Leonardo Fresh Salmon
Leonardo Fresh Salmon scores 3.5/5 on Moesonson's label-based analysis. Its strongest factor is animal-protein content (strong — 89% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources); its weakest is protein clarity (moderate — 56% of the recipe's protein panel is clearly named).
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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon dry cat food good?
Leonardo Fresh Salmon is a dry cat food rated 3.5 stars, with moderate ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. Real muscle meat appears as a primary protein source, supported by whole-food ingredients. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Dairy, Nuts, Red meat but contains Grains (gluten-free), Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Shellfish, Unknown Fish Meal.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- 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 | 44% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 24% |
| Est. Carbs | 20% |
| Fiber | 3% |
| Ash | 8% |
Moisture (10%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 40% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22% |
| Est. Carbs | 18% |
| Fiber | 3% |
| Moisture | 10% |
| Ash | 8% |
As-fed values are the raw percentages printed on the product label.
Tips
- Protein is High (44% 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 Super High (24% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is very energy-dense; cats with pancreatitis, digestive disease, or weight concerns need case-specific veterinary guidance.
Ingredients Analysis
34 of 35 matched
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1 Fresh Salmon
Animal ProteinDescription
One of the most nutrient-dense fish, high in protein, packed with omega 3s, B vitamins, and it is a good source of potassium selenium, and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Fresh Poultry Meat
Animal ProteinDescription
The meat of a mixture of poultry - a generic name that could include any domestic fowl like chicken, turkey, or duck of any conditions.
Why Notice?
Often times generic name like poultry is used to cover the inferior meat quality from unknown sources, commonly found in low quality pet foods.
Uncertain/Risky
Unnamed poultry products could be made of "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), turkey, chicken, roadkill, birds, which are not safe for consumption.
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3 Pea Flour
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Produced by dry milling of dehulled peas, which is 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 Amaranth
CarbsDescription
As a better filler than other grains, amarath has higher protein and fat content. It is also rich in manganese and magnesium.
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5 Krill
Animal ProteinDescription
A small shrimp-like sea animal that is often consumed by whales. Because of their short lifespan, they do not accumulate a lot of contaminants. It is a rather clean source of protein, low fat, omega 3s, and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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6 Egg
Animal ProteinDescription
It contains almost every nutrient the body needs. It also has the highest biological value (protein absorption) among other animal proteins.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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7 Fish Meal From Seafish
(Detected): Fish Meal from Sea Fish
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of unnamed fish. It is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh fish on dry matter basis.
Why Notice?
It does not state what kind of fish is used to make the ingredient. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
Uncertain/Risky
Unnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
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8 Poultry Liver
Animal ProteinDescription
Livers from a mixture of unknown poultry. Poultry is a generic name that could include any domestic fowl like chicken, turkey, or duck of any condition.
Why Notice?
Often times generic name like poultry is used to cover the inferior meat quality from unknown sources, commonly found in low quality pet foods.
Uncertain/Risky
Unnamed poultry products could be made of "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), turkey, chicken, roadkill, birds, which are not safe for consumption.
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9 Chia Seed
Fat Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A "superfood" that is rich in plant-based omega 3s(ALA) and contains around 24% of protein. It is added mainly as a gel or suspending agent in pet foods.
- 10 Brewers' Yeast, Inactivated
No match found in database
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11 Kibbled Carob
CarbsDescription
Crushed carob pods, used as a natural sweetener and fiber source.
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12 Apple Pomace
CarbsDescription
It is usually the finely ground remnants byproduct of making apple juice. It mainly serves as a source of fiber in pet food.
Why Concerned?
Fruit is an acceptable source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
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13 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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14 Parsnip
CarbsDescription
A green leaf-like vegetable, a great source of vitamin C, K, and folate.
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15 Beetroot
CarbsDescription
High in sugar, carbs, and fiber, along with vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium.
Why Concerned?
Controversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
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16 Leek
CarbsDescription
Leeks are an edible plant used in many different cuisines, closely related to onions, garlic, often seen in Japanese dishes. Leeks are toxic to both cats and dogs in a higher dose, which is often not recommended to feed.
Why Concerned?
A controversial vegetable that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
Uncertain/Risky
It contains thiosulfate, when feed in a larger amount, it can cause oxidative damage to the red blood cells of the body, resulting in hemolytic anemia.
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17 Chlorella Vulgaris
OthersDescription
A single-celled green algae rich in chlorophyll, protein, and vitamins.
Why Prefer?
Named algae with high nutritional density.
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18 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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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 Rowan
OthersDescription
Rowan berries, small fruits with antioxidant properties.
Why Prefer?
Natural source of antioxidants.
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21 Rose Hips
CarbsDescription
Small red seeds that are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, catechins, quercetin, and ellagic acid. These help the body to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
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22 Bilberries
CarbsDescription
Commonly known as European blueberries, contains a good amount of manganese, vitamin C and K.
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23 Elderberries
CarbsDescription
The unripe berries and other plant parts contain amygdalin, which is toxic to pets. The ripe mature berries are completely safe for consumption.
Why Concerned?
A controversial vegetable that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
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24 Currants
OthersDescription
Small dried berries rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Why Prefer?
Natural source of antioxidants and fiber.
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25 Cranberries
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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26 Nettle Leaves
CarbsDescription
A herb used as medicine to treat hay fever and allergies, rich in a wide variety of nutrients. In pet foods, it is added mainly to the belief that it could help promote healthy skin/coat and reduce inflammation.
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27 Gentian Root
OthersDescription
Root of the gentian plant, a traditional bitter herb for digestive support.
Why Prefer?
Traditional digestive herb that stimulates appetite.
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28 Centaury
OthersDescription
A bitter herb traditionally used to stimulate digestion.
Why Prefer?
Traditional digestive herb with bitter compounds.
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29 Chamomile
CarbsDescription
Flowery herbs used to make tea in the human world. For us, the main benefit is to treat inflammation and gastrointestinal upset.
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30 Fennel
CarbsDescription
Contains vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and potassium. It is said to aid digestion for pets. More research is needed for confirmation.
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31 Caraway
CarbsDescription
Caraway is a small, brown pod (which looks like a seed) used in cooking and herbal medicine. Recent research suggests that the aromatic compounds may help to improve digestion and provide other potential health benefits.
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32 Mistletoe
OthersDescription
An herb traditionally used in small amounts for its potential immune-modulating properties.
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33 Yarrow
OthersDescription
A flowering herb traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Why Prefer?
Traditional herb with anti-inflammatory properties.
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34 Blackberry Leaves
OthersDescription
Dried leaves from blackberry bushes, traditionally used for digestive support.
Why Prefer?
Natural herb with traditional digestive benefits.
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35 Olive Extract
OthersDescription
Extract from olives, rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
Natural source of polyphenols with antioxidant benefits.
Tips
- Some protein sources are less clear: Fresh Poultry Meat, Fish Meal From Seafish, Poultry Liver appear near the top without a clearly defined animal source.
- Plant protein is worth closer review for cats: Pea Flour, Chia Seed may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Fresh Poultry Meat, Fish Meal From Seafish, Poultry Liver.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Fresh Poultry Meat, Fish Meal From Seafish, Poultry Liver, and 2 more have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible digestion triggers: Pea Flour, Dicalcium Phosphate have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
Moderate- Named 56%
- Unnamed 44%
Mixed clarity: 56% of Leonardo Fresh Salmon's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named, but 44% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Where names are vague, you cannot verify the source or check for allergens.
Contributing ingredients
Named
Unnamed
Animal Protein
High- Animal 89%
- Plant 11%
Meat-forward: 89% of the weighted protein in Leonardo Fresh Salmon comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (11% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Leonardo Fresh Salmon dry cat food Review
Leonardo Fresh Salmon is a solid mid-tier dry cat food at 3.5 stars, with moderate ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. It has clear strengths alongside a few trade-offs worth weighing.
Best for
- Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein
Avoid if
- Your pet is allergic to eggs
- You're avoiding legumes
- You need to know the exact animal source of every protein
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 56% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Contains common allergens: Grains (gluten-free), Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Shellfish, Unknown Fish Meal.
- On a dry-matter basis: 44% protein, 24% fat, 20% estimated carbohydrates.
- 89% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
- Free from Gluten grains, Dairy, Nuts, Red meat.
Frequently asked questions
Is Leonardo Fresh Salmon good for cats?
Mostly — Leonardo Fresh Salmon is a solid mid-tier choice at 3.5 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, pairing moderate ingredient transparency with strong 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Leonardo Fresh Salmon 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon contain Egg?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Leonardo Fresh Salmon contains Egg. Pets with a known Egg 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Leonardo Fresh Salmon 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Leonardo Fresh Salmon 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon grain-free?
No — Leonardo Fresh Salmon is not grain-free: the printed ingredient list includes Grains (gluten-free). 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 Leonardo Fresh Salmon?
The main animal proteins in Leonardo Fresh Salmon are Fresh Salmon, Krill, Egg. 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.
