Pet owners want what’s best for their animal companions, and food plays a huge role in that. But with so many brands boasting terms like “all-natural,” “cat-approved,” or “grain-free,” picking the right food can quickly feel like guesswork. Our veterinary staff at ABC Veterinary Clinic of Lewisville has seen how often pet food labels don’t tell the full story. We’re here to help you decode the marketing jargon and focus on what really matters for your pet’s health.
What Pet Food Packaging Doesn’t Tell You
Bright colors, buzzwords, and celebrity endorsements may look convincing, but the actual quality of a pet food goes far beyond the front of the bag.
- “Premium” isn’t a regulated term. Any brand can call their product premium, regardless of quality.
- Ingredients are listed by weight prior to cooking, so fresh meats may top the list but contribute less once cooked down.
- “Grain-free” doesn’t make the food better for your pet, unless your cat or dog has specifically been diagnosed with an allergy or sensitivity to grains.
- Assuming cost equals quality isn’t always accurate. Some expensive foods rely heavily on branding.
- Choosing based solely on trends (like raw or boutique diets) can backfire without veterinary guidance.
What to Look for on a Pet Food Label
- The AAFCO Statement
Check the back or side of the package for a statement that the food meets the nutritional requirements established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This means that the food should be complete and balanced for your pet (as long as it is not labeled as “intended for intermittent feeding.”) Be sure to also verify which life stage the food is meant for! - Your Pet’s Individual Needs
Your pet’s age, breed, activity level, and any existing health conditions should drive your food choices. What works for a growing Labrador puppy may be inappropriate for a senior indoor cat. Talk to your veterinarian about what your individual pet needs to stay healthy. - Calorie Content and Feeding Guidelines
Pet foods vary widely in calorie density. Knowing how many calories your pet needs (and comparing it with what the label recommends) is a part of preventing weight gain. - Guaranteed Analysis
A guaranteed analysis on a chart breaks down the fat, fiber, moisture, and protein in the pet food, which is useful for comparing products. Keep in mind, however, that this does not guarantee the quality of the ingredients included. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association has a quick pet food label guide that can be helpful for pet owners.
How Do I Actually Decide on Healthy Pet Food?
Does picking out pet food still seem like it’ll take a lot of research? Yeah, it definitely can. Talking to your pet’s veterinarian takes the guesswork out of choosing pet food. Consider scheduling a nutrition consultation for your animal companion. A veterinarian can assess your pet’s full medical history and nutritional needs. They will recommend foods based on science (not popularity) and offer advice about transitioning foods without upsetting your pet’s digestion too much.
If you already have food that your pet seems to love, bring the food label and any treat labels to your veterinarian. Pictures work, too! That way, you can have an open discussion about what your pet is eating daily. Be ready to explain how much you feed your pet on a regular basis for a better understanding.
Choose Healthy Pet Food with a Nutrition Consultation in Lewisville, TX
Choosing the right food for your pet is about understanding their nutritional needs and making informed decisions. The wrong diet can lead to digestive issues, weight gain, or even chronic health problems down the line. This October, during National Pet Obesity Awareness, we encourage you to take a closer look at your pet’s nutrition and make sure you’re feeding them well. ABC Veterinary Clinic of Lewisville can help with veterinary nutrition consultations in Lewisville for pets from Hebron, Flower Mound, and neighboring Texas areas.
Confused by the pet food aisle? Schedule a nutrition consultation with ABC Veterinary Clinic of Lewisville.
