Evaluating pet food can be overwhelming, but it’s essential for your pet’s health. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps to assess pet food quality, from analyzing ingredients to understanding nutritional standards.
Step 1: Analyze the Ingredients
The ingredient list is the first place to look when evaluating pet food:
- Look for named protein sources (e.g., chicken, beef, or salmon) as the first ingredient.
- Avoid foods with vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal by-products.”
- Check for whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Step 2: Check the Nutritional Value
The guaranteed analysis provides key information about the food’s nutritional content:
- Protein content should be at least 18% for dogs and 26% for cats.
- Fat content should be between 5-15% for dogs and 9-15% for cats.
- Fiber content should be moderate (2-4%).
Step 3: Verify AAFCO Standards
Look for an AAFCO statement on the packaging to ensure the food meets nutritional standards:
- AAFCO ensures the food provides complete and balanced nutrition.
- The statement should indicate whether the food is suitable for growth, maintenance, or all life stages.