How Much Is Smalls Cat Food: Pricing, Review & More

“How Much Is Smalls Cat Food” is a frequent question among pet parents seeking premium nutrition for their feline friends, and FOODS.EDU.VN is here to provide the answers. This article dives into the details of Smalls cat food costs, ingredients, and customer reviews, offering a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice for your cat’s dietary needs. Keep reading to discover everything from Smalls’ pricing structure to nutritional benefits, alternative options, and valuable feeding tips.

1. Understanding Smalls Cat Food: An Overview

Smalls Cat Food is a subscription-based service delivering fresh, human-grade cat food directly to your doorstep. Renowned for its high-quality ingredients and species-appropriate formulations, Smalls emphasizes meat-centric recipes with minimal carbohydrates and optimal hydration. Catering to your cat’s carnivorous needs, each recipe features a single animal protein source, promoting digestibility and overall well-being.

1.1. What Makes Smalls Stand Out?

Smalls distinguishes itself through several key factors:

Human-Grade Ingredients: All ingredients are USDA-certified and fit for human consumption, ensuring top-tier quality.
Custom Meal Plans: Smalls tailors meal plans to your cat’s specific needs, considering age, weight, activity level, and dietary preferences.
Fresh and Minimally Processed: The food is fresh, minimally processed, and free from artificial additives, ensuring optimal nutrition and taste.
Convenient Subscription Model: Smalls offers a hassle-free subscription service, delivering fresh food regularly to your doorstep.

1.2. Smalls’ Nutritional Philosophy

Guided by pet nutrition experts like Dr. Susan Lauten, Smalls formulates recipes that meet AAFCO guidelines for nutritional completeness. The focus is on delivering a diet that aligns with a cat’s natural carnivorous instincts, emphasizing high protein content, moderate fat, and low carbohydrates.

2. Decoding the Cost: How Much Does Smalls Cat Food Really Cost?

Determining the exact cost of Smalls cat food involves understanding its subscription model and various factors influencing pricing. A key component to answering “how much is Smalls cat food?” is assessing your cat’s unique needs.

2.1. Initial Investment: The Sampler Pack

New customers begin with a sampler pack containing ten 5-ounce packages of fresh food. This trial pack allows you and your cat to explore different flavors and textures. The sampler pack is typically discounted by 20%, bringing the initial cost down to around $32, including free shipping.

2.2. Ongoing Subscription Costs

After the sampler pack, the subscription continues at the regular price of $4 per 5-ounce package. The total monthly cost varies based on your cat’s size, age, activity level, and caloric needs. Smalls provides personalized meal plans that suggest the appropriate amount of food, ensuring your cat receives the right nutrition without overfeeding.

2.3. Factors Affecting the Price

Several factors influence the overall cost of Smalls cat food:

Cat’s Size and Caloric Needs: Larger, more active cats require more food, increasing the subscription cost.
Recipe Selection: Certain premium recipes, like the Pulled Bird, come with an additional charge of $0.50 per package due to their unique manufacturing process.
Subscription Adjustments: You can adjust the frequency and quantity of your shipments to match your cat’s needs, impacting the overall cost.
Discounts and Promotions: Smalls occasionally offers discounts and promotional codes, providing opportunities to save on your subscription.

2.4. Real-World Cost Examples

To provide a clearer picture, here are a few cost scenarios:

Small Cat (8 lbs): A less active, small cat might require two 5-ounce packages per day, costing approximately $240 per month.
Medium Cat (12 lbs): A moderately active, medium-sized cat might need three packages per day, totaling around $360 per month.
Large Cat (16 lbs): A highly active, large cat could consume four packages daily, amounting to about $480 per month.

2.5. Cost Comparison: Smalls vs. Traditional Cat Food

While Smalls cat food can be more expensive than traditional dry kibble or canned food, the higher cost reflects the superior quality of ingredients and nutritional benefits. Traditional cat foods often contain fillers, artificial additives, and lower-quality protein sources, which can lead to health issues and higher veterinary bills in the long run. Investing in a high-quality diet like Smalls can contribute to better health outcomes, reducing the risk of common feline ailments such as obesity, diabetes, and kidney disease.

Feature	Smalls Cat Food	Traditional Cat Food
Ingredient Quality	Human-grade, USDA-certified	Often lower-quality, may include by-products
Protein Source	Single animal protein, meat-centric	Varies, often contains plant-based proteins
Additives	Free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives	May contain artificial colors, flavors, and fillers
Processing	Fresh and minimally processed	Highly processed, often extruded
Cost	Higher upfront cost	Lower upfront cost
Health Benefits	Improved digestion, coat health, and overall well-being	May lead to health issues over time

2.6. Hidden Costs to Consider

While the subscription cost is the most apparent expense, consider other potential costs:

Storage: Fresh food requires freezer space, so ensure you have sufficient room or consider purchasing an additional freezer.
Transition Period: Introducing new food can sometimes lead to digestive issues. Consult your vet and gradually transition your cat to Smalls to minimize potential problems.
Veterinary Care: While Smalls can improve your cat’s overall health, unexpected veterinary costs can still arise. Budget for routine check-ups and potential emergencies.

3. Exploring the Menu: Smalls Cat Food Recipes

Smalls offers a variety of fresh food recipes to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Each recipe is formulated with high-quality ingredients and designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition.

3.1. Popular Recipes and Their Ingredients

Here are some of the most popular Smalls cat food recipes:

Fresh Ground Bird: Made with chicken, chicken liver, green beans, and kale. It’s a protein-rich and easily digestible option.
Fresh Ground Other Bird: Features turkey, turkey liver, green beans, and kale. It’s a great alternative for cats with sensitivities to chicken.
Fresh Smooth Fish: Combines salmon, cod, green beans, and pumpkin. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.
Fresh Smooth Pig: Contains pork, pork liver, green beans, and kale. It’s a novel protein source for cats with common allergies.
Fresh Smooth Bird & Fish Dish: A multi-protein recipe with chicken, chicken liver, and salmon. It’s ideal for picky eaters who enjoy a mix of flavors.
Fresh Pulled Bird: Made with shredded chicken, green beans, and kale. Its unique texture can appeal to cats who prefer chunky food.

3.2. Nutritional Breakdown of Key Ingredients

Smalls’ recipes are packed with essential nutrients that support your cat’s health. Here’s a closer look at some key ingredients:

Chicken and Turkey: Excellent sources of lean protein, essential for muscle development and maintenance.
Chicken and Turkey Liver: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, supporting overall health and vitality.
Salmon and Cod: Provide omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin, a shiny coat, and cognitive function.
Pork: A novel protein source that can be a good option for cats with sensitivities to more common proteins.
Green Beans and Kale: Offer essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting digestive health.
Pumpkin: A natural source of fiber that can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation.

3.3. Understanding Guaranteed Analysis

Each Smalls recipe comes with a guaranteed analysis that provides valuable information about its nutrient content. Here’s what to look for:

Crude Protein: Indicates the minimum percentage of protein in the food. Look for recipes with high protein content to support your cat’s carnivorous needs.
Crude Fat: Shows the minimum percentage of fat in the food. Healthy fats are essential for energy, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.
Crude Fiber: Represents the maximum percentage of fiber in the food. Fiber supports digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Moisture: Indicates the maximum percentage of moisture in the food. High moisture content is crucial for hydration and kidney health.

3.4. Comparing Recipes: Protein, Fat, and Calorie Content

To make an informed decision, compare the protein, fat, and calorie content of different Smalls recipes. Here’s a quick overview:

Recipe	Protein (Dry Matter Basis)	Fat (Dry Matter Basis)	Calories Per Ounce
Fresh Ground Bird	48.15%	31.48%	40 kcal
Fresh Ground Other Bird	51.79%	35.71%	40 kcal
Fresh Smooth Fish	62.5%	20.83%	36 kcal
Fresh Smooth Pig	61.54%	23.08%	36 kcal
Fresh Smooth Bird & Fish Dish	55.56%	33.33%	43 kcal
Fresh Pulled Bird	76.67%	23.33%	40 kcal

3.5. Addressing Specific Dietary Needs

Smalls’ variety of recipes allows you to address specific dietary needs and preferences. For example:

Sensitive Stomachs: Single-protein recipes like Ground Bird or Ground Other Bird can be easier to digest for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Weight Management: Smooth Fish is lower in calories and fat, making it a good option for overweight cats.
Picky Eaters: The multi-protein Bird & Fish Dish can appeal to cats who enjoy a mix of flavors.
Allergies: Novel protein sources like Smooth Pig can be suitable for cats with common allergies.

4. Real-World Reviews: What Do Customers Say About Smalls?

Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the quality and effectiveness of Smalls cat food. Analyzing both positive and negative feedback can help you make a well-informed decision.

4.1. Analyzing Positive Feedback

Many satisfied customers praise Smalls for its high-quality ingredients, improved digestion, and overall health benefits. Here are some common themes:

High-Quality Ingredients: Customers consistently mention the superior quality of Smalls’ ingredients, noting that the food looks and smells fresh.
Improved Digestion: Many cat owners report that their cats experience improved digestion after switching to Smalls, with fewer instances of vomiting or diarrhea.
Healthier Coat and Skin: The omega-3 fatty acids in Smalls’ recipes contribute to a healthier coat and skin, reducing dryness and itchiness.
Increased Energy Levels: Some customers observe that their cats have more energy and are more playful after starting on Smalls.
Picky Eaters Approved: Even picky eaters often enjoy Smalls, thanks to its fresh taste and variety of recipes.

4.2. Addressing Negative Feedback

While many customers are happy with Smalls, some have raised concerns about customer service, shipping issues, and recipe changes. Here are some common criticisms:

Customer Service: Some customers have reported difficulties contacting customer service or resolving issues with their subscriptions.
Shipping Issues: Delays or incorrect orders have been reported by some customers, leading to frustration.
Recipe Changes: Changes to Smalls’ recipes have caused some cats to reject the food, leading to disappointment among long-time customers.
Subscription Management: The subscription model can be confusing for some, with automatic renewals catching customers off guard.

4.3. Weighing Pros and Cons

To summarize, here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of Smalls cat food:

Pros:

High-quality, human-grade ingredients
Customizable meal plans
Variety of recipes to suit different needs
Improved digestion and overall health
Convenient subscription service

Cons:

Higher cost compared to traditional cat food
Potential customer service and shipping issues
Recipe changes can affect palatability
Subscription management can be confusing

4.4. Tips for a Positive Experience

To maximize your chances of a positive experience with Smalls, consider these tips:

Read Reviews Carefully: Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective.
Start with a Sampler Pack: Try the sampler pack to see if your cat enjoys Smalls before committing to a full subscription.
Manage Your Subscription: Keep track of your renewal date and adjust your subscription as needed to avoid unwanted charges.
Contact Customer Service Proactively: If you have any concerns, reach out to customer service promptly for assistance.
Transition Gradually: Introduce Smalls slowly to your cat’s diet to minimize digestive upset.

5. Alternatives to Smalls: Exploring Other Premium Cat Food Options

While Smalls is a popular choice, several other premium cat food brands offer similar benefits. Exploring these alternatives can help you find the best fit for your cat’s needs and your budget.

5.1. Other Fresh Cat Food Brands

Nom Nom: Offers fresh, human-grade cat food with customizable meal plans.
The Farmer’s Dog: Provides fresh, pre-portioned meals made with high-quality ingredients.
Ollie: Delivers vet-formulated recipes with real meat, fruits, and vegetables.

5.2. High-Quality Dry and Wet Food Brands

Ziwi Peak: Offers air-dried and canned cat food with high meat content and limited ingredients.
খাবার এখন : Provides grain-free, high-protein dry and wet food options.
Blue Buffalo: Offers a range of dry and wet foods with real meat and wholesome ingredients.

5.3. Comparing Ingredients and Nutritional Value

When comparing alternatives, pay close attention to the ingredient list and guaranteed analysis. Look for foods with:

High-Quality Protein Sources: Real meat, poultry, or fish should be the primary ingredients.
Limited Fillers: Avoid foods with excessive grains, corn, soy, or artificial additives.
Essential Nutrients: Ensure the food is fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Appropriate Moisture Content: Wet food should have high moisture content to support hydration.

5.4. Cost Comparison of Alternatives

Compare the cost of Smalls to other premium cat food brands to determine the most affordable option for your budget. Consider the cost per day or per month, and factor in any discounts or promotions.

Brand	Type	Estimated Cost Per Day	Key Features
Smalls	Fresh	$1.00 – $3.50	Human-grade, customizable plans
Nom Nom	Fresh	$1.50 – $4.00	Vet-formulated, fresh ingredients
The Farmer’s Dog	Fresh	$2.00 – $5.00	Pre-portioned, high-quality protein
Ziwi Peak	Air-Dried	$1.20 – $3.80	High meat content, limited ingredients
খাবার এখন	Dry/Wet	$0.80 – $2.50	Grain-free, high-protein options
Blue Buffalo	Dry/Wet	$0.60 – $2.00	Real meat, wholesome ingredients

5.5. Making the Right Choice for Your Cat

Ultimately, the best cat food depends on your cat’s individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as age, health status, activity level, and dietary sensitivities when making your decision. Consult with your veterinarian to get personalized recommendations and ensure your cat is receiving the nutrition they need to thrive.

6. Feeding Tips and Best Practices for Smalls Cat Food

Proper feeding practices are essential to ensure your cat receives the full benefits of Smalls cat food. Follow these tips to maximize your cat’s health and enjoyment.

6.1. Transitioning to Smalls

Gradually transition your cat to Smalls over a period of 7-10 days to minimize digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of Smalls with your cat’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion of Smalls each day.

6.2. Determining the Right Portion Size

Use Smalls’ personalized meal plans as a starting point, but adjust portion sizes based on your cat’s individual needs. Monitor your cat’s weight and body condition, and adjust the amount of food as needed to maintain a healthy weight.

6.3. Storing and Handling Smalls Cat Food

Smalls cat food should be stored in the freezer until ready to use. Thaw the food in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Once thawed, Smalls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

6.4. Monitoring Your Cat’s Health and Response

Pay close attention to your cat’s health and response to Smalls. Look for signs of improved digestion, coat health, and energy levels. If you notice any adverse reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation, consult with your veterinarian.

6.5. Addressing Common Feeding Challenges

Picky Eaters: Offer a variety of Smalls recipes to find one that your cat enjoys. You can also try warming the food slightly to enhance its aroma.
Overeating: Divide your cat’s daily portion into multiple small meals to prevent overeating.
Digestive Issues: If your cat experiences digestive issues, consult with your veterinarian to rule out underlying health problems.

7. Common Questions About Smalls Cat Food (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Smalls cat food:

Is Smalls cat food nutritionally complete?

Yes, Smalls cat food is formulated to meet AAFCO guidelines for nutritional completeness.
Is Smalls cat food safe for cats with allergies?

Smalls offers single-protein recipes that can be suitable for cats with allergies. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your cat.
How long does Smalls cat food last?

Smalls can be stored in the freezer until ready to use. Once thawed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I cancel my Smalls subscription?

Yes, you can cancel your Smalls subscription at any time. Contact customer service for assistance.
Does Smalls offer a money-back guarantee?

Smalls offers a satisfaction guarantee. Contact customer service for more information.
Is Smalls cat food good for weight loss?

Smalls offers recipes that are lower in calories and fat, which can be suitable for weight loss. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat.
How do I adjust my Smalls meal plan?

You can adjust your Smalls meal plan by logging into your account and making changes to your recipe selection and portion sizes.
Is Smalls cat food grain-free?

Yes, Smalls cat food is grain-free.
Does Smalls offer treats?

Yes, Smalls includes a bag of Shameless Pets cat treats with each box.
Where is Smalls cat food made?

Smalls cat food is made in a human food facility in Woodbridge Township, New Jersey.

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9. Conclusion: Is Smalls the Right Choice for Your Cat?

“How much is Smalls cat food?” is just the beginning of your research. Smalls Cat Food is a premium option that offers numerous benefits, including high-quality ingredients, customizable meal plans, and improved digestion. While it may be more expensive than traditional cat food, the investment can be worthwhile for pet owners seeking to provide their feline companions with optimal nutrition. By carefully considering the costs, recipes, customer reviews, and feeding tips outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about whether Smalls is the right choice for your cat.

Smalls Cat Food Products

9.1. Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the best cat food is one that meets your cat’s individual needs and preferences. Consult with your veterinarian to get personalized recommendations and ensure your cat is receiving the nutrition they need to thrive.

Remember, a healthy diet is an investment in your cat’s long-term well-being. By choosing high-quality food and following proper feeding practices, you can help your cat live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

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