Instinct Original Grain Free Real Salmon 12-Can Case - Wet Cat Food

In this review of the Instinct Original Grain Free Real Salmon canned cat food, the bottom line is simple: this is for cat owners who want a high-protein, minimally processed wet diet centered on real, wild caught salmon. The reviewer found the recipe notable for listing salmon and pork liver as the vast majority of the formula, delivering a pate that supports lean muscle and suits cats with sensitivities to common fillers. This review focuses on ingredients, texture, palatability and practical points like packaging and feeding uses.

Key Features

• 95% animal ingredients: The formula is made with 95% salmon and pork liver which supplies concentrated animal protein for strong, lean muscles.
• Wild caught salmon first: Responsibly sourced wild caught salmon is the primary ingredient, giving a recognizable single-meat protein source for cats.
• Grain free recipe: No grain, potato, corn, wheat or soy are included, which helps reduce the risk of common food sensitivities.
• No common fillers or additives: The cans do not contain by-product meals, carrageenan, artificial colors or preservatives, keeping the ingredient list simple.
• Pate texture works as meal or topper: The smooth pate is convenient to serve alone or as a nutrient-dense topper to encourage picky eaters.

Who It's For

This canned salmon recipe is best for cat owners who prioritize a high proportion of real meat in a wet diet, including those feeding kittens, adults and seniors who need a protein-forward meal. It is especially suitable for cats with sensitivities to grains, potatoes or common fillers because the formulation avoids those ingredients and focuses on whole food proteins.

Owners whose cats refuse fish flavors or who need a lower-cost option may want to compare other formulas, as some reviewers noted mixed reactions on smell and palatability. Also, if a veterinarian has recommended a therapeutic diet for a medical condition, a prescription formula should take precedence.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High animal-protein content supports muscle maintenance and active cats.
• Simple ingredient panel with wild caught salmon first, reducing exposure to common fillers.
• Pate consistency is easy to portion and works well as a meal or topper.
• Made without carrageenan, by-product meals, artificial colors or preservatives.

Cons

• Price can be higher than some mainstream wet foods, so value perceptions vary among buyers.
• Some cats may refuse the flavor or react to the smell, so individual acceptance is not guaranteed.

Specifications

Brand	Instinct
Recipe	Real Salmon & Pork Liver
Format	Canned wet cat food, pate
Pack size	5.5 oz cans, case of 12
Grain free	Yes
Key exclusions	No grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, carrageenan, by-product meals
Made	Made in the USA with worldwide ingredients

Our Verdict

Instinct Original Grain Free Real Salmon in the 12-can case is a solid choice for owners who want a high-protein, simple-ingredient wet food centered on wild caught salmon. It is worth buying for cats that accept fish flavors and for households seeking grain free canned options, though budget-conscious shoppers should weigh the cost versus feeding frequency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this food suitable for kittens?
Yes. The recipe is described as complete and balanced for kittens through seniors, so it can be fed across life stages unless a vet advises otherwise.

Does it contain artificial preservatives or colors?
No. The formula is made without artificial colors, preservatives or by-product meals.

Can it be used as a topper?
Yes. The pate texture works well served on its own or as a protein-rich topper to other diets.