Feeding Guidance

FOR DOGS

“what to look for and why” guide for choosing dog food made in the USA:

• Look for “Made in the USA” on the label (not just “packaged” or “distributed” here).
  Why: “Distributed by” only tells you who sells it, not where it was produced.
• Prefer brands that share where they manufacture and how they test.
  Why: Companies that name their US facilities and talk about batch testing/quality checks are usually more transparent.
• Pick the right life stage: puppy, adult, or senior (and size if offered).
  Why: Puppies need more calories and specific nutrient levels for growth; seniors often do better with joint support and fewer calories.
• Choose a clear main protein as the first ingredient (chicken, beef, salmon, turkey, etc.).
  Why: Protein supports muscles, immune function, and overall health—especially important in the first year.
• Check for an AAFCO nutrition statement (“complete and balanced”).
  Why: This is your shortcut that the food meets basic nutritional standards for that life stage.
• Avoid “mystery” terms if your dog is sensitive (like “meat meal” without the animal named).
  Why: More specific ingredient naming makes it easier to troubleshoot allergies or tummy issues later.
• Start simple, then adjust based on your dog’s results.
  Why: The best food is the one your dog thrives on—look for consistent stools, good energy, healthy skin/coat, and steady weight.
• Switch foods slowly over 7–10 days.
  Why: A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset (because dogs don’t love surprise menu changes).

FOR CATS

“what to look for and why” guide for picking cat food made in the USA:

• Look for “Made in the USA” on the label (not just “distributed by” or “packaged in”).
  Why: “Distributed by” doesn’t guarantee where the food was actually manufactured.
• Choose the right life stage: kitten, adult, or senior.
  Why: Kittens need higher calories and specific nutrients for growth; seniors often need support for weight, kidneys, and joints.
• Check for an AAFCO statement: “complete and balanced” for that life stage.
  Why: This helps ensure the food meets basic nutrition requirements (especially important for indoor cats).
• Prioritize animal-based protein first (chicken, turkey, salmon, etc.).
  Why: Cats need high-quality animal protein to maintain muscle, energy, and overall health.
• Look for taurine in the ingredients (or guaranteed analysis).
  Why: Taurine is essential for cats—deficiency can affect heart and eye health.
• Wet food is often a great foundation (or a mix of wet + dry).
  Why: Cats don’t always drink enough water; wet food adds hydration which can support urinary and kidney health.
• Avoid vague ingredients if your cat is sensitive (like “meat by-products” without a source listed).
  Why: More specific ingredient labeling makes it easier to identify and manage allergies or stomach issues.
• Pick an “indoor” or hairball formula only if you need it.
  Why: These can help with calories or fiber, but they’re not automatically “better”—the best match depends on your cat.
• Switch foods slowly over 7–10 days.
  Why: Cats can get digestive upset (and some will protest with dramatic flair) if you change too fast.

New-owner tip: after 2–3 weeks, judge the food by stool quality, coat shine, energy, and steady weight—those signs tell you more than marketing buzzwords.