UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

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.

Encouraging picky cats to eat can be frustrating for veterinary health care providers and pet owners alike. Managing medical conditions and stress and implementing strategies to improve food intake can help finicky felines meet their energy and nutrient needs. These strategies apply to hospitalized

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.

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

Pet supplements are increasingly popular as owners become more aware of the potential benefits.

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

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.

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.