The debate surrounding raw versus cooked cat food has been a longstanding one among feline enthusiasts and veterinarians alike. With the rise of premium cat food brands, pet owners are now more than ever concerned about the nutritional quality and preparation methods of their cat’s meals. Smalls cat food, a relatively new player in the market, has garnered significant attention for its high-protein, low-carb recipes that mimic the natural diet of cats. However, the question remains: is Smalls cat food raw or cooked? In this article, we will delve into the world of Smalls cat food, exploring its production process, nutritional content, and the benefits of its unique approach to feline nutrition.
Introduction to Smalls Cat Food
Smalls cat food is a brand that prides itself on providing cats with a diet that is as close to their natural, evolutionary diet as possible. The company’s founders, a team of cat lovers and nutrition experts, recognized the importance of feeding cats food that is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates. Smalls cat food is made from a variety of high-quality protein sources, including chicken, beef, turkey, and fish, which are combined with minimal amounts of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This approach is designed to mimic the diet of wild cats, which are obligate carnivores and require a diet rich in animal-based nutrients to thrive.
The Production Process of Smalls Cat Food
So, is Smalls cat food raw or cooked? The answer lies in the production process. Smalls cat food is made using a unique process called high-pressure processing (HPP), which allows the company to create a raw-like diet without the risks associated with traditional raw feeding. HPP involves subjecting the food to extremely high pressures, typically in the range of 87,000 pounds per square inch, to kill off any harmful bacteria and extend the shelf life of the product. This process is gentle enough to preserve the natural nutrients and enzymes found in the ingredients, yet effective enough to eliminate the risk of foodborne illness.
Benefits of High-Pressure Processing
The use of HPP in the production of Smalls cat food offers several benefits, including:
- Improved safety: HPP eliminates the risk of foodborne illness associated with traditional raw feeding, making it a safer option for cats and their owners.
- Increased shelf life: HPP allows Smalls cat food to be stored for longer periods without refrigeration, making it more convenient for pet owners.
- Preserved nutrients: HPP is a gentle process that preserves the natural nutrients and enzymes found in the ingredients, ensuring that cats receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
Nutritional Content of Smalls Cat Food
Smalls cat food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of cats, with a focus on high-quality protein sources and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. The company offers a range of recipes, each with its own unique blend of ingredients and nutritional profile. On average, Smalls cat food contains:
Macro-Nutrient Breakdown
- Protein: 40-50% on a dry matter basis
- Fat: 30-40% on a dry matter basis
- Carbohydrates: 5-10% on a dry matter basis
- Fiber: 2-5% on a dry matter basis
- Moisture: 10-15%
The high protein content of Smalls cat food is designed to support the growth and maintenance of lean muscle mass, while the moderate fat content provides energy and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The low carbohydrate content is in line with the natural diet of cats, which do not require significant amounts of carbohydrates to thrive.
Benefits of a Raw-Like Diet
Feeding cats a raw-like diet, such as Smalls cat food, can have several benefits, including:
- Improved digestion: The high protein and moderate fat content of Smalls cat food can help support healthy digestion and reduce the risk of digestive disorders.
- Healthier skin and coat: The omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients found in Smalls cat food can help support healthy skin and coat condition.
- Increased energy: The moderate fat content of Smalls cat food provides a natural source of energy, which can help support cats’ high activity levels.
- Reduced risk of chronic disease: The low carbohydrate content and high protein content of Smalls cat food may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Smalls cat food is neither fully raw nor fully cooked. Instead, it is made using a unique process called high-pressure processing, which allows the company to create a raw-like diet without the risks associated with traditional raw feeding. The nutritional content of Smalls cat food is designed to meet the needs of cats, with a focus on high-quality protein sources and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. By feeding cats a raw-like diet, such as Smalls cat food, pet owners can help support their feline friends’ overall health and well-being. Whether you are a seasoned cat owner or a newcomer to the world of feline nutrition, Smalls cat food is definitely worth considering as a healthy and nutritious option for your cat.
What is Smalls Cat Food and how is it made?
Smalls Cat Food is a brand of cat food that offers a range of recipes made with high-quality protein sources and whole food ingredients. The company prides itself on using only the freshest and most nutrient-dense ingredients, sourced from local farms and suppliers whenever possible. Smalls Cat Food is made in small batches to ensure that every ingredient is handled with care and attention to detail, resulting in a final product that is both delicious and nutritious for cats.
The manufacturing process for Smalls Cat Food involves a combination of traditional cooking methods and modern technology. The company’s chefs and nutritionists work together to develop recipes that meet the highest standards of nutritional quality and palatability. Once the ingredients are selected and prepared, they are cooked in small batches to preserve the natural flavors and textures of the food. The final product is then packaged and shipped directly to customers, ensuring that every cat receives the freshest and most wholesome food possible.
Is Smalls Cat Food raw or cooked?
Smalls Cat Food is cooked, but not in the traditional sense. While the company does use high-heat cooking methods to ensure the safety and sterility of their products, they also take great care to preserve the natural nutrients and flavors of the ingredients. This approach allows Smalls to create a cooked cat food that is both safe and nutritious, while also maintaining the palatability and freshness that cats prefer. By using a combination of gentle cooking methods and careful ingredient selection, Smalls is able to create a cooked cat food that is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of feline companions.
The cooking process used by Smalls is designed to enhance the bioavailability of the nutrients in their food, making it easier for cats to digest and absorb the nutrients they need to thrive. At the same time, the company’s commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients ensures that every batch of Smalls Cat Food meets the highest standards of nutritional quality and safety. Whether you’re looking for a cooked cat food that is easy to digest or a nutritious and balanced diet that will support your cat’s overall health and wellbeing, Smalls Cat Food is a great option to consider.
What are the benefits of feeding my cat Smalls Cat Food?
Feeding your cat Smalls Cat Food can have a number of benefits, from improved digestion and reduced shedding to increased energy and a healthier coat. Because Smalls uses only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, their food is highly palatable and easy to digest, reducing the risk of digestive upset and other health problems. Additionally, the company’s commitment to using named protein sources (such as chicken or salmon) and whole food ingredients ensures that every batch of Smalls Cat Food is rich in the nutrients and antioxidants that cats need to thrive.
By feeding your cat Smalls Cat Food, you can help support their overall health and wellbeing, from the inside out. The company’s recipes are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of cats, with a focus on providing balanced and complete nutrition that supports optimal health and happiness. Whether you’re looking for a food that will help manage a specific health condition or simply want to provide your cat with the best possible nutrition, Smalls Cat Food is a great option to consider. With its high-quality ingredients, gentle cooking methods, and commitment to nutritional excellence, Smalls Cat Food is the perfect choice for cat owners who want the best for their feline friends.
Can I customize my cat’s diet with Smalls Cat Food?
Yes, Smalls Cat Food offers a range of recipes and customization options to meet the unique needs and preferences of your cat. From grain-free and limited-ingredient diets to recipes formulated for specific life stages or health conditions, Smalls has a food that is tailored to meet the unique needs of your feline companion. The company also offers a range of flavor options and textures, from kibble and canned food to raw and cooked diets, ensuring that every cat can find a Smalls recipe that they love.
To customize your cat’s diet with Smalls, simply visit the company’s website and take their online quiz, which will help you determine the best recipe and feeding schedule for your cat based on their age, health status, and lifestyle. You can also contact Smalls’ customer service team for personalized recommendations and advice on how to transition your cat to a new food or manage a specific health condition. With Smalls Cat Food, you can trust that your cat is getting the best possible nutrition, tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
How do I transition my cat to Smalls Cat Food?
Transitioning your cat to Smalls Cat Food is easy and straightforward, thanks to the company’s gradual transition plan. To start, simply mix a small amount of Smalls Cat Food with your cat’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion of Smalls over a period of 7-10 days. This will allow your cat’s digestive system to adjust to the new food and reduce the risk of digestive upset or other health problems. You can also consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice on how to transition your cat to a new food, especially if they have a specific health condition or sensitivity.
It’s also important to monitor your cat’s progress and adjust the transition plan as needed. If your cat is experiencing any digestive upset or other health problems during the transition, you can slow down the transition process or seek advice from your veterinarian. Smalls Cat Food also offers a range of resources and support to help you transition your cat to their food, including online tutorials, customer service, and veterinary advice. By following these steps and seeking support when needed, you can help ensure a smooth and successful transition to Smalls Cat Food for your feline companion.
Is Smalls Cat Food safe for my cat to eat?
Yes, Smalls Cat Food is safe for your cat to eat, thanks to the company’s commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, as well as their strict safety and quality control protocols. Every batch of Smalls Cat Food is tested for safety and purity, ensuring that every cat receives a nutritious and balanced diet that meets the highest standards of quality and safety. The company also uses a range of safety measures, including HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification, to ensure that every step of the manufacturing process meets the highest standards of safety and quality.
Smalls Cat Food is also formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) and NRC (National Research Council), ensuring that every recipe provides balanced and complete nutrition for cats. The company’s commitment to safety and quality is reflected in their manufacturing process, from the sourcing of ingredients to the final packaging and shipping of their products. By choosing Smalls Cat Food, you can trust that your cat is getting a safe and nutritious diet that will support their overall health and wellbeing.
Where can I buy Smalls Cat Food and what is the cost?
Smalls Cat Food is available for purchase directly from the company’s website, as well as through a range of authorized retailers and pet food stores. The cost of Smalls Cat Food will vary depending on the recipe and quantity you choose, as well as any discounts or promotions that may be available. On average, Smalls Cat Food costs between $50 and $75 per month for a typical adult cat, although this can vary depending on your cat’s size, age, and activity level.
To get started with Smalls Cat Food, simply visit the company’s website and take their online quiz, which will help you determine the best recipe and quantity for your cat. You can also contact Smalls’ customer service team for personalized recommendations and advice on how to get started with their food. With its high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and commitment to safety and quality, Smalls Cat Food is a great value for cat owners who want the best for their feline friends. By choosing Smalls, you can trust that your cat is getting a nutritious and delicious diet that will support their overall health and wellbeing.