Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Healthiest Pet Food Research Advice

By Celia Hall


Caring for an animal means looking out for their best interests in all aspects of their life. They are more than just furry companions, they become members of the family. Finding the healthiest pet food to ensure that they receive the proper nutrition is not always the clearest, or simplest task to perform.

Unfortunately, trying to make sense of the ingredient list on most bags of commercially available pet foods can be like trying to decipher the universe. Most of the items are impossible to pronounce and most are actually used as fillers and preservatives. Even though they have passed the standards set by the industry, a large portion of these products are as nutritious as a bag of chips.

Dogs and cats were both intended to survive on a diet that contained a substantial amount of protein derived from meat, so serving them a vegetarian regimen may not be what is best for them. Most experts will agree that the ultimate formula would be one that contained a perfect half and half mixture of the two, containing no wheat or processed grains for filler. This is very hard to find in commercially produced brands.

Just as one does for their human family members, it is just as important to read the labels on the food that is going to be served to their pets. The ingredients in the formula are required by law to be listed in order of content percentage, highest to lowest. For those who desire to know the exact amount included may have to visit the manufacturer online because that information is rarely printed.

Actual meat (or meat meal) should be the top item in any brand being considered. One way to determine whether or not a product is even worthy of being in the running is if at least three sources of animal protein are found within the five most prominent ingredients. Anything that lists a large amount of chemical preservatives, additives, fillers or by-products should be avoided.

As with humans, a well balanced diet will contain a certain amount of proteins and some of that can come from grains. They are an excellent source of energy and fiber, as long as they are not over processed, which turns them into nothing more than cheap fillers. They should be taken in whole form so that they perform their purpose properly and the pet receives the full amount of vitamins and minerals intended.

Most veterinarians will agree that wheat should be avoided as much as artificial additives. A proper amount of grains is necessary and it is recommended that they come from sources such as oats, barley and brown rice. Another thing to consider is that while some preservatives are needed to keep shelved products fresh, it is important to realize that they do not have to be in the form of chemically enhanced agents that may cause cancer.

It is not always possible to purchase the most affordable product when wanting the healthiest pet food, but one should do the best they can within their budget. A lot of people have made the switch to holistic, or all natural, regimens in an effort to get the highest nutrition. Creative recipes are found on the internet but one should consult their veterinarian before making a substantial dietary change for their animals.




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