Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Cat Food 3 lb. Bag
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This cat food contains beneficial ingredients such as chicken, chicken meal, and flaxseed, which provide essential nutrients and support overall feline health. However, the presence of 'natural flavor' as an ingredient raises concerns due to its lack of transparency. Additionally, the product is processed, which limits its score potential despite the inclusion of high-quality protein sources.
Key ingredients 19
FlaxseedVery Good
Flaxseed is a source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. It supports healthy skin and coat and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. It is a beneficial addition to pet food for its nutritional properties.
Benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, supporting skin health and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
ChickenGood
Chicken is a high-quality source of animal protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth in cats. It provides a complete amino acid profile necessary for feline health. The use of real chicken indicates a less processed ingredient.
Benefits
Rich in essential amino acids and provides high-quality protein necessary for cats' overall health.
Chicken MealGood
Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein, providing more protein per gram than fresh chicken. It is made by rendering chicken to remove moisture and fat, resulting in a nutrient-dense ingredient. This process ensures a high protein content suitable for cats.
Benefits
Provides a concentrated source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in cats.
Chicken FatGood
Chicken fat is a source of essential fatty acids and energy. It is preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural antioxidant. This ingredient supports healthy skin and coat in cats.
Benefits
Rich in essential fatty acids that support skin and coat health in cats.
Choline ChlorideGood
Choline chloride is a source of choline, an essential nutrient for liver function and brain health. It is often added to pet foods to ensure adequate intake. Choline is crucial for maintaining cellular structure and function.
Benefits
Supports liver function and brain health, essential for overall well-being.
TaurineGood
Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, crucial for heart and eye health. Cats cannot synthesize taurine, so it must be included in their diet. Adequate taurine intake prevents deficiencies that can lead to serious health issues.
Benefits
Essential for heart and eye health, preventing deficiencies in cats.
VitaminsGood
The vitamin blend provides essential nutrients necessary for various bodily functions. These vitamins support immune health, energy metabolism, and overall well-being. Including a range of vitamins ensures a balanced diet for cats.
Benefits
Supports immune health, energy metabolism, and overall well-being.
MineralsGood
The mineral blend provides essential minerals necessary for bone health, enzyme function, and overall well-being. These minerals are crucial for maintaining various physiological processes. Ensuring adequate mineral intake supports a balanced diet.
Benefits
Supports bone health, enzyme function, and overall well-being.
L-LysineGood
L-Lysine is an essential amino acid that supports immune function and protein synthesis. It is important for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in cats. Supplementing with L-Lysine can help prevent deficiencies.
Benefits
Supports immune function and protein synthesis, essential for maintaining muscle mass.
Dried Chicory RootGood
Dried chicory root is a source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health. It promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing nutrient absorption. Including chicory root can improve gut health and digestion.
Benefits
Supports digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria growth.
Yucca Schidigera ExtractGood
Yucca schidigera extract is used to reduce stool odor and support digestive health. It contains saponins that may have anti-inflammatory properties. This extract is beneficial for improving the palatability and digestibility of pet food.
Benefits
Reduces stool odor and supports digestive health, enhancing palatability.
Brown RiceNeutral
Brown rice is a whole grain that provides carbohydrates and fiber. It is less processed than white rice, retaining more nutrients. However, it is not a primary dietary requirement for cats, who are obligate carnivores.
Risks
May contribute to carbohydrate content, which should be limited in a cat's diet.
Benefits
Provides fiber and some essential nutrients, though not critical for feline nutrition.
Ground Whole Grain CornNeutral
Ground whole grain corn is a source of carbohydrates and fiber. It is commonly used in pet foods as a filler and energy source. While not essential for cats, it can provide some nutritional value.
Risks
May cause allergies in some cats and is not a necessary component of a feline diet.
Benefits
Offers carbohydrates and fiber, though not essential for cats' nutritional needs.
Corn Gluten MealNeutral
Corn gluten meal is a byproduct of corn processing, providing a protein source. It is less digestible than animal proteins and primarily used as a filler. It is not a necessary protein source for cats.
Risks
May cause allergies in some cats and is not as digestible as animal-based proteins.
Benefits
Provides a source of protein, though not as beneficial as animal-based proteins.
PeasNeutral
Peas are a source of carbohydrates, fiber, and some protein. They are often used in pet foods as a filler and to add bulk. While not essential for cats, they can contribute to the overall nutrient profile.
Risks
May contribute to carbohydrate content, which should be limited in a cat's diet.
Benefits
Provides fiber and some protein, though not critical for feline nutrition.
Dried Tomato PomaceNeutral
Dried tomato pomace is a byproduct of tomato processing, providing fiber and some nutrients. It is used as a filler in pet foods. While not essential, it can contribute to the fiber content of the diet.
Benefits
Provides fiber and some nutrients, though not critical for feline nutrition.
Potassium ChlorideNeutral
Potassium chloride is used as a source of potassium, an essential mineral. It helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports various bodily functions. It is a common additive in pet foods to ensure adequate mineral intake.
Benefits
Provides essential potassium, supporting electrolyte balance and overall health.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and provide sodium, an essential mineral. It is necessary for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive salt intake can be harmful.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension.
Benefits
Provides essential sodium for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.
Natural FlavorBad
Natural flavor is a vague term that can encompass a wide range of substances. It is used to enhance palatability but lacks transparency about its composition. This can be concerning for pet owners seeking to understand what their pets consume.
Risks
Lack of transparency may pose a risk for pets with allergies or sensitivities.
Benefits
Enhances the palatability of pet food, making it more appealing to pets.
Processing
Processed Foods
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