Whats In The Name Of Pet Foods?

From examining as many pet food labels as I do, it's disheartening to me to see pet food names that don't have much meaning to them. Many pet food lines have dozens of different types of dog food or cat food. Other than the typical adult or puppy/kitten formulas, there are foods that are marketed to special needs of pets such as senior pets, indoor cats, dental formulas, and so on. The problem can be that some of these niche pet foods there is no difference - or very little difference - in ingredients than the regular maintenance pet foods. Except the price. Niche pet foods do offer a higher price tag.

Here are a few examples

This is the first five ingredients to a cat food sold as a 'hairball management' diet Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

Same manufacturer, next here is the first five ingredients to a cat food sold as a 'finicky eater' pet food...Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

The first five ingredients are exactly the same - the only difference is the order of the third and fourth ingredients are swapped between the two products.

Not all specialty pet foods are poorly formulated or inappropriate for their niche use. I am suggesting that you look closely at the ingredients before you buy. Many times a pet food that is designed for a specialty purpose carries a hefty price tag. Pet owners could be paying for something that has no proven benefit for the specialty use and that is no different than a lesser priced maintenance diet.

Always read the ingredients of your pet's food and treats before you purchase them. And make a habit of calling the manufacturer to ask if ingredients in the foods are human grade (same quality as human food) and if any ingredients are imported.