Blue Buffalo BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein – Alligator is a veterinary dry diet formulated to nutritionally manage inflammatory skin and gastrointestinal conditions in cats with adverse food reactions.

Deboned alligator is the first ingredient and sole animal protein source, with alligator meal added to supply a concentrated, novel animal protein that helps avoid common allergens like chicken, beef, and fish proteins.

At 30% crude protein and 15% fat, it provides complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages while supporting lean muscle maintenance.

Elevated omega-3 fatty acids (1.5% total, including DHA at 0.2% minimum) and omega-6 at 2.5% from alligator, fish oil, and flaxseed help support skin barrier function, a shiny coat, and a healthy inflammatory response tied to dermatologic and GI issues.

A controlled mineral profile (calcium 1.5%, phosphorus 1.0%, magnesium 0.12%) and the brand’s ST-O-ne GUARD approach are formulated to help manage urolithiasis and support urinary tract health.

Mixed fiber sources—including pea fiber, pumpkin, and chicory root (a source of prebiotic inulin)—support stool quality, regularity, and beneficial gut bacteria.

Probiotics such as Enterococcus faecium and Lactobacillus acidophilus further reinforce a stable gut microbiome and digestive comfort.

Pea protein appears early in the recipe, indicating a meaningful plant-protein contribution alongside the alligator proteins.

Supplemental amino acids (DL-methionine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan) are included to ensure a complete essential amino acid profile tailored to feline needs.

The diet provides 3,703 kcal/kg, so measured portions are advisable, especially for indoor or less active cats to maintain healthy body weight.

Pros:

• True novel animal protein: Alligator as the first and only animal protein helps nutritionally manage adverse reactions to common proteins, with ELISA/PCR testing to minimize cross-contamination.

• Skin and anti-inflammatory support: Robust omega-3 supply (1.5% total with 0.2% DHA min) from fish oil and flaxseed aids skin barrier function and helps modulate inflammation.

• Digestive and microbiome support: Mixed fibers (pea fiber, pumpkin, chicory root) plus probiotics (E. faecium, L. acidophilus) support stool quality and a balanced gut flora.

• Urinary tract care: ST-O-ne GUARD formulation with controlled calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium supports management of urolithiasis.

• Complete and balanced for all life stages: Suitable for kittens, adults, and seniors, simplifying feeding across life stages under veterinary guidance.

• Targeted micronutrients: Taurine (0.20%), vitamin E (300 IU/kg), and choline (3,500 mg/kg) support heart and eye health, antioxidant defenses, and normal fat metabolism.

Cons:

• Plant-protein contribution: Pea protein high in the ingredient list suggests a notable share of protein comes from legumes rather than exclusively from animal sources.

• Starch-forward carbohydrates: Pea starch and tapioca starch add carbohydrate calories that may not suit owners seeking a lower-starch approach.

• Contains fish oil: Although the only animal protein is alligator, fish oil is included and may not be appropriate for cats with fish-specific sensitivities.

• Unspecified “natural flavor”: The source is not disclosed, which may be a concern for highly sensitive cats requiring strict ingredient transparency.

• Portion control needed: At 3,703 kcal/kg, careful measuring is important for less active or indoor cats to avoid excess calorie intake.

• Amino acid supplementation: Reliance on added amino acids indicates the formula uses supplementation to balance essential amino acids rather than deriving them solely from whole-animal proteins.