Is Made by Nacho Dry Cat Kibble worth the premium price? This 4-pound bag of high-protein cat food combines sustainably caught salmon with pumpkin and bone broth infusion, targeting cats with sensitive stomachs and those needing quality nutrition. The limited-ingredient approach and grain-friendly formula set it apart from typical supermarket kibble, though the investment requires careful consideration.
The packaging clearly showcases the product's premium positioning, with emphasis on the salmon and pumpkin combination that forms the nutritional foundation. Made by Nacho has positioned this as a step up from conventional dry food, focusing on digestibility and hydration support through bone broth infusion.
Ingredients & Nutrition
The ingredient panel leads with deboned salmon, making this a genuine high-protein option rather than a meat-meal based formula. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids for coat health and brain function, while the sustainably sourced approach addresses environmental concerns many pet owners have about fish-based foods.
Pumpkin serves as both a digestible carbohydrate source and fiber provider, supporting healthy digestion without common grain allergens like wheat or corn. The grain-friendly designation means it includes beneficial grains like brown rice or oats, rather than being completely grain-free - a balanced approach that many veterinary nutritionists now prefer over extreme grain-free diets.
The bone broth infusion is where this formula gets interesting. While dry kibble inherently lacks moisture, the bone broth coating adds both palatability and some hydration benefit. This doesn't replace the need for fresh water, but it's a step toward addressing cats' notoriously low thirst drive.
According to
AAFCO standards, complete cat foods must meet specific nutritional profiles. Made by Nacho appears to target adult maintenance requirements, though the specific guaranteed analysis should be verified on individual bags as formulations can change.
Who It's Best For
Perfect for cats with sensitive stomachs who struggle with complex ingredient lists or artificial additives. The limited-ingredient approach reduces potential allergen exposure while maintaining complete nutrition. Senior cats often benefit from higher-quality protein sources like whole salmon, and the added fiber from pumpkin supports aging digestive systems.
Indoor cats make excellent candidates since they typically need controlled portions of high-quality food rather than unlimited access to lower-grade kibble. The protein content helps maintain muscle mass during less active indoor lifestyles.
However, this isn't suitable for kittens unless specifically formulated for growth (check the AAFCO statement on the package). Kittens need higher calorie density and specific nutrient ratios that adult maintenance formulas don't provide.
Cats with fish allergies should obviously avoid this salmon-based formula. Additionally, if your cat is used to lower-quality food, the rich nature of this premium kibble might initially cause digestive upset during transition.
Feeding Guidelines
Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing portions of Made by Nacho with your cat's current food. Start with 25% new food for the first 2-3 days, then increase to 50%, 75%, and finally 100% new food.
For a typical 10-pound adult cat, expect to feed approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on your cat's activity level and body condition - indoor cats often need less than the package suggests, while active outdoor cats may need more.
The bone broth coating makes this kibble more appealing than standard dry food, which can lead to overeating in food-motivated cats. Monitor portions carefully, especially during the transition period.
*Feeding amounts vary significantly based on individual metabolism, age, and activity level.
The Bottom Line
Made by Nacho Dry Cat Kibble delivers on its premium promises with quality ingredients and thoughtful formulation. The salmon and pumpkin combination provides excellent nutrition for most adult cats, while the limited-ingredient approach suits sensitive stomachs. The bone broth infusion adds both palatability and minimal hydration benefits.
The main drawbacks are cost and availability - this premium positioning means you'll pay significantly more than grocery store brands. For cats with no dietary sensitivities, the extra expense may not provide proportional benefits.
Worth buying if your cat has food sensitivities or you prioritize ingredient quality. Skip it if your cat thrives on less expensive food or if budget constraints make the premium price unsustainable long-term.
As with any diet change, consult your veterinarian before switching, especially if your cat has existing health conditions or takes medications that might interact with dietary changes.
