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?

Obesity has many adverse impacts on pet health. Dietary therapy is a cornerstone of weight management in dogs and cats.

Discover the importance of Lean Body Mass (LBM) in overall health for dogs and cats, and the role a high-protein diet can play in slowing LBM loss.

Cachexia is the loss of lean body mass and body weight that occurs with disease, and targeted nutrition can help address this adverse condition.

Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of lean body mass that occurs unrelated to disease. Targeted nutrition may help delay some changes in body weight and body composition of older pets.

Although medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) do not supply essential fatty acids and thus should not be the only dietary fat source in pet food, 1 studies show supplementing MCTs in the diet can provide health benefits to some dogs.

Pet owners often ask veterinary health care providers why organs are included in pet food. There are nutritional advantages to including organs, and utilizing organs in dog and cat food is also beneficial for the environment.

Postbiotics are an example of a dietary intervention that may improve microbiome, gastrointestinal, and host health.