1. Do you fill up the water bowl one day and wait for it to become completely empty before refilling? Remember to regularly replenish the bowl and provide fresh water for your pets.
2. Moving water is irresistible to many pets, especially cats. Try leaving a dripping faucet on or purchase a water fountain. Running water fountains are excellent at keeping the water fresh and encourage your cat to drink water.
3. Hitting the road for vacation and taking your pet in the car? Always take water with you on long car rides and let your dog out for bathroom breaks whenever necessary.
4. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a jog through the neighborhood or playing at the dog park, your dog can become thirsty more quickly when the temperature is warmer. Make sure to bring a portable water bowl with you and allow for breaks.
5. Does your pet not always drink enough water? Help to supplement their water intake with wet pet food. Wet pet food typically contains 75 to 78 percent moisture and can help pets get the hydration they need. Keep in mind that wet pet food should not be a substitute for fresh water.

Remember, if you’re thirsty when outdoors with your pet, he or she may be thirsty, too. Learn more about the nutritional value of water and take steps to protect your pets during the dog days of summer.

The post 5 Quick Tips to Help Keep Your Pets Hydrated This Summer appeared first on Pet Food Institute.

After years of pet-sitting for nearby family members and wanting a dog of my own, I finally reached the point in my life where I was ready to take the plunge as an adult pet owner. I did not make this decision lightly or without careful research and planning, as I knew getting a puppy would completely upend my boring routine of watching way too many competition reality shows and sleeping in on the weekends.

On July 27, I brought home a 13-week-old Havashu puppy named Pudge, whose namesake is one of my favorite Texas Rangers.

Although I grew up with companion animals, I haven’t had a pet since I was in high school. Gone are the olden days of bringing home a puppy on a whim in a cardboard box with just food and a leash, and potty-training using newspaper.

In the words of Gabby Pascuzzi (Survivor: David vs Goliath), “Hope is not a strategy.” As such, I purchased several books, watched numerous training videos, sought out reliable veterinary and nutrition sites, and read the subreddit Puppy101 religiously to prepare for Pudge’s arrival. There are so many ways to prep for a puppy, but here are the top considerations that I found to be helpful in the first month of puppy ownership.  

Puppy-Proofing

Before bringing Pudge home, I read up on how to keep pets safe at home. I cleaned my living space, put away all shoes and clothes, installed safety covers on all electric outlets and child-proof locks on all cabinets and placed waterproof covers on my couch.

After going sugar-free four years ago, I had a lot of food products in my pantry with sugar substitutes as ingredients. Because the Pet Food Institute (PFI) is a supporter of the Paws Off Act (H.R. 617), I knew the artificial sweetener Xylitol is highly toxic and can be fatal if consumed by dogs. So, I threw out all products with that ingredient, just to be on the safe side.

I also read up on other human foods that may be dangerous for dogs, and I got an exercise pen to keep Pudge confined and out of the kitchen area during meal prep—an added measure to avoid him accidentally ingesting any hazardous spills or dropped food while I’m cooking.

Finally, I did one last look through my home from a dog’s-eye view, low to the ground. Whoops! One thing I missed at human eye level – electrical cords behind furniture that are reachable by a crawling puppy.

I ordered cord covers and put them on everything. But Pudge thought wire covers made excellent chew toys. So, I ordered bitter apple spray, but this only worked for about two days. That was long enough to learn I had to watch him like a hawk and redirect him repeatedly from any potential dangers.

Veterinary Care

If you choose to get pet insurance, please note that there is a waiting period before it kicks in, so getting it set up ahead of time or for the day you bring your puppy home will be helpful to ensure coverage begins as soon as possible.

It is recommended that you take your puppy in for its first health check within 2-3 days of bringing it home, so any existing health issues can be diagnosed and addressed, and to ensure that vaccinations are administered on schedule.

Set up an appointment in advance if you can, as to avoid any delays in seeing a vet. I came prepared with a list of questions to ask the vet, including whether Pudge was at a healthy weight for his age, his caloric needs for his size and what additional shots are typically required by dog daycares—which include the Canine Influenza and Leptospirosis vaccines.

Puppy Nutrition and Exercise

Like many Gen Xers, our animal companions back in the day were independent, latchkey pets. We’d let them roam free on our property in the country, provided very little training beyond housebreaking and learning “sit” and “stay,” and had no worries about feeding them table scraps along with whatever pet food was on sale that month.

Nowadays, a lot more is known about pet nutrition and animal behavior and needs.

Armed with feeding and treating tips from PFI and reputable sources like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), I knew I needed to select a pet food that provides a complete and balanced diet. Since Pudge is a small breed puppy, I picked an age and breed appropriate pet food for him, along with some puppy training treats.

I’m finding that a combination of praise and providing toys along with treats is helping to keep his training on track without overfeeding him.

Now that we can have his paws on the ground outside, we are taking a couple of short walks around the neighborhood each day, taking care not to overexercise Pudge and to ensure he has plenty of water. Some days, he’s happy to trot around the block multiple times; other days he just wants to do his business, then refuses to move until he knows we’re heading back inside as quickly as possible. On those occasions, we play inside with some mental and light physical activity to keep him active.

Potty Training

Understanding the vaccination schedule is incredibly important, not only for the health and safety of your puppy, but to inform you on when the puppy can start going outside to potty.

Due to Parvovirus concerns depending on geographic area, some vets recommend waiting 7-10 days after the third round of shots before letting a puppy’s paws touch the ground outside. So, you may need to have an alternative potty-training plan in the meantime.

Since I live in a pet-friendly building with no access to a private yard, I set up an artificial turf potty inside for the first few weeks while waiting for vaccinations. This worked well as a temporary bridge to potty training, as Pudge learned there’s a specific place to do his business and the “go potty” cue.

However, I didn’t wait to take Pudge outside to experience his surroundings. I bought a sling to carry him and get him used to seeing the sights and sounds of our neighborhood. Yes, Pudge was briefly a purse dog before he was fully vaccinated!

Now that we can go outside, I put away the turf patch and set my phone alarm for frequent potty breaks to try to avoid accidents. In between, I’m training him to use bells to alert when he needs to go outside. So far, he just likes the sound of the bells and chewing on them. But we’re making progress, and it’s been several days without any accidents (if you don’t count a phantom dribble in the elevator). I count that as a human training lesson learned: pick up the puppy in the morning and carry him out until he gets used to waiting to go outside!

Self-Care

Now that I have a puppy, I’ve traded my own day-to-day anxieties about work and personal life for worries about Pudge. “Am I a good owner? Why does he keep biting my ankles? Am I a terrible trainer doomed to have a naughty dog forever? Should I have gotten up in the middle of the night to take him out twice instead of just once? Am I giving him enough care and providing enough fun? Does that high-pitched whine mean he needs a bathroom break or is he just bored? Am I going to create separation anxiety by putting him in a pen while I cook?”

And on and on.

I have had to take a step back, close out the Puppy101 site and give myself a break literally and figuratively. The best advice I received was that enforced naps were a blessing. Puppies need an enormous amount of sleep while they are growing, but they don’t have the ability to self-regulate just yet. Enforced naps are not only beneficial for overtired or overstimulated puppies but are also a time for overwhelmed pet owners to catch up on their own rest, chores or basic needs like eating, showering or their own bathroom breaks without watchful puppy eyes. This allowed me to be less addled and stressed and helped me refocus on enjoying Pudge’s puppyhood.

To be frank, I went a little overboard in preparing for and purchasing all the things that I thought were needed on Day One for every situation that could possibly arise with a new puppy. There are so many “new puppy shopping lists” out there, and I now have a pile of discarded “fails” in my closet that can’t be returned and will likely be donated to a shelter soon.

There’s also a pile of “maybe when he’s old enough not to destroy” items in there, as well. Get the basics (including collar/harness, leash, food and water bowls, nutritious food, a few puppy toys, enzyme cleaner and a crate or exercise pen), and call it good enough. As circumstances arise, you can always order online anything else you need!

Boxer Mike Tyson once said, “Everybody has plans until they get hit for the first time.” You can read all the books and online advice, watch all the YouTube dog training videos and think you’re ready for every scenario. Then you get bit on the ankle in public and must try not to cuss in front of small children. Not every puppy can be trained “in two short weeks,” so be prepared for small hurdles and setbacks.

Remember to take joy in the small wins achieved, even if it’s just not getting nipped for a whole day or taking a nap while your puppy snoozes across the room. Pet ownership, especially a puppy, is a lot of work, but it is worth every minute. When that little furball wakes up and launches himself into my lap, I feel like the Texas Rangers won another World Series!

The post Lessons Learned on Getting a Puppy appeared first on Pet Food Institute.

PFI members take many steps to support making products that are safe for both pets and the family members who handle pet food. When preparing pet food and treats at home, pet lovers can continue the culture of safety by following standard kitchen hygiene practices in pet food handling and storage to help keep all members of the household safe. Some steps include:

• As with making any meal in the kitchen, clean counter surfaces after preparing a bowl of food.
• Wash your hands after handling food, treats and toys.
• Keep food bowls dry and clean and provide fresh water daily.

Where and how pet food is stored can make a big difference in keeping food safe. Here are some tips for proper pet food handling and storage:

• Check the package: Examine packaging before purchasing to ensure it is clean and hasn’t been damaged with a rip or hole.
• Store securely: Remember, pet food is food. It should be stored in ways that are similar to how human food is stored. Store unopened wet and dry pet food in a cool, dry location. It is not recommended to leave the bag on the floor in the garage or outside.
• Clean containers: Wash and dry the storage container between each bag of food and check for damage and insect activity.
• Keep it fresh: When possible, store dry food in the original bag and within a plastic or metal bin with lid. Wet or fresh food can be covered and stored in the refrigerator according to label guidelines. If you have questions about a specific product, please make sure to contact the manufacturer.

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Human Foods to Avoid

It’s important for pet owners to remember that some common human foods are not recommended for pets. Popular snacks and treats for humans can disrupt a pet’s balanced diet and may cause serious health risks, including digestive upset, obesity, and more severe, even fatal, issues.

Foods to keep away from cats and dogs include:

• Sweets and baked goods: Candies, gum and baked goods often contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener linked to liver failure.
• Chocolate, Coffee and Caffeinated Beverages: These items contain methylxanthines; substances which are found in cacao seeds. Methylxanthines can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures. The toxicity varies depending on the type of chocolate, the size of the pet, and the amount they ingested. It’s best to keep all chocolate and caffeinated beverages away from pets.
• Common Snacks: Grapes, raisins, nuts (especially macadamia nuts), and salt-heavy snacks like potato chips should be kept away from pets. In addition, grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure. The oils and fats in nuts, and the salt on other snacks, can cause extreme digestive upset and lead to much more serious health risks.
• Table scraps: Foods that are high in calories and fat can contribute to obesity and pancreatitis; a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas caused by high-fat diets. Think twice  before slipping your dog even small amounts of leftovers under the table.
• Meat bones: Although it may seem like an obvious treat to give dogs, leftover meat bones are hazardous. Bones could choke pets, or splinter and puncture a dog’s digestive tract.
• Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine and liquor, are all toxic to pets. These beverages can cause a variety of negative health issues and should never be given to cats or dogs.
• Common recipe ingredients: Many recipes include onions, garlic, and chives – all of which can be harmful to pets if ingested. These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage.

Keep Pets Away from These Household Items

Common household items, including cleaners, plants and holiday decorations, can pose a threat to cats and dogs.

Pay special attention to the following if you have a pet in the house:

• Decorations: When decorating for a holiday, make sure to place decorations well out of reach of pets. New additions to the home, like trees and tinsel, can catch the eye of pets, and, if consumed, can cause intestinal blockages that may require surgery. If pets chew on the cords of electric lights, it can cause burns, so always keep lights out of their reach, too. In addition, certain holiday plants, such as pine needles, holly, mistletoe and poinsettias, are toxic for cats and dogs.
• Plants: Many common household or garden plants are poisonous for pets. This warning is particularly important for cat lovers, as cats are more likely to jump to reach plant holders and try to munch on greenery. Many shops section off pet-friendly plants. Before bringing home a new flower, fern or shrub, be sure it’s not toxic for pets.
• Household Cleaners: The household cleaners we often rely on can be toxic to pets, and it is important to follow cleaning instructions on the label. This may include letting areas dry before allowing pets to enter or rinsing the surface you are cleaning with water. Always make sure that cleaning products are safely stored away from curious pets.

Be aware that some cleaners can cause an allergic reaction in cats and dogs. Strong scents and residue left behind can cause skin irritations, watery eyes and even difficulty breathing.

• Medicines: All medicine, including pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter, should be stored where pets cannot access them. This includes medications prescribed to pets, too.
• Toys and Batteries: Small items of any sort, but especially toys and batteries that are likely to be left out on the ground where pets can reach them, are a choking hazard for cats and dogs. If ingested by a pet, these items can also lead to major health issues.

www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/Household-Toxins/

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Dental health is an important part of a dog or cat’s overall well-being. A regular oral health routine will combat bad breath, remove tartar and bacteria, and ultimately helps prevent periodontal disease, a painful and preventable oral health condition.

Keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy with these tips:

• Veterinarians recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily or every other day, as plaque can be brushed away easily before it hardens, which takes between 24-48 hours. Start by using a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, which is formulated to taste good to dogs and cats, and includes bacteria-fighting enzymes. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic to pets and should never be used to brush their teeth.
• If a toothbrush scares your pet, you can ease your pet into becoming more comfortable by first wiping his or her teeth with a pet-safe gauze pad or dental wipe. These options are similar to a toothbrush and are a great way to get cats or dogs comfortable with their teeth being touched. Take the time to learn other tips on how to train your pet to be comfortable with brushing.
• Experts recommend regular professional teeth cleanings from a veterinarian, starting at one or two years old, depending on a cat or dog’s size. These cleanings should be done annually and will include an oral exam to detect any issues or concerns.

Signs of Pet Dental Health Problems

Dental disease in pets, especially dogs, is extremely common. It is estimated that more than 80 percent of dogs over the age of three suffer from dental disease. Dental issues in pets start when plaque hardens into tartar below the gum line and becomes damaging and infectious to tissue and the jawbone. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to serious health issues beyond bad breath and tooth loss, including kidney, liver and heart damage.

It’s important to be aware of the causes of pet dental health problems and to be able to identify the indicators that your pet is suffering from periodontal disease, which include:

• Bad breath
• Broken teeth
• Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
• Abnormal chewing or dropping food from their mouth
• Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
• Signs of blood in a pet’s water bowl or on chew toys
• Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth

Avoiding regular dental care for dogs and cats can lead to many of the same oral health problems as humans experience, including:

• Broken teeth and roots
• Periodontal disease
• Abscesses or infected teeth
• Cysts or tumors in the mouth
• Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and bite
• Broken or fractured jaw
• Palate defects such as cleft palate

Dental Chews

In addition to professional cleanings and an at-home care routine, dental treats and chews are specifically designed to provide dental-related benefits to dogs and cats. These treats and chews are meant to remove plaque buildup and often include ingredients that help to clean a cat or dog’s mouth. Many pet dental treats even freshen breath!

When pet food manufacturers make a dental-related claim on the label, the package will also communicate how that effect is achieved (e.g. “with ridges to scrape teeth” or “with peppermint to help freshen breath”). These claim guidelines are included in the model regulations for pet food published by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Resources:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care

https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-brushing-dog-teeth

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1938973608000056

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One way to support your dog or cat’s quality of life is to help keep them at a healthy weight. As with humans, a variety of health risks are associated with obesity. In the United States, an estimated 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats are overweight or obese.

These are simple feeding and treating tips pet owners can follow as they work to keep their pet’s weight in check.

Schedule Regular Visits to the Veterinarian

Pets should visit a veterinarian regularly to ensure their overall well-being. Preventive care visits can help pet owners determine if their dog or cat is overweight, and veterinarians can help provide diet recommendations and strategies for weight loss, if needed.

Refer to or print out this infographic for your next vet visit:

Avoid Feeding Table Scraps

Think twice before slipping pets some extra potato chips, fat trimmings or other foods from the dinner plate. Many common foods that humans enjoy are high in calories and fat and can ultimately lead to pet weight gain. In addition, some foods and ingredients can be harmful to cats and dogs or cause digestive upset.

Feed Pets a Complete and Balanced Diet

It’s crucial that dog and cats enjoy a complete and balanced diet, meaning that each serving of food provides the more than 40 nutrients that pets need, in the proper amounts, for the life stage of the animal. Treats should never be a substitute for a meal, and it is recommended that no more than 10 percent of a pet’s daily calories come from treats.

Follow Feeding Guidelines on Pet Food and Treat Packaging

A pet’s calorie requirements will vary based on factors such as age, size, lifestyle, and breed. As pet owners determine how to much to feed their dog or cat, they should begin by referring to the feeding guidelines on food and treat packaging. This can help pet owners determine how much food to measure out at mealtime and how many treats they can safely provide throughout the day. A veterinarian can also confirm the amount of food that is best for that particular pet.

Find Fun Activities

Spending quality time with pets while keeping them active will help dogs and cats maintain a healthy weight. Not only does exercise contribute to weight loss, but it also helps build and maintain strong muscles and healthy joints, and keeps your pet mentally stimulated.

Looking For More Information?

Check out our helpful resource on keeping your pet at a healthy weight.

The post Pet Feeding and Treating Tips appeared first on Pet Food Institute.

1. Does the age of my pet matter when it comes to what pet food to buy?

Kittens and puppies have different nutritional needs than those of adult cats and dogs. For example, young pets should eat more energy-dense food that’s higher in calories to support their growth, as well as consume more of certain essential nutrients that support proper development.

When selecting a pet food, it’s important to determine if your pet is finished growing. Then, look at the pet food label for the intended life stage of the cat or dog food, which typically indicates the food is for growing puppies and kittens, adult pets, or pets of all life stages.

Typically, cats are fully grown by 10-12 months of age, but, for dogs, it varies by size. It’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine if your pet is fully grown and can be switched to adult pet food.

2. What should I know about different types of pet food?

With so many options available, it’s helpful to know some key facts about different types of pet food.

Wet, Dry and Fresh

Wet, dry or fresh pet foods can all be safe, nutritionally balanced options for a cat or dog. Primary differences between wet and dry pet food are the cooking processes and the moisture content. Dry pet food typically has a 10-12 percent moisture content, while wet pet food contains 75-78 percent moisture. If you feel that your pet doesn’t drink enough water, wet pet food may support his or her hydration needs. It’s also more suitable for pets with dental issues.

If considering fresh food, know that it must be kept in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and quality. No matter the type of diet, PFI member companies follow practices and procedures to ensure this food is safe and provides complete nutrition.

Organic and Natural 

If your family is looking for organic or natural pet food, know that these standards are closely defined by regulators. Pet food and treat makers develop organic products under the same rules established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that human food manufacturers follow. Under USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP), the agency develops regulations and guidance on organic standards and manages the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances.

When you see pet food labeled as “natural,” know that there are specific guidelines that help dictate what that can or cannot mean. Natural pet food is defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) as “a feed or feed ingredient derived solely from plant, animal or mined sources, but not having been produced by or subject to a chemically synthetic process and not containing any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic except in amounts as might occur in good manufacturing practices.” States that use the AAFCO model legislation will require pet food makers to comply with these definitions and guidelines.

Raw Pet Food

Are you considering raw pet food? Be advised that during a two-year study conducted by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the agency found that raw pet food was more likely to contain foodborne bacteria, such as Salmonella or Listeria, than other forms of pet food. Humans can be exposed to these potentially dangerous bacteria through steps such as handling the raw food or being licked by their pet. Pet food makers may take steps such as high-pressure processing (HPP) to seek to control the presence of these bacteria. PFI strongly suggests that pet lovers consult with their veterinarian before feeding cats or dogs raw food.

Colors, Flavors and Preservatives 

Colors, flavors and preservatives may be added to pet food to enhance it in some way, whether that is through the food’s taste, appearance, or shelf-life. These ingredients, along with other ingredients that may be added to a pet food recipe for a functional purpose, are regulated at the state and federal levels and have been recognized as safe.

3. What ingredients should pet lovers look for?

Pet food makers consider a diverse mix of ingredients when developing a cat or dog food recipe to ensure that each serving is complete and balanced, meaning that it meets a pet’s total nutritional needs and provides essential nutrients at the proper levels. Are you curious about chemical-sounding names on the ingredient list? These are often the vitamins and minerals included in the pet food, which are required to be listed by their technical names, as opposed to their more common names.

The ingredients used in a recipe will vary based on nutritional content, function, consumer demand and price points, but pet food ingredients are regulated at state or federal levels. Diagnosed food allergies are relatively uncommon in cats and dogs and are best identified through a careful elimination diet conducted with a veterinarian.

4. Does it matter how pet food is stored at home?

Don’t forget that pet food storage is an important part of food safety. Proper tips for storing pet food include checking the packaging for damages before bringing it home, keeping bags and cans of pet food in a dry, cool location off the ground, always sealing the bag, and keeping it out of reach of curious children and pets.

Do you have more questions about pet food and treats? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information on cat and dog food nutrition and safety.

The post 4 Common Questions About Pet Food appeared first on Pet Food Institute.

Bringing home a new kitten to the household can be a rewarding experience for families, especially as the benefits of pet ownership are well-documented and can positively impact family members of all ages. To help your pet grow into a healthy adult cat, it’s important for pet lovers to understand the importance of their kitten’s nutritional needs and what it means for their health.

Some Basics of Feeding Kittens

The nutritional needs of a kitten are different than those of an adult cat, and food labeled for only adult cats will not be formulated for a kitten’s specific requirements. Pet food labeled as appropriate for kittens will include different levels of important nutrients than found in food developed for adult cats and will have additional sources of energy, such as protein and calories, to support rapid growth and development in the first few months of life.

Because a young kitten’s stomach is smaller than an adult cat’s, they typically require smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. However, this won’t last long! Kittens grow quickly, maturing to adulthood by the time they are 10-12 months. Your kitten should receive kitten food until he or she is about 80 percent full-grown, at which time you can start to mix kitten food and adult cat food together for a gradual transition to adult food. Your veterinarian will be the best partner in determining the appropriate time to switch to adult-appropriate food.

Nutritional Needs for Growth and Development

A commercial cat food recipe will have more than 30 essential nutrients, including essential fatty acids, protein and amino acids, vitamins and minerals. These required nutrients serve important roles in a cat’s body functions, helping your pet grow, have strong bones, support their immune system, and more. Protein and amino acids, for example, are required in higher amounts in the nutrient profiles published by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Pet food makers use these profiles as baselines for formulating recipes for dog and cat food to ensure these nutrients are at the proper level. In addition to being a source of energy for a kitten, protein and amino acids support weight gain and help them develop and maintain muscles, blood, organs, enzymes, antibodies, hormones, skin and coat.

While humans may try to avoid fat in their diet, it’s important to remember that essential fatty acids are vital to a kitten’s health. Fats serve as a primary energy source for pets, including active kittens, and support growth and a healthy skin and coat.

Both kittens and puppies require higher levels of calcium and phosphorus in their diets. These two minerals work together to support the development of strong bones and teeth, and pet food makers formulate recipes to ensure they are together in the proper ratio and amounts for growing bodies.

Selecting the Right Kitten Food

The pet food label is full of information, but some key pieces of information can serve as an excellent starting point for shoppers, including:

• The intended life stage for the pet eating the food;
• A claim of complete and balanced nutrition, which confirms that each serving meets a kitten’s total nutritional needs;
• The Guaranteed Analysis, which identifies the levels of at least four nutrients: protein, fat, fiber and moisture.

To get a deeper look into how to read the information included on a pet food label, check out this short video.

If considering homemade cat food, it’s important for cat owners to understand whether the recipe provides all of the important nutritional nuances listed above. Studies show that homemade food often significantly lacks essential nutrients that cats need.

Kittens need the right nutrition early in life to ensure proper growth and long-term well-being. Equipped with the right information, new kitten owners can be confident they’re taking the right steps toward raising a happy, healthy pet.

The post A to Z of Pet Food: Kitten Nutrition appeared first on Pet Food Institute.

How can pet lovers help support their dog or cat’s overall well-being and a long and healthy life? These feeding guidelines help pets maintain a healthy weight and ensure they receive complete nutrition.

The caloric and nutrient needs of individual pets, even those of similar size, can vary significantly. Age, lifestyle, activity level, breed, and whether the animal is spayed or neutered all can affect the number of calories and nutrients needed to keep a pet healthy. The calorie content of different pet food products can also vary.

Pet food makers use nutrient profiles established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) as baselines for formulating pet food recipes to ensure the 40 essential nutrients dogs and cats need are included at the proper levels.

While it may be tempting to estimate your dog or cat’s food measurement, it can lead to overfeeding and weight gain. It is important to review the feeding guidelines listed on a pet food packages to ensure you are properly feeding your cat or dog. Feeding directions for a pet food are based on the levels of nutrients and calories recommended for populations of pets, such as weight and life-stage. Based on your pet’s specific needs, feeding guidelines may need to be modified at a veterinarian’s direction.

www.talkspetfood.aafco.org/readinglabels

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The holiday season is a special time for families, and pet lovers may find special ways to include their dog or cat in holiday festivities. However, this busy season can be overwhelming for pets and many common holiday foods and decorations can pose potentially life-threatening risks. It is important to keep the holidays safe, healthy, and fun for both pets and pet lovers alike. 

Plan for Emergencies 

Always keep your veterinarian’s contact information in an easy-to-find location in case of an emergency, and know what hours the office is open. If needed, determine where the nearest emergency veterinary clinic is located, and make sure you know how to get there should a pet need transported. Make note of resources that may help in case of a poison-related emergency, such as the ASPCA Poison Control (1-888-426-4435). 

Don’t Feed Pets Human Foods 

Hosting a holiday spread this year? Many human foods can be dangerous for pets, so always remember to keep the buffet and full plates out of reach. Only feed dogs or cats complete and balanced pet food, and feed treats in moderation. 

The following human foods can be dangerous for pets to consume: 

• Sweets and baked goods: Holiday baked goods are often too rich for pets and may also contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener linked to liver failure and death in dogs. 
• Chocolate: It may be a common ingredient for holiday baking, but chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs. The toxicity can vary depending on the type of chocolate, the size of the pet, and the amount they ingested. It’s best to keep all chocolate away from pets. 
• Table scraps: Foodstuffs that are high in calories and fat that can lead to obesity and pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas caused by high-fat diets. So even in considering feeding small amounts, think twice before slipping your dog the extra turkey skin and gravy underneath the dining room table. 
• Caffeinated beverages and alcohol: Pets should stick to water during the holiday season. Caffeinated beverages like soda and alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine and liquor are all toxic to pets. 
• Common holiday ingredients: Many holiday recipes include onions, garlic, grapes, raisins and macadamia nuts – all of which can be harmful to pets if ingested. 

If a pet eats any of these items, call the veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Signs of pet distress include sudden changes in behavior, vomiting, or diarrhea. 

Deck the Halls with Pet-Friendly Decor 

Remember that some holiday décor items can be extremely hazardous to pets, including: 

• Christmas trees: When choosing between a pine or an artificial tree, keep in mind that pine needles are mildly toxic to pets and can also cause irritation to their gastrointestinal tract. 
• Ornaments and tree décor: Ornaments, tinsel, gingerbread men and popcorn garland can lead to major health issues if ingested by a pet. Consuming these items can cause intestinal blockages which can sometimes require surgery. When decorating, keep these items out of reach and use more pet-friendly decorations whenever possible. 
• Electric lights: If pets chew on the cords of electric lights, it can cause burns, so always keep lights out of their reach. Always unplug all lights and decorations when you leave the house.
• Candles: Never leave a burning candle unattended, as curious pets could accidentally start a fire. 
• Festive florals and plants: Common holiday plants such as Poinsettias, amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar and holly are considered poisonous to pets.

Give Pets a Break from Holiday Parties and Visitors 

The commotion of hosting holiday gatherings and visitors can make pets anxious, even if they aren’t usually shy.

Here are some ways to reduce stress on dogs and cats during the holidays: 

• All pets should have a safe, quiet place to retreat from the festivities. This spot should be easily accessible and in a location away from the commotion. 
• Consider the needs of nervous pets. Pets who are often tentative or scared around visitors should be kept in another room or a crate with a favorite toy or blanket. 
• Monitor all exits. Keep a close eye on pets as guests are coming in and out. Make sure pet ID tags and microchips are updated with current info in case pets accidentally slip out the door. 

Consider Holiday Travel Plans 

Keep cats and dogs in mind when planning travel over the busy holiday season, whether they are joining the fun or staying at home. 

• Pack plenty of food and water for pets. Ensure pet food is properly stored while traveling, keeping in mind delays are often possible. Kibble and dry treats should be properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place. Canned pet food should be sealed and refrigerated after opening if the entire container is not served to the pet at one time. 
• Keep pets safe on the road. Pets should always be safely restrained in vehicles with a secure harness or carrier. Also, never leave pets alone in the car, regardless of the weather. 
• Make a detailed list of instructions for pet sitters or when boarding pets. If leaving pets behind, make sure pet sitters know important information about your pet, including feeding instructions. Talk to your veterinarian to learn how to protect cats and dogs from illnesses if they are being boarded, and to make sure pets are up to date on vaccinations. 

Click here to get more tips to ensure a safe and happy holiday.

Sources:

https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/keep-careful-eye-table-scraps/

https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/keep-pets-safe-healthy-holidays/

https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/holidays.aspx?utm_source=prettyurl&utm_campaign=holiday&utm_term=holiday

https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/feeding-and-treating-tips

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