West Chester's Best Pet Store Shares How to Choose the Best Food for Your Pet

Like humans, dogs and cats have a unique biology that requires specific nutrients. However, with the long list of natural pet food, organic pet food, and other varieties on the market, it can be hard as a pet owner to know what the best option is for your pet. At EarthWise Pet, a supply and grooming pet store in Liberty Township, OH, they understand this conundrum and do their best to help owners pick out food that best meets their pet’s needs.
Here are a few pointers from this pet store to choose the best pet food for your cat or dog:
 

• Look For AAFCO Labeling: There are many natural pet food brands on the market, but for a lot of them, “natural” could mean anything. Brands that are labeled from the Association of American Feed Control Officials have to meet the minimal standards for nutritional requirements of vitamins and trace minerals; brands that do not have this label only have to meet the manufacturer’s standard.
  

• Look For Species-Appropriate Terminology: Phrases such as “low-fat” and “whole grain” are human food terminology and mean very little when it comes to pets. Instead, healthy food for dogs and cats should say something along the lines of “high in quality proteins,” “high levels of EPA/DHA," and “no grains.”

 

• Look For Specific Mentioning Of Meat: Dogs and cats are carnivores; therefore, they have little need for carbohydrates. Proper natural and organic pet food should list whole food sources towards the top of the ingredients including: beef, turkey, chicken, or lamb. If, instead, you see the words “meat,” “animal,” or “poultry,” these are most likely unidentified sources of meat, which could actually be a mixture of ingredients that could be toxic to your pet.