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Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe

CatDry

Rating

Updated Jun 2026
★︎★︎★︎★︎☆︎ 4.5 / 5
Protein Clarity

Protein Clarity

This measures how clearly the protein sources are identified on the label. "High" means ingredients like "chicken" or "salmon" are listed by name, so you know exactly what your pet is eating. "Low" means vague terms like "meat meal" or "animal by-products" are used, making it harder to know what's really inside.

Why does clarity matter?

According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), pet food labels must follow specific naming standards. When a product uses a named protein like "chicken" it must contain at least 25% of that ingredient. Vague terms like "meat by-products" have no such minimum and can include lower-quality parts from any animal source — making it impossible to know what your pet is actually eating or to identify allergens.

High
Animal Protein

Animal Protein

This estimates how meat-forward the protein sources are from the ingredient label. Named animal proteins count strongly, plant protein concentrates count strongly against the score, and whole plant ingredients with some protein count more lightly. A "High" score means the recipe appears mainly animal-protein led. A "Low" score means the label shows a stronger reliance on plant protein signals.

This is an ingredient-label heuristic, not an exact lab measurement of protein grams.

Why does animal protein matter?

1. Contains irreplaceable essential nutrients Taurine and Arginine — which cats need to stay healthy — are only found in meat. Plants contain none at all.

2. Plant proteins are poorly utilized by the body Even though plant proteins (like corn gluten meal) may show 92.9–96% apparent digestibility, that does not mean high bioavailability. They lack adequate Lysine (only 1.7% vs. the ideal 6–7%) and contain phytic acid that blocks mineral absorption.

High
How we review →

Is Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe dry cat food good?

Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe is a dry cat food rated 4.5 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. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish but contains Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.

Allergy Highlights

Contains:

EggLegumesPoultryFishUnknown Fish Meal

Free From:

Gluten grainsGrains (gluten-free)DairyNutsRed meatShellfish

Pros

  • Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
  • Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.

Cons

  • Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.

Nutrition Breakdown

Nutrition Breakdown — Dry Matter
Protein 47%
Fat 22%
Est. Carbs 20%
Fiber 3%
Ash 8%

Moisture (10%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.

Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.

Nutrition Breakdown — As Fed
Protein 42%
Fat 20%
Est. Carbs 18%
Fiber 3%
Moisture 10%
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 High (47% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is generally more aligned with cats' higher protein needs than lower-protein recipes, assuming the food is complete for the cat's life stage.

    Understanding High Protein (40% - 50% Dry Matter)

    Protein-Forward Profile This bucket suggests the food is protein-forward for the selected species. The cat threshold is intentionally higher than the dog threshold because cats generally need more protein than dogs.

    Check Species and Life Stage Growing, pregnant, nursing, senior, or medically managed pets can have different targets. The adequacy statement and your vet's advice matter more than this bucket alone.

  • Fat is Super High (22% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is very energy-dense; cats with pancreatitis, digestive disease, or weight concerns need case-specific veterinary guidance.

    Understanding Super High Fat (≥ 22% Dry Matter)

    Very Energy Dense This dry-matter fat range can provide a lot of calories in a small amount of food. It may fit some working, very active, or underweight pets when the full diet is appropriate.

    Medical Context Matters Pancreatitis nutrition is case-dependent. Low-fat diets are often used for dogs with pancreatitis, while cats may need different strategies such as highly digestible or hydrolyzed diets. Pets with pancreatitis history, digestive disease, or weight concerns should follow veterinary guidance.

Ingredients Analysis

53 of 55 matched

  • 1 Chicken Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of chicken, it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh chicken on dry matter basis.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 2 Potato
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains mainly carbs, often used as an alternative filler for grain-free pet foods.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

  • 3 Sunflower Oil
    Fat

    Description

    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.

  • 4 Pea
    Carbs Plant Protein

    Description

    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.

  • 5 Chicken
    Animal Protein

    Description

    The dominant animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also high in iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 6 Dried Egg
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of eggs, it contains almost every nutrient the body needs. It also has the highest biological value (protein absorption) among other animal proteins.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 7 Ocean Fish Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    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.

  • 8 Natural Flavor
    Food Additive

    Description

    Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.

    Why Concerned?

    Contrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.

  • 9 Choline Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.

  • 10 Potassium Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.

  • 11 Taurine
    Supplement

    Description

    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).

  • 12 Dl-methionine
    Supplement

    Description

    Added to balance the amino acids profile of pet foods with limited amounts of meat protein. Meat / fish naturally contains methionine, which does not require extra supplements. It is sometimes used to help support urine acidification.

    Why Concerned?

    A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein). However, it could imply the lack of meat protein - usually in lower quality pet foods.

  • 13 Salmon Oil
    Fat

    Description

    The oil extracted from salmon, an excellent source of fat and omega 3s, which is important to reduce inflammation in the body.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 14 Dried Cranberry
    Carbs

    Description

    High in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is also best known for fighting Urinary Tract Infections. While it could be true for humans, the effect on pets is yet to be confirmed by further research.

  • 15 Carrot
    Carbs

    Description

    Well known for its alpha and beta-carotene content, also rich in potassium and vitamin B6. Most pet foods use it as a minor ingredient (include 0.1% to 3% of the total composition).

  • 16 Pumpkin
    Carbs

    Description

    An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.

  • 17 Parsley
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of plant native to the Mediterranean. It is particularly rich in vitamin K, and a good source of vitamin A, C, and antioxidants.

  • 18 Apple
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.

  • 19 Cranberry
    Carbs

    Description

    High in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is also best known for fighting Urinary Tract Infections. While it could be true for humans, the effect on pets is yet to be confirmed by further research.

  • 20 Blueberry
    Carbs

    Description

    Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.

  • 21 Mushroom
    Carbs

    Description

    Unspecified mushroom, a source of fiber and B vitamins.

  • 22 Celery
    Carbs

    Description

    Source of vitamins A, C, and K, also contains minerals such as folate, potassium, and manganese.

  • 23 Beet
    Carbs

    Description

    High in sugar, carbs, and fiber, along with vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium.

    Why Concerned?

    Controversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.

  • 24 Watercress
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of dark leafy green naturally grows in spring water, an excellent source of vitamin A and C. It also contains mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.

  • 25 Spinach
    Carbs

    Description

    Nutrient-dense leafy greens, an excellent source of vitamin A, C, K1, B9, iron, and calcium.

  • 26 Broccoli
    Carbs

    Description

    A safe treat for both dogs and cats in small amounts, as it contains isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation.

  • 27 Mint
    Carbs

    Description

    A herb with a refreshing flavor, providing small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

  • 28 Pomegranate
    Carbs

    Description

    The red round fruit with many small edible seeds called "arils" inside. Arils are high in sugar - and a good source of vitamin C, K, folate, and potassium. Punicalagins, the antioxidant from the fruit, is said to be 3 times more powerful than green tea.

  • 29 Mixed Tocopherols
    Food Additive

    Description

    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.

  • 30 Sesame Oil

    No match found in database

  • 31 Yucca Extract
    Carbs

    Description

    Yucca schidigera is a desert plant found in the arid southwestern US and Mexico. It has been shown to reduce fecal aroma (poop's smell) without any harmful effect.

  • 32 Dried Kelp
    Carbs

    Description

    An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.

  • 33 Egg White

    No match found in database

  • 34 Lentil
    Plant Protein Carbs

    Description

    A legume high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.

    Digestion Concern

    May cause flatulence in some pets due to high fiber content.

  • 35 Vitamin A
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.

  • 36 Vitamin D3
    Supplement

    Description

    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).

  • 37 Vitamin E
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 38 Zinc Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 39 Niacin
    Supplement

    Description

    Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.

  • 40 Ferrous Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 41 Vitamin C
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.

  • 42 Pantothenic Acid
    Supplement

    Description

    A water-soluble dietary supplement for vitamin B5, which is essential for energy metabolism in the body.

  • 43 Thiamine
    Supplement

    Description

    A supplement for vitamin B1, which is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.

  • 44 Copper Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 45 Riboflavin
    Supplement

    Description

    A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.

  • 46 Vitamin B6
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B6, which is vital for producing glucose, red blood cells, and synthesis of niacin, taurine, dopamine. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anemia, seizures, and heart-related issues.

  • 47 Manganese Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.

  • 48 Zinc Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 49 Calcium Iodate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 50 Manganese Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 51 Sodium Selenite
    Food Additive

    Description

    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.

  • 52 Biotin
    Supplement

    Description

    A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.

  • 53 Vitamin B12
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 54 Rosemary Extract
    Carbs

    Description

    A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.

  • 55 Bacillus Coagulans
    Probiotics

    Description

    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: Pea may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
  • Higher-priority ingredients to review: Ocean Fish Meal.
  • Higher-caution ingredients: Ocean Fish Meal have caution notes in the ingredient database.
  • Possible digestion triggers: Pea, Lentil have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.

Protein Analysis

How this recipe earned its protein scores.

Protein Clarity

High
High
  • Named 83%
  • Unnamed 17%

Strong clarity: 83% of Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 17% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Named protein ingredients let you verify the source and check for allergens.

Contributing ingredients

Named

Chicken Meal Chicken Dried Egg

Unnamed

Ocean Fish Meal

Animal Protein

High
High
  • Animal 91%
  • Plant 9%

Meat-forward: 91% of the weighted protein in Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (9% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.

Contributing ingredients

Animal

Chicken Meal Chicken Dried Egg Ocean Fish Meal

Plant

Pea Lentil

Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe dry cat food Review

Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe is a strong choice — rated 4.5 stars with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. A confident pick when the ingredient panel matches your pet's needs.

Best for

  • Owners who want clearly named protein sources
  • Pets avoiding gluten grains
  • Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein

Avoid if

  • Your pet is allergic to eggs
  • You're avoiding legumes
  • You need to know the exact animal source of every protein

Key takeaways

  • Named animal proteins make up 83% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
  • Contains common allergens: Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
  • On a dry-matter basis: 47% protein, 22% fat, 20% estimated carbohydrates.
  • 91% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
  • Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish.

Frequently asked questions

Is Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe good for cats?

Yes — rated 4.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.

Does Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contain Dairy?

No — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contain Egg?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contains Egg, so pets sensitive to Egg should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contain Legumes?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe contain Nuts?

No — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.

Is Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe grain-free?

Yes — there are no grains in this recipe.

What are the main protein sources in Solid Gold Free Range Chicken Recipe?

The top animal proteins are Chicken Meal, Chicken, Dried Egg — clearly named, so you can verify the source.

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