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Ultra Protein Real Salmon With Protein-Rich Organs Pate Wet Cat Food
Natural Balance

Ultra Protein Real Salmon With Protein-Rich Organs Pate Wet Cat Food

Verified Aug 24, 2026

Cat · Wet Adult All Breed Sizes

This is a high-moisture salmon-based pate for cats that uses fish and organ meats as its main protein sources. It’s formulated to be complete and balanced for all life stages, with added taurine and a modest fat level to support everyday energy needs. The inclusion of flaxseed, sunflower oil, and inulin provides additional fiber and fatty acids that can help support digestion and skin health.

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Over-the-counter AAFCO No recalls

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Official product page
KibbleLab Score
8.6 out of 10

Strong Choice

Overall, this is a well-formulated wet food that provides animal-based protein from salmon, whitefish, cod, and chicken organs, and it’s appropriate for kittens through adult cats when fed as directed. The guaranteed analysis shows a reasonable protein and fat content for a canned diet, and it includes taurine at a level that supports feline heart and eye health. It should work well for most healthy cats who enjoy fish-based flavors, as long as they do not have fish or chicken sensitivities.

Nutritional profile 9.4
Ingredient composition 8.0
Adequacy substantiation 7.0
Health considerations 10.0

Computed from 4 of 4 applicable checks. Missing data is skipped, never counted against a food.

The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.

Nutritional profile Protein, fat, fiber on a dry-matter basis, for the stated life stage and format
Adequacy substantiation Complete and balanced substantiation; feeding trials valued higher
Ingredient composition Screened for unnamed sources, artificial additives, and label protein inflation. Not a quality ranking.
Health considerations Pulse-heavy grain-free (DCM) pattern and recall history
Verified manufacturer evidence A small bonus when we can verify evidence addressing WSAVA selection criteria
9.0 - 10 Top Pick
8.0 - 8.9 Strong Choice
7.0 - 7.9 Solid Option
6.0 - 6.9 Worth a Conversation
Below 6.0 Review Carefully

KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.


At a Glance

Marketed Benefits
Where these benefits come from Benefits the manufacturer highlights in its own product marketing. KibbleLab lists them for reference and does not verify these claims.
Digestive Health
Suitable For
Adult All Breed Sizes
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We'll check every ingredient against your pet's sensitivities and avoidance list.

Nutritional Perspective

KibbleLab Review

Strengths

  • Multiple named animal protein sources (salmon, whitefish, cod, chicken liver and hearts) provide high-quality, species-appropriate protein and essential amino acids.
  • Complete and balanced to AAFCO standards for all life stages, so it can be used as a sole diet for kittens and adults when fed in appropriate amounts.
  • High moisture content helps support hydration, which is particularly beneficial for cats that don’t drink much water on their own.
  • Includes taurine, omega-rich ingredients like ground flaxseed and sunflower oil, and added vitamins and minerals for overall nutritional completeness.

Considerations

  • Relies heavily on fish (salmon, whitefish, cod), which is a common allergen for some cats and may not be ideal for individuals with known fish sensitivities.
  • Contains chicken liver and chicken hearts, so it is not suitable for cats with chicken allergies despite being fish-forward.
  • The as-fed protein level is moderate for a high-protein positioned wet food; cats that need especially high protein intake may do better with a higher-protein formula under veterinary guidance.
  • Fish-heavy diets can contribute to stronger-smelling stools and may not be ideal as the sole long-term protein source for some cats; rotating with non-fish proteins can be helpful.
Scored using the rubric of an NAVC Certified Pet Nutrition Coach (PNCC). This is informational, not veterinary advice.

Full Ingredient List

Salmon, Salmon Broth, Whitefish, Cod, Chicken Liver, Chicken Hearts, Carrots, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Agar-Agar, Potassium Chloride, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamins (Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Taurine, Inulin, Sodium Carbonate

Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.

Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.

Top 5 Ingredients Explained

01
Salmon
Salmon is commonly used as a high-quality animal protein and rich source of omega‑3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) in dog and cat foods, supporting skin and coat condition, joint and cognitive health, and overall muscle maintenance. While very nutritious, salmon can be an allergen for some pets and raw salmon may pose risks from parasites, thiaminase-related thiamine loss, and region-specific pathogens (e.g., salmon poisoning); owners should avoid feeding uncooked bones and consider sourcing to minimize contaminant and sustainability concerns.
View ingredient
02
Salmon Broth
Salmon broth is a savory liquid used in pet foods and as a meal topper to boost palatability and encourage hydration, supplying small amounts of protein, amino acids and omega‑3 fatty acids that can support skin and coat health in dogs and cats. It can help entice picky eaters and increase water intake, but owners should choose low‑sodium, commercially prepared broths free of onion/garlic or other toxic additives and be mindful of fish allergies or potential contaminants in fish‑derived ingredients.
03
Whitefish
Whitefish (such as pollock, cod, or haddock) is commonly used in pet foods as a lean animal protein source that provides high‑quality essential amino acids, good digestibility, and some omega‑3 fatty acids to support skin, coat and muscle maintenance. While generally palatable and useful for weight‑managed formulas, pet parents should be aware of potential fish allergies and the importance of responsible sourcing and processing to minimize contaminants; cats also require adequate dietary taurine, so whitefish should be part of a complete, balanced diet.
04
Cod
Cod is a lean white fish used in pet foods as a high-quality, easily digestible animal protein that provides essential amino acids, B vitamins (notably B12), selenium and modest amounts of omega‑3 fatty acids for skin, coat and overall health. It is palatable and low in fat, but should be properly deboned and sourced; avoid feeding raw fish without appropriate processing (some raw fish can contain enzymes that affect thiamine) and monitor for fish allergies or contaminants such as mercury.
View ingredient
05
Chicken Liver
Chicken liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat commonly used in pet foods and treats as a highly palatable protein source and flavor enhancer, providing concentrated vitamins (especially vitamin A and B-complex), iron, and copper that support energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and skin/coat health in both dogs and cats. Because it is so rich, liver should be fed in moderation—excessive intake can cause vitamin A toxicity, and its high fat content and risk of bacterial contamination mean it should be properly sourced or cooked and limited for pets with pancreatitis or specific dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Breakdown

How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.
As Fed
Crude Protein (min)
9.00%
Low High
Crude Fat (min)
6.00%
Low High
Crude Fiber (max)
1.00%
Low High
Moisture (max)
78.00%
Low High
1189
kcal / Kg
94
kcal / Can
Moderate
Calorie density category
What is calorie density How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.

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Product Details & Brand

Product Specs

Lifestage Adult
Breed size All Breed Sizes
Texture Pate
Processing method Canned
Food type Wet

AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.

Complete & balanced Yes
AAFCO life stages All Life Stages
Substantiation Formulation
Natural Balance Ultra Protein Salmon Recipe with Protein-Rich Organs Cat Food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages.

Brand

Natural Balance is a premium pet food brand focused on delivering nutritionally balanced diets made with high-quality ingredients. It is best known for its Limited Ingredient Diets, which feature simple ingredient lists designed for pets with food sensitivities. The brand also offers targeted formulas for different life stages and dietary needs. Natural Balance markets itself as a transparent and science-informed brand catering to pet owners seeking reliable, health-conscious nutrition for their pets.

Price tier $$$$

Manufacturer

Company name Natural Balance Pet Foods
Parent company Ethos Pet Brands (L Catterton / Nexus Capital)
Founded 1989
Headquarters Burbank, California, USA
Manufacturing type Co Packer
Manufacturing country United States
Manufacturing region California
Manufacturing oversight

Natural Balance sources and manufactures its products primarily in the United States. Its manufacturing facilities adhere to FDA and AAFCO regulations for pet food production, with quality control protocols that include routine testing for contaminants and nutritional accuracy. Production oversight includes partnerships with certified and audited co-packers to ensure consistency and safety.

Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.

Recall History

No recalls on record

No recall is listed for Natural Balance Ultra Protein Real Salmon With Protein-Rich Organs Pate Wet Cat Food.

Source: FDA animal food recall listings back to January 2019 · Checked daily, last on Aug 31, 2026

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KibbleLab food report
GREAT BOWL.
8.6 /10 Grade A
Ultra Protein Real Salmon With Protein-Rich Organs Pate Wet Cat Food
Natural Balance · kibblelab.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Has Natural Balance ever been recalled?

We have no recalls on record for Natural Balance. We track the FDA's animal food recall listings back to January 2019 and publish every pet food recall automatically. A filing that isn't pet food may not appear here.

How does KibbleLab rate foods?

Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.

Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?

No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.

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KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.

Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall listings. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check. We track the FDA's animal food recall listings back to January 2019 and publish every pet food recall automatically. A filing that isn't pet food may not appear here.