Orijen Six Fish
Orijen Six Fish scores 4.5/5 on Moesonson's label-based analysis. Its strongest factor is protein clarity (high — 100% of the recipe's protein panel is clearly named); its weakest is animal-protein content (strong — 91% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources).
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 Orijen Six Fish dry cat food good?
Orijen Six Fish 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. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Legumes, Fish.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
- Uses mainly organic mineral sources, which are typically better absorbed.
Nutrition Breakdown
| Protein | 44% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22% |
| Est. Carbs | 22% |
| Fiber | 3% |
| Ash | 8% |
Moisture (10%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 40% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20% |
| Est. Carbs | 20% |
| 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 (44% 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.
- 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.
Ingredients Analysis
49 of 49 matched
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1 Whole Mackerel
Animal ProteinDescription
Greenish-blue back silverfish, high in protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. It is also an excellent source of omega 3s, similar to salmon.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Whole Herring
Animal ProteinDescription
A small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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3 Flounder
Animal ProteinDescription
A flatfish lives in the deep-sea. It is a quality animal protein source with a low level of fat. It provides a range of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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4 Acadian Redfish
Animal ProteinDescription
A deep-water fish species found in the North Atlantic.
Why Prefer?
Named whole fish protein source.
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5 Monkfish
Animal ProteinDescription
Monkfish, a deep-sea fish with firm white flesh and mild flavor.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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6 Whole Hake
Animal ProteinDescription
A mild white fish, high in protein and low in fat, a good source of B vitamins and selenium.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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7 Mackerel Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of mackerel, a meat concentrate contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a greenish-blue back silverfish, high in protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. It is also an excellent source of omega 3s, similar to salmon.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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8 Herring Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of herring, which contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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9 Blue Whiting Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A white fish belongs to the cod family, rich in protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. Without water content, fish meal contains up to 400% more protein than fresh fish.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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10 Pollock Oil
FatDescription
The oil extracted from pollock, as a quality animal fat source and a boost on the level of omega 3s of pet foods.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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11 Whole Red 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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12 Whole Pinto Beans
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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13 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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14 Pollock Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
The dehydrated form of pollock, a meat concentrate that contains up to 400% more protein than fresh meat. It is a white fish high in protein and low in saturated fat, a good source of B12, phosphorous, and selenium.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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15 Whole Green 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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16 Whole Green 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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17 Whole Navy Beans
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carbs. 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.
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18 Whole 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.
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19 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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20 Pea Starch
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
The starchy part of peas after protein is extracted for pea protein products. It mainly consists of carbs and around 13% plant-based protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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21 Natural Salmon Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
A flavor made of salmon parts, it is used to make pet food more tasty and palatable.
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22 Sunflower Lecithin
FatDescription
An excellent source of vitamin E and selenium, and various antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids.
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23 Lentil Fiber
CarbsDescription
The fiber extracted from lentils after removing the starch. It is mainly insoluble fiber.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
Digestion Concern
Legumes contain oligosaccharides, which are short-chain sugars of 3-5 carbons and cannot be digested by dogs/cats.
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24 Whole Yellow 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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25 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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26 Dried Kelp
CarbsDescription
An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.
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27 Whole Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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28 Whole Butternut Squash
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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29 Collard Greens
CarbsDescription
A type of dark leafy greens that are commonly used in the salad for humans. It is completely safe for pets and serves as a rich source of vitamin K and folate.
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30 Whole Apples
CarbsDescription
Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.
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31 Whole Pears
CarbsDescription
A sugary fruit, a good source of vitamin C, folate, copper and potassium, along with polyphenol antioxidant.
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32 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.
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33 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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34 Riboflavin
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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35 Niacin
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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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 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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38 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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39 Dried Chicory Root
CarbsDescription
Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.
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40 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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41 Sarsaparilla Root
CarbsDescription
A tropical plant often used to treat joint problems like arthritis. It contains saponins, which are believed to help join / skin issues and kill bacteria.
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42 Althea Root
CarbsDescription
Known as marshmallow root, a perennial herb used to treat digestive, respiratory and skin problems for humans.
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43 Rosehips
CarbsDescription
Small red seeds that are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, catechins, quercetin, and ellagic acid. These help the body to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
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44 Juniper Berries
CarbsDescription
Berries in deep blue color, a good source of vitamin C and powerful plant compounds along with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
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45 Rosemary Extract
CarbsDescription
A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
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46 Citric Acid
Food AdditiveDescription
A common additive used for fat preservation. It is commonly found in citrus fruit like lemons and limes.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that might cause health issues.
Digestion Concern
Research suggests that dogs consumed dry foods containing citric acid as a preservative have a 200% increased risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloating). However, more research is required to make a solid conclusion.
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47 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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48 Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health.
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49 Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. L. casei are often used to prevent and treat diarrhea.
Tips
- Named animal proteins near the top: Whole Mackerel, Whole Herring are listed early in the ingredient panel.
- Ingredients worth checking: Pea Starch, Lentil Fiber, Citric Acid.
- Possible digestion triggers: Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Green Peas, and 6 more have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 100%
Strong clarity: 100% of Orijen Six Fish's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 0% 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
Animal Protein
High- Animal 91%
- Plant 9%
Meat-forward: 91% of the weighted protein in Orijen Six Fish 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
Plant
Orijen Six Fish dry cat food Review
Orijen Six Fish 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
- You're avoiding legumes
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Contains common allergens: Legumes, Fish.
- On a dry-matter basis: 44% protein, 22% fat, 22% estimated carbohydrates.
- 91% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
- Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.
Frequently asked questions
Is Orijen Six Fish good for cats?
Yes — Orijen Six Fish earns 4.5 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, combining high ingredient transparency with strong animal protein content. The score is computed from the printed ingredient list and guaranteed analysis rather than marketing claims — a confident pick when the label matches your cat’s needs.
Does Orijen Six Fish contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Orijen Six Fish 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 Orijen Six Fish contain Egg?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Orijen Six Fish 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 Orijen Six Fish contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Orijen Six Fish 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 Orijen Six Fish contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Orijen Six Fish 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 Orijen Six Fish grain-free?
Yes — Orijen Six Fish 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 Orijen Six Fish?
The main animal proteins in Orijen Six Fish are Whole Mackerel, Whole Herring, Flounder. 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.
