Instinct Original Real Chicken Recipe
Raw-feeding advocates who want the closest thing to raw in a canned format
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Pate
Owners who want a no-by-product formula at a mainstream price point
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Instinct Original Real Chicken Recipe
Raw-feeding advocates who want the closest thing to raw in a canned format
Instinct Original is as close to raw feeding as canned food gets — 95% real animal ingredients with cage-free chicken. The minimally processed philosophy extends to their wet food with excellent ingredient quality. At ~$9/day it commands a premium, but the ingredient list justifies it for quality-focused owners.
Strengths
- Cage-free chicken is the #1 ingredient with 95% real animal ingredients
- No grain, corn, wheat, soy, potato, artificial colors, or preservatives
- Minimally processed formula with whole-food ingredients for maximum nutrition
Limitations
- Premium pricing at ~$9/day — significantly more expensive than mid-range
- Grain-free formula subject to FDA DCM investigation concerns
- 2021 recall of freeze-dried product line (not canned) is a minor safety note
When to Choose Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Pate
Owners who want a no-by-product formula at a mainstream price point
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Pate delivers on its core promise — real meat first with no by-products, no artificial anything, at a price that doesn't break the bank. The clean safety record is a plus. It's a solid mid-range option that avoids the worst ingredients without charging premium prices.
Strengths
- Real chicken or beef is always the #1 ingredient — no by-products
- No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors in any recipe
- Clean safety record with no recalls in brand history
Limitations
- Contains some grain fillers that premium brands avoid
- Smooth pate texture may not appeal to dogs who prefer chunks or stew
- Ingredient sourcing transparency is limited beyond "no by-products" claim
