Animal Like Us: Nutrition As Nature Intended

Decoding “Animal Like Us” cat Food: A Deep Dive into Nutritional Philosophy and Feline Wellbeing

The pet food market is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, filled with promises of optimal health and vitality for our beloved feline companions. Amidst the plethora of options, “Animal Like Us” cat food has emerged with a distinct philosophy: to provide nutrition that mirrors the natural dietary needs of cats, as if they were still wild hunters. But what does this mean in practice? Let’s delve into the intricacies of this brand’s approach, examining its ingredients, nutritional claims, and overall impact on feline wellbeing.

Understanding the “Animal Like Us” Philosophy

The core principle behind “Animal Like Us” revolves around the concept of evolutionary nutrition. The brand posits that modern domestic cats, despite their domesticated lifestyle, retain the same fundamental physiological requirements as their wild ancestors. This translates to a focus on:

High Protein, Low Carbohydrate: Emphasizing a diet rich in animal protein, reflecting the carnivorous nature of cats, and minimizing the inclusion of grains and other carbohydrates.

Natural Ingredients: Prioritizing whole, recognizable ingredients, avoiding artificial additives, fillers, and by-products.

Species-Appropriate Nutrition: Aiming to provide a diet that aligns with the natural prey of wild cats, focusing on muscle meat, organs, and limited plant matter.

This approach is rooted in the understanding that cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to efficiently process and utilize nutrients from animal sources.

Ingredient Breakdown: What’s Inside the Bag?

To truly assess the merit of “Animal Like Us” cat food, a thorough examination of its ingredient list is essential.

Protein Sources: The Foundation of Feline Nutrition

The brand typically features high-quality animal protein as the primary ingredient. This may include chicken, turkey, salmon, or other named meat sources.

Emphasis is placed on whole muscle meat, rather than by-products, ensuring a rich source of essential amino acids.

Some formulas may incorporate organ meats, such as liver or heart, which provide vital nutrients like taurine, crucial for feline health.

Carbohydrate Content: Minimizing the Grain Load

“Animal Like Us” generally adopts a low-carbohydrate approach, minimizing the inclusion of grains like corn, wheat, and soy.

Instead, limited amounts of digestible carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas, may be used for binding and energy.

This aligns with the understanding that cats have limited metabolic capacity for processing carbohydrates.

Fats and Essential Fatty Acids: Fueling Energy and Health

Healthy fats, derived from animal sources, are essential for providing energy and supporting cell function.

The inclusion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, often from fish oil or flaxseed, contributes to healthy skin and coat.

The fat content is essential for the absorbtion of fat soluble vitamins.

Vitamins and Minerals: Supporting Overall Wellbeing

“Animal Like Us” formulas are typically fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure complete and balanced nutrition.

This includes vitamins A, D, E, B vitamins, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.

The amounts of each additive should correlate to the AAFCO standards.

The Absence of Unwanted Additives

The brand emphasizes the avoidance of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can be detrimental to feline health.

Fillers, such as corn gluten meal or cellulose, are also typically absent, ensuring that the food is nutritionally dense.

Nutritional Claims and Their Implications

“Animal Like Us” often highlights several key nutritional claims, each warranting further consideration.

High Protein for Optimal Muscle Maintenance

High-protein diets are crucial for supporting lean muscle mass, especially in active cats.

They also provide the essential amino acids needed for tissue repair and growth.

Protein is also a critical energy source.

Low Carbohydrate for Improved Blood Sugar Control

Minimizing carbohydrate intake can help prevent obesity and diabetes, common concerns in domestic cats.

It aligns with the natural dietary pattern of wild cats, which consume minimal carbohydrates.

Natural Ingredients for Enhanced Digestibility

Whole, recognizable ingredients are generally more digestible, reducing the risk of digestive upset.

This can lead to improved nutrient absorption and overall health.

Grain-Free Formulations for Sensitive Cats

Grain-free diets can be beneficial for cats with food allergies or sensitivities to grains.

It can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, skin irritation, and digestive issues.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While “Animal Like Us” offers a compelling nutritional philosophy, some considerations are crucial.

Cost Factor: Premium Ingredients, Premium Price

High-quality ingredients and limited use of fillers often result in a higher price point compared to conventional cat food brands.

Individual Cat Needs: Tailoring the Diet

While the brand emphasizes a species-appropriate approach, individual cats may have unique dietary needs based on age, health conditions, and activity levels.

For instance, cats with kidney disease may require a diet with restricted phosphorus and protein.

Always consult your vet about your cats individual needs.

Transitioning to a New Diet: Gradual Changes

Abrupt dietary changes can lead to digestive upset. A gradual transition, mixing the old and new food, is recommended.

Proper Hydration: Essential for Feline Health

Regardless of the diet, ensuring adequate hydration is crucial for feline wellbeing.

Encourage water consumption by providing fresh water and considering a wet food component.

The Importance of Taurine

The Critical Amino Acid

Cats cannot produce sufficient taurine on their own, making it an essential dietary component.

Taurine deficiency can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, vision impairment, and reproductive issues.

High quality meat ingredients, and added taurine are important.

Ensuring Adequate Taurine Intake

“Animal Like Us” formulas typically include adequate taurine levels to meet feline needs.

Organ meats, such as liver and heart, are natural sources of taurine.

The Role of Wet Food: A Natural Approach

Mimicking Natural Prey

Wet food, with its higher moisture content, more closely resembles the natural prey of wild cats.

It can help prevent dehydration and support urinary tract health.

Incorporating canned or pouch based food is highly recommended.

Palatability and Digestibility

Wet food is often more palatable, especially for picky eaters or senior cats.

The softer texture can be easier to digest for cats with dental issues.

Conclusion: A Thoughtful Approach to Feline Nutrition

“Animal Like Us” cat food presents a thoughtful approach to feline nutrition, prioritizing a species-appropriate diet that aligns with the natural needs of cats. By focusing on high-quality animal protein, minimizing carbohydrates, and avoiding unwanted additives, the brand strives to provide a diet that supports optimal health and wellbeing.

However, it is essential to consider the cost factor, individual cat needs, and the importance of hydration. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the most suitable diet for your feline companion.