N&D Pumpkin – Duck & Cantaloupe is a grain-free dry cat food formulated for all life stages, including kittens, adults, and seniors.

It features duck as the first ingredient, supported by dehydrated duck and herring, contributing to a total crude protein level of 44%.

The formula contains 96% of its protein from high-quality animal sources, optimizing bioavailability and amino acid balance for obligate carnivores.

Pumpkin is a digestible fiber source, supporting gastrointestinal function and promoting healthy stools.

The food avoids all whole legumes and peas, using pea starch as a limited carbohydrate binder.

Taurine is supplied at 0.40% (4000 mg/kg), well above the AAFCO minimums, supporting heart, eye, and reproductive health.

EPA (0.30%) and DHA (0.50%) from herring oil and fish provide anti-inflammatory and cognitive benefits.

Minerals are chelated for superior absorption, including zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in bioavailable forms.

It includes dried cantaloupe melon, pomegranate, and spinach for micronutrient diversity and antioxidant enrichment.

The formula is preserved with mixed tocopherols and contains green tea, aloe vera, and rosemary for additional health benefits.

Pros:

• High protein concentration: Delivers 44% crude protein with primary sources including duck, herring, and dried whole eggs, ensuring a species-appropriate protein profile.

• Rich in essential fatty acids: Includes 3.30% omega-6 and 0.90% omega-3 fatty acids, 0.50% DHA and 0.30% EPA, supporting skin, coat, and brain health.

• Functional fiber blend: Contains dried pumpkin, psyllium seed husk, and inulin for digestive health and bowel regularity.

• Strong taurine profile: Contains 0.40% taurine (4000 mg/kg), exceeding baseline needs to support feline cardiovascular and visual health.

• Chelated minerals: Supplies essential minerals in chelated forms for optimal nutrient absorption and reduced risk of deficiencies.

• Antioxidant inclusion: Enriched with green tea extract, turmeric, rosemary, and beta-carotene for natural antioxidant protection and food preservation.

Cons:

• High fat content: With 20% fat on an as-fed basis, the formula may not be suitable for overweight or low-activity cats without adjusted portion control.

• Elevated ash level: Contains 8.70% ash, which may indicate high mineral content and could influence urinary tract health in sensitive cats.

• Presence of pea starch: Although free of legumes, including pea starch, adds to the carbohydrate load in an otherwise high-protein food.

• Use of alfalfa meal: Suncured alfalfa meal contributes plant-based protein and fiber, which are less ideal for strict carnivores.

• No fresh meat specified: While duck is the main ingredient, it is not indicated as fresh, emphasizing dehydrated and rendered meat sources.

• Functional extracts lack dosage transparency: Ingredients such as aloe vera and turmeric are listed but not quantified beyond extract weight, limiting efficacy assessment.