Appropriate nutrition is vital for pet health and well-being, but pet owners are bombarded with misleading advertising, myths, and misconceptions about pet food. An unsafe or poorly balanced diet can have serious long-term consequences for your pet. The Animal Medical Center of Marquette team debunks common dietary myths to help pet owners choose foods that will optimize pet health.

Myth 1: Grain-free pet diets can prevent allergies

Advertising has perpetuated the myth that grain-free foods are inherently healthier for pets, especially to prevent or avoid food allergies. Some pet owners believe grains are fillers, but these are valuable carbohydrate, fiber, and essential nutrient sources. Plus, most pets develop food allergies against proteins, including beef, chicken, soy, egg, or fish, rather than carbohydrates. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found a potential link between grain-free diets and an increase in heart problems in pets, although a cause has not been determined.

Myth 2: Dogs were designed to eat raw food

Raw diets, which consist of uncooked meat, bones, and organs, are often touted as more natural and beneficial for pets. Although dogs descended from wolves and other wild canids, they are a separate species with vastly different nutritional needs. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) warns against feeding raw diets, because of the risk of bacterial contamination in the U.S. meat supply. This risk is amplified in homes with children and individuals who are elderly or immune deficient. 

Myth 3: Homemade diets are healthier than processed foods

While homemade diets can meet specific needs not available in a commercial diet, they often lack nutritional balance. Preparing a nutritionally complete and balanced homemade diet is complex and requires guidance and detailed recipes from a veterinary nutritionist. Substituting only one ingredient in a prescribed recipe can lead to nutrient deficiencies and long-term health problems. 

Myth 4: Table scraps provide beneficial supplemental nutrition

Many pet owners believe sharing food with pets to supplement a dry food diet is beneficial. However, table scraps often contain pet-toxic food ingredients, such as onions, garlic, or xylitol. Additionally, excess treats can lead to obesity, digestive issues, or problems with fat metabolism, including potentially deadly pancreatitis. 

Myth 5: Pets can eat vegetarian or vegan diets

Dogs are omnivores and can eat a nutritionally complete and balanced vegetarian or vegan diet, now commercially available. However, cats are obligate carnivores and must obtain certain nutrients, such as taurine, only from animal products. Without animal-based proteins, cats can suffer from serious nutrient deficiencies that impact vision and heart health, potentially leading to death. 

Myth 6: Free-feeding pets is OK

Some pet owners believe that pets eat only as much as they need, but offering a constant food supply in hopes a pet will self-regulate can backfire and lead to obesity. Although some cats living in a single-cat home may free-feed successfully, specific mealtimes give your pet a sense of routine and you can monitor for changes in food intake that could indicate a health problem. Controlled portion feeding also helps maintain a healthy weight.

Myth 7: Pet food labels are always reliable

Like most product labels in America, pet food labels can be misleading. Common terms, such as “natural,” “organic,” and “holistic,” are used frequently, but lack clear definitions. Pet food companies must provide specific nutrition information on a label, but the packaging is mostly designed to catch your attention so you will buy a product. To learn which pet diets are truly best, consult our veterinary team.

Understanding pet nutrition myths and facts is vital for pet owners to make informed decisions about their furry pal’s care. Knowing which claims are valid and which are far-fetched can help you evaluate each diet option and choose the one that works best for your pet. Contact Animal Medical Center of Marquette to schedule a nutrition consultation or learn more about recommended pet food brands.