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UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Practical information about commercial pet foods and what goes into them.

Resources

Minerals in Pet Foods

Nutrients

Minerals in Pet Foods

Minerals are one of six nutrient groups in pet food that dogs and cats need for optimal health. Learn more about the minerals that contribute to healthy body function.

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6 min to 10 min

Prebiotics

Ingredients in Pet Food

Prebiotics

Purina was the first to use prebiotics in pet food and is a leader in the field. What are the benefits of prebiotics to pets?

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6 min to 10 min

Protein and Senior Pets

Nutrients

Protein and Senior Pets

Protein is a key nutrient for dogs and cats and a source of amino acids, the 'building blocks' used to build new proteins in the body. Irrespective of the pet’s age, protein plays many important roles in the body.

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6 min to 10 min

Protein in Food Allergies

Nutrients

Protein in Food Allergies

Food allergies are not common in dogs and cats, but pet owners often believe that a pet’s skin or intestinal symptoms are allergic reactions to specific food ingredients.

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6 min to 10 min

Salt in Pet Food

Ingredients in Pet Food

Salt in Pet Food

Salt is an important component in pet foods and is involved in a number of critical functions in the body. With recommendations to restrict salt intake in people, does the same apply to pets?

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6 min to 10 min

Fats in Pet Food

Nutrients

Fats in Pet Food

Fat is an important nutrient for pets. What is its function, and are there differences in the fat requirements of pets and people?

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6 min to 10 min

Soy in Pet Foods

Ingredients in Pet Food

Soy in Pet Foods

Soy can provide nutritional advantages for pets, but pet owners often question the quality and health impacts of this ingredient.

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6 min to 10 min

Sugar in Pet Foods

Ingredients in Pet Food

Sugar in Pet Foods

The small amounts of sugar in pet foods have important functions, but pet owners often view sugar as an ingredient that only adds calories and causes obesity or diabetes.

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6 min to 10 min

The Source of Protein and Protein Quality

Nutrients

The Source of Protein and Protein Quality

Protein is an essential nutrient that can be provided by both plant and animal sources. Are there differences between plant and animal proteins and what is considered a good quality protein?

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6 min to 10 min

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

Choosing a Pet Food

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

Learn why small dogs can benefit from a food specifically formulated for them.

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1 min to 5 min

Grains in Pet Foods

Ingredients in Pet Food

Grains in Pet Foods

Grains provide valuable nutrients, but pet owners may believe that grains are “fillers” or that they may be a source of food allergies.

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6 min to 10 min

Gluten in Pet Food

Feeding Philosophies

Gluten in Pet Food

Gluten-free diets are increasingly popular in human nutrition and this in turn can influence pet food decisions. What exactly is gluten and why is it found in pet food?

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6 min to 10 min