3 Red Flag Ingredients in Your Pet’s Food

At Petra Pet Wellness, we believe in using food as medicine. Yet, many commercial pet foods contain ingredients that may compromise your pet's health.​

1. Meat By-Products

Often vaguely labeled, these can include low-quality animal parts like intestines, hooves, and feathers, offering minimal nutritional value and potential contaminants. Such ingredients can be difficult for pets to digest and may lead to health issues over time.​

2. Natural Flavour

This ambiguous term can mask artificial additives or low-quality ingredients, potentially causing digestive issues and long-term health concerns. Without specific information, it's challenging to determine the source and quality of these "natural" flavors.​

3. Canola, Soybean, and Corn Oils

Commonly used fillers rich in omega-6 fats, these oils can trigger inflammation, exacerbating conditions like joint pain, allergies, and skin problems. An imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is a concern, as excessive omega-6 can promote inflammatory responses in pets. ​

Additional Red Flags to Watch For

• Artificial Additives: Colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin have been linked to health concerns.

• Generic Terms: Labels stating "meat" or "poultry" without specifying the source can indicate lower-quality ingredients.​

• Chemical Preservatives: Names like BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin on the label raise concerns about potential long-term health effects.

What to Look For Instead

• Specific Protein Sources: Ingredients like "chicken" or "beef" provide clarity and assurance of quality.​

• Whole Food Ingredients: Inclusion of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains indicates a more balanced and nutritious diet.​

• Natural Preservatives: Ingredients like mixed tocopherols (a source of vitamin E) are preferable over synthetic options.​

Your Pet Deserves Better

Navigating pet food labels can be challenging, but being informed helps you make the best choices for your furry friend.At Petra Pet Wellness, we're here to guide you in selecting foods that support your pet's health and well-being.​

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your pet.