How I Discovered this Affordable, Natural Cat Food Brand
As a devoted cat parent to my precious tabby cat Mittens, I’m always looking for ways to keep her healthy and happy. Lately I had noticed Mittens seemed to be low on energy, shedding more than usual, and occasionally having digestive issues. I started researching cat nutrition online to see if her diet could be the cause. That’s when I came across American Journey cat food, and realized it might be just what Mittens needs.
After learning more, I was intrigued by American Journey’s commitment to natural nutrition without fillers, by-products or artificial additives. Their cat food contains premium proteins and digestible carbohydrates for whole-body health and vitality. What’s more, it comes at a price I can afford. I decided to give American Journey a try to see if it could help address Mittens’ issues.
In this blog, I’ll share my experience switching Mittens to American Journey cat food. I’ll cover the ingredients, health benefits, cost, purchasing options, and more about why I’m now a fan of this quality yet affordable cat food brand. Whether you’re looking for a new diet for your own feline friend or simply want to learn about better nutrition, I hope this review of American Journey is helpful!
Examining the Ingredients List in American Journey Cat Food
As we all know, proper feline nutrition starts with high quality ingredients. I carefully examined the ingredients list on bags of American Journey cat food to see what’s included.
The first thing I looked for was real animal-based proteins. American Journey contains high levels of either chicken, turkey, salmon or duck as the first ingredient. The protein comes from whole meat, not lower quality by-products. There are also complementary proteins from eggs, fish and other natural sources.
In addition to premium proteins, American Journey includes carbohydrates like brown rice and oatmeal which are easy for cats to digest. Natural sources of dietary fiber like peas and dried beet pulp help support healthy digestion.
Importantly, American Journey is grain-free for cats who are sensitive to ingredients like wheat or corn. They also offer limited ingredient recipes made with only one novel protein and carbohydrate source, ideal for cats with food allergies.
As I scanned the ingredients lists, I didn’t see any artificial colors, flavors or fillers. This gave me confidence in the natural nutrition American Journey provides. Overall the ingredients indicate high protein, limited carbs, and optimal digestibility for cat health.
Comparing American Journey to Other Premium Cat Foods
Once I looked closely at the ingredients and nutrition facts, I realized American Journey can compete with premium cat food brands. Foods like this are typically only sold at vets, pet stores or online retailers for premium prices.
What sets American Journey apart is the value they provide. When I compared their ingredients to costly prescription or boutique cat foods, I found few differences in quality. However, American Journey costs about a third less when you check prices per pound or per calorie.
For instance, some of the top-selling cat food brands in natural pet stores contain very similar ingredients to American Journey recipes. Yet American Journey’s comparable formulas cost 20-40% less at the checkout. Over time, the savings really add up!
When a cat food offers similar premium nutrition at a more affordable price, that’s a winner in my book. I realized I could provide Mittens the same high-quality diet for less with American Journey, which was a huge selling point.
Help for My Fussy Feline’s Sensitive Stomach
One of the key reasons I wanted to switch cat foods was to help Mittens with her finicky digestion. She occasionally had loose stools or stomach upset which concerned me. I hoped a more natural, limited ingredient diet might improve her issues.
After some research, I chose the American Journey Limited Ingredient Turkey & Sweet Potato recipe to try first. With only two main ingredients, both of which are gentle on the gut, it seemed a good match for sensitive cats.
Within a couple weeks of transitioning Mittens to this [ grain-free, novel protein formula ], I noticed an improvement in her digestive health. Her stools firmed up and she no longer had intermittent vomiting. I was so relieved to see her stomach troubles disappear!
The brand offers a few Limited Ingredient formulas like this with either turkey, duck, salmon or chicken paired with a digestible grain-free carb like sweet potato or green lentils. It’s a great option for cats with food sensitivities.
More Nutrition Benefits I’ve Seen Since Switching Foods
In addition to aiding Mittens’ tummy troubles, I’ve noticed some other benefits since feeding her American Journey cat food:
- Increased energy levels – Mittens is more active and playful now, batting balls around the house and joining me in every room again. The higher protein levels seem to provide sustained energy.
- Improved skin & coat – Mittens’ fur was looking dull before. Now her coat is noticeably softer and shinier. Less shedding too. All signs of better nutrition.
- Healthy weight maintenance – Mittens gained a couple pounds last year, but her weight is ideal again now. The balanced nutrition and calorie counts help keep her fit.
- Improved litter box habits – Along with better digestion, Mittens’ litter box visits and output seem healthier since she’s been on American Journey.
- Stronger immune function – Mittens used to catch colds every few months, but she sailed through this past winter without any illness. I think the high quality nutrition bolstered her immune defenses.
Seeing all these improvements reassures me I made a good choice in switching to American Journey cat food. Mittens clearly thrives on their nutritious recipes.
Purchasing American Journey Cat Food
After being impressed by the ingredients and health benefits, the next thing I looked into was where and how to purchase American Journey cat food.
The brand was created by Chewy.com, the popular online pet product retailer. So Chewy.com is the exclusive seller of American Journey formulas. This helped keep the costs low through their direct-to-consumer business model.
On Chewy’s website, I can easily subscribe and save on American Journey cat food deliveries. I like having the 15-30% discounts through their autoship program. Now a fresh bag of Mittens’ favorite formulas arrives on my doorstep automatically every few weeks.
The selection at Chewy is much larger than local stores too. They offer dozens of American Journey recipes across lines like Original, Limited Ingredient, Kitten, Indoor, Hairball Control and more. I can find just the right one for Mittens’ needs.
Through Chewy, I also get free 1-4 day shipping on American Journey cat food, another perk that helps offset the cost. Overall, Chewy makes it simple and affordable to keep Mittens happily stocked up on her new favorite food.
Guiding Mittens through a Smooth Food Transition
When introducing a new cat food, it’s important to transition slowly so your kitty’s system can adjust. I followed the usual transition tips when switching Mittens to American Journey:
- Mixed a little of the new food in with her old food at first
- Gradually increased the ratio of new to old food across 2-3 weeks
- Monitored her appetite, energy level, and litter box during the shift
- Ensured she had plenty of fresh water available
I’m glad I took it slow because initially Mittens was unsure about the new food. But each time I increased the amount, she adapted. Within a few weeks, Mittens was eating 100% American Journey foods and thriving.
The key is patience and letting their body acclimate to new proteins, carbs, textures and smells. It’s also a good idea to discuss diet changes with your veterinarian, especially for cats with health issues.
Overall I found transitioning Mittens to American Journey cat food to be a smooth, successful process. Her health improved greatly once she adjusted to the new high quality nutrition.
American Journey’s Product Line Offers Optimal Nutrition
In researching American Journey’s product offerings, I was impressed by the range of nutritious options:
- Original recipes provide balanced everyday nutrition in chicken, turkey, salmon and duck varieties
- Indoor formulas help manage higher calorie needs for less active house cats
- Kitten foods give growing cats the extra protein and calories they require
- Senior options address aging cats’ needs like joint support and weight control
- Limited Ingredient diets work for cats with food sensitivities
- Grain-free choices avoid ingredients that often cause allergies
- Hairball Control recipes with added fiber help mitigate hairballs
No matter your cat’s needs, there is an American Journey formula to provide optimized nutrition. I appreciate how they have thoughtful recipes tailored for every lifestyle and health concern. It makes finding the perfect fit for your feline easy.
Affordability and Value Sets American Journey Apart
When I talk to other cat owners about American Journey, the biggest selling point I mention is the affordable pricing. Especially compared to prescription or natural cat food brands sold in pet supply stores.
For example, their popular Original Chicken & Peas recipe costs $1.04 per oz on Chewy right now. Comparable chicken recipes from the top-selling natural cat food brands run $1.25-$1.60 per oz.
Over the course of a year, feeding Mittens American Journey instead of a similar high-end brand will save me $150-$300! That’s a significant amount.
Being able to provide such a high-quality diet for my cat while sticking to my budget means so much. I don’t have to sacrifice Mittens’ nutrition or well-being to afford her food each month. American Journey truly delivers premium cat food at an economy price.
American Journey’s Commitment to Natural Nutrition
When I feed Mittens, I want to know what’s in her food, which is why I appreciate American Journey’s commitment to natural nutrition.
All of their recipes are made in the USA in state-of-the-art facilities that follow the strictest standards for safety and quality. American Journey has an experienced nutrition team that rigorously tests each formula to ensure optimal nutrition.
Their standards mean:
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- No corn, wheat or soy protein fillers
- No by-product meals of questionable nutritional value
- Natural antioxidants like vitamin E are used instead of BHA, BHT or ethoxyquin
This gives me peace of mind that Mittens eats only high-quality, natural ingredients. I never have to worry about mysterious additives or fillers in American Journey cat food.
Taste Tests Passed with Flying Colors!
Of course, a cat food can boast impressive ingredients, but the true test is whether finicky felines will actually eat it. I had no idea whether Mittens would take to the new food at first try.
Much to my relief, Mittens loved the taste of American Journey right away. I think the palatability comes from:
- Irresistible animal proteins cats naturally crave
- Digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and lentils
- Natural flavor enhancers like dried broccoli and carrots
- Amino acids to make the food taste pleasing
Mittens licks her bowl clean at every meal. I no longer have to doctor up her food to get her to eat it. Clearly American Journey has cracked the code on taste with even persnickety eaters like my girl!
Improving Cats’ Lives One Meal at a Time
Now that Mittens has been eating American Journey for a few months, I’m blown away by the transformation in her health, energy and happiness. She’s never been livelier or looked better.
Every cat deserves nutrition this good. I tell all my friends with cats how American Journey provides the same quality as premium brands for much less cost. It makes feeding pets high-end food more attainable for cat parents.
If your cat is dealing with digestive issues, low energy, dull coat, or other health concerns diet related, I highly recommend giving American Journey a try. The natural nutrition and properly balanced recipes have the power to drastically improve cats’ lives, just like it did for Mittens.
When you make the switch, be sure to transition slowly and stick with it. It may take a couple months to see the full benefits, but you’ll be amazed by the transformation. Your cat will feel so much better.
To me, part of being a caring, responsible cat owner is providing the very best nutrition possible. Now that I’ve discovered American Journey, I finally feel like I’m giving Mittens the high-caliber diet she deserves. I couldn’t be more delighted with the results!
