Nature’s Variety Instinct Cat Food: A Comprehensive Review

In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food, evaluating its species-appropriateness, ingredient quality, product variety, price, customer experience, and recall history. Our unbiased review aims to help you make an informed decision about whether this brand is suitable for your cat’s needs.

About Nature’s Variety Instinct

Nature’s Variety began as a small pet food manufacturer in Lincoln, Nebraska and is now owned by Agrilomen, a Barcelona-based firm. Despite the change in ownership, Nature’s Variety continues to operate independently with headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. The company focuses on creating meat-centric recipes and emphasizes the value of fresh, freeze-dried, and raw ingredients.

Sourcing and Manufacturing

Nature’s Variety Instinct raw cat food is manufactured in company-owned facilities in the United States, while their kibble is made by a third-party manufacturer, also in the United States. Their wet food manufacturing is done both in Thailand and Kansas. The majority of their ingredients are sourced from the United States, with some proteins sourced from New Zealand, Australia, France, and Italy. Notably, the company does not source any meat or poultry from China.

Recall History

Nature’s Variety has had a few recalls since its creation in 2002. In 2015, several varieties of their chicken-based food were recalled due to salmonella contamination. Earlier that year, the company also issued a recall due to pieces of plastic found in their food. In 2012, they voluntarily withdrew four sizes of kibble for dogs because of an “off-odor” smell, although the food was not contaminated. In 2010, they recalled chicken-based raw food due to potential salmonella contamination. Despite these recalls, there have been no reports of illness associated with Nature’s Variety products.

Analyzing Nature’s Variety Instinct Cat Food

To evaluate Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food, we have considered various factors and assigned ratings based on our standard. Let’s take a closer look at how this brand performs in each category:

1. Species-Appropriateness (8/10)

Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food receives a strong rating in species-appropriateness. Their recipes are meat-centric, aligning with a cat’s natural carnivorous instincts. However, some formulas may contain plant-based ingredients, which may not be ideal for obligate carnivores.

2. Ingredient Quality (7/10)

When it comes to ingredient quality, Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food receives a moderate rating. While they prioritize fresh, freeze-dried, and raw ingredients, some recipes may still include lower-quality ingredients or fillers. It’s important to carefully review the ingredient list of each specific formula.

3. Product Variety (10/10)

Nature’s Variety Instinct excels in product variety, offering a wide range of options to cater to different cat preferences and dietary needs. Their product lines include Instinct Original, Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet, Instinct Ultimate Protein, Instinct Raw Boost, Instinct Raw, and Raw Signature.

4. Price (7/10)

In terms of price, Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food falls within a moderate range. While it may be slightly more expensive than some mainstream brands, it offers good value considering the quality of ingredients and variety of recipes.

5. Customer Experience (8/10)

Nature’s Variety Instinct has received positive reviews from customers, indicating a good overall customer experience. However, there have been some recent complaints about irregularities in the food, likely due to changes in manufacturing locations and recipe reformulations.

6. Recall History (4/10)

Nature’s Variety Instinct has had a few recalls in the past, which affects its recall history rating. However, it’s worth noting that none of these recalls were associated with reports of illness.

Overall Score: 7.3/10

Based on our evaluation, Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food receives a B grade with an overall score of 7.3 out of 10. While it has some areas for improvement, it remains a solid choice for cat owners looking for meat-centric, dye-free food options.

Customer Feedback on Nature’s Variety Instinct Cat Food

Customer reviews play a crucial role in assessing the quality and effectiveness of cat food brands. Let’s take a look at what customers have to say about Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food:

Positive Reviews

Many customers have expressed satisfaction with Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food. They appreciate the meaty texture and quality of the food, and their cats seem to enjoy it as well. Customers have also reported improvements in their cats’ coats and overall health after switching to this brand.

Negative Reviews

While the majority of customers have positive experiences with Nature’s Variety Instinct, there have been a few negative reviews. Some customers have expressed concerns about the inclusion of bone meal in certain recipes, as it poses a potential choking hazard. Others have expressed disappointment with recent recipe changes and the presence of vegetables in the food, as they believe cats do not require them.

Pricing and Where to Buy

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Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food is available for purchase at pet specialty retailers, including major chains like Petco and PetSmart. It is also available online through retailers such as Amazon, Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart.com. Pricing will vary depending on the specific recipe and size of the product.

Conclusion

Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food offers a variety of meat-centric recipes that align with a cat’s natural carnivorous instincts. While it has had a few recalls in the past, there have been no reports of associated illnesses. The brand receives positive reviews from customers, although recent recipe changes have led to some complaints. Overall, Nature’s Variety Instinct cat food provides a good option for cat owners seeking high-quality, species-appropriate nutrition for their feline companions.

Note: The information provided in this article is based on our analysis and should not replace professional veterinary advice. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet.