Does your pet get super enthusiastic when it’s time for their meal? It appears that the answer to that question is yes. Although our patients have diverse viewpoints on a variety of topics, one thing unifies them: a shared love of food and snacks. Choosing what to put in Fluffy and Fido’s bowls might be confusing, even if it is not a tough chore. This post contains helpful information about pet nutrition from a Hiram, GA veterinarian.

Which Pet Food Ingredients Should I Avoid?

The ingredients list is the most important thing to consider. Many pet foods contain several additives, preservatives, and fillers. Many of these are not only substandard, but they may also be harmful to your pet’s health.

Avoid the following ingredients:

Corn Syrup And High-Fructose Corn Syrup: If you’ve established the habit of reading food labels, you’ve probably noticed that corn syrup has become a prevalent ingredient in a variety of items. Numerous studies have linked this chemical to a variety of human medical disorders, including heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. While it may not be as detrimental to Fluffy and Fido, this isn’t exactly comforting. It should also be noted that syrup includes a lot of sugar.

Rendered Fat: Rendered fat is made by combining and boiling leftover animal components that are not used for meat. Unfortunately, some of the animals could have been  ill or infected.

Propylene Glycol: Propylene glycol is widely used in dog and cat treats to stabilize foods. Consuming high amounts of it can have adverse effects. It’s restricted in Europe, which raises serious concerns in and of itself.

Thickening Agents: While thickening agents are not considered very harmful, they are also not particularly useful. Carrageenan, guar, xanthan, and cassia are some of the most often utilized ones. They do have benefits, such as increased stability and texture. However, research indicates that they may have carcinogenic qualities.

Artificial Preservatives: Several regularly used additives include butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and ethoxyquin. These can be found in a range of wet and dry food products, as well as treats.

Food coloring: Dyes are often used to improve the overall visual appeal and provide a consistent user experience. Some are concerning. Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 contain benzidine, a well-known carcinogen.

For further information, please consult your Dahlonega, GA, veterinarian.

How Can I Choose the Best Food for My Pet?

We urge that you consult with your veterinarian as a first step. Although we can outline some broad ideas, it is important to note that each pet has unique needs. When choosing your furry pal’s food, you must consider their age, health, breed, lifestyle, and any medical concerns they may have. An underweight Pomeranian’s food demands will differ significantly from those of a plump Lab, just as a juvenile St. Bernard’s nutritional requirements will differ from those of an elderly Chihuahua.

Always go with AAFCO-approved products. AFFCO, or the Association of American Feed Control Officials, is a non-profit organization that regulates pet food ingredients, production procedures, and quality standards. They strive to guarantee that pet food fulfills the necessary quality standards to maintain your furry companion’s health, and to verify that the nutrients are in the ideal proportions. When they grant their seal of approval, it implies the brand has been thoroughly reviewed.

The AFFCO divides pet food components and nutrition into six categories. 

Water: Naturally, pets need constant access to fresh water. Water is also an essential ingredient in many food dishes. Your pet’s ability to digest nutrients might be altered by the moisture content of its diet. For example, our feline friends require a significant amount of moisture in their diets. Cats eat mice, birds, and other small creatures as part of their natural diet, and they prefer their food fresh and raw, which is when the moisture level is highest. 

Carbohydrates: Carbs help dogs maintain their energy levels and keep their tails wagging. Carbohydrates are not required in cats’ diets, though Fluffy will get some carbohydrates and fiber from her normal diet, thanks to her prey. However, carbs should not be the predominant component of a dog or cat’s diet.

Vitamins: Pets need a variety of vitamins, including A, B, C, D, and E. Vitamins are essential for maintaining your pet’s organs and systems. We won’t go into depth about each of them, but it is critical to emphasize the proper proportion of vitamins have been added. Excessive or insufficient amounts can both be harmful. 

Minerals: Minerals are essential for your pet’s overall health because they help to support his or her internal organs. Dogs and cats require essential minerals like iron, zinc, copper, and magnesium.

Fat: Fat is an important part of your pet’s diet since it gives energy, promotes a healthy coat and skin, and reduces inflammation. This helps pets with nutrient absorption, hormone production, insulation, and protection. Linoleic acid, flaxseed, and fish oils are some of the primary fat sources included in pet foods. To maintain their health, pets require a well-balanced diet rich in fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6.

Protein: Protein is necessary for the proper functioning of pets’ cartilage, tendons, ligaments, skin, fur, claws, muscles, and blood cells. As it degrades, it creates important amino acids for your pet’s health and survival. Pet food frequently contains animal-based proteins such as chicken, lamb, fish meal, cattle, and eggs. Plant-based proteins include corn gluten meal, soybean meal, and beans.

Understanding Pet Food Labels

Developing the practice of reading food labels is quite advantageous. This is when things get a little complicated. Many organizations use creative marketing methods to improve the perception of their products.

AAFCO-approved food labels are required to carry specified information:

• Names of brands and products
• Intended Use (The food is intended for dogs, cats, etc.)
• Statement of Quality
• List of Ingredients 
• Feeding Directions and Analysis Report: This is a significant piece of information because it gives the percentage of nutrients discussed before. The ingredients must be specified in a certain order and measured in proper units, with some having maximum percentages and others having minimums.
• Nutritional Adequacy Statement: This confirms that the diet is designed to suit the specific needs of a particular life stage, such as growth, reproduction, adult maintenance, or a combination of these. 
• The name and address of the manufacturer or distributor

Reading Labels 

Labeling regulations can make the ingredient list difficult to navigate. For example, if a product’s name includes an ingredient (‘Chicken Dog Food’), that item must account for at least 95% of the food. Nonetheless, there are techniques to overcome this. A mere 3% of the component ‘flavor’ is sufficient. So anything labeled ‘Chicken taste’ may only include trace amounts of actual chicken. 

Please see your Dahlonega, GA veterinarian for individualized recommendations on the best nutrition for your cherished pet. You might also wish to get particular guidance on matters like acceptable portion sizes and ideal feeding patterns.

Book An Appointment At Our Hiram, GA Pet Clinic.

Are you looking for guidance or assistance with your pet’s diet? Are you curious about the healthiest diet for your favorite pet? Feel free to contact us at your local Hiram, GA pet hospital, at any time.