Beyond the Bowl: Part Three of Understanding your Pet’s Nutritional Needs 

This article forms Part Three of a three-part nutrition focused series titled “Beyond the Bowl: Understanding Your Pet’s Nutritional Needs.”

Part Three: The different types of foods available 

Choosing the right food for your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make as a pet parent. Proper nutrition not only supports your pet’s overall health but can also help to ensure that they lead a healthy life. With a myriad of options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the choices.

The different types of pet food

The are various types of cat and dog food available, each with different formulations, ingredients, cooking styles and nutritional values. It is always recommended to choose those labeled as ‘complete and balanced,’ as they are formulated to provide all the essential nutrients your dog or cat needs.

Read more about pet food labels in part two of this three-part nutrition series. 

Dry food 

Dry pet food, commonly known as kibble, is one of the most prevalent types of pet food on the market. It is produced by combining various ingredients such as meats, off-cuts, grains, vegetables, and other supplements to create a dough. This mixture is then passed through an extruder, which grinds, mixes and cooks the food at high temperatures and pressures before shaping it into bite-sized pieces. The composition of dry pet food varies by brand and formula, but it typically includes a blend of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Some brands also incorporate additional or functional ingredients like probiotics or joint health supplements for the added benefits they give to your pet. 

Wet food 

Wet food is another popular option for pet parents. It is made by blending various ingredients like meats, vegetables, and grains, and cooking them in a hermetically sealed pouch, tray or can maintain sterility. This ensures food safety and freshness for the shelf life of the product or until it is opened and consumed. Wet food contains much higher moisture levels than dry food, which can be beneficial for pets that do not drink enough water or require extra hydration due to health conditions. However, the downside is that it more quickly leads to dental issues as there is no physical abrasion to remove calculus from tooth surfaces. Regularly brushing your pets’ teeth can help to mitigate this risk. 

Raw food 

Raw food diets, consist of uncooked meat, bones, and organs combined with other ingredients including vegetables. The aim is to mimic what pets’ ancestors ate in the wild. While raw food diets can provide essential nutrients and appeal to some taste preferences, they also come with risks, including bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances.  

It’s important to thoroughly research and always consult with a veterinarian before transitioning your pet between any diet, but particularly when switching to a raw diet.

Dehydrated food 

Dehydrated pet food is processed at low temperatures to remove moisture while maintaining its nutritional value. It usually contains high-quality ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and grains that are gently dehydrated to preserve their natural flavors and nutrients. The composition of dehydrated pet food can vary, but it often includes a blend of protein sources, carbohydrates, fats, fruits, vegetables, and added vitamins and minerals. Some brands also incorporate probiotics or digestive enzymes to support gut health.  

Remember: Carefully following the instructions and proportions when preparing dehydrated food is crucial to ensure your pet receives the nutrition, they need to meet their needs. 

Human food 

Feeding pets human food can be tempting, especially when they give you those irresistible looks. However, it’s important to understand that not all human food is safe for pets. Foods, like chocolate, grapes, and onions, are toxic to both cats and dogs. While occasional treats like cooked chicken or a small piece of toast can be okay, they should not replace a balanced pet diet. 

Similarly, home-cooked diets for pets give pet parents control over the ingredients used in their pets’ meals. While these diets can be customised to suit individual pet needs, it’s important to ensure they are nutritionally balanced.  

Preprepared food 

Fresh and frozen preprepared pet foods offer a convenient way to feed pets, with many products made from minimally processed, high-quality ingredients. These meals are often designed to retain nutrients and can be tailored to meet specific dietary needs. When selecting an option, it’s important to select brands that follow strict safety guidelines to ensure the food is safe and nutritious. 

Lyka food

Lyka is an Australian company that offers fresh pet meals designed by veterinarians and nutritionists. These meals use whole foods and are minimally processed to maintain nutritional value. Lyka provides customisable options based on factors like age and activity level, making it one of the many choices available for pet owners looking for fresh, balanced meals. 

Grain-Free food

Grain-free pet food excludes grains like wheat, corn, or soy, using alternative carbohydrate sources such as potatoes, peas, lentils, or sweet potatoes instead. 

Typically, grain-free pet food emphasises high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates from non-grain sources. It often includes a mix of meats, fruits, vegetables, and added vitamins and minerals. Feeding your pet a grain-free diet can offer several benefits, although none have been scientifically evidenced It may be anecdotally helpful for pets with food allergies, potentially alleviating symptoms like skin irritation, digestive upset, or ear infections. However, grain-free pet food has also recently been investigated by the FDA for a potential link to Dilated Cardio Myopathy (DCM), a heart disease in dogs. Although there has been no causal link established, it is always recommended to speak with your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially if your pet does not have a clinically diagnosed specific grain allergy or food sensitivity. 

Organic Food

Organic pet food is made from ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, additives, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It can be a healthier option for pets and the environment. However, it’s essential to verify that the product meets established and authentic organic standards and provides complete and balanced nutrition for your pet’s life stage and lifestyle. 

Insect-based food 

Insect-based pet foods are an emerging trend, offering a sustainable and potentially hypoallergenic protein source. Insects like black soldier fly larvae are high in protein and contain many essential nutrients. This option can be particularly beneficial for pets with allergies to traditional protein sources, as it provides a novel alternative. 

Prescription Food 

Prescription diets are specially formulated to manage specific health conditions, such as kidney disease, allergies, arthritis, or obesity. These diets are mostly available through and recommended by veterinarians, as they are tailored to meet the medical needs of individually diagnosed pets. Always consult your veterinarian before switching to a prescription diet, as improper use can lead to unintended health issues. 

Knowing your pet’s needs 

When choosing pet food, it’s essential to consider your pet’s specific needs, including:

Pet type: Cats and dogs have different nutritional requirements. Cats require taurine, an amino acid not found in plant-based foods, while dogs have a little more flexibility in their diet. 

Life stage: Puppies, kittens, adults, senior, and geriatric pets have different dietary needs. For example, puppies and kittens require higher protein and fat levels to support growth, while senior pets may need fewer calories, without compromising on high quality protein. 

Weight: Obesity is a common issue in pets and can lead to a multitude of serious, chronic health conditions. Choose a diet that helps maintain a healthy weight for your pet and always be careful with portion size. 

Health conditions: Pets with specific health issues, such as allergies, diabetes, or kidney disease, may require specialised diets. These should always be recommended by your vet. 

Special conditions: Consider any unique needs your pet may have, such as dietary preferences or sensitivities, an indoor lifestyle where litterbox odour may be a concern or an outdoor working dog who may need extra calories! 

Understanding the various types of pet food and how they meet your pet’s individual needs is vital for optimising their health and well-being. From traditional dry and wet foods to more specialised options like prescription diets and emerging formats such as home-delivered freshly prepared meals, there is a wide range of choices available. Remember, every pet is unique, and just like humans, they can have strong preferences or respond better to certain diets. Always consult with a veterinarian to make the best dietary choices for your pet. 

Learn more about pet nutrition in part one and part two of this three-part nutrition-focused series.  

Sources

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