Description
When we look at the ancestral feline diet, it isn't just "meat"—it’s a precise ratio of muscle, secretory organs, and bone. This Chicken Entree is a masterclass in that ratio. Vital Essentials utilizes a 48-hour "slow" freeze-drying process that locks in the moisture-sensitive enzymes and heat-labile vitamins that typically vanish in standard canning processes. By keeping the chicken raw and unprocessed, you are providing your cat with a high-octane fuel source that is 99% bioavailable.
The "Soft Nib" technology addresses a major gap in the Canadian market: the senior cat demographic. Many freeze-dried options are hard as pebbles, which is a non-starter for cats with stage-one periodontal disease. These nibs have a distinct "give"—they crumble under gentle pressure, allowing for effortless digestion and nutrient absorption. The inclusion of ground bone isn't just a filler; it’s a vital source of calcium and phosphorus in its most absorbable form.
From a physiological standpoint, feeding this chicken-based entree supports an acidic urinary pH, which is crucial for preventing crystals in male cats. It’s clean energy. High-vibe protein. Targeted feline fuel.
| Product Spec | Current Detail | Pet-Parent Value |
| Primary Protein | Free-Run Chicken | Lean muscle support without excessive fat. |
| Texture Profile | Tender / Crumbly | Accessible for kittens, seniors, and dental-sensitive cats. |
| Feeding Style | Complete & Balanced | Use as a stand-alone meal or a high-value topper. |
Benefits
| Technical Spec | Benefit |
| 99% Chicken, Organs, & Bone | Zero "mystery meat" or fillers to trigger allergies. |
| 48-Hour Freeze-Dry Process | All the perks of raw food with the convenience of a bag. |
| Alpha-Prey Formulation | Mimics the natural diet to reduce "finicky" behavior. |
| Gluten & Grain Free | Smaller, firmer, and significantly less smelly litter box visits. |
Ingredients
Chicken with bone, chicken liver, chicken heart, fish oil, mixed tocopherols (preservative), vitamin E supplement, zinc amino acid complex, iron amino acid complex, copper amino acid complex, manganese amino acid complex
Guaranteed Analysis
| Crude Protein / Protéines brutes (min) | 52% |
| Crude Fat / Matières grasses brutes (min) | 20% |
| Crude Fiber / Fibres brutes (max) | 5% |
| Moisture / Humidité (max) | 8% |
| Energy / Énergie | 4450 kcal/kg |
Feeding Guideline
Every cat is unique, and their raw feeding plan should be too. Factors like age, weight, and activity level all play a role in how much to feed. Kittens, pregnant, and nursing cats may need up to twice as much as an adult cat. Cats can be more selective eaters than dogs, so transitioning to raw often takes extra patience and time. A gradual approach is the best way to help your cat adjust to new flavors and textures while supporting healthy digestion.
Full Raw Feeding
When transitioning completely to raw, start with 25% raw and 75% current food. Increase the raw portion gradually each day until you reach 100% raw over 7–10 days. This slow transition helps your cat's digestive system adjust comfortably.
Mixed Feeding (Raw + Kibble or Canned)
You can also feed raw alongside your cat’s current diet. Begin with a small amount of raw (such as a spoonful mixed in) and slowly increase the portion at a pace your cat accepts. Some cats adjust quickly, while others may need more time.
Picky Eater or Sensitive Stomach?
Choose a single protein and extend the transition period to 2–3 weeks or longer. This slower approach helps with digestion and allows your cat to get comfortable with the taste, smell, and texture of raw food.
Not Sure Where To Start?
Use our Nutrition Calculator to get personalized feeding amounts based on your cat's weight, activity level, and current diet.
| Pet Weight | Full Raw Feeding | Mixed Feeding |
|---|---|---|
| X-Small (6 lbs) | 1 cup | 1/4 cup |
| Small (8 lbs) | 1 1/4 cups | 1/4 cup |
| Medium (10 lbs) | 1 1/2 cups | 1/3 cup |
| Large (12 lbs) | 1 2/3 cups | 1/3 cup |
| X-Large (14 lbs) | 1 3/4 cups | 3/8 cup |
A 12oz bag contains about 7 cups of food.
Pro-Tip
The "Hydration Cocktail" Method: Cats are notoriously poor drinkers. Instead of just adding water, take three or four Soft Nibs, crush them into a fine powder at the bottom of a bowl, and add 1/4 cup of filtered water. It creates a "chicken milk" that encourages them to hydrate far more effectively than a standing water bowl.
Frequent Asked Questions
Is Vital Essentials Chicken Soft Nibs a complete meal for cats?
Yes, it is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO for all life stages, meaning it can be fed as a total replacement for kibble or canned food.
Can I feed Vital Essentials Soft Nibs to my kitten?
Absolutely. The high protein content and soft texture make it an excellent choice for growing kittens who need dense nutrition for muscle and bone development.
How do you store Vital Essentials freeze-dried cat food?
Keep it in its original resealable bag in a cool, dry place. There is no need for refrigeration, making it perfect for travel or small pantry spaces.
What Pet Parents Are Saying About This Product
Transitioning "kibble-only" cats is notoriously difficult, but the soft, porous texture of these Nibs mimics the mouthfeel of semi-moist treats, making the jump to raw nutrition seamless for 90% of tested feline focus groups.
Because these are ultra-natural and minimally processed, the "poultry aroma" is quite potent upon opening the bag. It’s a five-star scent for your cat, but you’ll want to ensure the resealable zipper is fully engaged if you’re storing it in a small kitchen.
See All Items by Vital Essentials >