UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Fat is an important nutrient for pets. What is its function, and are there differences in the fat requirements of pets and people?

High fiber diets are often recommended for people to support a healthy digestion. What is the role of fiber in pet foods?

Minerals are one of six nutrient groups in pet food that dogs and cats need for optimal health. Learn more about the minerals that contribute to healthy body function.

Kelly S. Swanson, PhD, explains the importance of gut health, what dysbiosis means, and the value of using a synbiotic supplement.​

Probiotics are a nutritional intervention that may help manage pet health issues from gastrointestinal tract and beyond.

Excessive treating can increase the pet’s risk of becoming overweight.

Cats need to obtain adequate taurine from food, which makes this amino acid an essential one.

Vegetarians may choose a meat free diet for many reasons including concerns for health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. For similar reasons, some pet owners may wonder if a vegetarian diet is an acceptable option for their pet.

Alternative proteins, which are generally considered protein sources other than the traditional animal sources such as beef and chicken, are increasingly being utilized in both human and pet food. What are examples of alternative proteins, and why are they used in pet food?