Whiskers N Paws
Whiskers N Paws scores 4/5 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 (moderate — 57% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources).
Rating
Updated May 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 Whiskers N Paws dry pet food good?
Whiskers N Paws is a dry pet food rated 4 stars, with high ingredient transparency and moderate 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 Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Legumes, Red meat, Fish.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
Cons
- Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.
Ingredients Analysis
52 of 52 matched
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1 Lamb
Animal ProteinDescription
A type of red meat, high in protein and rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Lamb Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of lamb, a meat concentrate that contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a type of red meat, high in protein and rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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3 Peas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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4 Lentils
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 27% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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5 Chickpeas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Also known as garbanzo beans, a type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 20% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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6 Pea Protein
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
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.
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.
Digestion Concern
The 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.
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7 Canola Oil
FatDescription
Oil extracted from canola seed, high in omega 6 fats and contains a small amount of trans-fats which is not optimal for health.
Why Concerned?
A controversial, less optimal choice of fat.
Digestion Concern
High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
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8 Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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9 Suncured Alfalfa Meal
(Detected): sun-cured alfalfa meal
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Typically used in horse feed, high in fiber, and contains around 20% plant protein.
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10 Pea Starch
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
The starchy part of peas after protein is extracted for pea protein products. It mainly consists of carbs and around 13% plant-based protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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11 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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12 Freeze-Dried Lamb
Animal ProteinDescription
Freeze-dried lamb, a concentrated protein source preserving nutrients from fresh lamb.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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13 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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14 Ground Alfalfa
CarbsDescription
Ground alfalfa plant, a source of fiber, chlorophyll, and trace minerals.
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15 Fish Oil
FatDescription
Oil derived from fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA.
Why Concerned?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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16 Calcium Carbonate
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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17 Salt
OthersDescription
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.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
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18 Pea Fiber
CarbsDescription
Produced by separating the starch of peas from fiber, consists mainly of insoluble fiber, contains around 6 - 12% protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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19 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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20 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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21 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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22 Dl-methionine
SupplementDescription
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.
Why Concerned?
A 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.
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23 Inulin
CarbsDescription
A prebiotic that promote friendly bacteria in the gut and support better digestion.
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24 Zinc Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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25 Apple
CarbsDescription
Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.
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26 Blueberry
CarbsDescription
Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.
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27 Carrot
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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28 Cranberry
CarbsDescription
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.
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29 Ginger
CarbsDescription
Knowns for its digestive properties, especially its aid in digesting fats.
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30 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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31 Iron Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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32 Ascorbic Acid-2-Polyphosphate
SupplementDescription
A stable phosphorylated form of vitamin C used as a supplement.
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33 Niacin Supplement
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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34 Perilla Extract
OthersDescription
Extract from perilla plant, rich in rosmarinic acid and omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid.
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35 Dried Lactobaccillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product
(Detected): dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. L. acidophilus produces lactic acid, which is believed to help prevent bad bacterias from growing in the intestines.
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36 Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. L. casei are often used to prevent and treat diarrhea.
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37 Dried Enterococcus Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A dried probiotic from the Enterococcus genus supporting gut flora balance.
Why Prefer?
A beneficial probiotic strain.
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38 Dried Bifidobacterium Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A dried probiotic from the Bifidobacterium genus supporting digestive health.
Why Prefer?
A beneficial probiotic strain.
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39 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.
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40 Manganese Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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41 Sunflower Oil
FatDescription
The oil derived from sunflower seeds, high in either omega 6 and 9 fats, low in saturated fat and is packed with natural anti-oxidant vitamin E.
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42 Copper Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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43 Vitamin A Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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44 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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45 Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex
SupplementDescription
The synthetic form of vitamin K3, it has been banned as a supplement for humans (toxic in large doses), but still consider "OK" for use in pet foods.
Why Notice?
A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
Uncertain/Risky
Repeated or long-term consumption may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.
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46 Pyridoxine Supplement
SupplementDescription
Vitamin B6 supplement, essential for protein metabolism and nervous system function.
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47 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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48 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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49 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.
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50 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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51 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.
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52 Leaf Bud Extract
OthersDescription
Extract from plant leaf buds, a source of natural antioxidants and growth factors.
Tips
- Named animal proteins near the top: Lamb, Lamb Meal are listed early in the ingredient panel.
- Plant protein signal: Peas, Lentils, Chickpeas may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Pea Protein, Dicalcium Phosphate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible digestion triggers: Peas, Lentils, Chickpeas, and 4 more have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 100%
Strong clarity: 100% of Whiskers N Paws'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
Moderate- Animal 57%
- Plant 26%
- Plant concentrate 17%
Mixed protein sources in Whiskers N Paws: 57% animal, 26% whole plants, and 17% plant-protein concentrates. The recipe combines meat with notable plant-protein signals.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Plant concentrate
Whiskers N Paws dry pet food Review
Whiskers N Paws is a strong choice — rated 4 stars with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content. A confident pick when the ingredient panel matches your pet's needs.
Best for
- Owners who want clearly named protein sources
- Pets avoiding gluten grains
Avoid if
- 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: Pea Protein.
- Contains common allergens: Legumes, Red meat, Fish.
- Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.
- Overall rating: 4 stars, based on transparency, protein source, and macro balance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Whiskers N Paws good for pets?
Yes — Whiskers N Paws earns 4 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, combining high ingredient transparency with moderate animal protein content. The score is computed from the printed ingredient list and guaranteed analysis rather than marketing claims — a confident pick when the label matches your pet’s needs.
Does Whiskers N Paws contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Whiskers N Paws 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 Whiskers N Paws contain Egg?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Whiskers N Paws 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 Whiskers N Paws contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Whiskers N Paws 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 Whiskers N Paws contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Whiskers N Paws 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 Whiskers N Paws grain-free?
Yes — Whiskers N Paws is grain-free according to its printed ingredient list: no gluten grains (like wheat) and no gluten-free grains (like rice or corn) appear in the recipe. That makes it a candidate for pets with diagnosed grain sensitivities, though grain-free offers no automatic benefit for pets without one.
What are the main protein sources in Whiskers N Paws?
The main animal proteins in Whiskers N Paws are Lamb, Lamb Meal, Freeze-Dried Lamb. 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 pet is eating and avoid specific proteins when managing food allergies.
