UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Probiotic taxonomy can seem daunting to veterinary health care teams and pet owners alike. Understanding taxonomic changes, or changes to the genus and/or species name of a probiotic, can help improve communication with owners about supplements.

Dietary carbohydrates in pet food help meet the pet’s physiological need for glucose. However, due to the ancestral origins of dogs and cats, some owners may question whether carbohydrates should be a part of their pets’ diet.

Feeding guidelines are designed to help owners determine the quantity of food to feed their pets to ensure an optimal body condition, but owners may be unsure how to use them.

Minerals are one of six nutrient groups in pet food that dogs and cats need for optimal health. Learn more about the minerals that contribute to healthy body function.

Food allergies are not common in dogs and cats, but pet owners often believe that a pet’s skin or intestinal symptoms are allergic reactions to specific food ingredients.

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?

Fat is an important nutrient for pets. What is its function, and are there differences in the fat requirements of pets and people?

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.

Protein is an essential nutrient that can be provided by both plant and animal sources. Are there differences between plant and animal proteins and what is considered a good quality protein?

High fiber diets are often recommended for people to support a healthy digestion. What is the role of fiber in pet foods?

Pet owners are increasingly interested in supplements for their pets. Since all supplements are not the same, their use and selection for an individual pet should be considered carefully. Veterinarians should ask about the use of supplements as part of a pet’s diet history.