The 17 Best Cat Foods From Meow Mix
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Meow Mix is without a doubt one of the most popular cat food products. Cats all around the world adore it, which is made in Alabama and Thailand.
Cats, as the jingle suggests, ask for it by name. Meow Mix is a popular among cat owners and cats alike due to its pleasant flavor, low cost, and convenience of access.
Still, Meow Mix isn't the greatest option for every cat.
Meow Mix does not contain the best ingredients, therefore cats with known health issues should choose healthier alternatives that are tailored to their specific needs.
Nonetheless, many cats have lived long and healthy lives on Meow Mix, making it an excellent choice for healthy cats and low-cost owners.
Continue reading BestForPets' (bestforpets.org) review to learn more about Meow Mix.
This in-depth study covers all you need to know about Meow Mix, including its ingredients, recall history, recipes, and the best cat foods from Meow Mix list.
Reviews
Meow Mix Tender Favorites in Sauce with Real Tuna & Whole Shrimp
Finally, our favorite recipe on this list is the Meow Mix Tender Favorites with Real Tuna & Whole Shrimp in Sauce.
This flavor is extremely popular among cats. Even the most fussy eaters enjoy this dish and the flavor of real tuna and shrimp in a cup.
This recipe is particularly appealing to us because it provides more animal-based protein and fat than the dry food alternatives.
In reality, this recipe has approximately 78% protein, whereas the other two have approximately 39% protein. Furthermore, this protein is derived from animals rather than plants.
The main disadvantage of this dish is that cats should not eat fish every day. Though it is appropriate on occasion, recipes with chicken or turkey are far more cat-friendly on a regular basis.
Still, this is a far more manageable disadvantage because you can simply limit how much of this dish you feed your cat.
Pros
- Cats adore it.
- vitamin and mineral supplement
- It contains animal fat.
- Contains animal protein
- Protein accounts for the majority of calories.
Cons
- Priced higher than dry cat food
- Cats should not consume fish on a daily basis.
Dry Cat Food Meow Mix Tender Centers Salmon & White Meat Chicken
Tender Meow Mix Centers Cats love the flavor of Salmon & White Meat Chicken Dry Cat Food.
It has a crispy exterior layer but a juicy middle and blends salmon and chicken. This recipe is full in protein, but cats prefer it for its delectable flavor and wonderful texture.
In terms of components, it does contain animal fat. Chicken by-product meal is also used as a primary protein source.
Although chicken by-product meal is not of high quality, it is still preferable than plant-based protein, which cats have not evolved to consume.
This dry food kind, like the other, has a number of dangerous substances. It provides corn syrup, color, and other dangerous components, for example.
All of these components have been related to feline obesity and other health issues.
Pros
- Affordable
- Simple to locate in the store
- Cats adore it.
- vitamin and mineral supplement
- It contains animal fat.
- Protein is provided through animal byproducts.
Cons
- There are a lot of plant elements in this.
- Animal byproducts are present.
Original Choice Dry Cat Food by Meow Mix
The Meow Mix Original Choice Dry Cat Food is by far their most popular formula.
This original dish, which incorporates the delectable flavors of turkey, salmon, and fish, has been enjoyed by cats for years. It has a delicious flavor that cats adore.
Simultaneously, Meow Mix Original Choice Dry Cat Food is supplemented with key vitamins and minerals, ensuring that your cat receives all of the nourishment it requires.
It also contains animal-sourced fats, which cats require in their diet. The biggest disadvantage of this mix is that it is not produced with high-quality components.
The majority of the protein is derived from maize gluten meal. As previously stated, this is a plant-based protein rather than an animal-based protein.
Furthermore, the notion that it has meat flavors is deceptive. It doesn’t have a lot of animal protein, but it does have animal by-products.
Pros
- Affordable
- Simple to locate in the store
- Cats adore it.
- Vitamin and mineral supplement
- It contains animal fat.
Cons
- Plant protein is present.
- Animal byproducts are present.
Seared Tuna Flavor Meow Mix Bistro Recipes
- Food Type: Dry
- Whole ground maize, chicken by-product meal, soybean meal, corn gluten meal, and beef tallow are the first five ingredients.
- 31% protein, 11% fat, 4% fiber, and 12% moisture are guaranteed.
- Calories in a Cup: 310 kcal
- Price per pound or ounce: $0.92
The first five ingredients in this tuna flavor recipe are the same as in the previous recipe, but the order is somewhat altered.
You might not think much of it until you realize the formula is named after tuna flavor – and tuna doesn’t come until the sixth spot on the list.
Again, the principal source of animal protein is chicken by-product meal.
Having said that, plant proteins from corn and soy contribute significantly to the recipe’s total protein content. This formula’s carbohydrate level is predicted to be around 35%, which is far too high for cats.
The use of artificial color and flavor is another thing we dislike about this dish. Animal digest is also stated, which is commonly used in lower-quality pet diets to add flavor and make the product more acceptable to pets.
Grain-Free Meow Mix with Wild Salmon
- Food Type: Dry
- The first five ingredients are as follows: chicken by-product meal, peas, soy flour, beef fat, and salmon.
- 36% protein, 12% fat, 4% fiber, and 10% moisture are guaranteed.
- Calories in a Cup: 360 kcal per cup
- Price per pound or ounce: $1.18
Meow Mix presently only has two grain-free dry food recipes available. Given the parallels between the first two products examined, it’s not surprising that the salmon and chicken flavors begin with the same four ingredients.
We’re pleased to see an animal protein listed as one of the initial components, and while chicken by-product meal isn’t strictly horrible, it’s not our favorite. We’d rather see fresh fish in the first slot.
This formula has a somewhat lower carbohydrate level than the previous recipe, but it still contains more than 30% carbohydrates.
We like that it’s free of low-quality grains like corn and wheat, but soy is still a red sign. The peas may also contribute to the recipe’s total protein count.
Classic Pate Mixed Grill with Real Beef, Tuna, and Chicken Meow Mix
- Food Type: Wet
- The first five ingredients are chicken broth, meat byproducts, liver, beef, and tuna.
- Analysis guaranteed: 12% protein, 3.5% fat, 0.5% fiber, 78% moisture
- 947 kcal/kg calories per cup
- Price per pound/ounce: $0.21
We frequently discover that, even among low-quality brands, wet food options outperform dry ones. When it comes to Meow Mix, however, it’s difficult to tell.
This Classic Pate dish combines beef, tuna, and chicken tastes. The first ingredient is chicken broth, however the first protein indicated is from undefined “meat by-products.”
This is more troubling than chicken by-products because we have no idea what animal it comes from.
Beef, tuna, and chicken appear on the list, but it’s unclear how much they add to the total protein content. The good news is that the carb content is predicted to be under 2%.
Seafood Entrée in Gravy Meow Mix Savory Morsels
- Food Type: Wet
- Fish broth, tuna, chicken, sardines, and wheat gluten are the first five ingredients.
- Analysis guaranteed: 9% protein, 1.8% fat, 1.5% fiber, 82% moisture
- Calories in a Cup: Unknown
- Price per pound/ounce: $0.21
This Seafood Entrée wet food is interesting because it starts with three sources of fresh, complete animal protein (after fish broth as the first ingredient).
There are also additional sources of animal protein such as shrimp, mackerel, and chicken liver.
The only truly concerning elements in the first half of the list are wheat gluten, sugar, and natural and artificial flavors.
Wheat gluten is a problem because it is both wheat-based and a source of plant protein.
Sugar is never a good addition to cat food, especially since cats cannot perceive sweetness – it is simply empty calories.
In addition to the “natural and artificial tastes,” this product contains additional color.
Again, very low in carbohydrates and unexpectedly high in animal protein, but too many red flags to recommend it to cat owners with good conscience.
Meow Mix Cat Food Evaluation
Overall, Meow Mix is a trustworthy and economical cat food brand that cats all around the world adore.
Although cats enjoy this meal, it frequently contains harmful components and plant-based protein, making it a poor choice for cats with known health issues.
Healthy cats, on the other hand, will be more than satisfied with this food and will most likely live a long life!
Who makes Meow Mix and where does it come from?
Meow Mix has a rich history that dates back to 1974. It was originally owned by the Ralston Purina Company, which is now known as Nestle-Purina.
Since then, the brand has been sold to and purchased by a number of different owners, including Del Monte Foods.
J.M. Smucker purchased Meow Mix in 2015 and incorporated it into the J.M. Smucker Big Heart Pet Brand portfolio.
This company also makes a variety of other cat and dog foods, including Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance and Rachael Ray Nutrish.
Today, all Meow Mix dry food is manufactured in Decatur, Alabama, which also serves as the company’s headquarters. The wet cat food, on the other hand, is made in Thailand.
Regrettably, the organization does not disclose information about its sourcing policies.
Which Cats Are Meow Mix Best Suited For?
Meow Mix is recommended for healthy housecats with no known health issues.
As we’ll see later, Meow Mix may not have the healthiest ingredients, but generations of cats have been raised on it and have had long, healthy lives.
If your cat has no known health issues, they will most likely like Meow Mix.
Which Cats Would Benefit from a Different Brand?
Because Meow Mix’s components aren’t the healthiest, cats with known health issues should avoid it. Cancer, obesity, allergies, and sensitive stomach are all examples of health issues.
Cats with sensitive stomachs, for example, should consider Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Natural Adult Dry Cat Food instead.
If your cat has a known condition, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will recommend a healthier brand that is tailored to your cat’s specific needs.
Primary Ingredients Discussion
The precise ingredients will vary depending on the culinary recipe you choose.
Nonetheless, most Meow Mix snacks contain a few basic ingredients that appear in all of their varieties. Let’s look at the ingredients in both the dry and wet Meow Mix cat foods.
Food that is dry
Meow Mix is most known for their dry food. Cats appear to enjoy the mixture, which is inexpensive and easy to acquire at the grocery store.
Despite these advantages, the ingredients are not of the highest quality. The mixture is high in carbohydrates, and the ingredients are of poor quality.
Corn gluten meal is the principal protein source in many of the dry mixes. Although this is a high-protein component, it is a plant protein that cats do not consume naturally.
Soybean meal is another popular plant protein. Because of its phytoestrogen content, soybean meal is related with greater health problems in cats than corn gluten meal.
Meat byproducts (such as chicken or beef) are used for protein and nutrition in addition to plant proteins.
Meat by-products are cat-safe and preferable to plant protein, but they are not high-quality meat. Some of the more “animal-based proteins” contain merely animal fat and no protein.
Dry cat food also contains components that are not connected to protein. For example, ground whole maize is the first component in many dry mixes.
This component is high in carbohydrates and therefore unsuitable for cats. Nonetheless, the component is included because it provides the kibble a crunch that cats enjoy.
Finally, Meow Mix dry foods contain flavor enhancers as well as supplementary minerals and vitamins. While vitamins and minerals are beneficial to your cat, artificial colors and flavors might be detrimental.
Food That Is Wet
Though the dry Meow Mix cat food is easier to give, cats prefer the wet food the most.
These recipes will feature a protein base blended with gravy and other seasonings. Wet cat food, like dry cat food, comes in a variety of tastes, albeit the ingredients are limited.
In terms of protein, wet meals tend to rely more on animal protein (such as chicken or tuna), which is a good thing.
Plant protein is rarely found in these foods. As a result, the protein source is far more cat-friendly than wet food alternatives.
The animal protein will next be soaked in some kind of oil for the can’s gravy or wetness.
Many of the fish-based alternatives, for example, are marinated in soil-bean oil, which adds richness and taste.
The entire can of food will be stabilized using various stabilizer substances such as guar gum.
These substances are rarely cat-friendly and are frequently linked to cancer and other major health problems, especially when degraded.
A Flavor for Every Cat
One thing we and our cats appreciate about Meow Mix is that it has a flavor for every feline. Because Meow Mix has such a loyal customer base, they have nearly every flavor possible.
Whether your cat like tuna or chicken, Meow Mix provides an option for even the pickiest eaters. Meow Mix’s high carbohydrate and fat content is one of the reasons cats adore it.
Carbohydrates, on the other hand, are addicting and make cats feel full. Fat, on the other hand, tastes fantastic and will keep your cat coming back for more.
Ingredients of poor quality
Even while cats enjoy Meow Mix, it is not necessary to offer it to them on a regular basis. Cats, as previously said, adore Meow Mix due to its high carb and fat content.
Protein, not carbohydrates or fat, should be the star of any cat diet. Both can make your cat overweight and cause additional health problems.
Furthermore, the majority of the protein in Meow Mix chow is of poor grade. To begin with, cats should not consume plant protein.
Furthermore, animal byproducts are of poor quality and are not fresh. Though animal by-products are a better protein source than plant protein, they are still inferior to healthy animal protein.
Even when the recipes call for animal protein, the majority of the ingredients are plant-based. This isn’t necessarily a criticism of Meow Mix.
To get the crunchy texture that cats know and adore, almost all dry cat food kinds are essentially manufactured from plants.
A Brief Examination of Meow Mix Cat Food
Pros
- Cats adore it.
- A wide range of flavors
- Affordable
- Simple to locate in the store
Cons
- It does not include all cat-friendly components.
- Fattening
- Protein sources of poor grade
History of Recalls
Meow Mix’s food has never been recalled, but that does not imply it is fully safe. Meow Mix was discovered to have the highest mycotoxin mold contamination in 2015.
These findings came from a study crowdfunded by a consumer advocacy group.
Mycotoxins are produced by either mold or fungus, and they commonly grow on cereals such as wheat and corn.
Consumption of mycotoxins might result in acute or chronic disease. Small amounts of mycotoxins, for example, can cause cancer, kidney failure, and liver poisoning over time.
What Other Users Have to Say
Before purchasing any food for your beloved feline, do your homework. In addition to our evaluation, you can read what other users have to say about it below.
“My fussy 15-year-old kitty has determined that this is the only meal he will eat,” says Petmom. I like the larger size cups and the ease of use of the peel off cover. It has the consistency of tuna and is very juicy, making it ideal for cats who dislike drinking water.”
“I love this food because it’s the only brand/flavor that my fussy cat seems to like.”
Amazon.com – It is our responsibility as cat owners to provide delicious and nutritious food for our cats. Always read customer reviews first to confirm that you are feeding your cat the best chow on the market.
Some can be found by clicking here.
Where Can I Purchase Meow Mix Cat Food?
Meow Mix is not only one of the most economical cat feeds on the market, but it is also one of the easiest to find.
Meow Mix can be found in almost every major pet store chain, as well as many local shops.
This brand is less likely to be found in speciality pet food retailers. Meow Mix can be found in grocery stores, big box stores, and other places outside pet businesses.
Their items can also be purchased online via Chewy, Amazon, and other pet product stores.
Conclusion
Meow Mix is an inexpensive and convenient brand that cats enjoy.
Despite the fact that it does not contain the healthiest or most cat-friendly ingredients, most healthy cats can live long and healthy lives on this diet.
If your cat has a medical issue, BestForPets (bestforpets.org) recommends consulting with your veterinarian about a cat food designed specifically for your cat’s needs.
If you like Meow Mix, you should try the Tender Favorites with Real Tuna & Whole Shrimp in Sauce.
This recipe included the most protein, and it was animal protein at that. Simply alternate food days, as cats should not eat fish every day.
We hope that our list of the best cat foods from Meow Mix has been helpful in your search for the top option for your kitty!
Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.
Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher
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