UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

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.

Pets obtain essential fatty acids from their diet. What are these fatty acids, and how do they support pet health?

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

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

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.

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.

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?

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

Learn about supplements for pets: what they are, indications for use, and how to choose them.