Instinctive 7+ Thin Slices in Gravy Wet Cat Food
Verified Jun 17, 2026
This is a canned food designed specifically for mature cats 7 years and older, using pork and chicken by-products and organ meats as its main protein sources. It offers a moderate protein, low-fat profile typical of senior wet diets, with added glucosamine and chondroitin and controlled phosphorus to support aging cats. The formula is complete and balanced for adult maintenance and aims to be easy to digest for older cats with changing nutritional needs.
Overall, this is a well-formulated senior wet diet for adult and older cats that prioritizes digestible animal by-products and organ meats, which are naturally rich in many essential nutrients. The moderate protein and very low fat content can suit many older cats, especially those needing calorie control, while the added glucosamine, chondroitin, and adapted phosphorus are thoughtful additions for aging bodies. It’s a solid choice for healthy senior cats, though very thin or highly active seniors may need a higher-calorie option or careful portion adjustments.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Uses named animal by-products and organs (pork and chicken by-products, pork and chicken liver) which are nutrient-dense sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals for cats.
- Complete and balanced to AAFCO standards for adult maintenance, so it can be fed as a sole diet for adult and senior cats.
- Very low fat with moderate protein on an as-fed basis, which may help with weight control in less active older cats.
- Includes fish oil (source of omega-3s) and added glucosamine and chondroitin, which can be helpful supportive nutrients for aging joints and overall senior support.
Considerations
- Contains common allergens such as chicken, pork, wheat gluten, wheat flour, and fish, so it’s not a good fit for cats with known sensitivities to any of these ingredients.
- The fat level is quite low, which may not provide enough calories for underweight or very active older cats without feeding larger amounts.
- Carbohydrate-containing ingredients like brewers rice flour, wheat flour, and modified corn starch are present; while not harmful, they do contribute non-protein calories in a species that doesn’t strictly require carbs.
- Formulated by AAFCO nutrient profiles rather than confirmed in feeding trials, so digestibility and real-world performance are inferred rather than directly tested.
Full Ingredient List
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
Water
Water is an essential nutrient and the primary solvent and moisture component in pet foods, especially wet and canned diets, and is also used in processing and to adjust texture and palatability. It is vital for digestion, nutrient transport, temperature regulation and waste removal in dogs and cats; pets must have constant access to clean water as dehydration can quickly lead to serious health issues and requirements increase with activity, heat, or illness, while moisture in wet food can help meet part of their daily needs.
02
Pork By-Product
Pork by-product is a common protein and flavoring ingredient in pet foods made from non-rendered portions of the pig such as organs, connective tissue and trimmings, supplying animal protein, fat, B vitamins, iron and other trace minerals that help support energy, muscle maintenance and overall nutrition for dogs and cats. Because composition and fat content can vary by source, owners should be aware of potential pork sensitivities, higher caloric density, and sourcing/quality differences; ensure the complete diet meets species-specific requirements (for example, cats need adequate taurine) and consult the manufacturer or your veterinarian if you have concerns.
03
Chicken By-Product
Chicken by-product is a common protein ingredient in pet foods made from edible parts of the bird not typically consumed by people—such as organs (liver, heart), necks and other tissues—and is used to add protein, flavor and nutrient density. It can provide concentrated protein, essential amino acids, B vitamins and minerals (and may contribute taurine when organ meats are included), but composition and quality vary by source, so pet parents concerned about sourcing, higher ash/fat content or chicken allergies should check the manufacturer’s labeling and quality standards.
04
Pork Liver
Pork liver is an organ meat used in pet foods as a nutrient‑dense source of high‑quality protein and concentrated vitamins and minerals—notably vitamin A, B vitamins (including B12 and folate), iron and copper—that support red blood cell production, skin/coat condition and overall metabolism. Because liver is very rich in vitamin A and certain minerals, it should be included in limited amounts to avoid hypervitaminosis A or mineral imbalances and must be properly processed to reduce pathogen risk; pets with urinary stone issues or a pork sensitivity should use caution.
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.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional
adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.Brand
Royal Canin is a premium pet food brand offering highly specific diets tailored to different breeds, life stages, sizes, and health conditions of dogs and cats. The brand is known for its science-driven approach and collaboration with veterinarians and pet professionals.
Visit Royal CaninWSAVA publishes criteria for evaluating a manufacturer (qualified nutritionists, feeding trials, published research); it does not certify or endorse brands.
Manufacturer
Royal Canin operates manufacturing facilities globally with strict quality control processes and adheres to ISO certification standards. The company maintains full traceability of ingredients, follows HACCP principles, and complies with local and international pet food safety regulations including EU and FDA requirements.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Royal Canin Instinctive 7+ Thin Slices in Gravy Wet Cat Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Royal Canin ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Royal Canin. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
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.
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 database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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