Choosing high-quality cat food made with fresh, whole ingredients is increasingly important for pet owners. The Honest Kitchen has gained recognition for providing premium cat food that meets these standards. While their products may come at a higher price, the quality and nutritional value they offer make it a worthwhile investment. With a wide variety of textures and proteins available, even the pickiest of cats will find something to enjoy.
Who Makes The Honest Kitchen and Where Is It Produced?
The Honest Kitchen is a privately owned company based in San Diego, California. They produce their own foods and source 84% of their ingredients from North American suppliers. The remaining ingredients are carefully selected from suppliers in Europe, Asia, and South America. Only a small percentage of their ingredients come from Northern Africa.
The company was founded in 2002 by Lucy Postins, whose dedication to providing a high-quality diet for her own dog led to the creation of The Honest Kitchen.
Which Types of Cats Is The Honest Kitchen Best Suited For?
The Honest Kitchen's cat foods are formulated for adult cats. They offer options with lower calorie content, ideal for older cats or cats with low activity levels. These foods are rich in protein, healthy fats from ingredients like salmon and flaxseeds, and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, ensuring all the necessary nutritional needs of adult cats are met. Although they don't have specific diets for kittens, their foods are suitable for healthy kittens as well.
Discussion of the Primary Ingredients (Good and Bad)
Chicken
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein for cats. The Honest Kitchen ensures that the chickens used in their foods are raised in humane and healthy environments.
Salmon
Salmon is another great source of protein for cats, and it's low in calories but high in healthy fats. It supports skin and coat health, as well as joint, brain, and heart health.
Broth
High-moisture foods are essential for cats to stay hydrated, as they tend to drink too little water. Broths used in The Honest Kitchen's foods serve this purpose and also enhance palatability.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and are beneficial for diabetic cats. They are also high in fiber, supporting digestive health.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a fiber-rich root vegetable that benefits digestive health, eye health, and the immune system. They have also shown potential for reducing the risk of certain cancers.
Blueberries
Blueberries are highly nutritious fruits packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. They support immunity, heart health, skin health, and can potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers.
High-Quality Ingredients
The ingredients used in The Honest Kitchen's cat foods are of the highest quality. The company prides itself on providing human-grade foods for pets, sourcing ingredients only from trusted and reliable vendors. Their products are free from fillers and protein meals, prepared using methods like dehydration, roasting, and cold pressing to maintain maximum nutrient content. The finely ground ingredients aid digestion and retain their natural colors and smells, making them appealing to cats.
Variety
One of the key advantages of The Honest Kitchen is the variety they offer. From dry kibble to wet foods in different textures, food toppers, and dehydrated foods that can be rehydrated with warm water, there is something for every cat's preference. They also provide multiple protein options, including diets free of common allergens.
Certified B Corp
As a Certified B Corp, The Honest Kitchen is committed to protecting the planet and making a difference. They work with trusted suppliers practicing conscientious sourcing and employ production methods that are environmentally friendly. Solar energy powers 46% of their production. The company offers transparency through its Impact Report, showcasing its adherence to B Corp standards. Furthermore, 71% of their staff identifies as female, and each employee contributes at least 40 hours of volunteer work annually.
Price
The quality and integrity of The Honest Kitchen's products mean that they come at a higher price compared to average cat food brands. While this might pose a challenge for tighter budgets, the nutrient density of these foods allows for smaller portions, helping offset the cost.
Our Experience With The Honest Kitchen
In our household, The Honest Kitchen cat food has been well received. Our cats, Nutmeg, Noodles, and Aslan, each have their preferences. Nutmeg was particularly obsessed with the Smittens White Fish treats, while Noodles and Nutmeg both enjoyed the pate food and minced wet foods. Aslan, being unable to eat dry food, found the dehydrated food options delightful. The goat's milk powder pouches divided opinions among our cats.
Overall, we feel confident about the quality of The Honest Kitchen products. While not all of the items were consistent favorites among our cats, some have become staples, ensuring a well-rounded and nutritious diet for them.
Conclusion
The Honest Kitchen provides high-quality cat food, showcasing sustainable and responsible manufacturing and sourcing practices. With a wide variety of flavors and textures available, their products cater to diverse feline preferences. While specific diets for kittens and senior cats are not offered, the foods are suitable for healthy kittens and older cats.
If supporting companies dedicated to humane treatment and sustainability is important to you, The Honest Kitchen's Certified B Corp status is a positive quality. The slightly higher price tag reflects the company's integrity and the exceptional quality of its products. Despite the cost, we would definitely recommend The Honest Kitchen for pets who deserve nothing but the best.
