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From looking at as many pet food labels as I do, I've been reminded about an interesting but disheartening issue about some pet foods. Many pet food manufacturers produce dozens of different types of dog food and cat food. Besides the typical adult or puppy formulas - there are foods that are marketed to specific needs of pets - such as senior pets, indoor cats, dental formulas, and so on. The problem can be that with these niche marketing pet foods - often times there is no difference (or there is very little difference) in ingredients between the higher priced niche products and a maintenance pet food.

An example...

Here are the first five ingredients of a cat food named a 'hairball management' diet...Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

Same company, here is the first five ingredients of a cat food named a 'finicky eater' diet...Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

The first five ingredients are exactly the same - the only difference is the order of the third and fourth ingredients are swapped between the two products.

Not all specialty pet foods are poorly formulated or inappropriate for their niche use. I am suggesting that you look closely at the ingredients before you buy. Many times a pet food that is designed for a specialty purpose carries a hefty price tag. Pet owners could be paying for something that has no proven benefit for the specialty use and that is no different than a lesser priced maintenance diet.

Always read the ingredients in your pet's food and treats. Call the manufacturer and ask if meat ingredients are human grade and if any ingredients are imported from risky countries such as China.

Author's Resource:

Learn more 'truth' about dog and cat food - visit www.TruthAboutPetFood.com. Sign up for the free newsletter and read Petsumer Report - the first online dog and cat product review publication providing subscribers with vital information about their dog and cat food and treats.

Visit Animal Pets & Friends for more pet and animal articles.

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