Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Cat Food is a second top tier pet food with a 4-star rating — around 10% of all the pet food we review fall in this tier.
They seem to be higher in protein and less in carbs, contain mainly named animal products as main ingredients, and a decent amount of meat. We recommend this!
What We like
High Protein — over 35%!
Lower in Carbs — Less than 34%
No Potential Allergens like Corn, Soy, Gluten, and Dairy products
What We Concern
Include Plant Protein in Top 5 ingredients
Numberous Controversial Ingredients
Seems No Organic Minerals
Seems No Probiotics to Aid Digestion
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
Kitten Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:26%
4.5
Senior Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:26%
4.5
Adult Hairball Control Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:28%
4
Adult Indoor Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:29%
4
Sensitive Adult Formula With Chicken, Rice & Peas
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:29%
4
Adult Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
1️⃣Chicken🍚Carbs:32%
3.5
Adult Formula With Salmon & Brown Rice
1️⃣Salmon🍚Carbs:32%
3.5
Tips
Recipes have different ratings. This means they might be designed a bit differently.
Recipe to review
To rate Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Cat Food, we will take one representative recipe to evaluate the nutrition, ingredients and meat content of this product line.
We have chosen Adult Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice.
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 Adult Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice
Protein
33%
Fat
16%
Fiber
4%
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
37%
Fat
15% or more
18%
Carbs
Less than 25%
32%
Fiber
Less than 5%
4.4%
Join our discussion group with other pet owners
We answer and discuss any questions about cats and dogs, food selection, other pet owners will share their experience too!
38 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
0 units
🌋 Indigest
3 units
⁉ Uncertain
1 units
Organic Minerals Seems Not Included
Probiotics Seems Not Included
Prefer
Concerned
Notice
Neutral
Click an ingredient to see the detail
Chicken
Animal Protein
The dominant animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also high in iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins.
PreferA high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
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.
PreferA high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Split 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.
NeutralAn acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestLegume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
⁉
UncertainN/A
Grain Sorghum
Carbs
A type of gluten-free grain, high in carbs and with a similar level of protein as quinoa.
NeutralAn acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Whole Brown Rice
Carbs
Whole grain rice with its bran and germ remained, high in carbs and fiber. Studies have shown that rice bran depletes taurine in cats, which is an essential amino acid.
NoticeAn inexpensive filler with proven disadvantages offers limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pea Protein
Plant Protein Concentrate
🌋
Extracted protein from pea in a dry process. It contains 45 - 55% protein, which will significantly boost up the overall protein content of pet foods.
NoticeHigh level of plant-based protein is not easy to digest and offers less biological value. Good quality pet foods should obtain sufficient protein from animal sources.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestThe process will concentrate the level of oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that is indigestible by dogs / cats. It offers much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
⁉
UncertainN/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.
PreferA high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Chicken
Animal Protein
Dehydrated form of chicken. it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh chicken on dry matter basis.
PreferA high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Plain Beet Pulp
Carbs
The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.
ConcernedControversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Natural Flavor
Food Additive
Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.
ConcernedContrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Potassium Chloride
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Choline Chloride
Supplement
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
NeutralA safe supplement for potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Fish Oil
Fat
⁉
An oil extracted from unspecified fish, a source of animal fats.
NoticeUnspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainUnnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
Dl-methionine
Supplement
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.
ConcernedA 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.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/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.
ConcernedA controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Mixed Tocopherols
Food Additive
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.
NeutralA harmless food additive.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Citric Acid
Food Additive
🌋
A common additive used for fat preservation. It is commonly found in citrus fruit like lemons and limes.
ConcernedA food additive that might cause health issues.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestResearch 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.
⁉
UncertainN/A
Taurine
Supplement
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
PreferA safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin E Supplement
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Zinc Sulfate
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Iron Amino Acid Chelate
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Yucca Schidigera Extract
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.
NeutralA harmless ingredient with specific benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Copper Amino Acid Chelate
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Niacin Supplement
Supplement
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Manganese Amino Acid Chelate
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Riboflavin Supplement
Supplement
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
D-calcium Pantothenate
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Thiamine Mononitrate
Supplement
An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin A Supplement
Supplement
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Supplement
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Biotin
Supplement
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin B12 Supplement
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Sodium Selenite
Food Additive
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.
ConcernedA food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Potassium Iodide
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin D3 Supplement
Supplement
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).
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Folic Acid
Supplement
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Rosemary Extract
Carbs
A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
NeutralA harmless herb with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Tips
We find 6 Concerned and 3 Notice ingredients from Adult Formula With Chicken & Brown Rice. Check from the above list to view the details.
Concerned
Dried Plain Beet Pulp
Natural Flavor
Dl-methionine
Salt
Citric Acid
Sodium Selenite
Notice
Whole Brown Rice
Pea 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
2 / 7 (29%)
in top 7 ingredients
Protein Level
37%
in dry matter
By 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!
Nutro Wholesome Essentials 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 7 recipes, the group has an average of 38% protein, 19% fat and 29% carbohydrate.
(Protein and Fat: Prefer Higher丨Carbs: Prefer Lower)
Protein is 5 (%) higher than ideal
Fat is 4 (%) higher than ideal
Carbs is 4 (%) higher than ideal
What does it mean?
Overall,Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Cat Food has an carbs level that is close to our preferred level.
Conclusion
Throughout the review, we have 3 major opinons about this pet food line:
Quite attractive protein and/or carbs level
Major ingredients from animals
Medium to high level of meat content
Based on these, we can conclude Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Cat Food is a pet food line with a 4 star rating.
Do we recommend Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Cat Food ?
It is a good quality above average pet food that we recommend.
The review is entirely our own view and opinon. It is for informational reference only and not a purchase advice.
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.