Are you wondering how much Smalls cat food costs and if it’s the right choice for your feline friend? At FOODS.EDU.VN, we understand the importance of providing your cat with high-quality, nutritious food. This article breaks down the cost of Smalls cat food, explores its benefits, and helps you decide if it fits your budget and your cat’s dietary needs. We’ll also cover essential aspects like subscription details, available recipes, and customer reviews to give you a complete picture of Smalls cat food.
1. Understanding Smalls Cat Food
Smalls is a popular cat food delivery service that focuses on providing fresh, human-grade meals tailored to your cat’s individual needs. Their recipes are designed to be species-appropriate, high in protein, and low in carbohydrates, reflecting a cat’s natural carnivorous diet. Let’s delve into what makes Smalls stand out and why it might be a good option for your cat’s nutrition.
1.1 What Makes Smalls Unique?
Smalls sets itself apart through several key features:
- Human-Grade Ingredients: Smalls uses USDA-certified ingredients fit for human consumption, ensuring high quality and safety.
- Custom Meal Plans: They offer personalized meal plans based on your cat’s age, weight, activity level, and dietary preferences.
- Fresh Food Delivery: Smalls delivers fresh, homemade-style cat food directly to your door on a subscription basis.
- Species-Appropriate Nutrition: Recipes are formulated to meet a cat’s natural dietary needs, with high protein and low carbohydrate content.
- Minimal Processing: Smalls food undergoes minimal processing to retain nutrients and flavor.
1.2 Types of Food Offered
Smalls primarily offers fresh cat food, which comes in various proteins and textures to cater to different preferences. The available recipes include:
- Smooth Bird: Chicken pâté
- Ground Bird: Minced chicken
- Smooth Other Bird: Turkey pâté
- Ground Other Bird: Minced turkey
- Smooth Fish: Fish pâté
- Smooth Pig: Pork pâté
- Smooth Bird & Fish Dish: Chicken and salmon pâté
- Pulled Bird: Shredded chicken
- Pulled Other Bird: Shredded turkey
These options provide a variety of flavors and textures to keep your cat interested and satisfied.
Smalls offers a variety of fresh cat food formulas designed to meet your cat’s nutritional needs.
1.3 Nutritional Philosophy
Smalls formulates its recipes based on the understanding that cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet rich in animal protein to thrive. Their foods are designed to mimic a cat’s natural prey, providing essential nutrients from high-quality meat sources.
According to Dr. Susan Lauten, a pet nutrition consultant who has guided Smalls’ food development, “Cats require a diet that is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates. Smalls’ recipes are formulated to meet these requirements, providing cats with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.”
2. Breaking Down the Cost of Smalls Cat Food
Understanding the cost of Smalls cat food involves looking at several factors, including the initial sampler pack, ongoing subscription fees, and potential additional charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
2.1 Initial Sampler Pack
When you first sign up for Smalls, you’ll receive a sampler pack containing ten 5-ounce packages of fresh food. This allows your cat to try different flavors and textures to determine their preferences.
- Cost: The sampler pack is typically discounted by 20%, bringing the price down to around $32.
- Shipping: Free shipping is included with the sampler pack.
- Recipes: The recipes included in your sampler pack are determined based on the information you provide about your cat during signup, such as their age, weight, and any known allergies.
2.2 Subscription Costs
After the sampler pack, Smalls operates on a subscription model. Here’s what you need to know about the ongoing costs:
- Price per Package: Each 5-ounce package of Smalls cat food costs $4.
- Subscription Frequency: Deliveries are typically shipped every four weeks.
- Customization: You can adjust your cat’s plan by swapping flavors or changing the number of packets you receive.
- Additional Charges: If you add “Pulled” recipes (shredded chicken or turkey) to your order, there is an additional charge of $0.50 per packet.
2.3 Daily Cost Calculation
The daily cost of feeding your cat Smalls depends on their size, calorie requirements, and the specific recipes you choose. Here’s a general estimate:
- Small Cat (5-8 lbs): Approximately $1.00 – $2.00 per day
- Medium Cat (9-12 lbs): Approximately $2.00 – $3.00 per day
- Large Cat (13+ lbs): Approximately $3.00 – $3.50 per day
These estimates are based on the average calorie needs of cats and may vary depending on your cat’s activity level and metabolism.
2.4 Factors Affecting the Overall Cost
Several factors can influence the total cost of your Smalls subscription:
- Cat’s Size and Calorie Needs: Larger cats require more food, increasing the overall cost.
- Recipe Choices: Some recipes, like the “Pulled” options, come with an additional charge.
- Subscription Adjustments: Modifying your subscription to include more or fewer packets can impact the cost.
- Promotions and Discounts: Smalls occasionally offers promotions and discounts that can help reduce the cost.
2.5 Cost Comparison with Other Brands
When considering the cost of Smalls, it’s helpful to compare it with other cat food brands. Here’s a general comparison:
| Brand | Type | Price Range (per day) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smalls | Fresh, Human-Grade | $1.00 – $3.50 | Custom meal plans, high-quality ingredients |
| Royal Canin | Dry & Wet | $0.50 – $2.00 | Veterinary-recommended, breed-specific formulas |
| Purina Pro Plan | Dry & Wet | $0.40 – $1.50 | Science-backed nutrition, wide variety of options |
| The Honest Kitchen | Dehydrated | $2.00 – $4.00 | Human-grade, whole food ingredients |
As you can see, Smalls is generally more expensive than traditional dry and wet cat food brands like Royal Canin and Purina Pro Plan but comparable to other human-grade options like The Honest Kitchen.
3. Is Smalls Worth the Cost? Evaluating the Benefits
Determining whether Smalls cat food is worth the cost involves weighing the financial investment against the potential benefits for your cat’s health and well-being. Let’s explore the advantages of choosing Smalls:
3.1 High-Quality Ingredients
One of the primary benefits of Smalls is the use of high-quality, human-grade ingredients. This means that the food is made with the same ingredients that you would find in your own meals, ensuring safety and nutritional value.
- USDA-Certified: Smalls uses ingredients that are certified by the USDA for human consumption.
- Sustainably Sourced: The ingredients are sustainably sourced from the United States and Canada.
- No Artificial Additives: Smalls recipes are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
3.2 Species-Appropriate Nutrition
Smalls recipes are formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of cats, with a focus on high protein and low carbohydrate content. This aligns with a cat’s natural carnivorous diet, promoting optimal health and well-being.
- High Protein Content: Smalls foods typically contain over 50% protein on a dry matter basis.
- Low Carbohydrate Content: The recipes are low in carbohydrates, which can be difficult for cats to digest.
- Essential Nutrients: Smalls foods are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure complete and balanced nutrition.
3.3 Potential Health Benefits
Many cat owners report seeing significant health benefits in their cats after switching to Smalls, including:
- Improved Digestion: The high-quality ingredients and species-appropriate nutrition can lead to better digestion and fewer digestive issues.
- Increased Energy Levels: Cats fed Smalls often exhibit higher energy levels and increased activity.
- Shinier Coat: The omega-3 fatty acids in Smalls recipes can promote a healthy, shiny coat.
- Weight Management: The balanced nutrition can help cats maintain a healthy weight.
- Better Litter Box Habits: Some owners report improvements in their cat’s litter box habits.
3.4 Convenience and Customization
Smalls offers a convenient and customizable feeding solution for cat owners. The subscription model ensures that you always have fresh food on hand, and the personalized meal plans make it easy to provide your cat with the right amount of nutrition.
- Home Delivery: Smalls delivers food directly to your door, saving you time and effort.
- Custom Meal Plans: The personalized meal plans take the guesswork out of feeding your cat.
- Flexible Subscription: You can easily adjust your subscription to fit your cat’s needs and your budget.
3.5 Positive Customer Reviews
Many customers rave about the quality of Smalls cat food and the positive impact it has had on their cats’ health. Here are a couple of examples:
- Kelli Sheehan on Trustpilot: “Smalls is the absolute BEST company ever! Mr. Furgusun absolutely loved their food… And I knew he was getting healthy, delicious food that made me feel good inside and out.”
- j f on Trustpilot: “Since I began his Smalls diet, he is already slimming down and has more energy as well as, healthier litter box habits. I feel good knowing I have chosen to give my fur babies a better diet and healthier life.”
These testimonials highlight the potential benefits of feeding your cat Smalls.
Smalls cat food is delivered in convenient packaging, ensuring freshness.
4. Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While Smalls offers many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before making a decision:
4.1 Higher Cost
As mentioned earlier, Smalls is generally more expensive than traditional cat food brands. This can be a significant factor for some cat owners, especially those on a tight budget.
4.2 Subscription Model
The subscription model can be both a pro and a con. While it offers convenience, it also requires you to manage your subscription carefully to avoid unwanted charges.
4.3 Customer Service Issues
Some customers have reported issues with Smalls’ customer service, including difficulties canceling subscriptions or resolving billing errors.
4.4 Palatability Issues
While many cats love Smalls, some may not take to it right away. This can be frustrating, especially given the higher cost of the food.
4.5 Recall History
Smalls has had two voluntary recalls in the past, which may be a concern for some cat owners.
It’s important to weigh these potential drawbacks against the benefits before deciding if Smalls is the right choice for you and your cat.
5. Real-Life Examples: How Cost Affects Different Cat Owners
To better understand how the cost of Smalls cat food affects different individuals, let’s explore a few real-life scenarios:
5.1 The Budget-Conscious Student
Scenario: Sarah is a college student who loves her cat, Whiskers. She wants to provide Whiskers with the best possible nutrition but is on a tight budget.
Cost Analysis: Sarah calculates that feeding Whiskers Smalls would cost her about $60-$90 per month.
Decision: Sarah decides that Smalls is too expensive for her current budget. She opts for a high-quality dry food and supplements it with occasional wet food meals.
Impact: Sarah ensures that Whiskers receives balanced nutrition while staying within her financial means.
5.2 The Working Professional
Scenario: Mark is a working professional with a stable income. He wants to provide his cat, Luna, with the best possible diet and is willing to spend more for quality.
Cost Analysis: Mark estimates that feeding Luna Smalls would cost him about $100-$150 per month.
Decision: Mark decides that Smalls is worth the investment. He appreciates the convenience of home delivery and the high-quality ingredients.
Impact: Luna enjoys a nutritious and delicious diet, and Mark has peace of mind knowing he’s providing her with the best.
5.3 The Retired Senior
Scenario: Helen is a retired senior who loves her cat, Oliver. She has a fixed income and needs to be mindful of her expenses.
Cost Analysis: Helen calculates that feeding Oliver Smalls would cost her about $80-$120 per month.
Decision: Helen decides to try Smalls for a few months to see if it makes a noticeable difference in Oliver’s health. She carefully monitors her budget to ensure she can afford it.
Impact: Oliver enjoys the fresh food, and Helen appreciates the convenience. She adjusts her budget to accommodate the cost, prioritizing Oliver’s well-being.
These examples illustrate how the cost of Smalls cat food can impact different individuals and their decisions.
6. Understanding Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs
Before making a decision about Smalls or any other cat food, it’s essential to understand your cat’s individual nutritional needs. Here are some key factors to consider:
6.1 Age and Life Stage
A cat’s nutritional needs vary depending on their age and life stage:
- Kittens: Kittens require a diet that is high in protein and calories to support their rapid growth and development.
- Adult Cats: Adult cats need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels.
- Senior Cats: Senior cats may require a diet that is lower in calories and higher in certain nutrients to support their aging bodies.
6.2 Activity Level
A cat’s activity level can also impact their nutritional needs:
- Active Cats: Active cats require more calories to fuel their energy expenditure.
- Sedentary Cats: Sedentary cats may need fewer calories to prevent weight gain.
6.3 Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can also influence a cat’s nutritional needs:
- Allergies: Cats with allergies may require a limited-ingredient diet to avoid triggering a reaction.
- Diabetes: Diabetic cats need a diet that is low in carbohydrates to help regulate their blood sugar levels.
- Kidney Disease: Cats with kidney disease may require a diet that is low in phosphorus and protein to support their kidney function.
6.4 Consulting with a Veterinarian
The best way to determine your cat’s individual nutritional needs is to consult with a veterinarian. They can assess your cat’s health, age, activity level, and any underlying health conditions to recommend the most appropriate diet.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), “Your veterinarian is the best resource for determining your pet’s individual nutritional needs. They can help you choose a food that is appropriate for your pet’s age, breed, activity level, and any health conditions they may have.”
7. Exploring Alternatives to Smalls Cat Food
If you’re not sure if Smalls is the right choice for you, there are several alternatives to consider:
7.1 Other Fresh Cat Food Brands
Several other brands offer fresh cat food delivery services, including:
- Nom Nom: Nom Nom offers personalized meal plans with human-grade ingredients.
- Ollie: Ollie provides fresh, vet-formulated recipes delivered to your door.
- Raised Right: Raised Right offers limited-ingredient recipes with whole food ingredients.
7.2 High-Quality Wet Cat Food
High-quality wet cat food can be a good alternative to fresh food, providing moisture and essential nutrients:
- Weruva: Weruva offers a variety of grain-free recipes with high-quality protein sources.
- Ziwi Peak: Ziwi Peak provides air-dried cat food made with whole prey ingredients.
- Wellness: Wellness offers a range of wet cat food options with balanced nutrition.
7.3 Premium Dry Cat Food
Premium dry cat food can be a convenient and affordable option, but it’s important to choose a high-quality brand with appropriate ingredients:
- Orijen: Orijen offers biologically appropriate dry cat food with high protein content.
- Acana: Acana provides grain-free dry cat food with regional ingredients.
- Blue Buffalo: Blue Buffalo offers a variety of dry cat food options with natural ingredients.
7.4 Homemade Cat Food
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also try making your own cat food at home. However, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your homemade recipes are complete and balanced.
According to Lisa A. Pierson, DVM, “If you choose to make your own cat food, it is crucial to follow a recipe that has been formulated by a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that it meets all of your cat’s nutritional needs.”
8. Making an Informed Decision
Choosing the right cat food is a significant decision that can impact your cat’s health and well-being. Here are some final tips to help you make an informed choice:
8.1 Consider Your Budget
Be realistic about your budget and choose a cat food that you can afford to feed consistently.
8.2 Read Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews to get a sense of other cat owners’ experiences with different brands and recipes.
8.3 Talk to Your Veterinarian
Consult with your veterinarian to get personalized recommendations based on your cat’s individual needs.
8.4 Try a Sampler Pack
If possible, try a sampler pack of different cat foods to see which ones your cat enjoys.
8.5 Monitor Your Cat’s Health
Pay close attention to your cat’s health and well-being after switching to a new food. Look for any signs of digestive issues, allergies, or other problems.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision about the best cat food for your feline friend.
9. Smalls Cat Food and FOODS.EDU.VN
At FOODS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing you with accurate and reliable information about pet nutrition. We understand that choosing the right food for your cat can be overwhelming, and we are here to help.
9.1 Further Resources on FOODS.EDU.VN
Explore our website, FOODS.EDU.VN, to discover a wealth of information and resources to deepen your understanding:
- Detailed Nutrition Guides: Access comprehensive guides tailored for different cat breeds and ages, ensuring they receive the precise nutrients they need.
- Recipe Customization Tools: Learn how to adjust recipes for cats with allergies or specific health conditions, ensuring their dietary needs are met.
- Ingredient Deep Dives: Dive into the benefits and potential drawbacks of various ingredients commonly found in cat food, empowering you to make informed choices.
- Seasonal Feeding Strategies: Discover how to adapt your cat’s diet to seasonal changes, optimizing their health throughout the year.
- Interactive Q&A Sessions: Participate in live Q&A sessions with our team of pet nutrition experts to get your burning questions answered.
9.2 Connect With Us
Have more questions about Smalls cat food or other pet nutrition topics? Contact us today for personalized advice and support:
- Address: 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 845-452-9600
- Website: FOODS.EDU.VN
We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your cat’s health and happiness.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Smalls Cat Food
10.1 How Much Does Smalls Cat Food Cost Per Month?
The monthly cost of Smalls cat food varies depending on your cat’s size and calorie needs, but it typically ranges from $60 to $150 per month.
10.2 Is Smalls Cat Food Worth the Price?
Whether Smalls cat food is worth the price depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. Consider the benefits of high-quality ingredients, species-appropriate nutrition, and convenience, as well as the potential drawbacks of higher cost and the subscription model.
10.3 Can I Cancel My Smalls Subscription at Any Time?
Yes, you can cancel your Smalls subscription at any time. However, it’s important to cancel before your next billing date to avoid being charged for another shipment.
10.4 What Ingredients Are in Smalls Cat Food?
Smalls cat food contains human-grade ingredients, including meat, organs, vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals. The specific ingredients vary depending on the recipe.
10.5 Is Smalls Cat Food Good for Picky Eaters?
Many cat owners report that their picky eaters enjoy Smalls cat food. The variety of recipes and textures can help appeal to different preferences.
10.6 Does Smalls Cat Food Offer a Money-Back Guarantee?
Smalls does not offer a money-back guarantee, but they do offer a sampler pack at a discounted price so you can try the food before committing to a full subscription.
10.7 How Does Smalls Cat Food Compare to Other Fresh Cat Food Brands?
Smalls cat food is comparable to other fresh cat food brands in terms of quality and price. Some popular alternatives include Nom Nom, Ollie, and Raised Right.
10.8 Is Smalls Cat Food Grain-Free?
Yes, Smalls cat food is grain-free. The recipes are formulated to be low in carbohydrates and do not contain any grains.
10.9 How Do I Store Smalls Cat Food?
Smalls cat food should be stored in the freezer until you’re ready to use it. Once thawed, it should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few days.
10.10 Where Can I Buy Smalls Cat Food?
Smalls cat food is only available for purchase online through the Smalls website.
We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you better understand the cost of Smalls cat food and whether it’s the right choice for your feline friend. At foods.edu.vn, we are dedicated to providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your pet’s nutrition.
Smalls offers a variety of protein sources and textures to suit your cat’s preferences.
