Premium Cat

Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Cat Food

4.4 out of 5

A kibble-plus-freeze-dried-mix diet that boosts protein appeal for picky cats. Premium cost and freeze-dried crumbles require storage discipline to keep the bag fresh.

Pros

  • Texture variety often tempts cats bored with plain extruded kibble alone
  • High-protein positioning aligns with many veterinarians' general cat nutrition talking points
  • Useful bridge for owners curious about raw feeding but not ready for full prep
  • Brand focus on natural positioning is backed by clearer labeling than discount labels

Cons

  • Premium price per pound stacks up fast in multi-cat households
  • Freeze-dried pieces can settle; shake the bag and store airtight to reduce rancidity risk
  • Not every cat needs grain-free; choose for tolerance and preference, not trends alone

Best for

Indoor cats with selective appetites where owners want higher-protein kibble and can budget for premium daily feeding plus careful storage.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Cat Food combines extruded kibble with visible freeze-dried pieces, which is a deliberate play for palatability. Cats are texture-driven eaters; mixing formats can break food fatigue when your veterinarian approves the overall calorie plan.

We score Raw Boost highly for engagement and ingredient seriousness relative to many grocery-aisle defaults. That said, premium cost is real. If you have multiple cats, track monthly spend and watch for selective eating where one cat mines freeze-dried bits and leaves kibble behind.

Storage matters. Fats oxidize. Seal the bag, consider decanting into a container, and note expiration dates. Hydration remains separate from food quality: many cats drink poorly on dry diets, so fresh water, fountains, or vet-directed wet food additions still belong in the conversation.

Overall, Instinct Raw Boost earns a strong premium-tier score for picky indoor cats when the household can afford it and manage storage. It is not mandatory for every cat, but it solves a common problem—refusal—without jumping straight into home raw programs you may not be ready to execute safely.

HowIPet reviews are independent opinions for education only. Prices and formulas change; always read current labels and ask your veterinarian for medical advice.