When it comes to premium pet nutrition, Ziwi Peak Cat Food stands out as a top choice for cat owners who prioritize quality and health. Sourced from New Zealand’s pristine farms and waters, this brand is celebrated for its high-protein, grain-free formulas that mimic a cat’s natural diet.
In this detailed review, we’ll dive into the top-rated Ziwi Peak Cat Food products available on Amazon, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features. We’ll also address frequently asked questions from Google Trends and provide a comparison table to help you decide if Ziwi Peak Cat Food is the right fit for your feline friend. As an Amazon affiliate, I’ve included links to top-rated products to make your shopping experience seamless.
Ziwi Peak Cat Food is renowned for its ethically sourced ingredients, air-drying technology, and commitment to whole-prey nutrition. Whether you’re feeding a picky eater or a cat with sensitivities, this brand offers a range of wet and air-dried options that cater to all life stages. Let’s explore why Ziwi Peak Cat Food consistently earns high ratings and what makes it a standout in 2025.
Why Choose Ziwi Peak Cat Food?
Ziwi Peak Cat Food is crafted with a focus on replicating the whole-prey diet cats would consume in the wild. Founded in 2002 by Peter Mitchell, the brand uses free-range, grass-fed meats and sustainably caught seafood from New Zealand. Their innovative air-drying process (Z-TWINTECH™) preserves nutrients without artificial preservatives, making it a healthier alternative to traditional kibble. Here’s why Ziwi Peak Cat Food is a favorite among pet owners:
- High Meat Content: Up to 98% of the ingredients in Ziwi Peak Cat Food are meat, organs, and bones, ensuring a protein-rich diet.
- Grain-Free and Low-Carb: Free from grains, corn, wheat, and fillers, it’s ideal for cats with sensitivities or allergies.
- Ethical Sourcing: Ingredients come from New Zealand’s sustainable farms and fisheries, adhering to strict animal welfare standards.
- No Artificial Additives: No GMOs, sugars, glycerins, or carrageenan, making it suitable for sensitive stomachs.
- Variety of Flavors: From lamb to mackerel, Ziwi Peak Cat Food offers diverse options to entice even picky eaters.
With these benefits in mind, let’s dive into the top-rated Ziwi Peak Cat Food products available on Amazon, based on customer reviews, ingredient quality, and nutritional value.
Top-Rated Ziwi Peak Cat Food Products on Amazon
Here are three top-rated Ziwi Peak Cat Food products that shine on Amazon in 2025, based on customer ratings, ingredient analysis, and popularity.
1. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Cat Food – Lamb
Amazon Rating: 4.6/5 (2,200+ reviews)
This air-dried lamb recipe is a bestseller for its high protein content (47% on a dry matter basis) and low carbohydrate levels (12.9%). It features 96% lamb meat, organs, and bones, plus New Zealand green-lipped mussels for joint health. The air-drying process locks in nutrients, offering the benefits of a raw diet with the convenience of dry food. Customers praise its palatability, with many reporting improved coat shine and energy levels in their cats.
Key Ingredients:
- Lamb, Lamb Heart, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Liver, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Lung, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals, Vitamins, Taurine.
Nutritional Breakdown (Dry Matter Basis):
- Protein: 47%
- Fat: 32.1%
- Carbohydrates: 12.9%
- Calories: 264 kcal/cup
Customer Feedback:
- “My picky cat loves this! Her coat is shinier, and she’s more active.”
- “Expensive, but worth it for the quality. No more tummy issues!”
- Some users noted their cats refused it after reformulation, citing a possible change in texture or flavor.
2. ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food – Mackerel & Lamb
Amazon Rating: 4.7/5 (1900+ reviews)
This wet food is a thick, meaty pate with 92% mackerel and lamb, complemented by green-lipped mussels. It’s grain-free, low in carbs (25.3% on a dry matter basis), and packed with protein (45.5%). The absence of carrageenan and gums makes it a great choice for cats with sensitive stomachs. However, some Amazon reviews highlight concerns about high mercury levels in the fish-based formula.
Key Ingredients:
- Mackerel, Water Sufficient for Processing, Lamb, Lamb Lung, Chickpeas, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Heart, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Liver, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Bone, DL-Methionine, Dried Kelp, Minerals, Taurine, Vitamins.
Nutritional Breakdown (Dry Matter Basis):
- Protein: 45.5%
- Fat: 21.2%
- Carbohydrates: 25.3%
- Calories: 186 kcal/170g can
Customer Feedback:
- “My cat with allergies thrives on this. No more vomiting!”
- “Smells rich and meaty. My cats devour it.”
- Negative reviews mention occasional stock shortages and high cost.
3. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Cat Food – Venison
Amazon Rating: 4.5/5 (2800+ reviews)
Ideal for cats with protein allergies, this venison recipe boasts 98% meat, organs, and bones. It’s nutrient-dense, with 34% crude protein and low fat (25% on a dry matter basis), making it suitable for less active cats. The inclusion of green mussels supports joint health, while the absence of grains and fillers caters to sensitive felines. Some users report their cats found the texture too hard.
Key Ingredients:
- Venison, Venison Tripe, Venison Liver, Venison Heart, Venison Lung, Venison Kidney, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison Bone, Lecithin, Inulin, Dried Kelp, Minerals, Vitamins, Taurine.
Nutritional Breakdown (Dry Matter Basis):
- Protein: 47%
- Fat: 25%
- Carbohydrates: 12.9%
- Calories: 264 kcal/cup
Customer Feedback:
- “Perfect for my cat with chicken allergies. She loves it!”
- “Helped my senior cat’s mobility. Pricey but worth it.”
- Some noted their cats refused it, possibly due to the strong venison flavor.
Pros and Cons of Ziwi Peak Cat Food
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of Ziwi Peak Cat Food based on customer reviews, expert analyses, and ingredient quality.
Pros
- High-Quality Ingredients: Ziwi Peak Cat Food uses ethically sourced, free-range meats and sustainably caught seafood from New Zealand, ensuring premium nutrition.
- High Protein, Low Carb: With up to 47% protein and as low as 4% carbs in some recipes, it aligns with a cat’s carnivorous needs.
- No Artificial Additives: Free from grains, GMOs, sugars, and carrageenan, making it ideal for cats with allergies or sensitivities.
- Whole-Prey Nutrition: Includes organs and bones, mimicking a natural diet and providing essential nutrients like taurine and chondroitin.
- Air-Drying Technology: Preserves nutrients without high-temperature cooking, offering raw diet benefits with dry food convenience.
- Palatable for Picky Eaters: Many Amazon reviews praise its rich flavor, enticing even finicky cats.
Cons
- High Price Point: Ziwi Peak Cat Food is expensive, with wet food costing ~$5 per 185g can and air-dried food at $3/day for a 10-pound cat.
- Mercury Concerns in Fish-Based Recipes: Independent lab tests found high mercury levels (8170 ng/g) in the Mackerel & Lamb recipe, exceeding FDA limits for non-reproducing cats (267 ng/g).
- Inconsistent Availability: Some customers report stock shortages on Amazon and other retailers.
- Reformulation Issues: A few reviews mention cats rejecting Ziwi Peak Cat Food after reported formula changes post-2022 acquisition by FountainVest Partners.
- High Phosphorus Content: Recipes with bone may have elevated phosphorus levels, unsuitable for senior cats or those with kidney issues.
- Texture Concerns: Some cats find the air-dried food too hard or the pate too thick, requiring mashing or softening.
FAQs About Ziwi Peak Cat Food
Based on Google Trends and common queries, here are answers to frequently asked questions about Ziwi Peak Cat Food.
1. Is Ziwi Peak Cat Food worth the price?
Ziwi Peak Cat Food is a premium brand, and its high cost reflects the quality of ethically sourced ingredients and nutrient-dense formulas. While it’s pricier than brands like Royal Canin or Purina, many owners find it reduces vet bills by improving coat, digestion, and overall health. For budget-conscious owners, using it as a topper can stretch its value.
2. Is Ziwi Peak Cat Food safe for cats with allergies?
Yes, Ziwi Peak Cat Food is grain-free, GMO-free, and lacks common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. Single-protein options like venison are ideal for cats with food sensitivities. However, always consult a vet before switching diets.
3. Has Ziwi Peak Cat Food ever been recalled?
No, Ziwi Peak Cat Food has no recorded recalls since its founding in 2002, indicating a strong safety record.
4. Is Ziwi Peak Cat Food suitable for senior cats?
While suitable for all life stages, its high phosphorus content (due to bone inclusion) may not be ideal for senior cats or those with kidney issues. Consult your vet for low-phosphorus alternatives like Weruva.
5. Where is Ziwi Peak Cat Food manufactured?
Ziwi Peak Cat Food is made in New Zealand, with dry food produced in company-owned facilities in Mount Maunganui and Christchurch, and wet food by a partner manufacturer.
6. Why did my cat stop eating Ziwi Peak Cat Food?
Some cats reject Ziwi Peak Cat Food due to texture (hard air-dried pieces or thick pate) or flavor changes after reformulation. Gradual transitions and mixing with familiar food can help.
Comparison Table: Ziwi Peak Cat Food vs. Competitors
To provide context, here’s how Ziwi Peak Cat Food compares to two other premium brands available on Amazon: Orijen and Feline Natural.
| Feature | Ziwi Peak Cat Food | Orijen Cat Food | Feline Natural Cat Food |
| Main Protein Source | Lamb, Venison, Mackerel (92–98% meat) | Chicken, Turkey, Fish (85% meat) | Lamb, Chicken, Hoki (98% meat) |
| Protein (Dry Matter) | 45.5–47% | 40–44% | 48–50% |
| Carbohydrates (Dry Matter) | 4–25.3% | 15–20% | 1–5% |
| Grain-Free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Key Additives | Green-Lipped Mussel, Kelp | Fruits, Vegetables | Green-Lipped Mussel |
| Price per Day (10-lb cat) | ~$3.00 (air-dried), ~$5.00 (wet) | ~$2.50 (dry) | ~$3.50 (wet) |
| Recall History | None | None | None |
| Manufacturing Location | New Zealand | Canada/USA | New Zealand |
| Amazon Rating | 4.5–4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Best For | Sensitive stomachs, picky eaters | Active cats, budget-conscious | Raw diet enthusiasts |
Analysis:
- Ziwi Peak Cat Food excels in low-carb, high-protein nutrition and ethical sourcing but is pricier.
- Orijen offers a slightly lower protein content and includes plant-based ingredients, making it less ideal for strict carnivore diets.
- Feline Natural is closest to Ziwi Peak Cat Food in quality but has a more limited flavor range.
Our Verdict on Ziwi Peak Cat Food
Ziwi Peak Cat Food earns its reputation as a premium brand with its high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients and whole-prey approach. Its air-dried and wet formulas cater to cats’ carnivorous needs, offering high protein, low carbs, and no fillers. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and lack of recalls further solidify its reliability. However, the high cost, potential mercury concerns in fish-based recipes, and occasional reformulation issues are drawbacks to consider.
For cat owners seeking a nutrient-dense, natural diet, Ziwi Peak Cat Food is a top-tier choice, especially for cats with allergies or picky palates. If budget is a concern, consider using it as a topper or rotating with a more affordable brand like Orijen. Always consult your vet before switching, especially for senior cats or those with health issues.
Recommendation:
- Best Overall: ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Cat Food – Lamb for its balance of protein, convenience, and palatability.
- Best for Sensitivities: ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Cat Food – Venison for single-protein needs.
- Best for Picky Eaters: ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food – Mackerel & Lamb for its rich flavor and texture.
Ready to treat your cat to Ziwi Peak Cat Food? Check out these top-rated products on Amazon and give your feline the nutrition they deserve!
Sources
- Catster
- Simply Cat Care
- Reddit: r/catfood on Ziwi Peak
- Cat Food Advisor
- Amazon: Customer Reviews for Ziwi Peak Products
