Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon
Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon 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 — 64% 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 With Salmon wet cat food good?
Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon is a wet cat 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 Dairy, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Gluten grains, Egg, Legumes, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Fish.
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 | 50% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25% |
| Fiber | 9% |
| Ash | 32% |
Moisture (78%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 11% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 6% |
| Fiber | 2% |
| Moisture | 78% |
| 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 Super High (50% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. Cats generally need more protein than dogs, but diagnosed kidney disease or other medical needs should still be managed with your vet.
- Fat is Super High (25% 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
47 of 47 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 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.
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3 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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4 Pork By-products
Animal ProteinDescription
By-products derived from pork processing, including organs and other parts.
Why Concerned?
Named by-product — quality and specific parts vary.
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5 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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6 Egg Product
Animal ProteinDescription
A processed form of eggs, a less expensive option compared to whole eggs. It could mean anything from egg yolk, white, and eggshell.
Why Concerned?
A less preferable egg ingredient that is made of unspecified egg parts - which quality is concerned.
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7 Soybean Meal
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Made by milling soybeans, it contains around 45% protein, is a relatively inexpensive source to boost up the protein level 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.
Allergen Concern
Soy is one of the most reported allergens, causing itchy skin, hair loss, and excessive scratching.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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8 Corn Starch
CarbsDescription
Starch extracted from corn, used as a binder and carbohydrate source.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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9 Soy Protein Isolate
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Contains more than 90% protein, it is highly refined and made by removing the carbs and fats of soybeans. It will significantly boost up the 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.
Allergen Concern
Soy is one of the most reported allergens, causing itchy skin, hair loss, and excessive scratching.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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10 Wheat Flour
CarbsDescription
The most common inexpensive filler in lower-grade pet foods. Other than carbs and fiber, it does not contain important nutrients for dogs / cats.
Why Concerned?
A common filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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.
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11 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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12 Chicken Liver Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
The flavor made of chicken parts, it is used to make pet food more tasty and palatable.
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13 Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
Chicken is broken down into smaller parts by using enzymes in a process called "Hydrolysis". MSG (food enhancer) is formed during the process.
Why Concerned?
MSG could be linked to several side effects including headache, nausea, and weakness.
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14 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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15 Calcium Sulfate
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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16 Ground Pecan Shells
CarbsDescription
Pecan shell fiber (also known as pecan shell flour or ground pecan shells) is a food ingredient produced from shells of pecans, excluding the husks and nut kernels. In pet food, it is used as a source of fiber.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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17 Brewers Dried Yeast
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Made from fungus and often used to make beer, a rich source of minerals such as selenium. B-complex vitamins, and chromium. It contains around 40% protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
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18 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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19 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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20 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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21 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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22 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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23 Dried Citrus Pulp
OthersDescription
Dried pulp from citrus fruits, a source of pectin fiber and flavonoids.
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24 Locust Bean Gum
Food AdditiveDescription
A natural thickener from carob seeds, used as a stabilizer in pet foods.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
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25 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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26 Iodized 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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27 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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28 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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29 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.
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30 Niacin Supplement
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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31 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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32 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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33 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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34 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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35 Riboflavin Supplement
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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36 Folic Acid
SupplementDescription
A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
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37 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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38 Carrageenan
Food AdditiveDescription
A thickener and gelling agent extracted from red seaweed. Its safety in pet food is debated.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
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39 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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40 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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41 Pressed Cranberries
OthersDescription
Cranberries that have been pressed, retaining fiber and antioxidants while reducing moisture.
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42 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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43 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.
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44 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.
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45 Manganese 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.
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46 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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47 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.
Tips
- Some protein sources are less clear: Pork By-products appear near the top without a clearly defined animal source.
- Plant protein is worth closer review for cats: Soybean Meal, Soy Protein Isolate may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Soybean Meal, Soy Protein Isolate, Dicalcium Phosphate.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible allergy triggers: Soybean Meal, Soy Protein Isolate, Wheat Flour 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 With Salmon'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 64%
- Plant concentrate 35%
- Auxiliary 1%
Mixed protein sources in Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon: 64% animal, 0% whole plants, and 35% plant-protein concentrates. The recipe combines meat with notable plant-protein signals.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant concentrate
Auxiliary
Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon wet cat food Review
Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon 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
Avoid if
- Your pet has a grain or gluten sensitivity
- Your pet is allergic to eggs
- You're avoiding legumes
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: Soybean Meal, Soy Protein Isolate.
- Contains common allergens: Gluten grains, Egg, Legumes, Nuts, Poultry, Red meat, Fish.
- On a dry-matter basis: 50% protein, 25% fat, 0% estimated carbohydrates.
- 64% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon good for cats?
Yes — Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon 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 cat’s needs.
Does Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten With 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 Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon contain Egg?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten With 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 Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten With 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 Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon contain Nuts?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon contains Nuts. Pets with a known Nuts 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.
Is Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon grain-free?
No — Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon 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 With Salmon?
The main animal proteins in Hill's Science Diet Kitten With Salmon are Chicken Broth, Pork Liver, Salmon. 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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