Wellness CORE Grain-Free Cat Food Review - High Protein Natural 2024
In-depth review of Wellness CORE Original grain-free dry cat food. Premium natural nutrition with 45% protein for obligate carnivores.
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Cats are obligate carnivores - they evolved eating primarily meat. Wellness CORE honors this biology with 45% protein, significantly higher than most cat foods. The grain-free formula uses deboned turkey and chicken as primary proteins, supported by quality fats and limited carbohydrates. After 8 weeks with three cats, including one with food allergies, we found that this protein-focused approach yields noticeable results.
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Turkey & Chicken
Key Features
- ✓45% protein - highest in category
- ✓Grain-free for sensitive cats
- ✓Deboned turkey and chicken
- ✓Omega fatty acids for coat health
Pros
- +Exceptional protein content for cats
- +Multiple premium protein sources
- +Grain-free with quality carbs
Cons
- −Premium price point
- −High protein may not suit all cats
Protein-First Philosophy
At 45% protein, Wellness CORE is among the highest-protein dry cat foods available. Deboned turkey leads the ingredients, followed by deboned chicken, turkey meal, and chicken meal. This isn't protein from plant sources - it's meat protein from identified animals. For cats, this mirrors their natural diet far better than corn-heavy mainstream foods. The difference shows in muscle tone and overall condition.
Grain-Free Benefits
CORE eliminates grains entirely, using potatoes and peas for carbohydrates. For cats with grain sensitivities - manifesting as skin issues, digestive problems, or ear infections - this can be transformative. Our allergy-prone test cat, a Russian Blue with chronic skin issues, showed marked improvement within 4 weeks. Itching reduced, coat improved, and ear problems cleared. Grain-free isn't necessary for all cats, but for sensitive ones, it matters.
Complete Nutrition Package
Beyond protein, CORE includes omega fatty acids from salmon oil for skin and coat, probiotics for digestive health, and antioxidants from fruits and vegetables. Taurine, essential for cats, is supplemented appropriately. The formula is AAFCO complete for all life stages. Despite the protein focus, this is nutritionally balanced food, not just a protein supplement.
Palatability and Transition
All three cats ate CORE enthusiastically - the high meat content clearly appeals to feline tastes. However, the richness requires slow transition over 10-14 days. One cat experienced soft stools when transitioned too quickly but normalized with a slower approach. The strong meat smell may bother some owners but clearly attracts cats. For picky eaters, CORE often succeeds where other premium foods fail.
Final Verdict
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original delivers on its promise of protein-focused, biologically appropriate nutrition for cats. The 45% protein from quality meat sources, combined with grain-free formulation and complete nutrition, creates a food that reflects feline biology. It's premium priced and requires careful transition, but for owners seeking to feed cats as the carnivores they are, CORE is an excellent choice. The results in coat condition, muscle tone, and allergy management speak for themselves.