As a dedicated cat owner, selecting the right food for my feline friends is always a priority. Over the years, I’ve tried numerous brands and formulas, but recently, I came across Purina Cat Chow Naturals With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Cat Food, Naturals Original in a 13 lb. bag.
This product caught my attention because of its emphasis on natural ingredients combined with essential nutrients—a combination that promises to support overall health and vitality.
In this comprehensive review, I will walk you through the nuances and features of this popular cat food product. Whether you are a seasoned pet parent or new to the world of feline nutrition, this detailed exploration aims to give you all the insights needed to determine if Purina Cat Chow Naturals fits into your pet’s dietary needs.
Understanding what you’re feeding your cat is foundational to ensuring their well-being. The Purina Cat Chow Naturals line aims to deliver a wholesome diet that emphasizes natural ingredients without sacrificing essential nutrients. Packaged in a generous 13 lb. bag, this product is designed for long-term feeding, making it a cost-effective choice for many households.
This specific formula—Naturals Original—is crafted to provide a balanced mix of proteins, grains, and added vitamins. Its primary goal is to promote good digestion, maintain a healthy coat, and support overall vitality. The brand boasts years of experience in pet nutrition, which lends confidence in the quality and safety of their products.
What sets this product apart from conventional cat foods is its focus on natural ingredients. It minimizes artificial flavors, preservatives, and fillers, aligning more closely with what many pet owners seek today: a healthier, more natural diet for their cats. As someone who prioritizes ingredient transparency, I found this aspect notably reassuring.
Product Brand
Purina, established over a century ago, has become one of the most recognizable and trusted names in pet nutrition globally. Their reputation is built on research, science, and a commitment to providing high-quality pet foods. The Cat Chow line has been a staple in many homes, famous for its affordability and consistent quality.
The Naturals series is an extension of their mission to offer more natural options for pet parents who are increasingly conscious about ingredient sourcing. Purina’s dedication to continuous improvement, backed by scientific studies, suggests that their products are formulated with both practicality and health in mind.
From my personal perspective, I have always appreciated Purina’s transparency regarding ingredient lists and nutritional content. Their manufacturing standards adhere strictly to safety protocols, which gives me peace of mind when choosing their products for my cats.
In addition, Purina invests heavily in pet nutrition research and collaborates with veterinarians and animal nutritionists, ensuring their formulas meet or exceed industry standards. This level of expertise makes their products reliable choices for various dietary needs, including weight management, sensitive digestion, and overall wellness.
Product Features
1. Natural Ingredients Focused on Healthier Diets
One of the key features that attracted me to this product is its emphasis on natural ingredients. Unlike some commercial cat foods loaded with artificial additives, Purina Cat Chow Naturals proudly states that it contains real meat and wholesome grains.
The ingredient list includes real chicken as the first component, which is critical because protein is fundamental to feline health. Additionally, the inclusion of whole grains like rice provides digestible energy sources, supporting an active lifestyle.
From my experience, cats are obligate carnivores, and while grains can be beneficial in moderation, their quality matters. I appreciate that Purina balances these with quality proteins and natural sources of fiber, aiding digestion and preventing hairballs.
Moreover, the absence of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives aligns with my goal of feeding my cats a more natural diet. This approach not only benefits their internal health but also contributes to a shinier coat and healthier skin—something I’ve observed firsthand in my own cats after switching to this formula.
2. Fortified with Essential Vitamins and Minerals
A significant advantage of this formula is its enrichment with vital vitamins and minerals. I consider this feature crucial, especially since proper supplementation supports immune health, bone strength, and overall vitality.
The formula includes antioxidants such as Vitamins E and C, which help combat free radicals and bolster immune defenses. Furthermore, minerals like zinc and selenium work together to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
In my practical experience, cats on this diet exhibited fewer signs of deficiencies—such as dull coat or lethargy—compared to other brands lacking added nutrients. For aging cats or those with specific health concerns, this fortified nutritional profile can make a noticeable difference.
Another point worth mentioning is the inclusion of taurine, an essential amino acid for cats. Taurine supports eye health and heart function, which cannot be synthesized sufficiently by cats themselves. The product meets or exceeds the recommended levels, giving pet owners peace of mind.
3. Supports Digestion and Coat Health
Digestive health is often overlooked until problems arise. However, a good quality diet should promote smooth digestion and a healthy coat. In my analysis, Purina Cat Chow Naturals excels here due to its formulation.
The inclusion of natural fibers helps regulate bowel movements, reducing constipation and hairball issues. From my observations, cats transitioning to this dry food experienced less gastrointestinal discomfort and showed improved stool consistency.
Additionally, ingredients like omega fatty acids from fish oil contribute to a glossy coat and healthy skin. My cats visibly became more vibrant and had less shedding once I incorporated this food into their diet.
The blend of nutrients is designed not just to sustain basic health but to enhance outward appearance—a benefit I highly value as a pet owner.
4. Palatability and Texture
No matter how nutritious a food is, cats need to enjoy their meals. Purina Cat Chow Naturals offers a texture that appeals to many cats—crunchy yet not overly hard, making it suitable for cats of different ages.
From my experience, my cats tend to prefer foods with a good crunch because it mimics the natural prey-simulation, stimulating their appetite. The aroma is inviting without being overwhelming.
Feeding trials showed that cats readily accepted this food, even those with selective palates. The flavor, based on real meat content, seems to make it irresistible, leading to less food wastage and more consistent intake.
The size of the kibble is appropriately sized for easy chewing, which is especially important for senior cats with dental issues. The texture variation encourages thorough chewing, aiding digestion and reducing the risk of choking.
5. Cost-Effective and Long Shelf Life
Feeding multiple cats or providing for a family pet requires budget-conscious options. The 13 lb. bag of Purina Cat Chow Naturals is a cost-effective solution, offering substantial quantity at a reasonable price point.
In my purchasing experience, this size provides months of supply, reducing frequent trips to buy food and enabling better planning. The packaging is sturdy, and the bag maintains freshness over time, thanks to resealable features.
Furthermore, the affordability does not compromise quality—Purina’s economies of scale allow them to keep prices competitive while maintaining safety standards. For many pet owners, this balance of quality and value is ideal.
Long shelf life is another benefit; as long as stored properly in a cool, dry place, this food remains fresh and nutritious for months. This convenience reduces waste and ensures my cats always have access to healthy meals.
Your Experience (Personal Reflection)
Having tested Purina Cat Chow Naturals over several weeks, I can confidently say that my cats have shown positive changes. Their coats became shinier, they maintained a good weight, and I observed fewer digestive issues compared to previous foods.
I appreciate the transparency in ingredient sourcing and the thoughtful inclusion of essential nutrients. The palatability factor is high—my finicky feline friends eagerly finish their bowls, which is always a relief.
While it may not cater to specialized diets like grain-free or prescription formulas, this product strikes a good balance for everyday feeding, especially for cats with standard health needs. Cost-wise, it is accessible for most households, making it a practical choice for long-term feeding.
The only challenge I encountered was ensuring the food stayed in optimal condition after opening, but using airtight containers mitigated this issue. Overall, I find Purina Cat Chow Naturals to be a reliable, wholesome, and economical option.
Product Price
The Purina Cat Chow Naturals 13 lb. bag typically retails around $15-$20, depending on the retailer and location. During sales or promotions, discounts can bring the price down further, making it even more attractive.
Compared to specialty or grain-free brands, this product offers excellent value without compromising essential nutritional standards. When broken down per serving, it is quite economical, especially considering the high-quality ingredients and added nutrients.
For pet owners seeking a dependable daily feed without breaking the bank, this price point is reasonable. Bulk purchasing or subscribing to auto-shipment options can enhance savings, making it easier to maintain a consistent diet for your cats.
Pros and Cons
Expert Advice
Veterinarians usually recommend diets that are balanced and rich in high-quality proteins. According to pet nutrition experts, Purina Cat Chow Naturals ticks many boxes by combining natural ingredients with added nutrients that support immune health, digestion, and coat condition.
However, for cats with allergies, sensitivities, or specific health conditions, a tailored diet prescribed by a veterinarian might be more appropriate. Always monitor your cat’s response to any new food, and consult with professionals when in doubt.
In terms of feeding frequency, adult cats should be fed twice a day, with portions adjusted based on age, weight, and activity level. Fresh water should always be available alongside dry food.
Lastly, transitioning gradually between different foods can minimize gastrointestinal upset. Mixing Purina Cat Chow Naturals with previous diets over a week helps facilitate this change smoothly.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, Purina Cat Chow Naturals With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Cat Food, Naturals Original in a 13 lb. bag is a well-rounded, affordable, and trusted option for many cat owners. Its emphasis on natural ingredients, combined with a comprehensive nutrient profile, supports overall health and provides excellent value.
From my personal experience, cats thrive on this formula—they enjoy the taste, and I notice positive changes in their appearance and digestion. While it may not suit every specialized dietary requirement, it serves as a versatile, everyday nutrition solution for most domestic cats.
If you’re looking for a dependable, natural-feeling dry food that balances quality with affordability, I recommend giving Purina Cat Chow Naturals a try. Remember, a healthy cat starts with good nutrition, and this product is a solid step toward achieving that goal.
