UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Purina was the first to use prebiotics in pet food and is a leader in the field. What are the benefits of prebiotics to pets?

Salt is an important component in pet foods and is involved in a number of critical functions in the body. With recommendations to restrict salt intake in people, does the same apply to pets?

Soy can provide nutritional advantages for pets, but pet owners often question the quality and health impacts of this ingredient.

The small amounts of sugar in pet foods have important functions, but pet owners often view sugar as an ingredient that only adds calories and causes obesity or diabetes.

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?

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.

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

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.

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.