Ask Dr. Bob: Pet food

Ask Dr. Bob: Pet food

Q. What should type of food should I feed my pet?

A. For cats and dogs, it is important to feed them food that is appropriate for their age.  For example, a kitten should eat kitten food because it needs higher amounts of protein in its diet than would an adult or senior cat.  Similarly, an older cat should be eating food with less amounts of protein than a younger cat.  Some pet food brands even distinguish between mature adult food for cats of over about 6 years of age, and senior food for cats of over about 10 years of age.  In terms of brands, what you pay is what you get.  In general, more expensive foods are higher quality foods.  You should stick with big national brands that are approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) rather than local or store-owned brands.  AAFCO approved brands will have performed more research on their food and will therefore be safer for your pet.  By keeping these things in mind when choosing your pet's food, you are helping to keep your pet happy and healthy.

-Dr. Bob Henrickson