Wellness
CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult
Rating
Is Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult dry cat food good?
Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult is a dry cat food rated 4 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong 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, Legumes, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Gluten grains, Poultry, 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.
Nutrition Breakdown
- Protein 40%
- Fat 18%
- Est. Carbs 32%
- 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 36%
- Fat 16%
- Est. Carbs 29%
- Fiber 3%
- Moisture 10%
- 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 (40% 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 (18% 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
67 of 67 matched
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1 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 Salmon Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
The dehydrated form of salmon, a meat concentrate that could contain up to 400% more protein compared to fresh meat. It is 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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3 Herring
Animal ProteinDescription
A small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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4 Herring Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of herring, which contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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5 Barley
CarbsDescription
A type of grain that is high in carbs and fiber, along with manganese and selenium.
Why Concerned?
An inexpensive 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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6 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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7 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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8 Oats
CarbsDescription
A whole grain that has higher protein and fats compared to other types. It is rich in B-vitamins and dietary fiber.
Why Concerned?
An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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9 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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10 Tomato Pomace
CarbsDescription
The leftover by-product of the process in making ketchup and other tomato products. Depending on quality, it could provide a certain amount of vitamin C, K1, and potassium.
Why Concerned?
Vegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
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11 Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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12 Brewer´s Yeast
(Detected): Brewers 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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13 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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14 Natural Fish Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
A flavor made of unnamed fish, it is used to make pet food more tasty and palatable.
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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15 Apple
CarbsDescription
Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.
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16 Pomegranate
CarbsDescription
The red round fruit with many small edible seeds called "arils" inside. Arils are high in sugar - and a good source of vitamin C, K, folate, and potassium. Punicalagins, the antioxidant from the fruit, is said to be 3 times more powerful than green tea.
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17 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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18 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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19 Chicory Root Extract
CarbsDescription
Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.
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20 Hydrolyzed 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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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 Sodium Chloride
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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23 Papaya
CarbsDescription
A type of tropical fruit with a high content of vitamin A and C. It contains a special enzyme, papain, which can help to tenderize meat and aid digestion.
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24 Blueberry
CarbsDescription
Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.
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25 Vitamin E
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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26 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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27 Mixed Tocopherols
Food AdditiveDescription
A mixture of different types of vitamin E, usually found in plant oils, seed and green vegetables. They are powerful antioxidants used as a natural preservative to slow down the spoilage of food.
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28 Zinc Sulfate
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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29 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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30 Niacin
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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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 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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33 Vitamin A Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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34 Dried Kelp
CarbsDescription
An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.
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35 Yucca Extract
CarbsDescription
Yucca schidigera is a desert plant found in the arid southwestern US and Mexico. It has been shown to reduce fecal aroma (poop's smell) without any harmful effect.
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36 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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37 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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38 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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39 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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40 Cinnamon Powder
CarbsDescription
Loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, it is completely safe for pets to consume.
Allergen Concern
Cinnamon and its oil can cause skin irritation if consumed in large quantities.
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41 Fennel Powder
OthersDescription
Powdered fennel, used for digestive support and flavor.
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42 Peppermint Powder
OthersDescription
Dried and powdered peppermint, used for flavor and digestive support.
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43 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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44 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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45 Calcium D-pantothenate
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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46 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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47 Dried Enterococcus Faceium Fermentation Product
(Detected): Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. E. faecium is uniquely able to survive the digestive process and grow, balancing the gut environment.
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48 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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49 Riboflavin
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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50 Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus coagulans is often taken by humans to treat bowel syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.
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51 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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52 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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53 Vitamin D3
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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54 Dried Lactobacillus Delbrueckii Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A dried probiotic bacterium used in dairy fermentation and gut health support.
Why Prefer?
A beneficial probiotic strain.
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55 Dried Enterococcus Thermophilus Fermentation Product
(Detected): Dried Streptococcus thermophilus Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health.
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56 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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57 Vitamin B12
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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58 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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59 Dried Bacillus Licheniformis Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus licheniformis produces several digestive enzymes such as protease, which helps to digest protein in the body.
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60 Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus subtilis helps to boost immunity, protect the body from pathogens (like salmonella), and improve gut health.
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61 Dried Yeast Fermentation Product
PrebioticsDescription
Dried product from yeast fermentation, a source of prebiotics and B vitamins.
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62 Dried Rhizopus Oryzae Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Rhizopus oryzae produces lactic acid, which is believed to help prevent bad bacterias from growing in the intestines.
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63 Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic fermentation product that supports gut health. Lactobacillus casei is resistant to acid and bile.
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64 Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic fermentation product that supports gut health. Lactobacillus casei is resistant to acid and bile.
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65 Rosemary Extract
CarbsDescription
A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
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66 Green Tea Extract
OthersDescription
One of the most healthy tea in the world. It contains catechins, which are natural antioxidants that help prevent radical damages to the body and offer many health benefits.
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67 Spearmint Extract
CarbsDescription
A herb from the mint family that contains a compound (-)-carvone which inhibits contraction in the digestive tract and helps relieve digestive upset.
Tips
- Named animal proteins near the top: Salmon, Salmon Meal are listed early in the ingredient panel.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Natural Fish Flavor, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Natural Fish Flavor, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible allergy triggers: Barley, Cinnamon Powder have allergen notes; review them if your pet has sensitivities.
- Possible digestion triggers: Barley 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 Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult'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
High- Animal 99%
- Auxiliary 1%
Meat-forward: 99% of the weighted protein in Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (0% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Auxiliary
Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult dry cat food Review
Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult is a strong choice — rated 4 stars with high ingredient transparency and strong 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 that thrive on muscle-meat protein
Avoid if
- Your pet has a grain or gluten sensitivity
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Contains common allergens: Gluten grains, Poultry, Fish.
- On a dry-matter basis: 40% protein, 18% fat, 32% estimated carbohydrates.
- 99% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
- Free from Dairy, Egg, Legumes, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult good for cats?
Yes — rated 4 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.
Does Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult contain Dairy?
No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.
Does Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult contain Egg?
No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult doesn't include Egg or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid this allergen here.
Does Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult contain Legumes?
No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult doesn't include Legumes or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Legumes can typically avoid this allergen here.
Does Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult contain Nuts?
No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.
Is Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult grain-free?
No — the recipe contains Gluten grains.
What are the main protein sources in Wellness CORE+ Digestive Health Salmon & Rice Recipe Adult?
The top animal proteins are Salmon, Salmon Meal, Herring — clearly named, so you can verify the source.
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