Are you curious about Who Makes Nine Lives Cat Food and whether it’s the right choice for your feline friend? Nine Lives cat food, known for its affordability and iconic spokescat, has been a popular option for cat owners for over five decades. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we provide an unbiased and in-depth look at the brand, exploring its ingredients, sourcing, recall history, and customer reviews, helping you make an informed decision about your cat’s diet.
1. Understanding Nine Lives Cat Food
1.1. What Is Nine Lives?
Nine Lives is a well-known cat food brand established in 1957. It gained widespread recognition through its association with Morris the Cat, an orange tabby discovered in 1968, who became the face of its advertising campaigns. Known for its affordable pricing, Nine Lives is a popular choice for many cat owners.
1.2. Who Is the Manufacturer of Nine Lives Cat Food?
Nine Lives is produced by Big Heart Pet Brands, a subsidiary of The J.M. Smucker Company. Big Heart Pet Brands also owns other popular pet food brands such as Meow Mix, Natural Balance, Nature’s Recipe, and Milo’s Kitchen.
1.3. Where Is Nine Lives Cat Food Made?
Nine Lives dry cat food is manufactured in facilities located in Kansas and Pennsylvania. The wet cat food production is split between facilities in the United States and international manufacturers. The company sources most of its ingredients from North America, but specific details on sourcing practices are limited.
2. Evaluation of Nine Lives Cat Food
2.1. Species-Appropriateness
2.1.1. What Does Species-Appropriate Mean for Cats?
A species-appropriate diet for cats should be high in animal protein, moderate in fats, and low in carbohydrates. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to efficiently process nutrients from animal sources.
2.1.2. How Does Nine Lives Measure Up?
Nine Lives cat food generally contains a moderate amount of protein but often includes plant-based proteins and high carbohydrate content, which may not be ideal for a cat’s natural dietary needs.
2.2. Ingredient Quality
2.2.1. What to Look for in Quality Cat Food Ingredients?
High-quality cat food should prioritize named meat sources (such as chicken, beef, or fish), healthy fats, and minimal fillers or artificial additives. Avoid foods with excessive plant-based proteins and generic “meat by-products.”
2.2.2. How Does Nine Lives’ Ingredient Quality Fare?
Nine Lives products often include poultry and meat by-products, plant proteins, and artificial additives. This may not be the best choice for cat owners seeking premium, natural ingredients.
2.3. Product Variety
2.3.1. What Types of Cat Food Products Should a Brand Offer?
A good cat food brand should offer a variety of options, including dry kibble, wet food, and specialized formulas for different life stages or health conditions.
2.3.2. What Variety Does Nine Lives Provide?
Nine Lives offers a decent selection of dry and wet cat food options, including different flavors and formulations. The product lineup includes six varieties of dry cat food and an expansive selection of wet products, such as Tender Morsels, Meaty Paté, Protein Plus®, and Hearty Cuts.
2.4. Price
2.4.1. How Should Cat Food Prices Be Evaluated?
Price should be evaluated in relation to the quality of ingredients and nutritional value. While affordability is important, the cheapest option may not always be the best for your cat’s health.
2.4.2. Is Nine Lives Affordable?
Nine Lives is one of the most affordable cat food brands available. Its dry food costs around $0.10 per day, while its wet food costs approximately $0.77 per day for a 10-lb cat, making it a budget-friendly option.
2.5. Customer Experience
2.5.1. What Factors Influence Customer Experience?
Customer experience is influenced by factors such as product availability, ease of purchase, customer service, and overall satisfaction with the product’s impact on their cat’s health and well-being.
2.5.2. What Do Customers Say About Nine Lives?
Customer reviews for Nine Lives are mixed. While some customers report satisfaction with the price and palatability, others have concerns about the ingredients and potential health issues in their cats.
2.6. Recall History
2.6.1. Why Is Recall History Important?
A brand’s recall history can indicate the quality control and safety measures in place. Frequent recalls may suggest potential issues with manufacturing or ingredient sourcing.
2.6.2. Has Nine Lives Had Any Recalls?
Yes, Nine Lives has been recalled at least twice. In December 2018, two varieties of 9Lives canned cat food were recalled due to potentially low levels of thiamine (vitamin B1). Additionally, in early January of 2017, several flavors of Meaty Paté canned food were pulled off the shelves due to potential thiamine deficiency.
3. Detailed Review of Top 3 Nine Lives Recipes
3.1. 9Lives Daily Essentials with Chicken, Beef, & Salmon Flavor
3.1.1. Overview
9Lives Daily Essentials with Chicken, Beef, & Salmon Flavor is a dry cat food formulated to provide essential nutrients for adult cats. It is one of the most popular dry food options from Nine Lives.
3.1.2. Ingredients Analysis
The primary ingredients include whole ground corn, chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, soybean meal, and whole wheat. The food is flavored with chicken, beef, and salmon, although the amounts of these ingredients are minimal.
- Pros: Affordable and palatable for many cats.
- Cons: High in carbohydrates, contains plant-based proteins, artificial colors, and BHA (a preservative).
3.1.3. Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 30%
- Crude Fat: 9%
- Crude Fiber: 3%
- Moisture: 12%
3.1.4. Dry Matter Basis
- Protein: 34.09%
- Fat: 10.23%
- Fiber: 3.41%
- Carbs: 52.27%
3.1.5. Caloric Weight Basis
- Protein: 30.66%
- Fat: 22.34%
- Carbs: 47.01%
3.1.6. Key Concerns
- High Carbohydrate Content: Cats require minimal carbohydrates in their diet, and this food has a high carb percentage.
- Artificial Additives: The inclusion of artificial colors like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 are unnecessary and potentially harmful.
- BHA Preservative: BHA is listed as a potential carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program.
3.2. 9Lives Protein Plus with Chicken & Tuna Flavors Dry Cat Food
3.2.1. Overview
9Lives Protein Plus with Chicken & Tuna Flavors Dry Cat Food is marketed as a high-protein option, containing 33 grams of protein per 100 grams of food.
3.2.2. Ingredients Analysis
The ingredient list includes whole ground corn, chicken by-product meal, soybean meal, corn gluten meal, and animal fat. It contains small amounts of tuna meal and artificial colors.
- Pros: Relatively high protein content.
- Cons: High in carbohydrates, contains plant-based proteins, artificial colors, and BHA.
3.2.3. Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 33%
- Crude Fat: 9%
- Crude Fiber: 4%
- Moisture: 12%
3.2.4. Dry Matter Basis
- Protein: 37.5%
- Fat: 10.23%
- Fiber: 4.55%
- Carbs: 47.73%
3.2.5. Caloric Weight Basis
- Protein: 34.07%
- Fat: 22.57%
- Carbs: 43.36%
3.2.6. Key Concerns
- Plant-Based Proteins: The protein sources are not primarily from animal sources, which is not ideal for cats.
- Artificial Colors: The presence of caramel color, yellow 5, and red 40 are unnecessary and may pose health risks.
- BHA Preservative: The inclusion of BHA raises concerns due to its potential carcinogenic properties.
3.3. 9Lives Hearty Cuts with Real Beef & Chicken in Gravy Canned Cat Food
3.3.1. Overview
9Lives Hearty Cuts with Real Beef & Chicken in Gravy Canned Cat Food is a wet food option that includes real beef and chicken in gravy.
3.3.2. Ingredients Analysis
The primary ingredients are water sufficient for processing, meat by-products, beef, chicken, soy protein concentrate, wheat flour, and modified corn starch. It also contains caramel color and added vitamins and minerals.
- Pros: Contains real beef and chicken.
- Cons: Contains meat by-products, plant-based proteins, modified corn starch, and caramel color.
3.3.3. Guaranteed Analysis
- Crude Protein: 8%
- Crude Fat: 2%
- Crude Fiber: 1%
- Moisture: 82%
- Ash: 3%
3.3.4. Dry Matter Basis
- Protein: 44.44%
- Fat: 11.11%
- Fiber: 5.56%
- Carbs: 22.22%
3.3.5. Caloric Weight Basis
- Protein: 47.46%
- Fat: 28.81%
- Carbs: 23.73%
3.3.6. Key Concerns
- Meat By-Products: The use of meat by-products as a primary ingredient is less desirable compared to named meat sources.
- Caramel Color: The inclusion of caramel color is a concern due to potential contamination with carcinogenic chemicals.
- Plant-Based Proteins: The presence of soy protein concentrate is not ideal for obligate carnivores.
4. Customer Reviews and Complaints
4.1. Analysis of Positive Reviews
Positive reviews often highlight the affordability and palatability of Nine Lives cat food. Some customers appreciate the brand for being a budget-friendly option that their cats enjoy. For example, Terri mentioned that “We are thankful for Chewy prices and speed of delivery.” Ronald stated that the “Nine lives wet, cat food…was package very, very well and once it came in, I fed it to the cats. It was very fresh.”
4.2. Common Negative Feedback
Negative reviews frequently mention health issues, such as digestive problems, vomiting, and lethargy. Some customers have reported that their cats became sick after consuming Nine Lives food. Sabina noted that their “cats even the strays I feed reacted really bad to this food…they got terrible tummy problems” and Dennis reported not receiving their order due to delivery issues.
4.3. Interpretation of Customer Sentiment
The mixed customer feedback suggests that while Nine Lives may be an acceptable option for some cats due to its affordability, it might not be suitable for all cats, especially those with sensitivities or dietary needs.
5. Nutritional Analysis and Alternatives
5.1. Deficiencies and Imbalances
Nine Lives cat food may have nutritional imbalances due to its high carbohydrate content and reliance on plant-based proteins. Some formulations may lack sufficient levels of essential nutrients like taurine.
5.2. Superior Alternatives
If you’re seeking more nutritious options within a similar price range, consider brands like Friskies, Fancy Feast, and Sheba. These brands often provide a better balance of animal-based proteins and fewer artificial additives.
5.3. How to Choose the Right Cat Food
When choosing cat food, prioritize options with:
- Named meat sources as the primary ingredients
- Limited plant-based proteins and fillers
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Appropriate levels of essential nutrients
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat’s specific needs and health condition.
6. Navigating Pet Food Recalls
6.1. What Is a Pet Food Recall?
A pet food recall is the removal of a pet food product from the market due to potential health risks or safety concerns.
6.2. How to Stay Informed About Recalls
- FDA Website: Regularly check the FDA’s website for pet food recall announcements.
- Pet Food Brand Websites: Monitor the websites of pet food brands for recall information.
- Pet Industry News: Follow reputable pet industry news sources for updates on recalls and pet food safety.
6.3. Steps to Take During a Recall
- Stop Feeding the Product: Discontinue feeding the recalled product immediately.
- Monitor Your Pet: Watch for any signs of illness in your pet.
- Contact Your Vet: Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has been affected by the recalled food.
- Report the Issue: Report the issue to the FDA and the pet food manufacturer.
7. Common Questions About Nine Lives Cat Food
7.1. Is Nine Lives Cat Food Safe for My Cat?
While many cats consume Nine Lives without issue, some cats may experience health problems due to the ingredients used. Monitor your cat for any adverse reactions.
7.2. What Are the Main Ingredients in Nine Lives Cat Food?
The main ingredients often include whole ground corn, chicken by-product meal, and plant-based proteins.
7.3. Does Nine Lives Cat Food Contain Artificial Additives?
Yes, many Nine Lives formulations contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
7.4. How Does Nine Lives Compare to Other Cat Food Brands?
Compared to premium brands, Nine Lives generally has lower-quality ingredients and higher carbohydrate content.
7.5. Where Can I Purchase Nine Lives Cat Food?
Nine Lives cat food is available at most grocery stores, big box stores, and online retailers like Amazon and Chewy.
7.6. What Are the Different Types of Nine Lives Cat Food Available?
Nine Lives offers both dry and wet cat food options, including formulations like Daily Essentials, Protein Plus, and Hearty Cuts.
7.7. Is Nine Lives Suitable for Cats with Allergies?
Cats with allergies may react to ingredients like chicken, beef, or fish found in Nine Lives cat food. Check the ingredient list carefully.
7.8. How Much Does Nine Lives Cat Food Cost?
Nine Lives is one of the most affordable cat food brands, with dry food costing around $0.10 per day and wet food costing approximately $0.77 per day for a 10-lb cat.
7.9. Can Nine Lives Cat Food Help with Weight Management?
Some Nine Lives formulations may be higher in carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain. Consider lower-carbohydrate options for weight management.
7.10. Are There Any Nutritional Benefits to Feeding My Cat Nine Lives?
Nine Lives provides basic nutrition and essential vitamins and minerals, but may not offer the same level of health benefits as higher-quality brands with more natural ingredients.
8. Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Deciding who makes Nine Lives cat food is just the first step in ensuring your feline friend receives the best possible care. While Nine Lives cat food offers affordability and convenience, it’s important to carefully consider its ingredient quality, nutritional balance, and recall history. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Nine Lives is the right choice for your cat.
At FOODS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing reliable information and resources to help you navigate the world of pet nutrition. If you’re seeking more insights and guidance on choosing the best food for your cat, visit our website at foods.edu.vn or contact us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States or Whatsapp: +1 845-452-9600. We’re here to help you ensure your cat leads a happy, healthy life!
