CAT FOOD LABELS DECODED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE
CAT FOOD LABELS DECODED: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE
Since our feline companions cannot choose their own brand of cat food, therefore we have to make that choice for them. Whenever, we are about to take our pick, there are quite a few factors that have to be taken into consideration. For instance, what does the cat food contain? How will it benefit our cat? How safe is the product? Has it been actually tested on other cats? Who has produced it? How to approach the manufacturer, in case of need? Generally all this information is given on the cat food package label, which should answer all your questions. Make sure to read the given details carefully before making the final decision to purchase the product.
What Information Do Cat Food Labels Contain?
Cat food labels provide a certain limited information regarding the nutritional value of the package contents. It is important for customers to know what can and cannot be determined from the label, and what information is particularly important. Major components of a pet food label include:
- Guaranteed Analysis
- Company/Customer Service Information/Satisfaction
- Ingredient Panel
- Manufacturing Code, Expiration, or “Best Used By” Information
- Feeding Instructions
- AAFCO Statement of Nutritional Adequacy
Guaranteed Analysis
Values in the guaranteed analysis are expressed as either minimum or maximum. A maximum guarantee (% max) means that at most this specific amount of the nutrient is included in the cat food formula. Whereas, a minimum guarantee (% min) means that at least this specific amount of the nutrient is included in the cat food formula. The following four nutrients must be included on all pet food labels:
- Crude Protein (% min)
- Crude Fiber (% max)
- Ingredient Panel
- Crude Fat (% max)
- Moisture (% max)
For example, a cat food with a 25% minimum crude protein guarantee should contain at least 25% protein, but could contain much more. The only way to determine the actual amount is by laboratory analysis.
Other information may be guaranteed on cat food products, such as magnesium (% max), taurine (% min), ash (% max), and linoleic acid (% min).
We can state that the guaranteed analysis is an important tool when we are beginning to compare the cat food formulas, however it doesn’t provide the meaningful nutritional information. Therefore, for that we use information on the energy content and nutrient density of a food as it is the only way to properly compare cat foods. This information is available from the manufacturer.
Ingredient Panel
Ingredients present in the cat food must be listed in order of abundance, which means that the largest quantity must be listed first.
Because ingredient definitions and designations are standardized, it is difficult to determine the quality of ingredients in a particular cat food formulation. Ingredient quality can only be determined from laboratory analysis and animal feeding tests.
AAFCO Statement of Nutritional Adequacy
AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements are required on all pet foods. Products may either be formulated or tested according to AAFCO procedures and recommendations.
A “formulated” statement means that the particular cat food has been manufactured according to the AAFCO nutritional guidelines, but not actually fed to cats prior to sale.
A “tested” statement indicates that the cat food has been formulated, then fed to cats prior to sale in order to ensure that it meets all the important criteria related to growth, maintenance, and/or reproduction.
Veterinary-exclusive products include statements such as, “This product is intended for intermittent feeding only” and “Use only as directed by your veterinarian.” Such cat food formula is especially prescribed by the veterinarian for cats that are suffering from a certain health condition and cannot be given regular cat food. Mostly, it is a temporary arrangement till the condition is cured and then the cat has to be switched to some other food brand.
Manufacturing and “Best Used By” Codes
Manufacturing codes allow the manufacturing companies to track products for quality and inventory issues. In case of any issues, they could use these details to identify the relevant consignment (s) in the market. In order to quickly and efficiently handle a customer inquiry, the company’s customer service department will usually ask the customer for this code mentioned on the cat food package.
Expiration or “Best Used By” dates are optional, but are helpful in determining product freshness and shelf life of the cat food. Generally, it is not advisable to purchase the cat food in a large size packaging, if the expiry date is too close.
Company/Customer Service Information/Satisfaction
The manufacturer’s information should include the company name, address, and phone number so customers can quickly and easily obtain product information regarding the cat food.
A toll-free telephone number should be provided as a convenience to the customer and to ensure that a charge is not incurred when calling for information.
The satisfaction guarantee should be an “active” statement. This means that in addition to stating that the cat food product is guaranteed, the company should indicate what action will be taken in order to meet the customer expectations (such as options for product replacement, money returned policy, etc.).
In a nutshell, food is a serious commodity, be it for human consumption or animal use. One must not take any hasty and reckless decisions while purchasing the cat food for their beloved fur babies. Instead of falling for low price options or other attractive marketing gimmicks, the health of your cat should be the major factor for consideration. Whatever cat food you may choose, it should render maximum benefits to your cat in terms of health, growth and overall wellbeing. Reading the information given on the packaging is extremely important and should never be ignored.