Have you ever tamed any pet? If yes, then you would know it is an amazing experience to have a pet. Whether a new or an established pet owner, you should have all the information to ensure that your pet has a balanced diet. This blog is going to help you understand your pet food—everything from common components to their nutritional benefits.

The General Ingredients

Before delving into detail about specific pet food and what's in it, let us take a look at the general classification of nutrients that your pets must take in.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are necessary for the provision of energy. You will find these nutrients in every type of food for pets in general. These nutrients are classified as wheat, barley, and oats. Dogs and cats' dry foods have as few as 30% and up to 70% carbohydrates. These nutrients provide the necessary energy for your pet and offer the texture and shape of dry foods. Moreover, both dogs and cats can easily digest carbohydrates and use them to gain energy.

Proteins

Proteins are described to be the most significant nutrient in pet foods as it is the main source of energy. The protein source should be of good quality and easily digestible such as fresh meat, lamb, chicken beef, fish, and dairy products. 

Minerals

You require minerals in minimal quantities, which helps your pet's body to function normally. Certain minerals such as sodium- salt, calcium, and zinc are included in the components of the pets in controlled quantities.

Vitamins

Vitamins are also needed for a pet’s body. Vitamins are included in domestic animals in unjustifiable concentrations as required by the pets since they are not able to search and kill their food.

Fats

Fats are essential for the good liver status of your pet and to shine its fur. Fats can be added through supplementation or be innately present in the meat, fish, and the body.

Qualities of Good Pet Food

If your pet’s food has the following qualities then don’t worry. You are using good food for your pet. 

• The food has to be easily digested.
• The right size and shape.
• The pet has to like the taste.
• It should have the right texture and palatability.
• It should have the right balance of ingredients for his breed and age.
• It should be readily available and cost-effective.

Ingredients to Avoid

Most ingredients in a lot of pet food today are safe, but some of them are harmful.

Artificial Colors and Flavors

Some artificial colorings in preservatives are harmful to your pet; good quality pet food should not need them. Consult your veterinarian to know what is safe.

Rendered Fat

This fat comes from waste meat, which may contain harmful substances, and should, therefore be avoided.

Other Harmful Substances

Avoid pet foods with Propylene Glycol- this can be disastrous to cat and cause health complications. High by-products and carbohydrate amounts from undesirable sources can also spell disaster.

Other Considerations

Here are other considerations to make when purchasing pet food:

Natural Food

This form of food contains naturally occurring nutrients and no chemical preservatives or coloring. They are well placed for quality.

Limited Ingredient Food

These diets have one primary ingredient, like poultry, one or a specific carbohydrate. The positive is that it can assist in the treatment of some deficiencies or conditions.

Raw Diets

Some people opt for a raw diet that includes items like raw eggs, bones, and organic meats. However, these foods carry the risk of bacterial infection, making them potentially dangerous.

Packed Food vs. Semi-Moist Food

Many pet owners feed a combination of dry and canned food to their pets. Cats require at least some canned food in their diet for proper nutrition. Dogs can go either way.

Conclusion

In this blog, we’ve covered essential information about your pet’s food to help you make informed decisions for their well-being. Now, you might be wondering where to find the best quality food for your pet. D'Amigo is here to meet all your needs, offering a wide variety of high-quality pet foods. With D'Amigo, you can ensure your pet’s diet is well taken care of. Enhance your pet’s life with our amazing food options today!