Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley scores 3.5/5 on Moesonson's label-based analysis. Its strongest factor is protein clarity (high — 100% of the recipe's protein panel is clearly named); its weakest is animal-protein content (limited — 55% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources).
Rating
Updated Aug 2026
How this score is made
This score isn’t a hand-wavy impression: it reads what the label actually prints — the ingredient list, guaranteed analysis and AAFCO adequacy statement — and runs it through the same algorithmic rubric as every other product. No brand pays for placement, and there are no affiliate links on reviewed products.
Is Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley wet cat food good?
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley is a wet cat food rated 3.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and limited animal protein content. The recipe lists most animal ingredients by name and features real muscle meat as a primary protein source. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Fish, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Gluten grains, Legumes, Poultry, Red meat.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
- Contains organ meats that provide natural vitamins and minerals.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
Cons
- Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.
Nutrition Breakdown
| Protein | 43% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 17% |
| Fiber | 10% |
| Ash | 47% |
Moisture (85%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 7% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 3% |
| Fiber | 2% |
| Moisture | 85% |
| Ash | 7% |
Ash value not listed on label; 7% used as a standard estimate.
As-fed values are the raw percentages printed on the product label.
Tips
- Protein is High (43% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is generally more aligned with cats' higher protein needs than lower-protein recipes, assuming the food is complete for the cat's life stage.
- Fat is High (17% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. It can raise calorie density, so watch body condition and seek vet input for cats with pancreatitis or digestive disease.
Ingredients Analysis
45 of 45 matched
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1 Chicken Broth
Animal ProteinDescription
The soup produced by cooking chicken bones, parts, or meat. It is high in glycine which claims to detoxify the liver and prevent leaky gut. There is a lack of evidence to show the benefits to pets.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Chicken
Animal ProteinDescription
The dominant animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also high in iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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3 Pork Liver
Animal ProteinDescription
One of the most nutrient-dense organs, an excellent source of vitamin A and copper.
Why Prefer?
Organ meats are highly nutritious, with quality protein and many important vitamins / minerals.
-
4 Carrots
CarbsDescription
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).
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5 Wheat Gluten
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Protein concentrate made by removing the starch of wheat flour, it contains around 70% plant protein.
Why Notice?
High 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.
Allergen Concern
Contains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.
Digestion Concern
Gluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach. A high level of plant-based protein is not easily digestible.
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6 Rice Starch
CarbsDescription
Without its bran and germ (the main source of nutrients), white rice is considered as "empty carbs".
Why Concerned?
A common filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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7 Spinach
CarbsDescription
Nutrient-dense leafy greens, an excellent source of vitamin A, C, K1, B9, iron, and calcium.
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8 Rice
CarbsDescription
Without its bran and germ (the main source of nutrients), white rice is considered as "empty carbs".
Why Concerned?
A common filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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9 Chicken Fat
FatDescription
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.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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10 Natural Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.
Why Concerned?
Contrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.
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11 Calcium Chloride
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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12 Potassium Lactate
SupplementDescription
Potassium lactate is a mineral salt used as a preservative and source of potassium in pet food.
Why Prefer?
Potassium lactate is a named mineral supplement and preservative.
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13 Guar Gum
Food AdditiveDescription
Extracted from guar beans, used as a thickener in pet foods.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
Digestion Concern
Studies show that it may affect protein digestion and amino acid absorption.
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14 Tricalcium Phosphate
SupplementDescription
A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods.
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15 Dicalcium Phosphate
SupplementDescription
A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods. It is also found in some toothpaste as a polishing agent.
Why Notice?
A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
Digestion Concern
It does not absorb any water, almost insoluble, and becomes very hard in digesting.
Uncertain/Risky
Studies show that it can cause the formulation of kidney stones.
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16 Flaxseed
FatDescription
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.
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17 Dried Beet Pulp
CarbsDescription
The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.
Why Concerned?
Controversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
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18 Calcium Lactate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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19 Powdered Cellulose
CarbsDescription
The substance provides strength and rigidity to plants, which are mostly made of insoluble fiber. It is commonly added to pet foods to reduce the calorie content for the "weight management" type.
Why Notice?
Unspecified plant products made of unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
Digestion Concern
Dogs and cats lack the enzymes capable of digesting cellulose. A high level of fiber could interfere with the digestion of protein and other minerals.
Uncertain/Risky
Could be made up of cheap and unwanted fiber by-products. However, from our research, most cellulose used in pet food is made up of pine trees.
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20 Dried Citrus Pulp
OthersDescription
Dried pulp from citrus fruits, a source of pectin fiber and flavonoids.
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21 Fructo-oligo-saccharides
(Detected): Fructooligosaccharides
PrebioticsDescription
Known as FOS, a type of fiber derived from chicory roots, beets, or cane. It is added as prebiotics for good bacteria growth in the colon, which aids digestion.
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22 Choline Chloride
SupplementDescription
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
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23 Potassium Chloride
SupplementDescription
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.
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24 Taurine
SupplementDescription
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
Why Prefer?
A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
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25 Precooked Rice
CarbsDescription
Precooked rice is a gluten-free grain that provides easily digestible carbohydrates and energy.
Why Prefer?
Precooked rice is a named, gluten-free grain — an easily digestible carbohydrate source.
-
26 Vitamin E Supplement
SupplementDescription
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.
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27 Ascorbic Acid
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
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28 L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
-
29 Beta-carotene
SupplementDescription
An antioxidant and a precursor to Vitamin A helps to regulate both cellular and immune responses.
-
30 Thiamine Mononitrate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
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31 Calcium Pantothenate
SupplementDescription
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.
-
32 Vitamin B12 Supplement
SupplementDescription
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.
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33 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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34 Riboflavin Supplement
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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35 Niacin Supplement
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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36 Vitamin D3 Supplement
SupplementDescription
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).
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37 Oat Fiber
CarbsDescription
An insoluble fiber made from grinding the oat hull, used to boost up fiber content in pet foods.
Why Concerned?
An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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38 Sodium Tripolyphosphate
Food AdditiveDescription
A chemical compound used as a food preservative by maintaining moisture in pet foods, making them remain fresher for longer times.
Why Notice?
A food additive that might cause health issues.
Uncertain/Risky
US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has listed it as a possible neurotoxin and irritant to skin.
-
39 Ferrous Sulfate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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40 Magnesium Oxide
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
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41 Zinc Oxide
SupplementDescription
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.
-
42 Manganous Sulfate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
-
43 Copper Sulfate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
-
44 Calcium Iodate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
-
45 Sodium Selenite
Food AdditiveDescription
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.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
Tips
- Cat formula needs review: cats rely heavily on animal protein, and this label does not show strong named animal protein near the top.
- Plant protein is worth closer review for cats: Wheat Gluten may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Wheat Gluten, Dicalcium Phosphate, Powdered Cellulose.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Powdered Cellulose, Sodium Tripolyphosphate have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible allergy triggers: Wheat Gluten have allergen notes; review them if your pet has sensitivities.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 100%
Strong clarity: 100% of Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 0% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Named protein ingredients let you verify the source and check for allergens.
Contributing ingredients
Named
Animal Protein
Low- Animal 55%
- Plant concentrate 45%
Protein in Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley leans on plant signals: only 55% comes from animal sources, while plant-protein concentrates make up 45% and whole plant proteins 0%. Plant concentrates like pea or soy isolate are cheap protein boosters but lack the amino-acid profile pets need from meat.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant concentrate
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley wet cat food Review
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley is a solid mid-tier wet cat food at 3.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and limited animal protein content. It has clear strengths alongside a few trade-offs worth weighing.
Best for
- Owners who want clearly named protein sources
Avoid if
- Your pet has a grain or gluten sensitivity
- You're avoiding legumes
- You're avoiding plant-protein concentrates like pea or soy isolate
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Plant-protein concentrates appear in the top 10 ingredients: Wheat Gluten.
- Contains common allergens: Gluten grains, Legumes, Poultry, Red meat.
- On a dry-matter basis: 43% protein, 17% fat, 0% estimated carbohydrates.
- Free from Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Fish, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley good for cats?
Mostly — Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley is a solid mid-tier choice at 3.5 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, pairing high ingredient transparency with limited animal protein content. It shows real strengths alongside a few trade-offs, so weigh the ingredient list against your cat’s needs — allergies, life stage and protein preference.
Does Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley does not include Dairy or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley contain Egg?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley does not include Egg or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley contains Legumes. Pets with a known Legumes sensitivity should generally avoid this recipe, or check with a veterinarian first. Moesonson flags allergens directly from the label’s ingredient panel, so this reflects what the manufacturer actually declares.
Does Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley does not include Nuts or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Is Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley grain-free?
No — Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley is not grain-free: the printed ingredient list includes Gluten grains. That mainly matters for pets with a diagnosed grain sensitivity or allergy; most cats tolerate grains well as an energy source. If your cat must avoid grains, choose a recipe without these ingredients.
What are the main protein sources in Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley?
The main animal proteins in Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley are Chicken Broth, Chicken, Pork Liver. Each is named by species on the printed ingredient list — a protein-clarity strength in Moesonson’s scoring, because named sources let you verify what your cat is eating and avoid specific proteins when managing food allergies.
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