What’s in the Name of Pet Foods?

From looking at many pet foods, it is disheartening to me to see pet food name that have very little meaning to them. Often times a pet food manufacturer produces dozens of different types of dog food or cat food products. Along with the typical adult or puppy/kitten foods, there are foods that are marketed as special needs diets such as senior pet food, indoor cat food, dental pet foods, and so on. The problem can be that some of the specialty foods are no different – or very little difference – than the regular maintenance pet foods. Except in price.

A few examples…

Here are the first five ingredients of a cat food named a ‘hairball management’ diet…Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

Same company – now below is the first five ingredients to a cat food sold as a ‘finicky eater’ dietChicken, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Cracked Pearled Barley, Ground Rice,

As you see, the first five ingredients are the same for both foods. The only difference is the third and fourth ingredients are in a different order.

Not all specialty pet foods are poorly formulated or inappropriate for their niche use. I am suggesting that you look closely at the ingredients before you buy. Many times a pet food that is designed for a specialty purpose carries a hefty price tag. Pet owners could be paying for something that has no proven benefit for the specialty use and that is no different than a lesser priced maintenance diet.

Always read the ingredients of your pet’s food and treats before you purchase them. And make a habit of calling the manufacturer to ask if ingredients in the foods are human grade (same quality as human food) and if any ingredients are imported.