feline companion, Instinct Original is certainly worth considering.