
Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Salmon Dry Cat Food
Raw-Inspired, High-Protein Nutrition for Cats
Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Salmon Dry Cat Foodis a premium, high-protein dry cat food made withreal wild-caught salmon as the first ingredient. Crafted to mimic the natural diet of cats in the wild, this formula is enriched withfreeze-dried raw coatingfor maximum flavor, nutrient preservation, and bioavailability. The grain-free recipe supports lean muscle, promotes skin and coat health, and fuels daily energy—all without artificial additives, fillers, or grains.
It’s a smart choice for pet parents seekingancestral, raw-inspired nutritionwith the convenience of dry kibble.
What Are the Benefits of Instinct Salmon Cat Food?
Instinct’s salmon formula goes beyond basic nutrition, delivering targeted health benefits:
Wild-Caught Salmon as First Ingredient: Rich in animal protein and omega-3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA) for muscle development, brain function, and coat health.
Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble: Offers raw taste and nutrition in a shelf-stable form, appealing to even the pickiest cats.
Grain-Free & Gluten-Free: No corn, wheat, soy, or by-product meals—suitable for cats with food sensitivities or allergies.
Supports Digestive Health: Formulated with natural fiber and essential nutrients for optimal gut function and firm stools.
Made in the USA with Quality Ingredients: Sourced responsibly and prepared in Instinct’s own kitchens for complete transparency and safety.
Why Choose a Raw-Inspired, High-Protein Salmon Formula?
Cats are obligate carnivores that thrive on protein from animal sources. Instinct’s raw-coated kibble delivers:
Ancestral-style nutritionthat matches feline biology
Enhanced taste and nutrient absorption through minimal processing
Convenient raw benefits without refrigeration or mess
High digestibility and reduced risk of food-related inflammation
What Ingredients Are in Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Salmon Cat Food?
Instinct uses clean, high-quality ingredients with no artificial preservatives or colors.
| Category | Ingredients Included |
|---|---|
| Primary Protein | Real Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal |
| Healthy Fats | Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Fish Oil |
| Carbohydrate Sources | Peas, Tapioca, Chickpeas |
| Fiber & Digestive Aids | Dried Tomato Pomace, Montmorillonite Clay |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Taurine, Vitamin E, Zinc, Folic Acid, Copper |
| Raw Coating | Freeze-Dried Salmon & Natural Flavor |
No artificial colors, preservatives, potato, or grains.
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Guaranteed Units |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 43% min |
| Crude Fat | 18% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3% max |
| Moisture | 9% max |
| Vitamin E | 100 IU/kg min |
| Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) | 85 mg/kg min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.8% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2% min |
| Bacillus Coagulans | 60,000,000 CFU/lb min |
Dosage and Administration
Always consult your veterinarian for exact dosage instructions depending on your pet’s health and dietary needs.
Feeding Guidelines (Daily):
| Weight of Cat | Adult Maintenance | Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|
| 5 lbs | ⅜ cup | ¼ cup |
| 10 lbs | ⅝ cup | ½ cup |
| 15 lbs | ¾ cup | ⅝ cup |
Transition gradually over 5–7 days.
Provide fresh water at all times.
Adjust serving size for age, activity level, and health condition.
Are There Any Side Effects or Precautions?
Instinct Original is generally safe for adult cats, but consider the following:
Transition Period: Some cats may experience loose stool or appetite changes during the initial switch.
Fish Sensitivity: Avoid if your cat has known seafood allergies.
Storage Tips: Keep sealed in original packaging, store in a cool, dry area. Use within 45 days of opening for peak freshness.
How Does Instinct Original Compare to Other Salmon-Based Cat Foods?
| Feature | Instinct Original Salmon | Standard Salmon Cat Food |
|---|---|---|
| Real Salmon as First Ingredient | ✅ | ✅ |
| Raw-Coated Kibble for Taste & Nutrition | ✅ | ❌ |
| No Potato, Corn, Wheat, or Soy | ✅ | ❌ |
| Freeze-Dried Ingredients | ✅ | ❌ |
| High Protein from Animal Sources | ✅ | Partial or plant-based |
Shipping & Returns
Shipping Policy: HardyPaw offer all types of shipping options (Ground, Express, Priority, International) depending on the urgency of the product requirements. To know about our shipping policy in detail, click here.
Refund policy: If you face any issue with our product and want to return it, read our refund policy carefully.
Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Salmon Cat Food FAQs
1.What is Instinct Original Salmon Cat Food used for?
It supports complete adult cat health by promoting muscle development, digestive wellness, and shiny coat with grain-free, protein-rich, raw-inspired nutrition.
2.Is Instinct Salmon good for cats with food sensitivities?
Yes, it’s free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and by-product meals, making it ideal for cats with digestive issues or skin reactions.
3.Does this food support skin and coat health?
Absolutely. With high omega-3 fatty acid content from salmon and fish oil, it helps reduce inflammation, dandruff, and promotes a glossy coat.
4.Can this be fed to indoor cats?
Yes, its high-quality protein and controlled fat content make it suitable for both indoor and moderately active cats.
5.Is Instinct’s raw coating safe for cats?
Yes. The freeze-dried raw coating is safely processed to retain nutrients without harmful pathogens—offering all the benefits of raw in a convenient form.
Trusted Resources on Key Nutritional Concepts
Thank you for shopping with us. This Shipping Policy outlines how and when orders are processed, shipped, and delivered after being placed on our website. By placing an order, you agree to the terms described below.
1. Order Processing Time
Order Cut-Off Time: Orders placed on business days before 6:00 PM local business time are considered received on the same day.
Orders placed after 6:00 PM, on weekends, or on public holidays will be processed on the next business day.
Processing Time: Orders are typically processed and prepared for shipment within 1–5 business days after the order is received.
Processing time includes order verification, quality checks, and packaging.
Processing time does not include shipping or delivery time.
2. Shipping Methods and Delivery Time
We currently offer the following shipping methods at checkout:
Priority Shipping: $5.99
Expected delivery time: 1–2 business days
Standard Shipping: $2.99
Expected delivery time: 3–6 business days
Free Shipping: $0
Expected delivery time: 5–8 business days
Delivery times are estimated from the time the order has been shipped and may vary depending on the shipping destination, carrier operations, weather conditions, holidays, or other unforeseen delays.
Estimated delivery times are provided for reference only and are not guaranteed.
3. Shipping Carriers
We work with reliable third-party shipping carriers to deliver your orders safely and efficiently. Carrier selection is determined based on destination, package size, and service availability.
Carrier delays are outside of our control, and we are not responsible for delays caused by the carrier.
4. Shipping Costs
We ship orders to addresses within the United States.
Shipping costs are displayed at checkout based on the shipping method selected by the customer.
Available shipping options may include Priority Shipping, Standard Shipping, and Free Shipping.
No additional standard shipping fees will be charged beyond the shipping cost shown at checkout.
5. Order Tracking
Once your order has shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation email containing tracking information if available.
Please allow up to 48 hours for tracking details to become active.
6. Incorrect or Incomplete Address
Please ensure that your shipping address is accurate and complete at checkout.
We are not responsible for delays caused by incorrect or incomplete address information, or for packages that are lost or undeliverable due to address errors.
Additional shipping or handling fees may apply for re-delivery.
7. Lost or Delayed Shipments
If your order has not arrived within the estimated delivery timeframe, please contact our customer support team.
We will assist in investigating the issue with the carrier.
While we strive to help resolve shipping issues, we are not responsible for delays or losses caused by third-party carriers.
8. Damaged Packages
If your package arrives damaged, please contact us within a reasonable time after delivery and provide clear photos of the damaged packaging and items.
We will review the case and assist according to our Return & Refund Policy.
9. Policy Updates
We reserve the right to modify or update this Shipping Policy at any time.
Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on this page.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding this Shipping Policy or your order status, please contact us using the contact information provided in the footer.
Thank you for shopping with us. This Return & Refund Policy explains the terms and conditions under which returns and refunds are accepted for purchases made through our website. By placing an order, you agree to the terms outlined below.
1. No Exchange Policy
We do not offer exchanges at this time.
This policy allows us to maintain efficient inventory management, faster order processing, and consistent product availability for all customers. If you would like a different item, size, color, or version, please return the original item (if eligible) and place a new order separately.
2. Return Eligibility
You may request a return if all of the following conditions are met:
The return request is submitted within 30 days of confirmed delivery
The item is unused, unwashed, and in its original condition
The item includes all original packaging, tags, accessories, and documentation
The item is not listed as non-returnable (see Section 3)
Returns requested after the 30-day period will not be accepted.
3. Non-Returnable Items
The following items are not eligible for return:
Items marked as Final Sale or Non-Returnable at the time of purchase
Gift cards or store credit
Digital products or downloadable content
Items that show signs of use, damage, or alteration not caused by us
4. How to Initiate a Return
To start a return, please contact our customer support team and provide:
Your order number
The item(s) you wish to return
Reason for return (for internal reference only)
Returns sent without prior authorization may be refused.
5. Return Shipping
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to a defective or incorrect item.
We recommend using a trackable shipping method, as we are not responsible for lost or damaged return shipments.
Original shipping fees are non-refundable, except where required by law.
6. Refunds
Once we receive and inspect your returned item, we will notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund.
If approved:
Refunds will be issued to the original payment method
Processing typically takes 1–3 business days, depending on your payment provider
Refund amounts may be reduced for items returned in unacceptable condition
7. Damaged or Incorrect Items
If you receive an item that is damaged, defective, or incorrect, please contact us within a reasonable time after delivery and provide clear photos of the issue. We will review the case and, if approved, issue a refund in accordance with this policy.
8. Refused or Undeliverable Shipments
Orders that are refused or returned due to incorrect shipping information may be subject to additional handling or shipping fees, which may be deducted from the refund amount.
9. Policy Updates
We reserve the right to update or modify this Return & Refund Policy at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on this page.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding this Return & Refund Policy or need assistance with a return, please contact us using the contact information provided in the footer.
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