Understanding free radicals can help you choose the right pet food and provide the best care for your pet. Free radicals are a by-product of energy production within the body. A pet's body can normally handle free radicals, but if the amount of free radicals becomes excessive or if sufficient antioxidants are not available to help, damage can happen.
Free radicals are highly reactive, oxygen-containing molecules that can damage cell membranes, enzymes and even DNA. Your pet's nervous and immune systems are especially vulnerable. Free radicals are now considered a factor in the progression of disease and premature aging.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are nutrients within food that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Common antioxidants include vitamins A, C and E. An abundance of antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables. The right combination of antioxidants in pet food can help make a difference in good health.
How antioxidants help.
The body's normal antioxidant defenses provide some protection against free radicals, but get this: each body cell usually gets hit about 10,000 a day! The addition of antioxidant rich food, including vitamins E and C, beta-carotene and selenium, provide support for your pet's natural defenses.
Tasty Tips
Most effective in combinations.
Combining specific levels of the key antioxidants vitamins E+C, selenium and beta-carotene help support the immune system and contribute to vitality, health and longevity.
How Hill's pet foods make a difference.
The unique combination of antioxidants in Hill's Superior Antioxidant Formula can significantly reduce cellular oxidation by free radicals.¹ Antioxidants within the formula work together to support overall health and provides for the whole body as your pet ages.
¹Jewell DE, Friesen, K., Larson, L., Sharp, T., and Schultz R. Journal of Animal Science 2003. (81 Suppl 1) 261.
Vitamin E
Helps neutralize free radicals that cause damage.
Vitamin C
Inactivates free radicals. Regenerates vitamin E, restoring its antioxidant activity.
Selenium
An essential component of beneficial antioxidant enzymes.
Beta-carotene
Scavenges free radicals and works together with vitamin E.
Related products
Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition shown to support joint health and improve mobility
Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level, joint health, and beautiful coat in large breed mature dogs
Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Perfect Weight Adult Wet Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Related articles
Creating a Safe Space for Your New Pet
Learn how to set up the perfect safe haven for your new dog or cat. Expert tips on location, essentials, and helping your pet adjust to their new Australian home.
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Pet in Australia?
From upfront costs to vet bills and pet insurance, discover what it really costs to own a dog or cat in Australia. Plan your pet budget with Hill's.
How to Understand Your Cat's and Dog's Hierarchy of Needs
Pet Hierarchy of Needs: nutrition, safety, enrichment & play. Learn expert pet care tips to help your cat or dog thrive at every age.
Can Dogs and Cats Eat Butter?
Learn all about whether butter is safe for your dog or cat and what to do if they eat it.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.