10 Best Natural Balance Limited ingredient Diet Cat Foods of 2025
hing your cat struggle with an upset stomach or itchy skin is tough for any pet parent. You want to give them the best, but finding the right food for a cat with sensitivities can be a real challenge. This is where the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet cat food line comes in.
Natural Balance designed its Limited Ingredient Diet (L.I.D.) recipes with a simple philosophy: use fewer ingredients to minimize the chances of a food allergy or sensitivity. These formulas are perfect for cats with picky appetites, sensitive stomachs, or specific dietary needs. By focusing on a single animal protein source and avoiding common allergens like grain, corn, and soy, Natural Balance offers a straightforward path to better digestive health and happier mealtimes.
This guide will review the best Natural Balance L.I.D. cat foods, helping you find the perfect match for your furry friend.
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In This Article
- 10 Best Natural Balance Cat Foods – Complete Review
- Our Top Picks
- 1. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Premium Review: Is It Right for Your Cat?
- 2. CHÉRIE Complete & Balanced Diet Series: Premium Wet Cat Food for Optimal Feline Health
- 3. Applaws Wet Cat Food in Gravy: Is It Worth It?
- 4. Natural Balance Original Ultra: The Ultimate Cat Food Review
- 5. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet: Premium Nutrition for Sensitive Cats
- 6. Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food: Premium Nutrition Review
- 7. Northwest Naturals Freeze: Is This the Best Freeze-Dried Food for Your Cat?
- 8. Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Wet Cat Food Rabbit Recipe Pate – Dried Food for Your Cat?
- 9. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet: The Perfect Solution for Sensitive Pets
- 10. Blue Buffalo Basics Grain – Free Dry Cat Food: A Full Review
- Buying Guide for Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Cat Foods
- Your Questions, Answered
10 Best Natural Balance Cat Foods – Complete Review
Let’s explore some of the top-rated recipes in the Natural Balance L.I.D. line. Each formula offers something unique, from grain-free options to blends designed specifically for indoor cats.
Our Top Picks
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Cat Food:
Made with a single animal protein source and free of added grain, soy, gluten, artificial colors, or flavors, SENSITIVE PETS IN MIND has carefully selected a streamlined list of premium ingredients to promote a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
Applaws Natural Wet Canned Cat Food:
Recipes with Just a Few Ingredients: Packed with natural healthiness and mouthwatering tastes. Your cat will love the carefully selected quality, natural, restricted ingredients used in Applaws Wet Cat Food recipes.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Wet Canned Dog Food:
SALMON IS THE FIRST ANIMAL PROTEIN SOURCE, offering vital amino acids and protein to support robust muscles; Included as a grain-free source of fiber to promote digestive health is sweet potatoes; includes twelve 13-ounce cans.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small:
The first ingredient is lamb, which supplies vital protein and amino acids to support the maintenance of strong muscles; brown rice is included as a nutritious and high-fiber food for a healthy digestive system; One 12-pound bag is included.
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet:
POWER OF RAW: Made to be minimally processed and never cooked, our limited ingredient cat dry food is coated in freeze-dried raw for improved flavor and nutrition.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food:
In order to support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system, we have carefully selected a simplified list of premium ingredients with sensitive pets in mind. It is created with plant-based protein and contains no added soy, gluten, artificial colors, or flavors.
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet:
Cage-free turkey is the primary ingredient in this grain-free cat food, which is purposefully straightforward and made with just one animal protein and one vegetable. Turkey is a tasty, easily digestible protein that has all the essential amino acids needed to build strong, lean muscles.
Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food in Broth:
Natural Goodness: We at Applaws think your cat should only have the finest! Every bite of our canned wet cat food is full of natural goodness since it is produced with natural ingredients. Only the ingredients stated are included in each serving, and there are no artificial colors, flavoring, or additives.
1. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Premium Review: Is It Right for Your Cat?
Key Features
The Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Premium stands out with several notable characteristics that address specific feline nutritional needs.
Single-Source Protein
Each formula contains one primary protein source, making it easier to identify potential allergens. Whether you choose the limited-ingredient duck cat food or the salmon variety, your cat receives high-quality muscle meat as the first ingredient.
Grain-Free Formula
This grain-free dog food approach extends to their cat line, eliminating common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy. The absence of grains supports cats with sensitive digestive systems.
Natural Ingredients
The brand focuses on natural pet nutrition, avoiding artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Each recipe includes essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
Pâté Texture
The smooth pâté consistency appeals to most cats while being easy to digest. This texture works particularly well for senior cats or those with dental issues.
What we like
- Limited ingredient formula reduces risk of food sensitivities
- High protein content supports muscle maintenance
- Made in the USA with quality control standards
- Multiple protein options (salmon, duck, chicken)
- Grain-free recipe supports digestive health support
- No artificial additives or fillers
What we don't like
- Higher price point compared to standard cat foods
- Some reports of merrick limited ingredient diet premium discontinued flavors
- Limited availability in certain regions
- Smaller can size may not suit multi-cat households
- Transition period required for sensitive cats
2. CHÉRIE Complete & Balanced Diet Series: Premium Wet Cat Food for Optimal Feline Health
Key Features
- Complete Nutritional Balance
CHÉRIE Complete & Balanced Diet Series Wet Cat Food provides a protein-rich, meat-based diet that meets AAFCO standards. Each serving contains essential vitamins and minerals including taurine, vitamin E, vitamin B12, thiamine, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid.
- High Moisture Content
Cats often don’t drink enough water. This wet cat food helps with digestive health and supports the urinary system through its high moisture content. Proper hydration is crucial for kidney function and overall feline health.
- Premium Ingredients
The formula features real chicken and tuna as primary protein sources. You’ll also find beneficial additions like:
-
Omega-3 fatty acids from sunflower oil for healthy skin and coat
-
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint support
-
Prebiotics (fructooligosaccharide) for digestive wellness
-
L-carnitine for heart health and energy metabolism
- Grain-Free Formula
This grain-free recipe eliminates common allergenic ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. It’s perfect for cats with food sensitivities or those following a hypoallergenic diet.
- Smooth Pate Texture
The smooth pate texture makes it easy to serve and simple for cats of all ages to eat. Whether you have a playful kitten or a senior cat, the consistency works beautifully.
What we like
- Nutritionally complete formula approved by AAFCO
- Real meat (chicken, tuna) as primary ingredients
- High moisture content supports hydration
- Includes essential supplements like taurine, glucosamine, and prebiotics
- Grain-free and free from artificial additives
- Contains beneficial minerals (zinc, manganese, copper, selenium)
- Enriched with vitamins (A, D3, E, B-complex, biotin)
- Smooth texture appeals to picky eaters
- Supports multiple health areas: digestive, urinary, skin, and joint health
- Suitable for all life stages
What we don't like
- May be pricier than budget brands
- Contains thickening agents (guar gum, tapioca starch) which some owners prefer to avoid
- Limited flavor variety compared to some competitors
- Not suitable for cats with specific poultry or fish allergies
3. Applaws Wet Cat Food in Gravy: Is It Worth It?
Key Features
- High Meat Content: Applaws recipes are packed with protein, featuring up to 75% real meat like chicken or tuna loin. This supports strong muscles and provides essential energy.
- Natural Ingredients: You won’t find any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The food is made from simple, natural ingredients that are easy to digest.
- Grain-Free Formula: This cat food is grain-free, making it a great option for cats with sensitivities or allergies to grains. A grain-free diet can also support better digestion and overall health.
What we like
- High-quality, natural ingredients.
- Rich in protein from real meat.
- Grain-free and easy to digest.
- The gravy adds extra hydration.
- Appealing taste that many picky cats enjoy.
What we don't like
- It is a complementary food, not a complete meal, so it must be served alongside a complete dry food.
- Some flavors can have a strong fishy smell.
- The price point is higher than many other wet cat foods.
4. Natural Balance Original Ultra: The Ultimate Cat Food Review
Key Features
This cat food is designed with the unique needs of indoor cats in mind. It’s crafted with high-quality protein from chicken and salmon meal, which helps maintain strong muscles. The formula also includes a special fiber blend to support healthy digestion, which is crucial for less active indoor cats.
What I really appreciate is the focus on a holistic diet. Natural Balance Original Ultra Indoor Chicken & Salmon Meal Cat Food includes a superfood blend of peas, cranberries, and other natural ingredients. These provide essential antioxidants to support a strong immune system. Plus, it’s a natural balance wet cat food alternative that is easy to store and serve.
The recipe is also rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. As a grain-free option, it’s a great choice for cats with sensitivities to grains like corn, wheat, or soy.
What we like
- High-Quality Protein: The first ingredients are real chicken and salmon, providing excellent protein for muscle health.
- Supports Digestive Health: The unique fiber blend is great for indoor cats, helping to promote healthy digestion.
- Improves Skin & Coat: Thanks to the omega fatty acids, I noticed my cat's coat was shinier and softer.
- Grain-Free Formula: Perfect for cats with grain sensitivities, making it a gentle option for their stomachs. Many users writing a natural balance ultra cat food review mention this as a key benefit.
What we don't like
- Picky Eater Approved? Maybe Not: While my cat loved it, some cats can be picky about new foods, especially with distinct flavors like salmon.
- Premium Price Point: This food is on the pricier side, which might not fit every budget.
5. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet: Premium Nutrition for Sensitive Cats
Key Features
- Single Animal Protein Source
Each recipe features one primary animal protein like chicken, duck, or salmon, making it easier to identify and avoid ingredients that may cause allergic reactions. - Grain-Free Formula
This limited ingredient diet eliminates grains, corn, wheat, and soy – common allergens that can upset sensitive stomachs. - Premium Pate Texture
The smooth pate texture appeals to most cats and provides excellent hydration, supporting kidney health and overall wellness. - Natural Ingredients
Made with real meat, vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals, this natural cat food contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. - Complete Nutrition
Fortified with essential nutrients including taurine, vitamins, and minerals to support heart health, vision, and immune function.
What we like
- Simplified ingredient list perfect for cats with food allergies
- High-quality protein-rich cat food supports muscle development
- Hypoallergenic cat food reduces digestive upset
- Excellent palatability – most cats love the taste
- Variety of protein options including merrick duck cat food and salmon recipes
What we don't like
- Higher price point compared to regular cat food
- Limited flavor variety due to simplified formulas
- Some cats may need transition period to adjust
6. Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food: Premium Nutrition Review
Key Features
- Premium Natural Formula
Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food features real meat and fish as primary ingredients, delivering high protein content that mirrors a cat’s natural diet. The applaws natural wet cat food chicken breast in broth exemplifies this commitment to quality. - Grain-Free Diet Support
This grain-free diet eliminates unnecessary fillers, focusing on what cats truly need for optimal cat nutrition. No wheat, corn, or artificial preservatives compromise the natural formula. - Complementary Food Options
Unlike complete foods, many Applaws products serve as complementary feeds, perfect for mixing with applaws dry cat food to create balanced meals. - Variety of Flavors
From applaws natural wet cat food ingredients featuring tuna and salmon to chicken recipes, there’s something for every feline palate preference. - Life Stage Flexibility
Whether you need applaws kitten food, applaws kitten wet food, or applaws senior cat food, the brand offers appropriate nutrition for every life stage.
What we like
- Exceptional ingredient quality with real meat-based formula
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Fish flavor and meat options satisfy picky eaters
- Supports natural grain-free diet preferences
- Excellent taste and palatability
- Contains essential nutrients like taurine and amino acids
- Available in convenient broth and pâté textures
What we don't like
- Higher price point than conventional pet food
- Complementary nature requires balancing with complete foods
- Limited availability compared to mainstream brands
- Some concerns raised about nutritional completeness for daily feeding
7. Northwest Naturals Freeze: Is This the Best Freeze-Dried Food for Your Cat?
Key Features
The Northwest Naturals freeze-dried cat food stands out for several reasons. It is designed to be a complete and balanced meal, closely mimicking a natural, carnivorous diet.
- High-Protein, Single-Source: This food uses rabbit as its primary and single animal protein source. This is great for cats with allergies or sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef.
- Grain-Free: The formula is completely free of grains, corn, wheat, and soy, which are common fillers that can cause digestive issues in some cats.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: In addition to rabbit meat and bone, it includes nutritious extras like rabbit liver, kelp, and flaxseed. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids to support overall health.
- Convenience of Raw: It offers the nutritional benefits of a raw food diet without the hassle. The freeze-drying process locks in nutrients while making the food shelf-stable and easy to serve. Just add water to rehydrate, and it’s ready to eat.
What we like
- Excellent single protein source for cats with food sensitivities.
- High-quality, USA-sourced ingredients.
- Mimics a natural, species-appropriate diet.
- No grains, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
- Easy to prepare and serve.
What we don't like
- The northwest naturals freeze dried rabbit cat & kitten food price is higher than many traditional kibbles.
- Some picky eaters might take time to adjust to the texture or taste.
- It's important to be aware of any northwest naturals cat food recall history, although the brand generally maintains high safety standards.
8. Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Wet Cat Food Rabbit Recipe Pate - Dried Food for Your Cat?
Key Features
- The Northwest Naturals freeze-dried cat food stands out for several reasons. It is designed to be a complete and balanced meal, closely mimicking a natural, carnivorous diet.
- High-Protein, Single-Source: This food uses rabbit as its primary and single animal protein source. This is great for cats with allergies or sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef.
- Grain-Free: The formula is completely free of grains, corn, wheat, and soy, which are common fillers that can cause digestive issues in some cats.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: In addition to rabbit meat and bone, it includes nutritious extras like rabbit liver, kelp, and flaxseed. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids to support overall health.
Convenience of Raw: It offers the nutritional benefits of a raw food diet without the hassle. The freeze-drying process locks in nutrients while making the food shelf-stable and easy to serve. Just add water to rehydrate, and it’s ready to eat.
What we like
- Excellent single protein source for cats with food sensitivities.
- High-quality, USA-sourced ingredients.
- Mimics a natural, species-appropriate diet.
- No grains, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
- Easy to prepare and serve.
What we don't like
- The northwest naturals freeze dried rabbit cat & kitten food price is higher than many traditional kibbles.
- Some picky eaters might take time to adjust to the texture or taste.
- It's important to be aware of any northwest naturals cat food recall history, although the brand generally maintains high safety standards.
9. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet: The Perfect Solution for Sensitive Pets
Key Features
- The Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet stands out in the crowded pet food market through its thoughtful formulation. Each recipe contains a single protein source, making it easier to identify potential allergens while providing complete nutritional balance.
- The grain-free formula eliminates common triggers like wheat, maize, and soybean, focusing instead on wholesome alternatives like sweet potato and pea. This approach supports allergy relief while maintaining the essential amino acid profile your pet needs.
- What makes this dog food exceptional is its commitment to freeze drying technology, which preserves nutrient density while creating a shelf-stable product. The inclusion of natural ingredients like coconut oil, citric acid, and rosemary provides natural preservation without artificial additives.
- Popular varieties include the Instinct Limited Ingredient Turkey Dog Food, Instinct Limited Ingredient Salmon Cat Food, and the Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Rabbit Recipe. Each formula targets specific dietary needs while maintaining the brand’s commitment to quality.
What we like
- Hypoallergenic formula reduces food intolerance reactions
- Single protein source simplifies ingredient identification
- Rich in vitamin and mineral content including zinc, iron, and vitamin E
- Supports digestive health with easily digestible ingredients
- Available for both dog and cat formulations
- Contains beneficial supplements like choline, biotin, and pantothenic acid
What we don't like
- Premium pricing compared to conventional pet food
- Limited flavor variety due to simplified ingredient list
- Some reports of instinct limited ingredient diet discontinued flavors
- May require gradual transition period for sensitive pets
10. Blue Buffalo Basics Grain - Free Dry Cat Food: A Full Review
Key Features
- Limited Ingredient Diet: This formula is perfect for cats with food sensitivities. It uses a single source of animal protein, like real deboned turkey, to minimize allergic reactions.
- Grain-Free Recipe: Contains no corn, wheat, soy, or grains, which are common triggers for digestive issues in cats. Instead, it uses easily digestible vegetables like potatoes and peas.
- Rich in Omega Fatty Acids: Packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from ingredients like fish oil, this food helps promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- LifeSource Bits: Blue Buffalo includes its exclusive LifeSource Bits—a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health.
What we like
- Excellent for cats with sensitive stomachs and allergies.
- The single protein source helps identify and avoid specific allergens.
- Improves skin and coat health, making it soft and shiny.
- Cats seem to love the taste, even picky eaters.
What we don't like
- It has a higher price point compared to other cat foods.
- Some owners have noted that the kibble size might be too large for smaller cats.
Buying Guide for Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Cat Foods
Choosing the right formula can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what to consider when selecting a Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet cat food for your pet.
Protein Source
The first step is identifying a protein that works for your cat. If you know your cat is allergic to chicken, look for novel proteins like duck or salmon. If you’re unsure, starting with a common protein like chicken and monitoring for any reactions is a good approach.
Life Stage
Your cat’s nutritional needs change as they age. Kittens need more calories and protein for growth, while senior cats may need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Natural Balance offers formulas for all life stages, so make sure you choose one appropriate for your cat’s age.
Dietary Sensitivities
Is your cat sensitive to grains? The grain-free options would be the best fit. Does your cat need more moisture for urinary tract health? A wet food formula would be ideal. Understanding your cat’s specific health needs will guide you to the right product.
Your Questions, Answered
Is Natural Balance good for cats with allergies?
Yes, Natural Balance L.I.D. is specifically designed for cats with food allergies and sensitivities. The single protein source and limited ingredients help minimize the risk of an allergic reaction.
Is the Limited Ingredient Diet vet-recommended?
Many veterinarians recommend limited ingredient diets for cats with suspected food allergies as part of a food elimination trial to identify the problem ingredient.
What’s the best protein for sensitive cats?
Novel proteins—those your cat hasn’t eaten before—are often best for sensitive cats. Duck, venison, and rabbit are great examples. However, some cats do well on common proteins like chicken if that isn’t their specific allergen.
Can I mix wet and dry L.I.D. foods?
Absolutely! Mixing wet and dry food, often called “topping,” is a great way to increase your cat’s moisture intake while providing the dental benefits of crunching on kibble. Just make sure to use formulas with the same protein source.
How long does it take to see results on L.I.D.?
It can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks for your cat’s body to fully adjust to a new diet. During this time, you should notice improvements in their digestion and skin health.
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Kajari Kalam
Hi, my name is Kajari!
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