1. Evaluating Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food: The FOODS.EDU.VN Standard
At FOODS.EDU.VN, we meticulously evaluate pet food brands to ensure your cat receives the best nutrition possible. Our review of Stella & Chewy’s covers key areas, providing a clear, comprehensive assessment.
1.1 Species-Appropriateness
Stella & Chewy’s excels in creating species-appropriate diets, focusing on high protein and low carbohydrate content, mirroring a cat’s natural diet. Their emphasis on meat-based ingredients aligns well with feline nutritional needs.
1.2 Ingredient Quality
The brand uses high-quality ingredients, including muscle meat, organs, and bones. They source fruits and vegetables from North and South America, ensuring organic certification and avoiding ingredients from China.
1.3 Product Variety
Stella & Chewy’s offers a wide range of products, including freeze-dried morsels, frozen raw morsels, mini medallions, wet food morsels, and paté, catering to different preferences and dietary requirements.
1.4 Price
As a premium brand, Stella & Chewy’s is more expensive than many commercial cat foods. The cost can be a concern for budget-conscious pet owners.
1.5 Customer Experience
Customer reviews are generally positive, with many pet owners reporting improved health and palatability for their cats. However, some concerns exist regarding bone content and customer service transparency.
1.6 Recall History
Stella & Chewy’s faced recalls in 2015 due to potential listeria contamination. While they have taken steps to improve safety, this history is a factor to consider.
Overall Score: Based on our comprehensive evaluation, Stella & Chewy’s cat food receives a score of 6.5/10, which translates to a B- grade.
2. The Origins of Stella & Chewy’s: A Story of Passion and Dedication
Stella & Chewy’s began in 2003 when Marie Moody adopted Chewy, an Airedale-Shar-Pei mix diagnosed with distemper. Inspired by the transformative effects of a raw diet on her dogs, Marie started making and delivering homemade raw food to pet owners in New York City. This passion project quickly grew into a well-respected company in the raw pet food industry.
3. Sourcing and Manufacturing: Quality and Safety First
Stella & Chewy’s manufactures its products in an FDA-inspected facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They source ingredients from North America, New Zealand, and Australia, ensuring high standards of quality. Fruits and vegetables are certified organic and sourced from either North or South America, depending on seasonal availability. Notably, Stella & Chewy’s does not source any ingredients from China.
3.1 SecureByNature®: A Patented Food Safety Process
The company utilizes a patented food safety process called SecureByNature®, which involves high-pressure processing (HPP). This low-temperature method preserves the food’s natural color, texture, flavor, and nutrient value while effectively eliminating pathogenic organisms. This process ensures that the food is both nutritious and safe for your cat.
3.2 Independent Lab Testing
After production, all Stella & Chewy’s products undergo rigorous testing by an independent laboratory. Customers can access these test results by entering the product’s lot code on the Stella & Chewy’s website, promoting transparency and accountability.
4. A Look Back: Stella & Chewy’s Recall History
In 2015, Stella & Chewy’s faced two recalls due to potential listeria contamination. These recalls affected both dog and cat food products. While the company has since implemented stringent safety measures, it’s essential to be aware of this history when considering their products.
5. Exploring the Variety: Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food Options
Stella & Chewy’s offers an impressive selection of cat food products, including freeze-dried morsels, frozen raw morsels, mini medallions, wet food morsels, and wet food paté. This variety ensures that you can find a product that suits your cat’s preferences and dietary needs.
5.1 Freeze-Dried Dinner Morsels
These are arguably the brand’s most popular product, consisting of kibble-style chunks of freeze-dried meat that you rehydrate before serving. These morsels are made from 98% muscle meat, organs, and bones, providing a nutrient-rich meal.
5.2 Frozen Raw Morsels
These are chunks of frozen raw meat, offering a minimally processed option for cats that enjoy raw food.
5.3 Mini Medallions
These patties are made from shredded raw meat and are available in chicken and turkey recipes. They are a convenient way to serve raw food in a portioned format.
5.4 Wet Food Morsels and Paté
For cats who prefer wet food, Stella & Chewy’s offers Marvelous Morsels, featuring meat morsels in bone broth, and Purrfect Paté, a smooth food also soaked in bone broth. Both are available in chicken, chicken & salmon, and turkey flavors.
6. Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food: Top 3 Recipes Reviewed in Detail
To give you a better understanding of Stella & Chewy’s cat food, we’ve reviewed three of their most popular recipes, examining ingredients, nutritional analysis, and customer feedback.
6.1 Stella & Chewy’s Chick Chick Chicken Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food
This recipe features chicken as the primary protein source, making it an excellent choice for cats who love poultry.
6.1.1 Key Ingredients
The food is composed of 98% muscle meat, organs, and bones, including ground chicken with bones, chicken liver, and chicken gizzard. The remaining 2% consists of nutraceuticals and supplements, such as pumpkin seed, fenugreek seed, dandelion, and dried kelp.
6.1.2 Nutritional Analysis
- Crude Protein: 45%
- Crude Fat: 25%
- Crude Fiber: 5%
- Moisture: 5%
- Ash: 4.37%
- Calories: 123 per ounce
6.1.3 Pros
- High in animal protein
- Free of animal by-products
- Made without artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
6.1.4 Cons
- May have too much bone content
6.1.5 Ingredients We Liked
Ground Chicken with Bone, Chicken Liver, Chicken Gizzard.
6.1.6 Ingredients We Didn’t Like
None.
6.2 Stella & Chewy’s Duck Duck Goose Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food
This recipe offers a unique blend of poultry proteins, including duck, turkey, and goose.
6.2.1 Key Ingredients
The recipe includes duck with ground bone, turkey with ground bone, turkey liver, goose, and turkey gizzard. It also contains supplemental plant ingredients like pumpkin seed, probiotics, dandelion, and dried kelp.
6.2.2 Nutritional Analysis
- Crude Protein: 40%
- Crude Fat: 30%
- Crude Fiber: 5%
- Moisture: 5%
- Ash: 2.79%
- Calories: 149 per ounce
6.2.3 Pros
- Contains named meats instead of vaguely-labeled meals and by-products
- Contains a combination of muscle and organ meats
- Primarily made from meat rather than plant ingredients
- Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Low carbohydrate content
6.2.4 Cons
- May be too high in bone
6.2.5 Ingredients We Liked
Duck with Ground Bone, Turkey with Ground Bone, Turkey Liver, Goose, Turkey Gizzard.
6.2.6 Ingredients We Didn’t Like
None.
6.3 Stella & Chewy’s Tummy Ticklin’ Turkey Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food
This recipe features turkey as the primary protein source, providing a wholesome and nutritious meal for your cat.
6.3.1 Key Ingredients
The recipe consists of turkey with ground bone, turkey liver, and turkey gizzard. It also includes pumpkin seed, probiotics, dandelion, and dried kelp.
6.3.2 Nutritional Analysis
- Crude Protein: 40%
- Crude Fat: 37%
- Crude Fiber: 5%
- Moisture: 5%
- Ash: 3.01%
- Calories: 139 per ounce
6.3.3 Pros
- Made primarily from meat, organs, and bones with minimal plant content
- Free of animal by-products
- Rich in protein
- Free of potentially-harmful additives
- Low carbohydrate content
6.3.4 Cons
- May have too much bone matter
6.3.5 Ingredients We Liked
Turkey with Ground Bone, Turkey Liver, Turkey Gizzard.
6.3.6 Ingredients We Didn’t Like
None.
7. Customer Perspectives: What Cat Owners Are Saying
Stella & Chewy’s cat food generally receives positive reviews, with many customers praising its palatability and health benefits. However, some concerns have been raised regarding excessive bone content.
7.1 Positive Reviews
Customers often report that their cats love the taste and texture of Stella & Chewy’s food. Many have noticed improvements in their cats’ overall health, including better digestion and shinier coats.
7.2 Negative Reviews
The most common complaint is the high bone content, which some customers believe can lead to digestive issues or mineral imbalances. Additionally, some customers have expressed frustration with the company’s lack of transparency regarding nutritional information.
8. Addressing Concerns: Bone Content and Transparency
8.1 Bone Content: A Balancing Act
Stella & Chewy’s cat food contains ground bone, which is a natural source of calcium and phosphorus. However, some customers and experts believe that the bone content may be too high. According to the Raw Feeding Community, a whole chicken is approximately 27-32% bone, while a typical prey animal like a mouse or rabbit is closer to 5-10% bone.
Stella & Chewy’s does not disclose the exact bone content in their recipes, but they do provide information on phosphorus levels. Their freeze-dried and frozen foods contain 0.45% to 0.67% phosphorus on an as-fed basis, which translates to roughly 3.9g per 1000 calories. This is twice the AAFCO’s recommended amount for growing kittens.
8.2 Lack of Transparency: A Point of Contention
One of the significant criticisms against Stella & Chewy’s is their reluctance to share detailed nutritional information. Several customers and cat food reviewers have reported difficulty obtaining typical nutrient values, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, ash, and moisture content.
Dr. Lisa Pierson, DVM, who maintains an extensive cat food chart, also faced challenges when requesting data from Stella & Chewy’s. The company demanded a confidentiality agreement before providing the information, which is not standard practice in the industry.
9. Understanding the Cost: Is Stella & Chewy’s Worth It?
Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food costs between $2 and $3 per ounce. While this may seem expensive, it’s essential to consider the cost per day to compare it with other products accurately.
According to the company’s feeding instructions, it costs approximately $2.53 per day to feed a 10-lb cat Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food. While this is more expensive than many commercial cat foods, the higher price reflects the quality of ingredients and the nutritional benefits of a raw diet.
10. Making the Decision: Is Stella & Chewy’s a Good Choice for Your Cat?
Stella & Chewy’s is a reputable option for cat owners interested in feeding a raw or freeze-dried diet. Their recipes prioritize meat-based nutrition and avoid unnecessary additives and carbohydrates.
However, the potential for high bone content and the company’s lack of transparency are important considerations. If your cat has kidney disease or requires a diet with controlled phosphorus levels, it may be best to consult with a veterinarian before choosing Stella & Chewy’s.
10.1 Pros of Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food
- High-quality ingredients: Stella & Chewy’s uses premium ingredients like muscle meat, organs, and bones.
- Species-appropriate nutrition: Their recipes align with a cat’s natural dietary needs, focusing on high protein and low carbohydrates.
- Wide variety of options: They offer freeze-dried, frozen, and wet food formats to suit different preferences.
10.2 Cons of Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food
- High bone content: Some recipes may contain excessive bone, leading to mineral imbalances.
- Lack of transparency: The company has been criticized for not readily sharing detailed nutritional information.
- Recall history: Past recalls due to listeria contamination are a concern.
11. Alternative Brands and Dietary Options
While Stella & Chewy’s offers many benefits, it’s essential to explore alternatives to ensure you’re making the best choice for your cat. Consider these brands and dietary options as potential alternatives:
| Brand/Dietary Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ziwi Peak | Air-dried cat food with high meat content. | High-quality ingredients, ethically sourced, limited ingredient options. | Expensive, limited availability compared to other brands. |
| Orijen | Biologically appropriate dry cat food with high protein content. | High-protein, grain-free, nutrient-dense. | Can be high in phosphorus, may not be suitable for cats with kidney issues. |
| Instinct | Raw and freeze-dried cat food options, similar to Stella & Chewy’s. | Wide variety of flavors, high-quality ingredients, grain-free options. | Can be expensive, some recipes may have high bone content. |
| Homemade Raw Diet | Preparing your cat’s food at home using raw ingredients. | Complete control over ingredients, can be tailored to specific dietary needs. | Requires extensive research and careful planning to ensure nutritional completeness. |
| Smalls | Fresh, human-grade cat food delivered to your door. | High-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, convenient delivery. | Expensive compared to traditional dry food, requires freezer space. |
| Open Farm | Ethically sourced and transparently produced cat food. | High-quality ingredients, ethically sourced, transparent supply chain. | Can be expensive, some recipes may contain grains. |
| Weruva | Wet cat food with high moisture content and low carbohydrates. | High moisture content, low carbohydrate, palatable for picky eaters. | Some recipes may contain plant-based ingredients. |
| Raw Feeding Community | A resource for learning about raw feeding, recipes, and advice from experienced feeders. | Provides education and support for cat owners interested in raw feeding, including guidance on sourcing ingredients and balancing meals. | Requires time and effort to learn and implement, can be challenging to ensure nutritional completeness without expert guidance. |
12. Where to Purchase Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food
Stella & Chewy’s cat food is available at various retailers, both online and in-store. While most of their selection is sold online, you can only buy Stella & Chewy’s frozen and wet foods at local pet stores—they’re not available through any online retailers. The rest of the Stella & Chewy’s lineup is available on Amazon, Chewy, PetFlow, and Only Natural Pet.
13. Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, deciding whether Stella & Chewy’s is good cat food depends on your cat’s individual needs, your budget, and your comfort level with raw or freeze-dried diets. Consider the pros and cons, read customer reviews, and consult with your veterinarian to make the best choice for your feline companion. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we’re dedicated to providing the information you need to make informed decisions about your pet’s nutrition.
Choosing the right cat food is a significant decision, and we hope this comprehensive review has provided valuable insights. For more in-depth reviews and expert advice, visit FOODS.EDU.VN, where we’re passionate about helping you provide the best care for your beloved pets.
14. Unveiling the Advantages of Raw Cat Food: A Healthier Choice?
Switching to a raw diet can offer numerous health benefits for your cat. Understanding these advantages can help you make a more informed decision about your pet’s nutrition.
14.1 Improved Digestion
Raw cat food is typically easier for cats to digest because it contains natural enzymes that aid in the digestive process. This can lead to fewer digestive issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
14.2 Increased Energy Levels
Many cat owners report that their cats have higher energy levels and are more active after switching to a raw diet. This is attributed to the higher bioavailability of nutrients in raw food, which allows cats to absorb and utilize them more efficiently.
14.3 Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin
The high fat content in raw cat food promotes a healthy, shiny coat and can alleviate skin issues, such as dryness and itching. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, are abundant in raw meat and contribute to overall skin and coat health.
14.4 Better Dental Health
Chewing on raw bones and meat can help clean your cat’s teeth, reducing the risk of dental disease. The abrasive action of chewing helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral hygiene.
14.5 Weight Management
Raw cat food typically contains fewer carbohydrates than commercial dry food, which can help prevent weight gain and obesity. The high protein content helps cats maintain lean muscle mass and a healthy metabolism.
14.6 Reduced Allergies
Many cats suffer from food allergies or sensitivities, often triggered by common ingredients in commercial cat food, such as grains and artificial additives. A raw diet eliminates these potential allergens, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
15. Common Concerns About Raw Cat Food
While raw cat food offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to address common concerns and misconceptions. Understanding these concerns can help you make an informed decision and take necessary precautions.
| Concern | Explanation | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Bacterial Contamination | Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can pose a risk to both cats and humans. | Source meat from reputable suppliers, follow proper food handling procedures, and thoroughly clean all surfaces and utensils after preparing raw food. |
| Nutritional Imbalance | Preparing a balanced raw diet requires careful planning and knowledge of feline nutritional needs. An improperly balanced diet can lead to deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients. | Consult with a veterinarian or feline nutritionist to develop a balanced raw food recipe, and use a reputable raw food calculator to ensure all nutritional requirements are met. |
| Bone Content | Feeding too much bone can cause constipation or other digestive issues, while feeding too little bone can lead to calcium deficiency. | Carefully monitor bone content in raw food recipes, and adjust as needed. Ensure the bone is properly ground or crushed to prevent choking hazards. |
| Cost | Raw cat food can be more expensive than commercial dry food, particularly if sourcing high-quality ingredients. | Compare prices from different suppliers, consider buying in bulk, and explore cost-effective raw food recipes. |
| Time and Effort | Preparing raw cat food requires more time and effort than feeding commercial dry food. | Batch prepare raw food in advance, and freeze individual portions for convenience. |
| Handling and Storage | Raw meat must be handled and stored properly to prevent spoilage and bacterial contamination. | Store raw meat in the refrigerator or freezer, and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid leaving raw meat at room temperature for extended periods. |
| Risk to Immunocompromised Individuals | Handling raw meat can pose a risk to immunocompromised individuals, such as pregnant women, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. | Wear gloves when handling raw meat, and thoroughly wash hands and all surfaces after preparation. Consider purchasing commercially prepared raw cat food to minimize handling. |
| Picky Eaters | Some cats may be hesitant to try raw food, particularly if they are accustomed to eating commercial dry food. | Introduce raw food gradually, mix it with their current food, and try different flavors and textures to find what your cat enjoys. |
| Lack of Convenience | Raw cat food is less convenient than commercial dry food, which can be stored at room temperature and fed at any time. | Prepare raw food in advance, and store individual portions in the freezer for convenience. |
| Limited Availability | Raw cat food may not be readily available in all areas, particularly in rural or remote locations. | Purchase raw food online, or source ingredients from local farmers or butchers. |
16. Step-by-Step Guide to Transitioning Your Cat to a Raw Diet
Transitioning your cat to a raw diet requires careful planning and patience. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful transition:
- Consult with your veterinarian: Before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for their individual needs and health condition.
- Start slowly: Begin by mixing a small amount of raw food with your cat’s current food. Gradually increase the amount of raw food and decrease the amount of commercial food over a period of 7-10 days.
- Offer a variety of flavors and textures: Try different flavors and textures of raw food to find what your cat enjoys. Some cats prefer ground meat, while others prefer chunks or strips.
- Ensure proper hygiene: Always wash your hands and all surfaces and utensils after handling raw meat. Use separate cutting boards and bowls for raw meat and other foods.
- Monitor your cat’s health: Watch for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your cat experiences any issues, slow down the transition or consult with your veterinarian.
- Consider a balanced recipe: Use a balanced raw food recipe that meets all of your cat’s nutritional requirements. Consult with a veterinarian or feline nutritionist to ensure the recipe is appropriate for your cat’s individual needs.
- Supplement if needed: If you are not using a balanced recipe, supplement with essential nutrients, such as taurine, vitamin E, and B vitamins.
- Provide fresh water: Always provide your cat with fresh, clean water.
- Be patient: Some cats may take longer to adjust to a raw diet than others. Be patient and persistent, and eventually, your cat will likely come to enjoy the taste and benefits of raw food.
17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Stella & Chewy’s Cat Food
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Stella & Chewy’s cat food grain-free? | Yes, Stella & Chewy’s cat food recipes are grain-free, aligning with the natural dietary needs of cats. |
| Is Stella & Chewy’s cat food safe for cats with allergies? | Stella & Chewy’s offers limited ingredient recipes that may be suitable for cats with allergies. Always check the ingredient list and consult with your veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for your cat’s specific allergies. |
| Where are Stella & Chewy’s ingredients sourced from? | Stella & Chewy’s sources ingredients from countries including North America, New Zealand, and Australia. All fruits and vegetables are certified organic and sourced from either North or South America. |
| What is the shelf life of Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food? | The shelf life of Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food is typically 12-18 months from the date of manufacture. Check the packaging for the specific expiration date. |
| How do I rehydrate Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food? | To rehydrate Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried cat food, add warm water to the morsels and let them sit for a few minutes until they are softened. Follow the feeding instructions on the packaging for the appropriate amount of water to add. |
| Can I feed Stella & Chewy’s cat food to my kitten? | Yes, Stella & Chewy’s offers recipes that are formulated for all life stages, including kittens. Check the packaging to ensure the recipe is appropriate for your kitten’s age and weight. |
| How does Stella & Chewy’s ensure the safety of their raw cat food? | Stella & Chewy’s utilizes a patented food safety process called SecureByNature®, which involves high-pressure processing (HPP) to eliminate pathogenic organisms while preserving the food’s nutrient value. They also conduct independent lab testing on all products. |
| Is Stella & Chewy’s cat food suitable for cats with kidney disease? | Stella & Chewy’s cat food may be high in phosphorus due to bone content, which may not be suitable for cats with kidney disease. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if it is appropriate for your cat’s specific condition. |
| Does Stella & Chewy’s offer a satisfaction guarantee? | Stella & Chewy’s offers a satisfaction guarantee on their products. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, contact their customer service department for assistance. |
| Can I mix Stella & Chewy’s cat food with other types of cat food? | Yes, you can mix Stella & Chewy’s cat food with other types of cat food. However, it is important to introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset. |
18. Explore More at FOODS.EDU.VN: Your Ultimate Resource for Feline Nutrition
Ready to dive deeper into the world of cat food and nutrition? FOODS.EDU.VN offers a wealth of information to help you make the best choices for your feline friend.
18.1 Expert Reviews and Guides
Our website features in-depth reviews of various cat food brands, including ingredient analysis, nutritional information, and customer feedback. We also offer comprehensive guides on topics such as transitioning to a new diet, understanding ingredient labels, and choosing the right food for cats with specific health conditions.
18.2 Customized Recommendations
Need personalized recommendations for your cat’s diet? Use our interactive tools and quizzes to receive tailored suggestions based on your cat’s age, weight, health condition, and dietary preferences.
18.3 Community Support
Connect with other cat lovers in our online community forum. Share your experiences, ask questions, and receive support from fellow pet owners and feline nutrition experts.
18.4 Exclusive Content
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and research in feline nutrition. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive exclusive content, including articles, recipes, and special offers.
19. Contact Us
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