What Exactly Is In My Pet's Food!?!?

For many of us, our pets are our family, and we want them to have the best life too. I wrote a few days ago about the importance of keeping your pet on a controlled diet, as weight-related health problems can happen to them too. I also noted the importance of checking to see what is actually going into your pet’s food. Remember when you are purchasing food for your pet to check the ingredients.

Many pet foods contain “filler” ingredients just like many pre-packaged human foods. What you may be unaware of is that, the cute commercials with the loving pets are actually attempting to sell you pet foods that contain items; we could not and would not eat. The API notes, “What most consumers are unaware of is that the pet food industry is an extension of the human food industry…Pet food provides a place for slaughterhouse waste and grains considered ‘unfit for human consumption’ to be turned into profit. This waste includes…possibly diseased and cancerous meat. The ‘whole grains’ used have had the starch removed and the oil extracted -- usually by chemical processing…Some of the truly whole grains used may have been deemed unfit for human consumption because of mold, contaminants, or poor storage practices.” (1). When you consider this and then look to your furry companions, could you see giving them food that could be dangerous? This is food that you yourself would not even think to touch.

Protein is a major source of many animals’ diets, but where is that protein coming from? “…about 50% of every food animal does not get used in human foods. Whatever remains of the carcass — heads, feet, bones, blood, intestines, lungs, spleens, livers, ligaments, fat trimmings, unborn babies, and other parts not generally consumed by humans — is used in pet food, animal feed, fertilizer, industrial lubricants, soap, rubber, and other products. These “other parts” are known as “by-products.” By-products are used in feed for poultry and livestock as well as in pet food.” (2). The main concern here is that many of the very ingredients for protein (which our furry friends need) are also being used in non-food products like “fertilizer and rubber”! Remember, if we would not eat it, why would they want to? When the food is being processed into kibble, it generally takes out all the good stuff and leaves nothing good behind. This means many companies add unnecessary preservatives and lots of them. This is also the reason many animals have upset digestive systems when being fed cheaper pet food.

The good news is, many companies are standing up and taking notice. They are creating foods that are both healthy and safe for your pet. The key here is learning to read labels (much like you do for the food you are going to consume). If you have a question about what is in your companion’s food, call the company, better yet, ask an associate in a natural store. Many foods have customer service numbers on their boxes, bags, and cans. If you cannot get a clear answer, my advice is don’t buy it. Do some internet research, and see what is recommended by vets and foodies for your beloved fur friend. Keep in mind, several companies that were forerunners in healthy pet diets have been sold out to larger companies, and now include less than stellar ingredients. Much like your food, your pet will need food that gives them actual protein from real meats and safe whole grains. It will take some investigating, but it will be worth it in the end, when you are comfortable knowing your pet is in good health. You’re sure to get a lick or purr as a thank you!

(1) http://www.preciouspets.org/report.htm

(2) http://www.bornfreeusa.org/facts.php?more=1&p=359