Instinct vs. Primal

Attribute	Instinct	Primal
Definition	Innate behavior or response to stimuli	Related to the earliest stages of development or evolution
Origin	Biological or genetic	Evolutionary or ancestral
Survival	Helps organisms survive and adapt	Focuses on basic survival instincts
Behavior	Automatic and unlearned	Primitive and instinctual

Introduction

Instinct and Primal are two popular brands of pet food that cater to the natural dietary needs of dogs and cats. Both brands emphasize the use of high-quality ingredients and focus on providing a balanced diet for pets. While they share some similarities in their approach to pet nutrition, there are also key differences between the two brands that pet owners should consider when choosing the best food for their furry friends.

Ingredients

One of the most important factors to consider when comparing Instinct and Primal is the ingredients used in their pet food formulas. Instinct uses primarily raw, natural ingredients such as real meat, fruits, and vegetables. They also include probiotics and omega fatty acids to support digestive health and a shiny coat. On the other hand, Primal also focuses on raw ingredients but adds in organic produce and supplements like coconut oil and kelp for added nutritional benefits.

Protein Content

Protein is essential for the overall health and well-being of dogs and cats, and both Instinct and Primal offer high-protein diets for pets. Instinct's pet food formulas typically contain around 35-40% protein, sourced from real meat like chicken, beef, and fish. Primal, on the other hand, boasts even higher protein content, with some formulas containing up to 45% protein. This makes Primal a great choice for pet owners looking to provide their furry friends with a protein-rich diet.

Grain-Free Options

Many pet owners prefer to feed their dogs and cats grain-free diets, as grains can sometimes cause digestive issues or allergies in pets. Both Instinct and Primal offer grain-free options for pet owners looking to avoid grains in their pet's diet. Instinct's grain-free formulas use ingredients like sweet potatoes and peas as carbohydrate sources, while Primal's grain-free formulas rely on vegetables like broccoli and kale to provide essential nutrients without the use of grains.

Flavors and Variety

When it comes to flavors and variety, Instinct and Primal both offer a wide range of options to suit the preferences of different pets. Instinct offers flavors like chicken, beef, and lamb, as well as novel proteins like venison and rabbit for pets with food sensitivities. Primal, on the other hand, provides a variety of protein sources including duck, quail, and pheasant, giving pet owners plenty of options to choose from when selecting the best food for their furry friends.

Pricing and Availability

Another important factor to consider when comparing Instinct and Primal is pricing and availability. Instinct tends to be more widely available in pet stores and online retailers, making it easier for pet owners to find and purchase. However, Primal's higher protein content and organic ingredients can come with a higher price tag compared to Instinct. Pet owners should weigh the cost and availability of each brand when deciding which one is the best fit for their budget and convenience.

Conclusion

Overall, both Instinct and Primal offer high-quality pet food options that prioritize natural ingredients and balanced nutrition for dogs and cats. While Instinct focuses on raw ingredients and probiotics, Primal offers organic produce and higher protein content in their formulas. Pet owners should consider their pet's dietary needs, preferences, and budget when choosing between Instinct and Primal to ensure they are providing the best possible diet for their furry friends.