IMBY Insect-Based Vitality Cat Food

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) provide complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and a variety of micronutrients including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. These nutrients contribute to normal metabolic processes and help maintain healthy tissues. 

Dietary fiber supports normal gastrointestinal function and helps maintain digestive balance. At the same time, carotenoids and vitamin C contribute to antioxidant defenses that help protect cells from oxidative stress. 

Because of their balanced nutritional profile and natural palatability, sweet potatoes are often included in pet nutrition to provide digestible energy and support overall vitality, including healthy skin and coat condition (Waisundara et. al., 2017). 

Sugar beet pulp is a highly fermentable fiber often used in horse diets to support healthy hindgut fermentation and provide steady energy without the starch load of many grains. Research in horses has evaluated beet pulp inclusion for digestibility and metabolic responses, supporting its reputation as a useful “super fiber” for condition, older horses, and horses needing more calories from fiber. It must be introduced gradually and balanced within the full ration. ScienceDirect

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a nutrient-rich microalgae known for its high protein content and abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant pigments. It contains essential amino acids as well as bioactive compounds such as phycocyanin and beta-carotene. 

These pigments have been widely studied for their antioxidant properties and their role in supporting healthy tissues and cellular protection. Antioxidants help maintain normal skin integrity and support hair follicle health, both important factors for a healthy coat (Aksoy, 2024). 

Because skin and coat condition often reflect overall nutritional balance, spirulina is sometimes included in pet nutrition as a natural source of protein, micronutrients, and antioxidant compounds that contribute to overall vitality (Cabrita, 2025).

Mealworm protein derived from Tenebrio molitor larvae is an alternative animal protein source increasingly used in pet nutrition. It provides a highly digestible source of essential amino acids that contribute to normal muscle maintenance, tissue repair, and overall metabolic function.

Because insect proteins differ from traditional animal proteins such as beef or chicken, they are often used in nutritional strategies designed for pets with food sensitivities. Using a novel protein source can help support balanced nutrition in animals that may react to more common protein ingredients.

In addition to its nutritional value, mealworm protein contains beneficial fatty acids, micronutrients, and highly bioavailable proteins that contribute to overall health and vitality in dogs and cats. Because of its digestibility, nutritional quality, and sustainability, insect protein is increasingly used as a complete protein source in modern pet foods.

Cranberry is used to support urinary tract health in dogs and cats because it contains proanthocyanidins (often called PACs) that can make it harder for certain bacteria, especially E. coli, to stick to the bladder wall. When bacteria cannot attach as easily, they are more likely to be flushed out during normal urination. This is why cranberry is mainly positioned for prevention support in pets that are prone to recurring urinary issues, not as a stand-alone solution for an active infection. 

In practice, cranberry works best as part of a broader urinary plan, alongside good hydration and regular toilet breaks for dogs. It should not replace veterinary care if a pet shows signs of a UTI such as frequent urination, straining, accidents, blood in the urine, pain, or lethargy. Cats in particular can have urinary problems that are not bacterial (for example stress-related inflammation), so getting the right diagnosis matters. Chou HI et al., 2016, Olby et al., 2006 

Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a functional yeast ingredient naturally rich in nutrients and yeast-derived compounds such as beta-glucans, mannan-oligosaccharides, and fermentation metabolites. These components are studied for their role in supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall wellbeing in dogs.

In canine studies, Saccharomyces cerevisiae products have been shown to positively influence the gut microbiota, including increased beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, while also supporting immune markers and normal inflammatory balance.

Research in dogs also links Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products to skin and coat support, including effects on skin sebum, antioxidant status, and immune responses. This makes brewer’s yeast especially relevant in formulations aimed at supporting gut health, skin resilience, and coat quality (Jouany et al., 2009; Davenport, 2023; Lin, 2019; Wilson, 2022).

Algal oil is a sustainable, traceable source of omega-3s, naturally rich in DHA and often EPA, and it supports the body’s healthy inflammatory balance. 

• Joint health: Omega-3s help keep the normal inflammatory response in check, which can support more comfortable movement and recovery after exercise. 
• Skin and coat: DHA and EPA support the skin barrier, helping reduce dryness and supporting a softer, shinier coat, especially in animals prone to flaky skin or seasonal itchiness. 
• Lung health: Omega-3s can support respiratory comfort by helping maintain a balanced inflammatory response in the airways, which is relevant for pets that react to dust, pollen, or environmental triggers. 

Because algal oil delivers omega-3s in a consistent way, it is a practical alternative to fish oil for long-term daily support of joints, skin, and respiratory resilience (ScienceDirect). 

Nettle (Urtica dioica) leaves are valued for their dense nutritional profile, providing plant protein and a wide range of naturally occurring minerals including iron, calcium, magnesium, and silica. These nutrients play an important role in the maintenance of bones, connective tissues, and normal musculoskeletal function. Gülçin I. et al., 2004

Minerals such as calcium and magnesium contribute to normal bone metabolism, while silica is associated with connective tissue integrity, including ligaments and tendons. Because of this nutrient composition, nettle leaves have traditionally been included in animal nutrition to support the musculoskeletal system during growth, aging, or periods of increased physical workload.
Halder & Sharma, 2017

For horses exposed to repetitive joint loading, such as sport horses, as well as growing foals or older horses, providing adequate mineral support is an important part of maintaining healthy bones and connective tissues and supporting comfortable movement.

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino monosaccharide that serves as a building block for glycosaminoglycans and other structural molecules in the body. Glycosaminoglycans are important components of connective tissues such as cartilage and also contribute to the structure of mucosal surfaces throughout the body.

These molecules help maintain the strength, elasticity, and structural integrity of connective tissues. In biological systems, glucosamine participates in pathways that support the synthesis and maintenance of these structural components, which are essential for maintaining normal tissue function.

Glycosaminoglycans and related molecules also contribute to the protective mucosal layers found in the gastrointestinal tract. These layers help maintain barrier integrity and support the interaction between the intestinal lining and the microbiome, which is important for digestive stability and overall physiological balance.

Because of its role as a structural precursor in connective tissues and mucosal systems, glucosamine is often included in nutritional formulations aimed at supporting tissue maintenance, gastrointestinal integrity, and overall physiological resilience. ScienceDirect

Apple (Malus domestica) is a natural source of pectin, a soluble fiber known for its role in supporting digestive health. Pectin forms a gel-like structure in the gut, which helps regulate intestinal transit and contributes to normal stool consistency.

As a fermentable fiber, pectin serves as a substrate for beneficial gut bacteria. This supports a balanced microbiome, which plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.

The gut and nervous system are closely connected through the gut–brain axis. Supporting a stable gut environment can therefore contribute to overall wellbeing and a more balanced response to everyday stressors. This makes pectin relevant not only for digestive support but also as part of a broader approach to maintaining calm and comfort in sensitive animals (Wikiera, 2014; Zaitseva, 2020).

Chicoryroot isrich in inulin-type fibers that act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. In dog feeding research, chicory root powder has been studied for effects on gut health indicators and immunological status, supporting its use as a digestive-friendly fiber ingredient. For sensitive dogs, prebiotics are often best introduced gradually to avoid gas or loose stools. ScienceDirect

White rice (Oryza sativa) is widely used in pet nutrition because it is a highly digestible source of carbohydrates that provides readily available energy. Its mild composition and low fiber irritants make it gentle on the digestive system.

Because rice starch is efficiently digested in the small intestine, it can help support digestive comfort and consistent nutrient absorption. For this reason, rice-based ingredients are commonly included in diets designed for animals with sensitive digestion (ScienceDirect, 2003; Frontiers, 2023; Zoran, 2008).

When combined with other natural ingredients and protein sources, white rice contributes to balanced nutrition while helping maintain stable energy levels and digestive wellbeing.

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism. These minerals are important for maintaining normal bone formation and overall structural support.

Beyond its role in mineral metabolism, vitamin D3 also contributes to immune system regulation. Immune cells contain vitamin D receptors, and adequate vitamin D levels support normal immune responses and physiological balance.

Vitamin D is also involved in cellular growth and differentiation, including in tissues such as the skin. These processes contribute to maintaining skin integrity and overall tissue health.

Because of its role in immune function, skin health, and metabolic balance, vitamin D3 is commonly included in nutritional formulations designed to support overall wellbeing and resilience in dogs (Chrobak-Chmiel, 2023; Dogru, 2017; Hattangdi-Haridas, 2019; Mostafa, 2015).

Vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol) is an essential fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from oxidative stress. Because these membranes are rich in fatty acids, they are particularly sensitive to oxidative damage, making antioxidant protection important for normal cellular function (ScienceDirect, 2014).

Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining muscle cell integrity and supports normal nerve function. It also contributes to immune function and helps maintain healthy tissues such as skin and coat (Fagan, 2018).

Horses naturally obtain vitamin E from fresh grass, but intake can be limited when pasture access is restricted, making additional supply relevant (University of California, 2019).

Vitamin E can occur in different forms (tocopherols), each with specific antioxidant properties. A combination of these forms provides broader antioxidant support compared to a single form alone. As a fat-soluble vitamin, delivering vitamin E in an oil-based form supports its natural absorption (Quigley, 2021).

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions throughout the body. It plays a key role in cellular metabolism, immune function, and tissue maintenance.

In the skin, zinc contributes to normal cell turnover and supports the structural integrity of skin tissues. Adequate zinc intake is therefore important for maintaining healthy skin and coat condition.(Schwartz et. al., 2006; Glutsch et. al., 2019).

Zinc is also involved in immune system activity and antioxidant defense mechanisms that help protect tissues from oxidative stress. Because of these roles, zinc is commonly included in pet nutrition to support immune balance, skin health, and overall physiological function (Animals, 2021).