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UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Practical information about commercial pet foods and what goes into them.

Resources

Gluten in Pet Food

Feeding Philosophies

Gluten in Pet Food

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?

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6 min to 10 min

Vitamins in Pet Food

Nutrients

Vitamins in Pet Food

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

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6 min to 10 min

Benefits of Synthetic Ingredients in Commercial Pet Foods

Ingredients in Pet Food

Benefits of Synthetic Ingredients in Commercial Pet Foods

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?

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6 min to 10 min

Toxic Foods for Dogs and Cats

Feeding Management

Toxic Foods for Dogs and Cats

Many common food items found in kitchens are potentially harmful to dogs and cats.

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1 min to 5 min

Switching Pet Foods - Dogs

Changing Diets

Switching Pet Foods - Dogs

Gradually transitioning onto a new diet minimizes the risk of stomach upset.​

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1 min to 5 min

Considerations for Feeding Gluten-Free Diets to Pets

Feeding Philosophies

Considerations for Feeding Gluten-Free Diets to Pets

Following the human nutrition trend, gluten-free foods are becoming increasingly popular for pets.

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1 min to 5 min

Definitions of Key Terms Regarding Commercial Pet Foods

Choosing a Pet Food

Definitions of Key Terms Regarding Commercial Pet Foods

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

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1 min to 5 min

Why Is Taurine Considered an Essential Nutrient for Cats?

Nutrients

Why Is Taurine Considered an Essential Nutrient for Cats?

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

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1 min to 5 min

How Do Pet Food Companies Ensure Food Safety?

Choosing a Pet Food

How Do Pet Food Companies Ensure Food Safety?

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

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1 min to 5 min

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

Choosing a Pet Food

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

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

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1 min to 5 min

Why Choose a Large Breed Dog Food

Choosing a Pet Food

Why Choose a Large Breed Dog Food

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

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1 min to 5 min

Considerations When Choosing a Probiotic Supplement

Treats & Supplements

Considerations When Choosing a Probiotic Supplement

Probiotics are a nutritional intervention that may help manage pet health issues from gastrointestinal tract and beyond.

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1 min to 5 min