Wellness cat food has established itself as a prominent player in the premium pet food market, particularly its protein-rich, grain-free CORE line. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the specifics of Wellness Core Cat Food, evaluating its species-appropriateness, ingredient quality, product variety, customer experience, and recall history to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your feline companion. We adhere to the Cats.com standard to provide an unbiased and thorough assessment.
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Our Ratings for Wellness CORE Cat Food:
- Species-Appropriateness: 9/10
- Ingredient Quality: 9/10
- Product Variety: 9/10
- Customer Experience: 8/10
- Recall History: 6/10
Overall Wellness CORE Cat Food Score: 8.2/10
Wellness CORE cat food earns a high score, reflecting its commitment to high-protein, meat-centric recipes. While the brand boasts numerous positives, it’s important to consider all aspects, including its recall history, to make an informed decision.
Cats.com’s Trust in Wellness CORE: Our Review Process
At Cats.com, our reviews are built on rigorous research and hands-on testing. Our evaluation of Wellness CORE cat food involved extensive research into the brand’s history, manufacturing practices, ingredient sourcing, and customer feedback. Beyond desk research, we put Wellness CORE to the test with our own feline testers.
Our cats sampled a variety of Wellness CORE wet and dry food recipes, allowing us to assess palatability, texture, and overall acceptance. We observed their reactions and digestion, aligning our findings with the established Cats.com standards for cat food quality. To further ensure accuracy, we independently lab-tested Wellness CORE wet food, analyzing its macronutrient and micronutrient profiles, as well as checking for microbial contaminants, yeast, mold, and heavy metals. This thorough process, funded entirely by Cats.com, guarantees an unbiased and reliable review, free from brand influence.
Wellness CORE: Brand Overview and History
Wellness CORE cat food is a product line of WellPet LLC, a company with a long history in pet food. WellPet’s origins trace back to 1926 with Old Mother Hubbard Dog Treats. The Wellness brand itself was launched in 1997, emphasizing natural, wholesome ingredients. The formation of WellPet LLC came from the merger of Old Mother Hubbard and Eagle Pack. Today, WellPet is a subsidiary of Berwind Corporation, a privately held investment firm, and maintains its headquarters in Tewksbury, Massachusetts.
Wellness has invested significantly in its manufacturing capabilities. In 2012, they expanded their Mishawaka, Indiana plant, adding to their production capacity. Demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility, Wellness launched the Wellness Foundation in 2019, focused on providing meals to pets in need. The company’s core mission revolves around delivering high-quality, safe, and healthy pet food options.
Wellness CORE Sourcing and Manufacturing Transparency
Wellness states that the majority of their pet food, including many Wellness CORE recipes, is produced in their Mishawaka, Indiana facility. Certain product lines, specifically Wellness Signature Selects, Divine Duos, and pouch wet foods, are manufactured in Thailand.
Wellness Cat Food products and cat
Wellness provides detailed information about their canned food manufacturing process on their website, emphasizing their selection of reputable ingredient suppliers and adherence to stringent quality control measures. A video from 2012 further highlights WellPet’s commitment to exceeding FDA and AAFCO standards in food safety. They also conduct rigorous testing for mold toxins, heavy metals, and pathogens, with their testing guidelines publicly available. This transparency in sourcing and manufacturing builds trust and reinforces their commitment to quality.
Wellness CORE Recall History: A Point of Consideration
While Wellness CORE cat food is generally considered high-quality, it’s important to acknowledge the brand’s recall history. Since 1997, Wellness has issued several recalls, primarily for canned cat food.
Key Recall Events:
- 2017 (February): A precautionary recall of several canned cat food varieties due to potential metal contamination from a third-party manufacturing facility.
- 2017 (March): Recall of a single canned dog food variety due to potentially elevated levels of naturally occurring beef thyroid hormone.
- 2012 (May): Recall of dry dog food due to possible salmonella contamination.
- 2012 (October): Recall of a dry dog food variety due to excessive moisture content, raising mold concerns.
- 2011 (February): A significant recall of 21.6 million cans of Wellness canned cat food due to insufficient thiamine levels.
While these recalls are noteworthy, it’s also important to recognize that the company has generally acted promptly in response to identified issues. Consumers should be aware of this history but also consider the brand’s proactive approach to addressing problems.
Exploring the Wellness CORE Cat Food Product Line
Wellness CORE is distinguished by its focus on protein-rich, grain-free nutrition, designed to align with a cat’s carnivorous dietary needs. All Wellness CORE recipes are formulated without wheat, corn, or soy, and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Wellness CORE Dry Cat Food:
The dry food selection within the CORE line features seven options, including:
- Five original recipes
- Wellness Air Dried food
- Two RawRev recipes (kibble mixed with freeze-dried meat pieces)
Wellness CORE Wet Cat Food:
The wet food range is extensive, offering various textures and formats:
- Pates
- Hearty Cuts 95% Animal Protein
- CORE Signature Selects
- Divine Duos
- Simply Shreds (treats/food toppers)
The CORE line’s emphasis on high protein and grain-free formulations makes it a popular choice for cat owners seeking to mimic a more natural feline diet.
What Did Our Cats Think of Wellness CORE? Real-World Testing
cat eating Wellness Chicken Entree Smooth Loaf Pate
Our test cats generally responded positively to Wellness CORE cat food. The wet food pates were particularly well-received, with good palatability and smooth textures that were easy for cats to eat. The dry kibble was also accepted, although wet food is generally considered more species-appropriate for cats due to its higher moisture content. Overall, Wellness CORE demonstrated good palatability in our testing, suggesting that most cats will find it appealing.
Wellness CORE Cat Food: Top Recipe Reviews
To provide a deeper understanding of the Wellness CORE line, we’ve reviewed four popular recipes:
| Product Name | Food Type | Price | Our Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food | Wet | $0.47 per oz | B+ |
| Wellness CORE Signature Selects Flaked Skipjack Tuna & Wild Salmon Entree in Broth Canned Cat Food | Wet | $0.68 per oz | B+ |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Indoor Formula Dry Cat Food | Dry | $6.15 per lb | C |
| Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Canned Food | Wet | $0.6 per oz | B+ |
#1 Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
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This recipe, while technically from the Complete Health line, shares similarities with CORE in its grain-free, meat-centric approach. Chicken, chicken liver, and turkey are the top ingredients, providing high-quality animal protein. The pate texture is generally well-accepted by cats.
Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food..
Pros:
- Rich in animal-based protein.
- High moisture content.
- Grain-free and low in carbohydrates.
- Palatable to most cats.
Cons:
- Contains non-essential plant ingredients like carrots and cranberries.
#2 Wellness CORE Signature Selects Flaked Skipjack Tuna & Wild Salmon Entree in Broth Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
This fish-based recipe features tuna, mackerel, and salmon as primary ingredients. While fish can be palatable to cats, it’s important to consider potential heavy metal contamination and limit fish-heavy diets. Some customers note a stew-like consistency rather than “flaked” fish.
Wellness Signature Selects Flaked Skipjack Tuna & Wild Salmon Entree In Broth
Wellness Signature Selects Flaked Skipjack Tuna & Wild Salmon Entree In Broth
Wellness Signature Selects Flaked Skipjack Tuna & Wild Salmon Entree In Broth
Pros:
- High in animal protein from fish sources.
- Appealing flavor for many cats.
- No artificial additives.
Cons:
- Fish-based, potential for heavy metal concerns.
- Inconsistent texture according to some reviews.
- Contains tapioca starch and guar gum as thickeners.
#3 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Indoor Formula Dry Cat Food
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This dry food recipe prioritizes animal protein with deboned chicken and chicken meal as top ingredients. Marketed for indoor cats, it contains added fiber. While higher in animal protein than many dry foods, it still includes plant-based ingredients like peas and potatoes, contributing to a higher carbohydrate content than wet food options.
Wellness Core Indoor Deboned Chicken Turkey & Chicken Meals Recipe
Wellness Core Indoor Deboned Chicken Turkey & Chicken Meals Recipe
Wellness Core Indoor Deboned Chicken Turkey & Chicken Meals Recipe
Pros:
- Good source of animal protein.
- Grain-free.
- Appealing flavor for many cats.
Cons:
- High carbohydrate content compared to wet food.
- Contains peas and potatoes.
- Dry food is less hydrating than wet food.
#4 Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Canned Food
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Specifically formulated for kittens, this wet food pate is packed with animal-derived ingredients like turkey, chicken liver, and chicken meal. It includes herring and menhaden fish oil for DHA, crucial for kitten development. While grain-free, it contains some plant ingredients, though these are generally considered beneficial in small amounts for kittens.
Wellness Core Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Kitten Smooth Classic Pate
Wellness Core Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Kitten Smooth Classic Pate
Wellness Core Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Kitten Smooth Classic Pate
Pros:
- Very high in protein, ideal for kittens.
- Soft pate texture, easy for kittens to eat.
- Calorie-dense for growth.
- High moisture content.
- DHA from fish oil for brain and eye development.
Cons:
- More expensive than some kitten foods.
- Contains some plant-based ingredients.
Customer Sentiment: What Cat Owners Are Saying About Wellness CORE
Wellness CORE cat food generally enjoys positive customer reviews. Many cat owners praise the high-quality ingredients, particularly the emphasis on animal protein. On Chewy, the Wellness Complete Health pate (often compared to CORE in quality) has a high rating with a significant percentage of reviewers recommending it.
Positive Feedback Highlights:
- High-quality, meat-based ingredients.
- Cats enjoy the taste.
- High protein content.
- Beneficial supplements.
Negative Feedback Points:
- Some cats have become finicky after formula changes (though ingredient changes weren’t confirmed).
- Reports of digestive upset in some cats.
- Occasional complaints about stool odor.
Overall, customer sentiment towards Wellness CORE is largely positive, with many owners reporting happy, healthy cats thriving on these recipes.
Wellness CORE Cat Food: Cost Considerations
Wellness CORE cat food falls within the premium price range. Wet food options, particularly those in the CORE line, can be more expensive than some other brands. Dry food from the CORE line is also priced at the higher end compared to standard kibble. The cost reflects the brand’s focus on high-quality ingredients and protein-rich formulations. While potentially more expensive upfront, many owners find the quality justifies the price for their cat’s health and well-being.
Final Verdict: Is Wellness CORE Cat Food a Good Choice for Your Cat?
Wellness CORE cat food stands out as a strong contender in the premium cat food market, especially for owners prioritizing high-protein, grain-free diets. The CORE line excels in its use of animal-based ingredients and its commitment to producing species-appropriate nutrition. The wet food options, in particular, are excellent choices for providing optimal hydration and protein.
While the brand’s recall history is a factor to consider, their transparency and proactive responses are reassuring. Customer reviews are generally positive, and our own testing indicated good palatability. If you are looking for a high-quality, protein-rich food for your cat and are comfortable with the premium price point, Wellness CORE cat food is definitely worth considering.
Where to Purchase Wellness CORE Cat Food:
Wellness CORE is widely available at:
- Independent pet stores
- Major pet store chains
- Online retailers like Amazon and Chewy
Wellness CORE is sold in various countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Asia and Oceania.
