UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

See results from the 14-Year Purina Life Span Study.

See a list of additional key publications from the 14-Year Purina Life Span Study.

Probiotics offer many benefits, but with so many options available, pet owners may not know how to select the best quality and most appropriate one for their pet's needs

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

Grains provide valuable nutrients, but pet owners may believe that grains are “fillers” or that they may be a source of food allergies.

Gluten-free diets are increasingly popular in human nutrition and this in turn can influence pet food decisions. What exactly is gluten and why is it found in pet food?

Vitamins are important nutrients for pets and people. What are their functions, and should pets be given vitamin supplements?

Similar to human foods, ingredients used in pet foods come from a number of sources. Many are obtained directly from animal or plant raw materials, but they can also be manufactured (or synthesized) and are referred to as ‘synthetic’ ingredients. What types of synthetic ingredients are used in pet foods and what is their role?

Dietary antioxidants support pet health and help preserve the nutritional quality of pet food. Learn more about the important ways that antioxidants contribute to better, longer lives for pets.

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.

This glossary defines the key phrases used to describe commercial pet foods and explains the roles of two important associations.​

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