Does the label on your pet’s food tell the whole story? The words ‘all-natural’ and ‘grain-free’ sound reassuring, but they might not mean what you think. In fact, your pet’s food could be hiding ingredients and practices that are anything but healthy.
As a devoted pet owner, you trust that the food you’re buying is good for your furry (or scaly!) companion. But many brands rely on clever marketing to mask low-quality ingredients, fillers, and synthetic additives. Worse, some labels are intentionally vague, leaving you guessing about what’s really in your pet’s bowl.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the five biggest red flags to watch for in pet food. From vague ingredient names to artificial additives, we’ll give you the tools you need to make smarter, healthier choices for your beloved pet.
What’s Really in That Bag? Watch Out for These Red Flags
What’s in a name? Quite a lot—especially when it comes to your pet’s food. Labels like ‘meat meal’ or ‘poultry by-products’ might sound official, but they often disguise poor-quality proteins or waste materials like feathers, bones, and connective tissue.
Not only do these ingredients offer little nutritional value, but they can also be harder for your pet to digest. That’s why it’s important to look for specific ingredient names, like ‘chicken breast’ or ‘dehydrated salmon.’ A brand that’s transparent about its ingredients is far more likely to prioritise quality over cost-cutting shortcuts.
💡 If you see terms like ‘meat meal,’ look for brands that list specific, whole-food sources, like ‘dehydrated chicken breast’ or ‘lamb liver powder.’ Transparency builds trust.
Are Artificial Ingredients Sneaking into Your Pet’s Bowl?
Synthetic additives might keep pet food looking fresh or tasting better, but they’re no friend to your pet’s health. Ingredients like BHA or BHT are often used as preservatives, even though they’ve been linked to potential long-term health issues. And let’s not forget about artificial colours like Red 40 or Yellow 5—they might make food look more appealing to humans, but they add nothing beneficial for your pet.
Even artificial flavours are a sign of low-quality ingredients. These are often used to mask subpar protein sources or filler-heavy recipes. Instead, look for foods that rely on natural preservatives like rosemary extract or mixed tocopherols to maintain freshness without the risks. Your pet deserves real, wholesome nutrition, not a lab experiment in their bowl.
Skip foods with synthetic preservatives, colours, or flavours. Look for natural preservatives like rosemary extract or mixed tocopherols, and prioritise foods made from high-quality, whole ingredients.
Is Your Pet’s Food Full of Empty Calories?
Fillers like corn, wheat, and soy might be cheap for manufacturers, but they come at a cost to your pet’s health. These ingredients often appear high on the ingredient list, bulk up the food, and provide little in terms of real nutrition.
What’s worse, fillers can sometimes trigger sensitivities or digestive issues in pets, leading to discomfort or even long-term problems. Instead of filler-heavy diets, opt for foods that prioritise whole ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or quinoa. These not only provide fibre and energy but also come packed with nutrients that support overall health.
💡 Check the first five ingredients on the label. If fillers like corn or wheat dominate the list, it’s time to explore better options with whole-food ingredients.
Are Nutrients Being Added Back After Processing?
Ever wondered why some pet foods have a laundry list of synthetic nutrients on their ingredient label? It’s because many of the natural vitamins and minerals are lost during high-heat processing methods like extrusion. To compensate, manufacturers add synthetic versions like ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) or zinc oxide, which are harder for your pet to digest and absorb.
Instead of relying on synthetic additives, look for pet foods made with whole-food ingredients, like carrots, kelp, or pumpkin. These naturally provide essential nutrients in a form your pet’s body can use more effectively. By choosing whole-food sources, you’re giving your pet real nutrition—not just artificial replacements.
💡 Check the label for whole-food sources of nutrients, like carrots, kelp, or pumpkin. These provide natural vitamins and minerals that are easier for your pet to absorb.
What Is Your Pet Food Brand Hiding?
If a pet food brand isn’t willing to tell you where its ingredients come from or how its products are made, it’s time to ask why. Transparency is the foundation of trust. A brand that openly shares its sourcing and manufacturing processes is more likely to prioritise quality and safety.
On the other hand, vague descriptions like ‘animal derivatives’ or the absence of sourcing details could mean your pet’s food includes low-quality ingredients or by-products. Always look for brands that go the extra mile to tell you exactly what’s in their food and where it comes from. Trust comes from knowing what’s in your pet’s bowl.
Your Pet Deserves Better
Your pet’s health starts with what’s in their bowl. By learning to spot these five signs; vague ingredient names, artificial additives, fillers, synthetic nutrients, and a lack of transparency. You can make smarter, healthier choices for your beloved companion.
Don’t settle for less when it comes to their nutrition. Take a moment to review the label on your pet’s food. Are you confident about what’s inside? If not, it might be time to switch to a brand that prioritises quality, transparency, and whole-food ingredients.
At Fettle, we believe every pet deserves the best. That’s why we craft our products with real ingredients, full transparency, and your pet’s well-being at the heart of everything we do. Curious about what makes us different? Explore our range of natural supplements today and take the first step toward better health for your pet.