Water is vital to health. How much water should pets drink, are there differences between cats and dogs, and how can pets be encouraged to drink?

Various cooking processes are used in preparing commercial pet foods to ensure delivery of highly nutritious, palatable products. The methods used are determined by the final form (e.g., a dry or wet food), desired texture and visual properties, and packaging. Common forms of pet food include dry extruded kibbles and canned wet food.

Water is an essential nutrient and is considered the nutrient most critical for survival. Losses in body water of just 10-15% can cause death, with animals able to tolerate much higher fat or protein losses.

Muscle condition scoring is a hands-on method for evaluating lean body mass that can be used as part of nutritional assessments.

Learn why large and giant breed dogs can benefit from a food that is formulated to meet their specific needs.​

Learn why small dogs can benefit from a food specifically formulated for them.

Pet food manufacturers are committed to producing safe, nutritious cat and dog foods.

Cats and dogs have different nutritional needs, so they should be fed food specifically formulated for their species.

Feeding either wet or dry commercial cat foods, or a combination of both, will provide cats with a complete and balanced diet.