Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe scores 3/5 on Moesonson's label-based analysis. Its strongest factor is animal-protein content (strong — 76% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources); its weakest is protein clarity (high — 67% of the recipe's protein panel is clearly named).
Rating
Updated Jul 2026
How this score is made
This score isn’t a hand-wavy impression: it reads what the label actually prints — the ingredient list, guaranteed analysis and AAFCO adequacy statement — and runs it through the same algorithmic rubric as every other product. No brand pays for placement, and there are no affiliate links on reviewed products.
Is Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe dry cat food good?
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe is a dry cat food rated 3 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. The recipe lists most animal ingredients by name and features real muscle meat as a primary protein source. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Shellfish but contains Legumes, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Includes a fair number of clearly named animal ingredients.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
- Uses mainly organic mineral sources, which are typically better absorbed.
Nutrition Breakdown
| Protein | 40% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 16% |
| Est. Carbs | 31% |
| Fiber | 6% |
| Ash | 8% |
Moisture (12%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 35% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 14% |
| Est. Carbs | 27% |
| Fiber | 5% |
| Moisture | 12% |
| Ash | 7% |
Ash value not listed on label; 7% used as a standard estimate.
As-fed values are the raw percentages printed on the product label.
Tips
- Protein is Medium (40% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. Cats usually benefit from higher protein than dogs, so confirm the food is complete for cats and fits the cat's life stage.
- Fat is Medium (16% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is a moderate energy-density signal for many cats, but total calories and body condition still matter.
Ingredients Analysis
44 of 44 matched
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1 Salmon
Animal ProteinDescription
One of the most nutrient-dense fish, high in protein, packed with omega 3s, B vitamins, and it is a good source of potassium selenium, and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Ocean Fish Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of unnamed fish. It is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh fish on dry matter basis.
Why Notice?
It does not state what kind of fish is used to make the ingredient. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
Uncertain/Risky
Unnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
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3 Lentils
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 27% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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4 Chickpeas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Also known as garbanzo beans, a type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 20% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
-
5 Peas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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6 Sunflower Oil
FatDescription
The oil derived from sunflower seeds, high in either omega 6 and 9 fats, low in saturated fat and is packed with natural anti-oxidant vitamin E.
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7 Natural Vegetable Flavor
OthersDescription
Natural flavors are created from substances extracted from an unknown mix of vegetables. It is added to pet food to enhance the flavor.
Why Notice?
Unspecified plant products made of unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
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8 Salmon Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
The dehydrated form of salmon, a meat concentrate that could contain up to 400% more protein compared to fresh meat. It is one of the most nutrient-dense fish, high in protein, packed with omega 3s, B vitamins, and it is a good source of potassium selenium, and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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9 Cod
Animal ProteinDescription
A popular white fish that is high in protein, omega 3s and low in mercury.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
-
10 Fenugreek Seed
CarbsDescription
Seeds of the fenugreek herb, used in traditional medicine for various health benefits.
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11 Dried Alfalfa
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Typically used in horse feed, high in fiber, and contains around 20% plant protein.
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12 Dandelion Leaves
OthersDescription
Leaves from dandelion plant, used for liver and digestive support.
Why Prefer?
Named herb supporting liver and digestive health.
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13 Cod Liver Oil
FatDescription
Similar to other fish oil, it is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Since it is extracted from the liver, it is also high in Vitamins A and D
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14 Taurine
SupplementDescription
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
Why Prefer?
A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
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15 Choline Chloride
SupplementDescription
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
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16 Mixed Tocopherols
Food AdditiveDescription
A mixture of different types of vitamin E, usually found in plant oils, seed and green vegetables. They are powerful antioxidants used as a natural preservative to slow down the spoilage of food.
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17 Turmeric
CarbsDescription
Orange ginger-like plant often used in making curry. It contains curcumin, which is a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. However, its color is the main purpose of adding it to pet foods.
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18 Thyme
CarbsDescription
A herb often used for cooking, a great source of vitamin C, A, copper, iron, and manganese.
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19 Rosemary
CarbsDescription
A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
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20 Sage
CarbsDescription
A herb from the mint family, a good source of vitamin K and antioxidants - it contains over 160 plant-based polyphenols.
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21 Organic Cranberry
CarbsDescription
Organically grown cranberries, rich in antioxidants and support urinary health.
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22 Zinc Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
-
23 Iron Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
-
24 Copper Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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25 Manganese Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% higher absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is essential for normal metabolic function with the body.
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26 Sodium Selenite
Food AdditiveDescription
An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
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27 Vitamin E
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.
-
28 Calcium Iodate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
-
29 Thiamine Mononitrate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
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30 Niacin Supplement
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
-
31 D-calcium Pantothenate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
-
32 Riboflavin Supplement
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
-
33 Vitamin A Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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34 Vitamin D3 Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin D3 (animal-derived), which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).
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35 Vitamin B12 Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
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36 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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37 Vitamin H
SupplementDescription
Another name for biotin (vitamin B7), essential for skin, coat, and metabolic health.
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38 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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39 Folic Acid
SupplementDescription
A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
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40 Salt
OthersDescription
Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
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41 Dried Lactococcus lactis Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
Dried fermentation product from Lactococcus lactis bacteria.
Why Prefer?
Named probiotic fermentation product supporting gut health.
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42 Dried Lactobaccillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product
(Detected): Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. L. acidophilus produces lactic acid, which is believed to help prevent bad bacterias from growing in the intestines.
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43 Dried Bifidobacterium Longum Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bifidobacterium longum binds to the intestine and prevents bad bacteria from attaching, which protects the digestive system from illness and boosts immunity.
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44 Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus coagulans is often taken by humans to treat bowel syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.
Tips
- Some protein sources are less clear: Ocean Fish Meal appear near the top without a clearly defined animal source.
- Plant protein is worth closer review for cats: Lentils, Chickpeas, Peas may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Ocean Fish Meal, Natural Vegetable Flavor.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Ocean Fish Meal have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible digestion triggers: Lentils, Chickpeas, Peas have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
Moderate- Named 67%
- Unnamed 33%
Mixed clarity: 67% of Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named, but 33% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Where names are vague, you cannot verify the source or check for allergens.
Contributing ingredients
Named
Unnamed
Animal Protein
High- Animal 76%
- Plant 24%
Meat-forward: 76% of the weighted protein in Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (24% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe dry cat food Review
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe is a solid mid-tier dry cat food at 3 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. It has clear strengths alongside a few trade-offs worth weighing.
Best for
- Owners who want clearly named protein sources
- Pets avoiding gluten grains
- Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein
Avoid if
- You're avoiding legumes
- You need to know the exact animal source of every protein
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 67% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Contains common allergens: Legumes, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
- On a dry-matter basis: 40% protein, 16% fat, 31% estimated carbohydrates.
- 76% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
- Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Shellfish.
Frequently asked questions
Is Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe good for cats?
Mostly — Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe is a solid mid-tier choice at 3 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, pairing high ingredient transparency with strong animal protein content. It shows real strengths alongside a few trade-offs, so weigh the ingredient list against your cat’s needs — allergies, life stage and protein preference.
Does Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe does not include Dairy or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe contain Egg?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe does not include Egg or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe contains Legumes. Pets with a known Legumes sensitivity should generally avoid this recipe, or check with a veterinarian first. Moesonson flags allergens directly from the label’s ingredient panel, so this reflects what the manufacturer actually declares.
Does Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe does not include Nuts or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Is Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe grain-free?
Yes — Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe is grain-free according to its printed ingredient list: no gluten grains (like wheat) and no gluten-free grains (like rice or corn) appear in the recipe. That makes it a candidate for pets with diagnosed grain sensitivities, though grain-free offers no automatic benefit for pets without one.
What are the main protein sources in Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe?
The main animal proteins in Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Kibble Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe are Salmon, Salmon Meal, Cod. Each is named by species on the printed ingredient list — a protein-clarity strength in Moesonson’s scoring, because named sources let you verify what your cat is eating and avoid specific proteins when managing food allergies.
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