Kirkland Signature, Costco’s in-house brand established in 1995, has built a strong reputation for offering affordable pet food that rivals name-brand equivalents. Celebrated by publications like Bon Appetit as a top-tier store brand, Kirkland Signature aims to provide high-quality products without the premium price tag. This review delves into Kirkland cat food to help you decide if this popular brand meets the nutritional needs and budget of your cat.
Cats.com’s Evaluation of Kirkland Cat Food
We’ve assessed Kirkland cat food across five key areas: species-appropriateness, ingredient quality, product variety, customer experience, and recall history, grading it against the Cats.com standard.
Ratings:
- Species-Appropriateness: 6/10
- Ingredient Quality: 8/10
- Product Variety: 6/10
- Customer Experience: 8/10
- Recall History: 6/10
Overall Score: 6.8/10 (C Grade)
This score reflects Kirkland’s commitment to providing accessible nutrition, though it acknowledges areas where improvements could enhance its species-appropriateness for felines.
Expert Insights and Hands-On Testing
Our evaluation is based on extensive research into Kirkland’s recall history, manufacturing processes, ingredient sourcing, and customer feedback. Additionally, we conducted hands-on testing with two cats, Wessie and Forest, using Kirkland Signature dry and wet cat food purchased at retail price to gain practical insights into palatability and overall appeal.
Sourcing and Manufacturing Practices
Kirkland Signature cat food is manufactured in the United States by Diamond Pet Foods, a company that also produces food for several other pet food brands. Diamond operates five manufacturing facilities across the U.S., utilizing both domestic and imported ingredients to create Kirkland’s product lines.
Kirkland Cat Food Recalls and Safety
Kirkland Signature cat food was part of a recall in the spring of 2012 due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall affected multiple brands manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods. Investigations by the FDA highlighted safety concerns at Diamond’s manufacturing facility in Gaston, South Carolina, which had previously faced scrutiny for producing dog food with excessive aflatoxin levels. Despite this past recall and manufacturing concerns, Kirkland Signature has maintained a consistent safety record for over a decade, with no further recalls reported.
Kirkland’s Cat Food Product Range
Kirkland Signature offers a focused selection of both dry and wet cat food formulas. Dry food options are available in larger bags (18, 20, or 25 pounds), while wet food comes in 3-ounce or 3.5-ounce cans, often sold in variety packs of 40 or 45.
Current offerings include:
- Kirkland Signature Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Food
- Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Food
- Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Indoor Adult Cat Formula Dry Food
- Kirkland Signature Chicken Recipe Pâté Wet Cat Food
- Kirkland Signature Turkey Recipe Pâté Wet Cat Food
- Kirkland Signature Salmon Recipe Pâté Wet Cat Food
- Kirkland Signature Chicken Recipe Chunks in Gravy Wet Cat Food
- Kirkland Signature Salmon Recipe Chunks in Gravy Wet Cat Food
All Kirkland cat foods feature animal protein as the primary ingredient. The Nature’s Domain dry food and all wet food varieties are grain-free, while other dry formulas incorporate rice and other carbohydrates.
Cat Approval and Palatability
While Kirkland’s dry foods tend to be moisture-depleted and carbohydrate-heavy, they stand out as a superior option compared to other budget-friendly brands. Kirkland distinguishes itself with better ingredient quality and the absence of potentially harmful additives found in some competitor products. The recently introduced wet food lines appear comparable to established brands like Iams and Diamond, offering a higher quality alternative to store brands such as Aldi’s Heart to Tail due to their exclusion of meat by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
Top Kirkland Signature Recipes Reviewed
| Product Name | Food Type | Main Protein Source | Price | Our Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Signature Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula | Dry | Chicken | $0.09/oz | C+ |
| Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Recipe | Dry | Salmon Meal | $0.13/oz | C+ |
| Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Indoor Adult Cat Formula | Dry | Chicken Meal | $0.10/oz | D+ |
| Kirkland Signature Turkey Recipe Pate Wet Cat Food | Wet | Turkey | $0.22/oz | B+ |
#1 Kirkland Signature Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula
This economical kibble is formulated for all life stages, making it suitable for both kittens and adult cats. Its primary ingredients are chicken and chicken meal, providing essential amino acids. Whole-grain brown rice and ground white rice serve as binders, while chicken fat offers a beneficial animal-derived fat source. The inclusion of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis probiotics supports digestive health.
Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Sodium Bisulfate, Salmon Oil (A Source of DHA), Potassium Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Lactobacillus and Bacillus Fermentation Products, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 30%, Crude Fat: 20%, Crude Fiber: 3%, Moisture: 10%.
Pros:
- Features named meats, avoiding vague meals or by-products.
- Includes guaranteed probiotic levels.
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Highly affordable.
Cons:
- High in carbohydrates.
- Low moisture content.
- Relatively low in protein.
#2 Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Recipe
This grain-free option from Kirkland’s Nature’s Domain line utilizes sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes as carbohydrate sources instead of grains. It contains salmon meal and fish meal as primary protein sources, complemented by probiotics and chicory root for prebiotic fiber. Canola oil is the main fat source.
Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Pea Protein, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil (A Source of DHA), Dl-Methionine, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Blueberries, Raspberries, Tomatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Lactobacillus and Bacillus Fermentation Products, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 32%, Crude Fat: 14%, Crude Fiber: 3%, Moisture: 10%.
Pros:
- A good economical choice for cats who enjoy fish.
- Contains guaranteed probiotic bacteria for digestive health.
Cons:
- Uses canola oil instead of animal-sourced fat.
- High carbohydrate content.
#3 Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Indoor Adult Cat Formula
Marketed for indoor cats and weight management, this formula features chicken meal as the first ingredient, followed by rice, peas, and potato protein. Chicken fat serves as the primary fat source. It includes chicory root for prebiotics and probiotics for gut health, along with boosted L-carnitine to aid fat metabolism.
Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice, Peas, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Potato Protein, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Sodium Bisulfate, Fish Meal, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Lactobacillus and Bacillus Fermentation Products, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid.
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 32%, Crude Fat: 9%, Crude Fiber: 10%, Moisture: 10%.
Pros:
- Potentially beneficial for weight management.
- Contains guaranteed beneficial bacteria.
- Uses animal-derived fat.
Cons:
- Very high in carbohydrate matter.
- Low fat content may not suit all cats.
#4 Kirkland Signature Turkey Recipe Pate Wet Cat Food
This grain-free wet food starts with fresh turkey, followed by other poultry-based ingredients like broth, liver, and hearts, offering a rich source of protein and nutrients. It uses natural flavor and thickening agents like locust bean gum and carrageenan. Flaxseed meal and canola oil provide omega-3 fatty acids.
Ingredients: Turkey, Poultry Broth, Poultry Liver, Poultry Hearts, Natural Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Locust Bean Gum, Carrageenan, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Flaxseed Meal, Dried Egg Product, Salt, Taurine, Canola Oil, Magnesium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Xanthan Gum, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Sulfate, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin Supplement, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfate Complex, Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, Biotin.
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 8%, Crude Fat: 4.5%, Crude Fiber: 1.5%, Moisture: 80%.
Pros:
- Fresh turkey is the primary ingredient.
- High moisture content supports hydration.
- Good source of protein and fat.
Cons:
- Contains vaguely named poultry ingredients.
- Relies on plant-based fats.
- Includes carrageenan and gum thickeners.
Customer Feedback on Kirkland Signature Cat Food
Kirkland Signature Maintenance Cat Chicken and Rice dry food has received over 2,000 reviews on Costco.com, averaging a 4.7 out of 5 stars. Customers frequently praise the balance of price and quality. While wet food reviews are fewer due to recent availability, early feedback is positive.
Positive Feedback Highlights:
- High quality at a competitive price.
- Cats remain healthy and thrive on the food.
- Improvements in coat health and reduced litter box odor noted by some owners.
Negative Feedback Highlights:
- Some cats refuse to eat certain formulas.
- Concerns about high carbohydrate content in dry foods.
- The large package sizes can be cumbersome for storage.
Cost of Kirkland Signature Cat Food
Purchased directly from Costco, Kirkland dry cat food typically ranges from $0.09 to $0.13 per ounce. Wet food, sold in variety packs, averages around $0.22 per ounce. For a typical 10-lb cat, a daily feeding of Kirkland dry food costs approximately $0.16 to $0.25, while a wet food diet can range from $1.50 to $1.85 per day. This pricing positions Kirkland among the most affordable cat food brands available, comparable to Diamond Cat Food and Friskies.
Is Kirkland Signature Cat Food a Good Choice?
Kirkland cat food offers a compelling value proposition, especially its dry food options, which provide superior ingredient quality and fewer potentially harmful additives than many other budget brands. While its dry formulas are noted for being moisture-depleted and high in carbohydrates—characteristics less ideal for a cat’s carnivorous diet—the wet food offerings appear to be on par with established brands. For pet owners seeking an economical yet quality option, Kirkland Signature presents a strong contender, particularly when considering the overall value and accessibility.
Availability of Kirkland Signature Cat Food
Kirkland Signature cat food is primarily available at Costco warehouses and on Costco.com, requiring a Costco membership. Select products may also be found on Amazon and Walmart, though availability and pricing can vary, and these sellers may not be officially licensed by Costco.
