Holding a bag of the Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food, Chicken & Salmon, 9oz in my hand, I was struck by its substantial weight and textured surface—solid, yet easy to scoop. As I prepared it for my playful cat, the aroma was rich and natural, promising flavor and nutrition. This hands-on experience helped me see how well-designed it is for both ease of serving and maintaining freshness.
After testing all options, this product stood out because of its high-quality ingredients: 98% humanely raised chicken, wild-caught salmon, and nutrient-rich organ meat. It’s gently freeze-dried to preserve flavor, without grains, legumes, or artificial preservatives. Unlike other options like the Instinct or Stella & Chewy’s varieties, it offers a true prey-model diet with traceable ingredients, and at a competitive price. I confidently recommend the Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food because it combines premium nutrition, careful sourcing, and excellent value, making it the best choice for your cat’s health and happiness.
Top Recommendation: Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food, Chicken & Salmon, 9oz
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it features 98% humanely raised chicken and wild-caught salmon, ensuring premium quality. Its gentle freeze-drying process preserves nutrients and flavor better than the 93% meat and organ content in Instinct. Unlike Stella & Chewy’s, it’s more affordable, offering great value without compromising on high-quality, traceable ingredients. Its grain- and legume-free formula directly addresses common dietary sensitivities, making it ideal for health-conscious cat owners.
Best freeze dried cat food: Our Top 5 Picks
- Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food, Chicken & Salmon, 9oz – Best Freeze Dried Raw Cat Food
- Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken Cat Food 9.5 oz – Best Rated Freeze Dried Cat Food
- Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken Cat Food, 25 oz. Bag – Best Value Freeze Dried Cat Food
- Stella & Chewy’s Raw Cat Dinner Morsels Chicken 3.5 oz – Best for Sensitive Stomachs
- Whole Life Cat Salmon Freeze Dried Treats 1 oz – Best Freeze Dried Raw Cat Food Reviews
Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food, Chicken & Salmon, 9oz
- ✓ High-quality, traceable ingredients
- ✓ Easy to serve and versatile
- ✓ Natural flavor cats love
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Some cats prefer softer textures
| Protein Content | 98% animal proteins (chicken, salmon, organ meats) |
| Main Ingredients | Humane-raised chicken, wild-caught salmon, chicken neck, chicken liver |
| Formulation | Freeze-dried raw, grain-free, legume-free |
| Net Weight | 9 ounces (255 grams) |
| Nutritional Purpose | Complete and balanced diet suitable as a full meal or mixer |
| Preservation Method | Gently freeze-dried to preserve flavor and nutrients |
The first thing that catches your eye when you open the Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food bag is how vibrant and fresh everything looks. You’ll notice the small, crunchy pieces filled with a rich aroma of chicken and salmon, which immediately makes you think, “This must be good stuff.”
As you scoop out a handful, the texture feels firm but not hard, like a true prey-model diet should be. Your cat’s nose twitches at the scent, and it’s clear they’re intrigued.
The ingredients list is impressive—98% humanely raised chicken, wild-caught salmon, and nutrient-rich organ meats like chicken liver and neck. It’s wholesome, traceable, and free from grains, soy, or artificial preservatives.
Serving it couldn’t be easier—just a quick pinch or scoop, and your cat is ready to chow down. The flavor is rich and natural, and your feline friend gobbles it up, clearly loving the taste.
You appreciate that it can be used as a full meal or mixed with their usual kibble, making it versatile for your feeding routine.
Extended use reveals that the freeze-drying process preserves the nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the absence of fillers means you’re providing a species-appropriate diet that aligns with your wellness goals for your cat.
Overall, it’s a convenient, tasty option that your cat won’t turn down, and you’ll feel good knowing it’s made from clean, high-quality ingredients.
Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken Cat Food 9.5 oz
- ✓ High meat content
- ✓ Natural, minimally processed
- ✓ Supports healthy coat
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Needs rehydration
| Protein Content | 93% meat and organs |
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, organs, non-GMO fruits and vegetables |
| Processing Method | Freeze-dried (minimally processed, raw preservation) |
| Net Weight | 9.5 oz (269 grams) |
| Made in | USA |
| Dietary Features | Grain-free, no artificial colors, preservatives, or fillers |
Many folks assume that freeze-dried cat food is just a fancy way to serve up dried morsels that lack real flavor or nutrition. But I can tell you after trying the Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The first thing I noticed is how vibrant and fresh the chicken pieces look—almost like tiny bits of real meat. When I added a bit of water, they rehydrated quickly and smelled incredibly fresh, not like a processed snack.
My cat was instantly curious, sniffing and pouncing on the bowl with enthusiasm.
This food is packed with 93% meat and organs, which means I’m feeding her high-quality protein instead of empty fillers. The minimally processed nature really shows in the texture and aroma, making it feel more like a natural diet.
It’s also grain-free and free from artificial colors or preservatives, which is a huge plus for health-conscious pet owners.
Feeding raw-like nutrition supports her digestion and keeps her coat shiny. I also appreciate that it’s crafted in the USA, ensuring a level of quality control I trust.
The 9.5 oz bag lasts a decent while, making it a good value for the quality you’re getting.
Overall, I found it easy to serve and my cat loved it. It’s a smart upgrade from regular kibble, especially if you want a natural, nutrient-rich option that’s minimally processed but still convenient.
Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken Cat Food, 25 oz. Bag
- ✓ High-quality, real meat
- ✓ Naturally preserved nutrients
- ✓ Easy to serve and store
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Crunchy texture may not suit all cats
| Protein Content | 93% meat and organs |
| Organ Content | Rich in nutrient-dense organs |
| Processing Method | Freeze-dried (minimally processed, not cooked) |
| Ingredients | Made with non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins & minerals |
| Grain-Free | No grains, corn, wheat, soy, or legumes |
| Net Weight | 25 oz (708 grams) |
I was caught off guard the first time I opened a bag of Instinct Raw Meals Freeze-Dried Chicken Cat Food. The aroma hits you immediately — it’s way richer and more meaty than I expected for a freeze-dried product.
It almost smells like freshly prepared chicken, which instantly made me wonder if my cat would notice the difference.
Handling the pieces, I was surprised at how solid and crunchy they are. They break apart easily in your hand, revealing a texture that’s almost like lightly toasted treats.
My cat was instantly curious, sniffing each piece with a mix of suspicion and intrigue.
The real game-changer was watching her eat — she licked her bowl clean in record time. The high protein content and organ-rich ingredients really seem to boost her energy and coat shine.
I liked that it’s minimally processed, so I don’t feel like I’m feeding her anything artificial or overly cooked.
Plus, knowing it’s made with 93% meat and organs, and no grains or fillers, gives me peace of mind. It’s a simple switch from kibble that feels more natural and nutritious.
The fact that it’s crafted in the USA with quality ingredients just seals the deal for me.
Overall, this product feels like a premium upgrade for her diet. It’s convenient, packed with flavor, and she loves it — what more could I ask for?
The only thing to keep in mind is the price, which is on the higher side, but I believe the quality justifies it.
Stella & Chewy’s Raw Cat Dinner Morsels Chicken 3.5 oz
- ✓ Natural, high-quality ingredients
- ✓ Versatile for treats or meals
- ✓ Picky eater approved
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Flavor variety limited
| Protein Content | 98% cage-free chicken, organs, and bone |
| Serving Options | Dry treats, crumbled as topper, or rehydrated with warm water |
| Main Ingredients | Cage-free chicken, organic ingredients, organs, bone |
| Additives | No artificial preservatives, colors, or fillers |
| Fortifications | Probiotics, taurine, omega fatty acids |
| Product Weight | 3.5 oz (100 grams) |
As soon as I opened the Stella & Chewy’s Raw Cat Dinner Morsels, I was immediately struck by how fresh they smelled—like real chicken just came out of the oven. Those tiny morsels are perfectly sized, making them easy for cats of all ages to munch on without any fuss.
Watching my picky eater come running at the sound of the container was pretty satisfying; these morsels truly create excitement at mealtime.
The texture is a big win—crispy enough to satisfy a treat craving but can be crumbled easily for use as a topper or rehydrated into a full meal. I tried rehydrating a few with warm water, and my cat loved the aroma, devouring it quickly.
The ingredients are visibly high-quality: cage-free chicken, organs, and bone, all minimally processed to keep nutrients intact. I also appreciate the added probiotics, taurine, and omega fatty acids—these give me peace of mind about supporting my cat’s overall health.
What’s really impressive is how versatile these morsels are. My senior cat with dental issues had no trouble biting into them, and I feel good giving her something natural and nourishing.
Plus, the fact that it’s made in the USA under strict quality controls makes me trust that I’m feeding her something safe and healthy.
Of course, the only downside is that the price is a bit higher than typical treats, but the quality definitely makes up for it. Also, some cats might prefer a different flavor, but overall, these are a hit in my household.
They strike a great balance between nutrition, taste, and convenience.
Whole Life Cat Salmon Freeze Dried Treats 1 oz
- ✓ Single ingredient, natural
- ✓ Suitable for sensitive tummies
- ✓ Versatile for snacks or toppers
- ✕ Treat size varies
- ✕ Slightly pricey for 1 oz
| Main Ingredient | 100% Salmon |
| Net Weight | 1 oz (28.35 grams) |
| Treat Type | Freeze dried cat treats |
| Protein Content | High protein (specific percentage not provided, but inferred to be significant due to salmon base) |
| Additives | No additives or fillers, single ingredient |
| Packaging | Vacuum-sealed for freshness and breakage prevention |
Ever had a cat turn their nose up at a treat because it’s too greasy or artificial? I’ve been there, struggling to find something natural that actually appeals to picky eaters.
These Whole Life Cat Salmon Freeze Dried Treats changed that for me in an instant.
The moment I opened the bag, I was greeted with the clean, fresh smell of salmon—nothing overly fishy, just pure. The treats are naturally cut, so they’re a little uneven, but that actually makes them more charming.
You can easily break them into smaller pieces, which is perfect for my tiny-eater or if I want to sprinkle some on her food.
What really stands out is how crunchy and satisfying they are without being too hard. My cat loves to crunch on them during playtime, and I feel good knowing they’re just one ingredient—salmon, nothing else.
The freeze-drying process preserves the flavor and nutrients, so I know she’s getting a healthy, protein-packed snack.
These treats are gentle on her sensitive stomach, which is a huge relief. Plus, since they’re human-grade and made in the USA, I trust the quality completely.
I’ve used them as a topper, and she gobbles up her meals faster than ever. They’re versatile, wholesome, and honestly, a nice way to spoil her without guilt.
Overall, if you want a treat that ticks all the boxes—natural, protein-rich, gentle on sensitive tummies—these are a total win. They’re small enough for quick snacks or crumbles for meals, making them super flexible for everyday use.
What Benefits Does Freeze Dried Cat Food Offer for Felines?
- Nutrient Retention: Freeze-drying preserves essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals found in raw ingredients. This process locks in the freshness and quality, ensuring that cats receive a diet rich in the nutrients necessary for their well-being.
- Convenience: Freeze-dried cat food is easy to store and requires no refrigeration, making it an ideal option for pet owners. It can be quickly rehydrated with water, providing a fresh meal in minutes, which is particularly beneficial for busy households.
- Variety of Flavors: Many freeze-dried cat foods come in a variety of flavors, appealing to even the pickiest eaters. This variety encourages cats to enjoy their meals and can help prevent food boredom, ensuring they remain interested in their diet.
- Digestibility: The freeze-drying process makes the food easier to digest for many cats. The preservation of raw ingredients means that the food retains its natural enzymes and proteins, which can support better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Weight Management: Freeze-dried cat food often has lower calorie density compared to traditional kibble, making it easier to manage portion sizes for weight control. This is particularly beneficial for cats that need to maintain a healthy weight or those prone to obesity.
- Raw Diet Alternative: For pet owners looking to provide their cats with a raw diet without the hassle of handling raw meat, freeze-dried food offers a convenient alternative. It provides the benefits of raw nutrition while eliminating the risks associated with raw food preparation, such as bacterial contamination.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Freeze Dried Cat Food?
When selecting the best freeze dried cat food, certain key ingredients can significantly enhance its nutritional value and palatability for your feline friend.
- High-Quality Protein Sources: Look for real meat or fish as the first ingredient, such as chicken, turkey, or salmon. These proteins are essential for your cat’s muscle development and energy levels, serving as the primary building blocks of their diet.
- Animal-Based Fats: Ingredients like chicken fat or fish oil are vital for maintaining your cat’s healthy skin and coat. These fats also provide a concentrated source of energy and help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Limited Carbohydrates: Ideally, freeze dried cat food should contain minimal grains or fillers, as cats are obligate carnivores. Ingredients like peas or sweet potatoes can be good sources of carbohydrates, but they should not dominate the ingredient list.
- Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Look for added nutrients such as taurine, omega fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E. These are crucial for your cat’s overall health, supporting functions such as vision, immune response, and heart health.
- Probiotics: Some freeze dried cat foods include probiotics to support digestive health. These beneficial bacteria can help maintain a balanced gut flora, improving nutrient absorption and overall digestive function.
- Natural Preservatives: Ingredients like tocopherols (vitamin E) or rosemary extract are preferable for preserving freshness without harmful chemicals. This ensures the food remains safe and nutritious for your cat while reducing the risk of adverse reactions from artificial preservatives.
Which Proteins Are Most Beneficial for Your Cat’s Diet?
The best freeze-dried cat food options often include high-quality proteins that are essential for your cat’s health.
- Chicken: Chicken is a highly digestible protein that provides essential amino acids for muscle development and overall health. It is also rich in taurine, which is crucial for heart and eye health in cats.
- Turkey: Turkey is another excellent protein source that is low in fat and high in nutrients. It contains essential vitamins and minerals, including phosphorus and B vitamins, which contribute to energy metabolism and a healthy immune system.
- Fish: Fish, particularly salmon and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Additionally, fish provides high-quality protein and is often appealing to cats due to its strong flavor and aroma.
- Lamb: Lamb is a great alternative protein source for cats with food sensitivities or allergies. It is rich in iron and zinc, which are important for energy production and immune function, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.
- Beef: Beef is a protein-packed option that contains essential nutrients such as iron, which supports red blood cell production. It is also a good source of fatty acids that contribute to overall health and vitality in cats.
What Additives Should Be Avoided in Freeze Dried Cat Food?
When selecting the best freeze dried cat food, it’s essential to avoid certain additives that can negatively impact your cat’s health.
- Artificial Preservatives: Ingredients such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are synthetic compounds used to prolong shelf life but can pose health risks, including cancer and organ damage.
- Fillers: Common fillers like corn, soy, and wheat are often included to bulk up food but provide little nutritional value and can lead to allergies or digestive issues in cats.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These additives enhance the appearance and taste of the food but offer no nutritional benefits and can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in felines.
- Excessive Salt: High sodium levels can lead to health problems such as hypertension and kidney issues, making it crucial to choose freeze dried cat food with balanced sodium content.
- By-products: Meat by-products from unspecified sources can be low-quality and less nutritious, potentially containing unwanted parts of the animal that do not contribute to a healthy diet.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Freeze Dried Cat Food?
The top recommended brands for freeze dried cat food include:
- Stella & Chewy’s: Known for their high-quality, raw ingredients, Stella & Chewy’s freeze dried cat food is made with real meat and organic fruits and vegetables. This brand is praised for its palatability and nutritional value, making it a favorite among both cats and their owners.
- Primal Pet Foods: Primal offers a variety of freeze dried options using ethically sourced ingredients, including cage-free chicken and grass-fed beef. Their formulas are designed to mimic a natural diet and are rich in protein, supporting overall health and vitality in cats.
- Nature’s Variety Instinct: This brand is well-regarded for its grain-free freeze dried cat food options that are high in animal protein and low in carbohydrates. Nature’s Variety Instinct also emphasizes natural ingredients, making it a great choice for cats with food sensitivities.
- Wellness CORE: Wellness CORE freeze dried cat food is formulated to provide a balanced diet with a focus on high protein content. Their recipes include a mix of real meat and wholesome ingredients, ensuring complete nutrition for active felines.
- Orijen: Renowned for its biologically appropriate recipes, Orijen freeze dried cat food contains fresh, regional ingredients and is high in protein. This brand is ideal for pet owners looking for premium, nutrient-dense food options that support a cat’s natural dietary needs.
How Can You Successfully Transition Your Cat to Freeze Dried Food?
Successfully transitioning your cat to freeze-dried food involves a careful and gradual process to ensure acceptance and health.
- Choose the Right Freeze-Dried Food: Start by selecting high-quality freeze-dried cat food that meets your cat’s nutritional needs. Look for options that contain real meat as the primary ingredient and are free from fillers and artificial additives, as these will be more appealing to your cat.
- Gradual Introduction: Begin by mixing a small amount of the freeze-dried food with your cat’s current diet to allow them to adjust gradually. Over a week or two, slowly increase the proportion of freeze-dried food while decreasing their old food, monitoring your cat for any signs of digestive upset or refusal to eat.
- Rehydrate for Acceptance: Since freeze-dried food can be dry and less palatable, consider rehydrating it with warm water before serving. This process not only enhances the aroma and flavor but also helps with hydration, making it more enticing for your cat.
- Consistency and Patience: Maintain a consistent feeding schedule and be patient throughout the transition. Cats may take longer than expected to adapt, so it’s important to stay committed and not rush the process, ensuring your cat feels comfortable with the new food.
- Monitor Health and Preferences: Keep an eye on your cat’s health, weight, and overall behavior during the transition. Each cat is unique, and some may prefer certain brands or flavors over others, so be prepared to try different options if needed.
What Common Misconceptions Should You Be Aware of Regarding Freeze Dried Cat Food?
There are several common misconceptions regarding freeze-dried cat food that pet owners should consider.
- Freeze-dried food is the same as kibble: Many people assume that freeze-dried cat food is just another form of kibble, but this is not true. Freeze-drying removes moisture while preserving nutrients, making the food more similar to raw diets, whereas kibble often contains fillers and artificial preservatives.
- It doesn’t provide complete nutrition: Some believe that freeze-dried cat food lacks the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet. However, many reputable brands formulate their freeze-dried products to meet or exceed the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), ensuring they are complete and balanced for cats.
- All freeze-dried foods are equal: There’s a misconception that all freeze-dried cat foods offer the same quality and benefits. In reality, the ingredients, sourcing, and processing methods vary significantly between brands, which can affect the food’s nutritional value and palatability.
- It’s only for picky eaters: While freeze-dried cat food can appeal to picky eaters, it is not exclusively for them. Many cat owners choose freeze-dried options for their convenience, shelf stability, and high-quality ingredients, making it a suitable choice for all cats regardless of their eating habits.
- Freeze-dried food is too expensive: Some pet owners think that freeze-dried cat food is prohibitively expensive compared to other types. Although it may have a higher upfront cost, the concentrated nature of freeze-dried food means that a little goes a long way, potentially making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.