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Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Dinner Morsels, 18 oz

Stella & Chewy's · 1.125 lb · Cat

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Dinner Morsels - Premium Chicken Recipe with 98% Cage-Free Meat & Organs - Natural Grain-Free Cat & Kitten Food - Made in USA - 18 oz
$42.81/ lb·$48.16total

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Overview

For cat owners seeking an alternative to conventional high-heat processed kibble, Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Morsels present a compelling, nutrient-dense option. This 18 oz bag features the Chicken Recipe, a formula centered on the nutritional philosophy of a cat's ancestral diet. The core of this food is its remarkable 98% concentration of cage-free chicken, including nutrient-rich organs and ground bone, providing a protein-packed meal that closely mimics a natural, carnivorous diet. By freeze-drying the raw ingredients, Stella & Chewy's preserves the nutrients and enzymes that can be damaged or denatured during cooking. This process delivers the benefits of a raw diet with the convenience and shelf-stability of a dry product. Made in the USA and completely grain-free, this food is crafted for owners who prioritize premium ingredients and minimal processing in their feline's bowl.

Key features

  • 98% Cage-Free Chicken, Organs & Bone: A high-protein formula mirroring a cat's natural, carnivorous diet for optimal nutrient absorption and lean muscle maintenance.
  • Freeze-Dried Raw Nutrition: Offers the potent nutritional benefits of a raw diet with the safety and convenience of a dry food—just add water to rehydrate.
  • Grain-Free & Low-Carb Formula: Contains no grains, gluten, or fillers like potato and legumes, making it a suitable choice for cats with certain dietary sensitivities.
  • Suitable for Cats & Kittens: The balanced recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional demands of both growing kittens and active adult cats.
  • Made in the USA: Proudly produced in Stella & Chewy's own US-based kitchens, ensuring high standards for quality control and food safety.
  • Enhanced with Probiotics & Antioxidants: Fortified with added probiotics for digestive health and a blend of vitamins, minerals, and taurine for overall well-being.

Pros

  • Exceptional Ingredient Focus: The formula's foundation is 98% animal-derived, using cage-free chicken, organs, and bone for a species-appropriate diet.
  • Minimally Processed Nutrition: Freeze-drying preserves the integrity of raw ingredients, retaining natural enzymes and nutrients often lost in high-heat cooking.
  • High Palatability: The rich, meaty aroma and texture of rehydrated raw food are often highly appealing, even to picky or fussy eaters.
  • Free From Common Fillers: With no grains, gluten, or potatoes, it's a clean recipe for owners wishing to avoid unnecessary carbohydrates.

Cons

  • Significant Price Premium: The cost-per-pound is substantially higher than traditional dry kibble, reflecting its specialized manufacturing and high meat content.
  • Requires Preparation Before Serving: Unlike scoop-and-serve kibble, these morsels must be rehydrated with water, adding an extra step to the feeding routine.
  • Unsuitable for Free-Feeding: Once rehydrated, the food is raw and should not be left out for long periods, which may not suit a 'grazer's' eating style.
  • Texture May Be Unfamiliar: Some cats accustomed to the crunch of conventional kibble might be hesitant to switch to the softer texture of rehydrated food.

Best for

This premium food is best for cat and kitten owners committed to a raw or minimally-processed diet who prioritize ingredient sourcing and high meat content. It is an excellent choice for cats with sensitivities to grains or those who need a highly palatable food to stimulate their appetite.

Feeding guide

These freeze-dried morsels require rehydration before serving. Mix the food with cool or warm (never hot) water and let it soak for a few minutes. A general starting point for an adult cat is roughly 1/2 to 2/3 cup of dry morsels per 8-10 lbs of body weight daily, split into two meals. Adjust this amount based on your cat's age, activity level, and body condition. For the most accurate feeding amounts, always consult the official chart on the package.

Ingredients & nutrition note

As stated in the product title, this recipe's primary components are 98% cage-free chicken, organs, and ground bone. Freeze-dried formulas in this category typically use organ meats like liver and heart for their dense nutrient profile and ground bone as a natural source of calcium. For a complete, guaranteed analysis of all ingredients, please refer to the label on the physical product.

Price comparison

With a price of $42.81 per pound, this 18 oz bag of Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw food is positioned in the premium tier of the cat food market. Its cost is substantially higher than the median price of $7.50 per pound for small bags in this category. However, it sits well below the category average of $68.36/lb, which is influenced by a number of ultra-premium and specialized products. This makes it a high-end choice for owners focused on raw nutrition, but not the most expensive option available.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between freeze-dried raw and regular kibble?

Freeze-dried raw food, like these Stella & Chewy's morsels, is uncooked meat that has had its moisture removed under a vacuum at low temperatures. This preserves more natural nutrients and enzymes compared to kibble, which is cooked at high heat. It must be rehydrated with water before serving.

Why is this food so much more expensive than other dry foods?

The high cost reflects both the premium, high-quantity meat ingredients (98% cage-free chicken, organs, and bone) and the complex, energy-intensive freeze-drying process required to preserve the food's raw nutritional value without cooking.

Is this a complete meal for my cat?

Yes, this product is marketed as a 'Dinner' and is formulated to be a complete and balanced meal. Once rehydrated, it provides all the necessary nutrients for cats and kittens as indicated on the packaging.

How do I store this food?

Before rehydration, the freeze-dried morsels should be stored in a cool, dark place, just like any other dry pet food. After rehydrating with water, any uneaten food should be treated like fresh meat, covered and refrigerated, and discarded after a short period (typically within 24 hours).

Can I mix this with my cat's current kibble?

Yes, many owners use freeze-dried raw food as a 'topper' to boost the nutritional value and palatability of their cat's regular kibble. If you choose to do this, remember to adjust the portion sizes accordingly to avoid over-feeding. It can also be a great way to transition a cat to a new food.

Is a grain-free diet better for cats?

Cats are obligate carnivores and do not have a nutritional requirement for grains. Many owners prefer grain-free diets to minimize carbohydrates and avoid potential dietary sensitivities. This recipe is free of grains and common fillers like potato, focusing instead on animal-based protein.

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