You've just welcomed a new addition into your home and you're getting everything in order to make your new cat comfortable. Of course, part of the comfort factor is a tasty, healthy cat food. So, you rush to the pet store, check the variety of brands and begin reading cat food labels.
What is a pet food label? A pet food label is a legal document regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AA,FCO) and is the primary means of communication between the pet food manufacturers and pet owners.
Deciphering the label. Now, after reading the label, you're confused — ingredients versus nutritional facts, guaranteed analysis, an endorsement by AAFCO. What does it all mean?
We understand your frustration and confusion. Therefore, we'll try to help you interpret a pet food label so you can make the best purchasing decision for your cat. Let's start at the top:
Ingredients
- The difference between "ingredients" and "nutrients" needs to be clarified. Ingredients are the vehicles that provide nutrients, while nutrients are food components that support life and are metabolically useful. For example, lamb is an ingredient that provides nutrients such as protein, fatty acids and vitamins.
- Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. The high water content in chicken, beef and lamb makes these ingredients weigh more than dry ingredients such as grains, meals and vitamins, so they are often listed first.
Guaranteed Analysis
- Indicates minimum or maximum levels of nutrients such as protein, fat, fiber and moisture.
- Does not indicate or provide exact levels of nutrients in the cat food.
- Is not a guarantee of the nutritional quality of the cat food.
- Moisture levels in cat foods vary, making it nearly impossible for an average cat parent to accurately ,compare nutritional information.
Nutritional Adequacy Statement or "AAFCO Statement"
Tasty Tips
- AAFCO is an organization that sets the nutritional standards for pet foods sold in the United States.
- This legally required statement verifies the testing method used to determine nutritional adequacy.
- The statement indicates whether the food provides complete and balanced nutrition for a specific lifestage of your cat (growth, adult, pregnant/nursing), or if the product is nutritionally adequate for all lifestages.
- Beware if the package states the food supports "all lifestages." The product likely contains excessive levels of some nutrients necessary for the most demanding lifestage, which is growth. For example, it might contain higher levels of protein and calcium for kittens, but those levels are inappropriate for an adult or senior cat.
As a cat parent, you should know that nutritional excesses can be as harmful and are more common than nutritional deficiencies.
Manufacturer's Toll-free Number
The package label should contain the manufacturer's name and phone number. We encourage you to call the companies to learn more about their products, including place of manufacturing, actual nutrient content, calories and palatability of your prospective cat food choice.
Related products
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
Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition shown to support joint health and improve mobility
Related articles
Antioxidants: Fueling your pet's fight against free radicals
Learn more about free radicals and how antioxidants help provide some protection against free radicals and how Hills pet foods makes a difference.
Managing Pet Separation Anxiety When Returning to Work & School
When it's time to return to school or work full-time, learn helpful tips to avoid pet separation anxiety & help your dog or cat feel safe when you're gone.
Creating a Pet Preparedness Plan for Emergencies
Not feeling well enough to care for your furry friend? Creating a pet preparedness plan ensures that your pet gets the care, attention and love they need.
Dogs & Cat Toothpaste, Toothbrushes & Brushing Tips
Learn what to look for in dog & cat toothpaste, including ingredients to avoid, as well as how to choose the right toothbrush and tips for brushing.
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.