A commitment to using fresh regional ingredients and high-quality meat formulations has made Acana one of the most highly recommended pet food brands in the market. But, is it the right choice for your furry friend? In this unbiased Acana cat food review, we will explore the key factors that pet owners should consider before making a decision.
The Pawsoha Standard – Analyzing Acana with Expertise
At Pawsoha, we have evaluated Acana cat food based on our own rigorous standards. We have analyzed factors such as species-appropriateness, ingredient quality, product variety, price, customer experience, and recall history. Here’s how Acana rates in each area:
- Species-Appropriateness: Acana cat food receives top marks for providing nutrition that is suitable for feline physiology and dietary needs.
- Ingredient Quality: Acana uses high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring the best possible nutrition for your cat.
- Product Variety: Although Acana’s cat food selection is limited to their Regionals line, they offer a range of recipes inspired by different regions.
- Price: Acana falls within a moderate price range, making it an affordable option compared to other high-quality pet food brands.
Based on our analysis, we give Acana cat food a B- grade.
About Acana
Acana is a renowned cat and dog food brand created by Champion Petfoods, a Canadian company known for its high-meat, grain-free dry food made from locally-sourced ingredients. Champion Petfoods has been in operation since 1985 and has become Canada’s largest pet food manufacturing company, selling its products in over 70 countries worldwide.
Sourcing and Manufacturing
Acana cat food is made in Canada and the United States. Buyers in the United States, Central America, and South America receive Acana food manufactured in the company’s DogStar kitchens located in Kentucky. Those in Canada, Europe, and Asia purchase Acana made in the company’s NorthStar kitchen in Alberta. The company’s commitment to using fresh regional ingredients means that suppliers and formulations may vary depending on the location.
Champion’s DogStar kitchens are strategically located in Kentucky’s farming community, allowing them easy access to fresh regional ingredients. In fact, most Acana ingredients arrive at the DogStar kitchen within 48 hours of being harvested. The DogStar kitchens also boast 25,000 square feet of cooler space to store over 500,000 pounds of fresh ingredients. Acana does not outsource their manufacturing and solely produces pet food under their brand name.
Has Acana Cat Food Been Recalled?
While Acana cat food has not been recalled, its sister brand, Orijen, has experienced a recall in the past. Orijen foods had to undergo gamma irradiation treatment before being sold in Australian stores, which led to unintended consequences. Although Acana foods were not affected, it’s essential to note that Acana’s parent company, Champion Petfoods, faced a class-action lawsuit in 2018. The lawsuit alleged that the company failed to disclose the presence of heavy metals and toxins. However, the levels of heavy metals found in Acana foods fell within the maximum tolerable levels set by the FDA.
What Kinds of Cat Food Does Acana Offer?
Acana offers a limited selection of cat food compared to their extensive dog food offerings. Their cat food line is primarily focused on their Regionals recipes, which are inspired by different regions. These recipes include Meadowland, Wild Atlantic, and Grasslands for the US market, and Wild Prairie, Pacifica, Grasslands, and Ranchlands for the Canadian market. Acana Regionals foods are made with at least 70% meat, incorporating muscle meat, organs, and cartilage in their “WholePrey ratios.”
Top 3 Acana Cat Food Recipes Reviewed
- Acana Regionals Grasslands Cat Food: “When I adopted my cat, I wanted to feed her the best cat food out there, so I Googled Best Cat Food and Acana popped up. After a few weeks, her coat was shiny and she looked healthier than when I adopted her. Even the vet said her coat was shiny and soft. Healthier food, healthier cat!” – Donna Brown
- Acana Regionals Meadowland: “I have been feeding it to our two cats for about a month, and the oldest cat of 12 years acts like she did when she was 5. More energy, fur not as oily, more alert… This is the best cat food we have ever tried, and both cats love it.” – Vespasian
- Acana Appalachian Ranch: “Something has been wrong with both of our cats since we switched to this food. A high-quality food shouldn’t have them visiting the litter box 3x a day and filling it up. When we transitioned them to this food, we did so slowly and properly, and followed the feeding guidelines. Since switching to a different food, they’re back to normal.” – John Smith
How Much Does Acana Cat Food Cost?
Acana is a moderately-priced cat food brand. According to the company’s feeding guidelines for an 11-lb cat, Acana costs about $0.64 to $0.75 per day, placing it in the same price range as other high-quality dry cat food brands such as Merrick Backcountry, Taste of the Wild, and Wellness CORE grain-free.
Conclusion
Acana cat food offers exceptional quality and nutrition for your feline companion. With its focus on using fresh regional ingredients and high meat inclusions, Acana sets itself apart from other kibble brands. However, it’s important to note that the brand’s emphasis on varied meat proteins may not be suitable for cats with food sensitivities or allergies. Additionally, some customers have reported inconsistencies in Acana’s products since the transition to the United States manufacturing plant. While these issues are not prevalent, it’s vital to consider them when making your decision. Acana cat food is available for purchase exclusively through independent pet specialty retailers and veterinary practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have any questions about Acana cat food? Here are some commonly asked questions:
Where is Acana cat food sold?
Acana cat food is sold both online and through authorized independent pet specialty retailers and veterinary practices. We recommend purchasing from authorized retailers to ensure superior customer service and access to the Champion Petfoods 100% satisfaction guarantee.Is Acana cat food suitable for cats with food sensitivities?
Acana’s emphasis on varied meat proteins may not be the best choice for cats with food sensitivities or allergies. It’s important to consider your cat’s specific dietary needs and consult with a veterinarian if necessary.Can I buy Acana cat food from non-authorized dealers?
While non-authorized dealers, such as Chewy/PetSmart, Jet, Walmart, and eBay, may sell Acana cat food, they may not provide the same level of customer service and support as authorized retailers. We recommend purchasing from authorized retailers for a better experience.How does the price of Acana cat food compare to other brands?
Acana falls within the moderate price range for high-quality cat food brands. When comparing prices, Acana is similar to brands such as Merrick Backcountry, Taste of the Wild, and Wellness CORE grain-free dry cat food.
For more information on Acana cat food and to explore their product offerings, visit the official Pawsoha website.