Evaluating cat food labels is arguably one of the most challenging tasks that pet owners face. On one hand, a food label is an important way for the pet food manufacturers to communicate nutritional information. On the other hand, food labeling requirements for cat foods vary significantly from labeling requirements for human food, making them difficult to decipher. It is important to understand some of the rules regulating cat food labels to better interpret the information they contain.
How is Cat Food Labeling Standardized?
In many ways, the label on your cat food is a legal document. In both the United States and in Canada, there are several organizations involved in overseeing and regulating the pet food industry and thereby influencing what is contained on cat food labels. The most pervasive influence in the U.S. is held by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), an organization that has developed model laws and regulations used in various states for animal feeds. AAFCO also serves as the ’go to’ source for ingredient definitions, standardized testing of food, official terminology, and feeding trial protocols. In Canada, pet food labeling guidelines are regulated by the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act administered by Industry Canada. The Canadian government’s Competition Bureau also has an extensive working group that upholds a voluntary code of conduct for the labeling and advertising of pet food. These guidelines require that feeding instructions appear on the product label, and they cover any misrepresentations of business claims as well as deceptive endorsements or testimonials.
AAFCO developed two nutrient profiles for cats: one for growth and reproduction, and one for adult maintenance. The adult formulation provides for lower amounts of nutrients to avoid inappropriate excesses. While AAFCO provides recommendations and guidelines, it is the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) within the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that has the authority to regulate cat food production. Any health claim on the label of a specific nutrient profile is subject to evaluation by the CVM; for example, a formulation that claims to help manage chronic renal (kidney) disease must be approved as actually doing so. In addition, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ensures that pet food is labeled so as not to be mistaken for human food and inspects ingredients to ensure proper handling.
Interpretation of Ingredient List
Ingredient lists are somewhat useful when evaluating a particular cat food, but it is important to recognize the limitations. For instance, ingredients must be listed in descending order of weight. That means a manufacturer may ’spin’ their ingredient list to be more attractive to the cat owner. For example, whole chicken may be first on the ingredient list because it has the highest moisture content, but the predominant portion of ingredients once moisture is removed for a dry matter analysis may be a mixture of grains.
Items Necessary on Pet Food Labels
Overview
The overview will include the brand name, like for instance Purina Cat Chow. It also indicates the formula name or primary ingredient(s), like chicken and rice.
Nutritional Adequacy Statement
A “complete and balanced” cat food must meet or exceed the standards of an established nutrient profile. This statement tells you whether the food is “complete and balanced” for a particular life stage, such as adult maintenance or kitten growth.
Net Weight
This statement tells you how much food is in the package.
Guaranteed Analysis
The guaranteed analysis shows the product’s nutrient content. It must include the minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat and maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. Including percentages for additional nutrients is voluntary, but they’re often included anyway. The essential nutrients listed in the guaranteed analysis must meet (or exceed) the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient profile standards.
Calorie Statement
You’ll see calories listed on a kilocalorie per kilogram basis and as a common unit of measure, like kilocalories per cup. This will help you when comparing different brands of cat food.
Nutrients vs Ingredients on Cat Food Labels
Proteins
According to Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, a Purina veterinarian, “Cats have higher protein requirements than most mammals—even dogs and humans.” Cats need 22 amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Although cats can make some amino acids themselves, they must get others from their food, says Dr. Lobos. While they can digest both plant- and animal-based proteins, only animal proteins provide them with those essential amino acids.
Fat
Although low-fat people foods are still popular, our pets need fat for energy and to protect their bodies and build neurons.
Vitamins and Minerals
Unlike dogs, who need 23 essential vitamins and minerals, cats need 25. Look for cat food labels that state they are “complete and balanced.” This means the manufacturer added vitamins and minerals to ensure the food meets your cat’s nutritional needs.
Carbohydrates
Like fat, carbs often get a bad rep with humans, but they’re another good source of energy for our pets. Grains like rice and corn are some of the most popular sources of carbohydrates. In grain-free foods, however, you’ll see alternative sources of carbs, like potatoes or peas.
Conclusion
Once you know how to read cat food nutrition labels, it’s easier to evaluate and compare various options and choose the one that best meets your cat’s needs. Petco. pk has to offer many such products that are filled with adequate nutrients and minerals that are well needed for your pet. Their one-stop solution is just one click away.
