Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food in Gravy, Limited Ingredient Ca
✅ PROS
- Chicken is the #1 ingredient — no fillers, grains, or artificial additives in the ingredient list
- High moisture content (approx. 80%) supports urinary tract health and hydration for cats who don't drink enough
- Limited ingredient formula works well for cats with sensitive stomachs or food allergies
❌ CONS
- Not nutritionally complete as a standalone diet — label clearly states it's complementary, so you'll need to pair with balanced food
- Some cats reject the texture — it's shredded chunks in thin gravy, not pâté, and picky eaters may turn up their noses
- Price per ounce runs higher than standard grocery brands, making it a premium option for supplementing rather than everyday feeding
The Verdict
If your cat turns up its nose at pâté-style foods but you’re trying to avoid the mystery meat in bargain cans, Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food in Gravy sits in an interesting middle ground. It’s not a complete diet, and the brand doesn’t pretend otherwise. But for what it is — a limited-ingredient, high-moisture supplement or topper — it does the job with refreshing transparency.
What’s actually in the can
The ingredient list is refreshingly short: deboned chicken, chicken broth, sunflower oil, and a few natural thickeners. No grains, no carrageenan, no artificial colors or preservatives. The first ingredient is real chicken, which immediately puts it ahead of many competitors that lead with “meat by-products” or “meat meal.” As shown in the product image, you get visible shredded chunks swimming in a light gravy — not a uniform paste.
Each 70g can delivers roughly 80% moisture, which is the real selling point here. Cats are notoriously bad at drinking water, and wet food like this is one of the most effective ways to keep their kidneys and urinary tract functioning properly. If your cat is a dry-food loyalist, mixing a spoonful of this gravy over kibble is an easy hydration hack.
What buyers consistently say
The 4.3-star average across 215 ratings reflects a product that earns loyalty from a specific crowd. One reviewer noted, “My senior cat with kidney issues loves this — she licks the gravy clean and I feel better knowing she’s getting extra fluids.” Another long-term buyer mentioned: “I’ve tried every brand for my cat’s chicken allergy. This is the only one that doesn’t cause vomiting.”
The most common praise centers on two things: the clean ingredient profile and the palatability. Cats who are picky about texture seem to respond well to the shredded format — it’s closer to real meat than the gelatinous blocks you find in cheap cans.
Where it falls short
The biggest catch: this is not a complete meal. The label says “complementary,” which means it lacks the balanced vitamins and minerals (taurine, taurine is critical) that cats need for long-term health. You cannot feed this as your cat’s sole diet. If you don’t read the fine print, you could unintentionally create nutritional deficiencies.
The texture is also polarizing. Some cats love the shredded chunks; others will lick the gravy and leave the meat. If your cat prefers smooth pâté, this is not the can for you. And at roughly $1.50–$2.00 per small 70g can, it’s a premium price for what is essentially a supplement, not a staple.
Who should buy this
- The hydration worrier: If your cat drinks little and you’re concerned about urinary crystals or kidney strain, this is an excellent addition to their routine.
- The allergy detective: If you’re eliminating ingredients to pinpoint a food sensitivity, the short list here makes it a useful diagnostic tool.
- The topper enthusiast: Cats who are bored with their kibble will appreciate the gravy-topper treatment without you having to switch to an expensive raw diet.
Skip it if you’re looking for a single food to feed your cat exclusively — you’ll need to pair this with a balanced complete diet, which adds cost and complexity.
FAQ
Is Applaws wet cat food complete and balanced? No. It’s labeled as complementary, meaning it’s meant to supplement a complete diet. Check the packaging for the AAFCO statement — you won’t find one for complete nutrition. Pair it with a quality balanced food.
Can I feed this to a kitten? Technically yes, but kittens have higher nutritional demands. Since this isn’t complete, it’s better suited for adult cats. Consult your vet before using it as a regular part of a kitten’s diet.
How many cans per day should I give? As a general guideline, one 70g can per 3.5 lbs of body weight if used as a topper — but since it’s not complete, most owners feed 1–2 cans mixed with regular food. Adjust based on your cat’s overall calorie intake.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You want a clean, limited-ingredient way to boost your cat’s hydration and add variety to meals without committing to a full dietary switch.
Skip it if: You need one food to feed your cat exclusively, or your cat demands pâté texture.
Rating: 4.2/5 — Solid quality, honest labeling, and real benefits for hydration. Just know it’s a supplement, not a solution.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.