Key Parts of a Pet Food Label

1. Ingredients List 📜

• Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, meaning the first few ingredients make up the bulk of the food.

• Look for high-quality animal protein sources (e.g., chicken, turkey, beef, salmon) in the first few ingredients.

• Avoid foods that list by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives at the top of the list.

2. Guaranteed Analysis 🔍

• Provides minimum levels of protein and fat and maximum levels of fiber and moisture.

• High-quality pet food should have a good balance of protein and fat while maintaining proper fiber levels for digestion.

3. Nutritional Adequacy Statement (AAFCO Statement) ✅

• This is one of the most important indicators of pet food quality.

• The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for pet food.

• AAFCO-approved pet food will have a statement like:

  “This food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog (or Cat) Food Nutrient Profiles for [life stage].”

• This ensures the food is complete and balanced for your pet’s specific life stage (puppy/kitten, adult, senior).

4. Feeding Guidelines 🍽️

• This section provides recommended feeding amounts based on your pet’s weight and activity level.

• Adjust portions based on your pet’s individual needs—overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can result in nutrient deficiencies.

5. Caloric Content 🔢

• Found in kcal per cup, can, or kilogram.

• Essential for managing your pet’s weight and preventing obesity-related health issues.

6. Manufacturer’s Name & Contact Information 🏭

• Reputable pet food brands clearly list their manufacturer and provide contact information for transparency.

• If a brand does not disclose its manufacturer or production location, it may not be trustworthy.

Why the AAFCO Statement is Crucial When Selecting Pet Food

The AAFCO statement is a critical factor in determining the nutritional quality of pet food. It ensures that the food meets scientific standards for balanced nutrition.

Two types of AAFCO statements you may find: 1️⃣ “Formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles” – The food is made to meet AAFCO’s nutritional guidelines, but it hasn’t undergone feeding trials. 2️⃣ “Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures” – This means the food has been tested on animals to ensure it provides proper nutrition. This is the gold standard for pet food quality.

If a pet food does not have an AAFCO statement, it may not provide complete and balanced nutrition for your pet.

Tips for Choosing a High-Quality Pet Food

• Choose food with real meat as the first ingredient.

• Look for an AAFCO statement to ensure complete and balanced nutrition.

• Avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.

• Pick life-stage-appropriate food (puppy/kitten, adult, senior) for optimal nutrition.

• Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your pet’s breed, age, and health conditions.

Need Help Selecting the Best Food for Your Pet?

At Canton Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to helping pet owners make informed decisions about their pet’s nutrition. If you’re unsure about which food is best for your pet, our team can provide personalized dietary recommendations based on their age, breed, weight, and health status.

Give your pet the nutrition they deserve—because a healthy diet means a healthier, happier pet! 🐾🥣