Original Mackerel Wet Cat Food
Verified Jun 11, 2026
This is a high-moisture canned pate for cats of all life stages featuring mackerel as the primary protein source. It includes New Zealand green mussel and added vitamins, minerals, taurine, and kelp to provide complete and balanced nutrition. The moderate calorie density and soft texture can work well for many cats, including those who benefit from extra hydration in their diet.
This is a high-quality wet food centered around fish protein, with mackerel listed first and a fairly simple ingredient list. It provides complete and balanced nutrition for kittens through adults and seniors, with good moisture content to support overall hydration. It’s a strong option for cats who do well on fish-based diets and whose owners like a relatively straightforward, meat-forward formula.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
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
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Mackerel as the first ingredient provides a clear, named animal protein source that many cats find very palatable.
- High moisture (78%) helps support hydration, which is especially useful for cats that don’t drink much water on their own.
- Formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, so it’s appropriate for kittens, adults, and seniors when fed as directed.
- Includes New Zealand green mussel and added taurine, vitamins, and minerals to support joint and overall health needs in a complete diet.
Considerations
- Fish (mackerel) is the primary protein; for cats with fish allergies or a history of reacting to fish-heavy diets, this would not be suitable.
- Chickpeas are used as a carbohydrate and fiber source; while generally safe, some very sensitive cats may not do as well with legumes in their diet.
- The fat level is on the moderate side for a wet food, which is fine for many cats but may be a bit low for highly active or underweight cats that need extra calories from fat.
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
Mackerel
Mackerel is a fatty fish commonly used in pet foods as a high‑quality animal protein and a rich source of omega‑3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), often added for flavor, palatability and healthy fats. Its omega‑3s support skin and coat condition, immune and joint health in dogs and cats, but owners should be aware of potential heavy‑metal accumulation, food sensitivities, and higher fat or sodium in some preparations, so choose properly processed, deboned sources from reputable suppliers.
02
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.
03
Chickpea
Chickpeas are a legume commonly used in pet foods as a plant-based protein, source of digestible carbohydrates, and supply of soluble and insoluble fiber that helps with stool quality and satiety. They can be a useful ingredient for dogs but are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and may cause gas or digestive upset if underprocessed; additionally, high inclusion of legumes in some grain‑free diets has been discussed as a potential factor in canine dilated cardiomyopathy so diets should be balanced and any concerns discussed with your veterinarian.
04
Green Lipped Mussel
Green-lipped mussel is used in pet foods and supplements as a marine-derived source of omega-3 fatty acids (including EPA/DHA/ETA) and bioactive compounds such as glycosaminoglycans, making it a functional ingredient aimed at supporting joint health and reducing inflammation. It can benefit dogs and cats with arthritis or mobility issues, but owners should be aware of potential shellfish allergies, variable product quality and potency, and should consult a veterinarian for appropriate dosing and sourcing considerations.
05
Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride is a mineral salt added to pet foods to provide the essential electrolyte potassium (and chloride), helping meet nutrient requirements and support normal fluid balance, nerve conduction, and muscle function. It is useful for electrolyte supplementation but must be used at appropriate levels—excessive potassium can be harmful, may affect palatability, and pets with kidney disease or on certain medications are at higher risk of hyperkalemia.
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
Ziwi is a premium pet food brand offering air-dried and canned recipes that replicate a raw diet using 100% ethically sourced meat, seafood, and organs from New Zealand’s free-range farms. It targets discerning pet owners seeking high-protein, whole-prey nutrition with limited ingredients and no fillers.
Visit ZiwiManufacturer
Ziwi maintains full control over its manufacturing processes in its own New Zealand facilities. The company owns and operates air-drying kitchens in Mount Maunganui and Christchurch, following AAFCO nutritional standards and employing strict quality control, food safety programs, and traceable ingredient sourcing.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Ziwi Original Mackerel Wet Cat Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Ziwi ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Ziwi. 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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