Debunking Food Myths

Myth #1: Grains are bad for cats and dogs.

Fact: Animals can have allergies to grains just as they can to chicken or dairy, but grain allergies are NOT common.  Both cats and dogs can metabolize carbohydrates, and "grain free" DOES NOT mean carbohydrate free.  Dogs that have no known allergy to grains can easily metabolize these carbohydrates and use them as a source of energy.

Myth #2: Foods labeled "premium" or "gourmet" are better for your pet.

Fact: Products with these labels are not required to contain any different or higher-quality ingredients, nor are they held to any higher nutritional standards than any other complete and balanced product.

Myth #3: Cat and dog foods are interchangeable.

Fact: Feeding your pet a food not intended for its species could be harmful, because cats and dogs require different nutrients to thrive.  Dogs are OMNIVORES and can derive nutrients from grains, fruits and vegetables.  Cats, on the other hand, are OBLIGATE CARNIVORES and require specific nutrients that are only present in animal sources.  Cats should not be vegetarians!!

Myth #4: Products with the ingredient "meat meal" should be avoided.

Fact: The word "meal" simply means that water has been extracted from the product.  However, meat meal is not as nutritionally sound as chicken meal, lamb meal, and other "meal" products that list a specific type of protein.