Rating
Type
Hot Extruded / Dry
Grain
Grain Free
Origin
Australia
Recipes
2
Is Blackhawk Dry Cat Food Good?
Blackhawk Dry Cat Food is a pet food line with a 3-star rating — around 31% of all the pet food we review fall in this tier.
They seem to have nutrition ratio similar to a common pet food, and contain mainly named ingredents. We think they are fine, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
What We like
- High Protein — over 35%!
- Aid Digestion with Probiotics
What We Concern
- More than 34% Carbs
- Include Plant Protein in Top 5 ingredients
- Numberous Controversial Ingredients
- Seems No Organic Minerals
- Contain Potential Allergens like Corn, Soy, Gluten, and Dairy products
- Include Ingredients that might be Related to Poor Digestion
- Contain Ingredients that might be Uncertain
「Chief of Cook」Donky
Recipes Rating
Recipes could have different ingredients in the same product line. We rate each recipe and list them from higest to lowest ratings.
Higher protein and lower carbs recipes are rated higher
Recipe and 1st Ingredient
Rating
Grain Free
Chicken and Turkey
1️⃣Chicken Meal 🍚Carbs：36% 3
Duck and Fish
1️⃣Duck Meal 🍚Carbs：36% 3
Tips
Recipes have similar ratings. This means they are quite similar.
Recipe to review
To rate Blackhawk Dry Cat Food, we will take one representative recipe to evaluate the nutrition, ingredients and meat content of this product line.
We have chosen Chicken and Turkey.
Nutrition Label
Pet food show guaranteed analysis on their labels. It includes moisture and does not reflect the level of carbs — which we prefer lower for dogs and as low as possible for cats.
From the label of Chicken and Turkey
Protein
33%
Fat
16%
Fiber
3%
Carbs
?%
Calculate the dry value (no moisture) on a dry matter basis will help us to estimate the carbs level and other nutrition without water — so we can get a better idea about the ratio.
(We think the ideal nutrition profile would be Protein > Fat > Carbs)
| Nutrition | Our Ideal | Dry Value | Like? |
| Protein | 33% or more | 36% | |
| Fat | 15% or more | 18% | |
| Carbs | Less than 25% | 36% | |
| Fiber | Less than 5% | 3.3% |
Ingredients Overview
36 ingredients are listed on the label. We research their quality to pet and use our best judgement to group them in the proportion of Prefer, Concerned, and Notice ingredients in the bar chart.
♨ Allergen
3 units
🌋 Indigest
8 units
⁉ Uncertain
2 units
Organic Minerals Seems Not Included
Probiotics Seems to Include
Prefer
Concerned
Notice
Neutral
Click an ingredient to see the detail
Chicken Meal
Animal Protein 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.
Prefer A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Turkey Meal
Animal Protein A large bird looks similar to chicken, high in protein, and packed with vitamin B3, B6, B12, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.
Prefer A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Potato
Carbs Contains mainly carbs, often used as an alternative filler for grain-free pet foods.
Concerned An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Tapioca
Carbs An alternative high carbs filler as a source of vitamin Bs, iron, manganese, and calcium.
Neutral An acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Field Peas
Carbs, Plant Protein 🌋
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.
Neutral An acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Chicken Fat
Fat The fatty layer separated during the cooking process, with a high level of omega 6, It is more preferable by dogs and cats over other types of fats.
Prefer A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Rosemary Extract
Carbs A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
Neutral A harmless herb with potential health benefits.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Citric Acid
Food Additive 🌋
A common additive used for fat preservation. It is commonly found in citrus fruit like lemons and limes.
Concerned A food additive that might cause health issues.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest 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.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vegetable Protein
Plant Protein Concentrate 🌋⁉
Protein extracted from unspecified vegetables, including soy, corn, and wheat. It contains a high level of plant protein, which is often used to boost up the protein content of pet foods.
Notice Unspecified plant products made of unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest A high level of plant-based protein is not easily digestible and offer much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
⁉
Uncertain Without specifying the source, by-products and contaminated plant parts could be used to produce unnamed plant products.
Mung Beans
Carbs, Plant Protein 🌋
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 23% protein.
Neutral An acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Beet Pulp
Carbs The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.
Concerned Controversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Canola Oil
Fat 🌋
Oil extracted from canola seed, high in omega 6 fats and contains a small amount of trans-fats which is not optimal for health.
Concerned A controversial, less optimal choice of fat.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Pumpkin Seed Powder
Fat, Plant Protein The seed inside of a pumpkin, rich in potassium and linoleic acid. It contains around 18% of protein, and around 30% protein if it is dehulled.
Neutral A harmless seed with potential health benefits, along with some plant-based protein.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Eggs
Animal Protein It contains almost every nutrient the body needs. It also has the highest biological value (protein absorption) among other animal proteins.
Prefer A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Flaxseed
Fat One of the richest sources of plant-based omega 3s, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains around 41% of fat, 57% of the total fatty acids is omega 3s.
Neutral A harmless seed with potential health benefits.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Cranberries
Carbs 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.
Neutral Fruit is an acceptable source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Pineapple Pulp
Carbs A sugary fruit, a good source of vitamin C and manganese. It contains digestive enzymes, bromelain, which help to break down tough meat or protein and make them easier to absorb.
Neutral Fruit is an acceptable source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Chicory Root
Carbs Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.
Neutral A harmless plant with potential health benefits.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Kelp
Carbs An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.
Neutral An acceptable ingredient as a source of vitamins and minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Salt
Others 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.
Concerned A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Alfalfa
Carbs, Plant Protein Typically used in horse feed, high in fiber, and contains around 20% plant protein.
Neutral A fair ingredient as a source of fiber and a small amount of plant protein.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Lecithin
Fat A fat essential in body cells, it could be extracted from different food like soybean. It acts as an emulsifier that helps fats mixing with other ingredients.
Neutral An acceptable source of fat from plants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Yucca Schidigera
Carbs 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.
Neutral A harmless ingredient with specific benefits.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Brewers Yeast
Plant Protein Concentrate Made from fungus and often used to make beer, a rich source of minerals such as selenium. B-complex vitamins, and chromium. It contains around 40% protein.
Concerned A controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Whey Powder
Carbs ♨🌋
The remaining liquid after milk has been curdled and strained, usually a byproduct of making cheese. Since protein has not been extracted, it is high in carbs (sugar) and contains around 15% of protein.
Concerned A controverisal filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen Contains lactose, which can cause skin rashes and discomfort for dogs / cats that are lactose intolerance.
🌋
Related to Digest Contains lactose, which can cause diarrhea and bloating for dogs / cats that are lactose intolerant.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Fish Oil
Fat ⁉
An oil extracted from unspecified fish, a source of animal fats.
Notice Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Unnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
Bacillus Coagulans
Probiotics 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.
Neutral A safe supplement for probiotics, which may improve digestive health.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Nature Antioxidant
Supplement Helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals caused by oxidative stress.
Neutral A safe food supplement for additional antioxidants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Coconut Oil
Fat 🌋
The richest source of "medium-chain triglycerides" (MCT). One of the MCT, lauric acid is said to help to fight off viruses and infection of the body.
Neutral An acceptable source of fat from plants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Tomato Powder
Carbs Packed with vitamins A, C, K, potassium, and manganese.
Neutral Vegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Cinnamon
Carbs ♨
Loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, it is completely safe for pets to consume.
Neutral A herb with potential health benefits, safe in small quantities.
♨
Allergen Cinnamon and its oil can cause skin irritation if consumed in large quantities.
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Yoghurt Powder
Animal Protein ♨🌋
Produced by fermenting milk, an excellent source of vitamin Bs, D, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, along with probiotics.
Concerned A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value. However, dairy products are best avoided for pets with sensitive digestion.
♨
Allergen Contains lactose, which can cause skin rashes and discomfort for dogs / cats that are lactose intolerance.
🌋
Related to Digest Contains lactose, which can cause diarrhea and bloating for dogs / cats that are lactose intolerant.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Carrot
Carbs 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).
Neutral Vegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Emu Oil
Fat The oil extracted from emu, a flightless bird origins from Australia. This special oil is made of smaller particles that can be absorbed deeper into the skin to reduce inflammation. When consumed, it is rich in omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids.
Prefer A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vitamins
Supplement A mixture of vitamins supplements to ensure the complete nutrition profile of pet food.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Mineral
Supplement A mixture of mineral supplement to ensure the complete nutrition profile of pet food.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Tips
We find 8 Concerned and 2 Notice ingredients from Chicken and Turkey. Check from the above list to view the details.Concerned
- Potato
- Citric Acid
- Beet Pulp
- Canola Oil
- Salt
- Brewers Yeast
- Whey Powder
- Yoghurt Powder
Notice
- Vegetable Protein
- Fish Oil
Estimated Meat Content
Some pet food uses high plant protein ingredients to boost up the overall protein level — to make it looks like it includes a lot of meat, which is more appealing for customers.
Therefore, protein level itself cannot tell the quality and how much animal ingredients (more digestible than plants) is in the pet food.
Check if protein is overrated by plant protein boost up
Count of Plant Protein
1 / 7 (14%)
in top 7 ingredients Protein Level
36%
in dry matterBy looking at the plant protein in top ingredients and compare with the total protein level, we will try to estimate how much animal ingredients is used in the pet food as Meat Content.
Meat Content
Based on my "godly" guess, the meat content might be Medium to high !
It looks like it contains a significant amount of meat and majority of the protein should come from animal sources. Your furbabies will like it like I do!
Blackhawk Dry Cat Food Product Line Review
To make a conclusion about the whole product line, we will consider all recipes and their average nutrition ratio.
Recipes Average Compares to Ideal Level
In the total of 2 recipes, the group has an average of 36% protein, 18% fat and 36% carbohydrate.
（Protein and Fat: Prefer Higher丨Carbs: Prefer Lower）
- Protein is 3 (%) higher than ideal
- Fat is 3 (%) higher than ideal
- Carbs is 11 (%) higher than ideal
What does it mean?
Overall,Blackhawk Dry Cat Food has an carbs level that is higher than our preferred level.
Conclusion
Throughout the review, we have 3 major opinons about this pet food line:
- Similar nutrition ratio as a common pet food
- Clear, named animal products as main ingredient
- Medium to high level of meat content
Based on these, we can conclude Blackhawk Dry Cat Food is a pet food line with a 3 star rating.
Do we recommend Blackhawk Dry Cat Food ?
It is a fine pet food, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
The review is entirely our own view and opinon. It is for informational reference only and not a purchase advice.
「Chief of Cook」Donky
Abandoned in a cardboard box after birth. She is always starved wandering on the street. After she grew up, she wants to cook all the yummy food for every homeless in the world.
