Natural Pet Health Education

How to Get Your Cat to Take Their Supplements

Unfortunately, with a cat, we hit a bit of a wall when we deal with food or supplement refusal, and are limited in the change we can create if we cannot get our supplements into the body. It is important to understand the primary reasons for a cat's hesitance surrounding new foods or supplements so we can determine the proper approach to take. Cats begin to learn what is safe to consume as young kittens from their Mother. After this period, a cat's fear of eating new things is called neophobia, which is a natural, survival-based instinct to avoid potentially harmful or unfamiliar substances. We feel it is important to note that a cat's refusal to try a new supplement is often a symptom of neophobia, not necessarily a dislike of the supplement itself. Cats can also struggle with illness-induced inappetence, and this is a response by the body to prioritize an immune response to an illness over digestion (digestion is an energy-intensive process). Ultimately, all cats are detectives with a keen sense of smell, able to identify ingredient changes and bacterial differences. This is why we can't always get away with simply moving them right over to a new supplement regimen with the same speed and ease we typically see with dogs. It takes time for a neophobic cat to accept a new item in their diet, sometimes up to three weeks. This does not at all mean it is impossible to do. It does however mean that for many feline parents, a very dedicated, patient and diligent effort may be required. We will want to begin a new supplement with an adaptive phase, which is the introduction of something new slowly, gradually increasing at a pace that works for the individual. A cat's senses of smell and taste are closely connected in the brain, meaning scent is crucial for a cat to decide if it will eat something. This behavior may explain why a cat does not return to eat food that has been sitting out for a period as their neophobia instructs them to avoid spoiled or potentially dangerous items. When introducing powdered supplements to a cat you should begin with the smallest pinch and mix into the meal well. Almost such a small amount it would go unnoticed because it is the scent we have to get past. If, after two days, the small pinch has been tolerated, we increase to a larger pinch for another day or two. If all is well then you would move up to 1/4 the recommended dose of the supplement in the meal for another two to three days slowly increasing the serving size up to the full suggested serving size as your cat adapts. This same practice applies when using liquid herbal remedies. However, instead of a pinch you would use one drop in the morning meal for two days, then one drop in the morning and evening meal and so on until the proper serving is reached for your size cat. Of course every single animal is different, and we do not want to interfere with an animal that may be ill from eating their meal all together. Due to a cat’s neophobia we may not want to interfere with their regular meals and instead place their supplement or herbal remedy in a treat food separate and prior to their main meal. This approach is also necessary if you feed your cat a dry, kibble diet (please consider feeding a wet raw or canned diet to your feline - they need the moisture in their diet). When using a treat food provide the smallest amount that works so your cat will completely ingest the food along with the supplement. Below we offer some suggestions for treat foods into which you mix supplements and herbal remedies. Try a few different choices and find what works best for your cat. Great Treat Food Choices Cooked meat rolled into a small ball Raw meat rolled into a small ball Bone broth Goat's milk Yogurt - preferably organic and sugar-free Baby food - as natural as possible Applaws - Consider the mousse or pate for easier mixing. https://applaws.com/us/ Inaba Churu yogurt type treats (very popular - use in moderation) https://inabafoods.com/cats/churu/

Cats

Probiotics for Pets

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria, the “good” or “friendly” bacteria that populate the entire digestive tract and play an important role in digestion, nutrient assimilation and immune system function. Unfortunately, many people have been lead to believe that all bacteria are harmful, but the reality is that we live in symbiosis with beneficial bacteria throughout our environment, and arguably the most important being our friendly intestinal bacteria. The average animal, depending on size, can have up to four pounds of bacteria in his body with the majority residing in the digestive tract. Your pet would become very ill or die without the right intestinal bacteria, and unfortunately this actually happens more often than most people realize. Many holistic veterinarians believe that imbalances in intestinal bacteria are a major factor in many of the chronic disorders that we see in our animals today. Our experience with animals leads us to believe this is very true! I. Why are probiotics referred to as “friendly” bacteria? Probiotics are referred to as “friendly” because they are a benefit to the body in many important ways, as opposed to pathogenic or “unfriendly” bacteria that can cause illness. II. What are some of the roles probiotics play in the body? 1). Help the digestive tract function properly by producing enzymes that aid digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. 2). Manufacture B vitamins. 3). Help lower cholesterol. 4). Keep levels of pathogenic bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella and Helicobacter pylori) and pathogenic fungi (Candida albicans) in check by competing for available space and nutrients. In addition, beneficial bacteria produce antibiotic like substances and acidify the intestinal tract by producing lactic acid, both of which inhibit harmful bacteria growth and the toxins they produce. 5). Protect against tooth decay and gum inflammation. 6). Help to maintain a healthy mucous lining (mucosa) in the intestinal tract. This assists in the prevention of bacteria, food particles and toxins from entering the blood stream. The results of a damaged mucosa are often referred to as ‘Leaky Gut Syndrome” which contributes to allergy like symptoms, skin conditions, systemic infections, arthritis and other disease processes. 7). Maintain or increase immune system health. Since 70% of the immune system in animals is found in the gastrointestinal tract, a healthy mucosal lining populated by beneficial bacteria is very important to preventing and fighting infection. In addition, beneficial bacteria are also found in the respiratory system where they help guard the body against invasion by harmful germs. 8). Aid in the absorption of magnesium that is used for hundreds of different functions throughout the body. A magnesium deficiency can result in asthma and migraines and have other dramatic impacts on a person's health. 9). Synthesize vitamin K that is needed to clot the blood and keep bones strong. 10). Manufacture the milk digesting enzyme lactase that is needed to digest most dairy products. III. What are some symptoms of the lack of proper amounts of probiotics? An imbalance between friendly and unfriendly bacteria in the body plays a role in many of the chronic disorders we see today. Symptoms can include bad breath, diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas, foul smelling stool, allergies, autoimmune disease, skin conditions; poor vitamin K synthesis which can cause blood clotting problems and low bone density; magnesium deficiencies which can lead to asthma, migraines, fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, urinary incontinence and other related disorders; B vitamin deficiencies which can lead to lowered blood pressure, abnormal gait, tingling of nerves, lowered uric acid levels and lowered hydrochloric acid levels which can lead to malabsorption issues; irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, dairy intolerance and the overgrowth of harmful bacteria which can lead to frequent vaginal, yeast, bladder and sinus infections. IV. What can reduce levels of probiotics in the body? Anything that places stress on the body can reduce levels of friendly bacteria. Common causes include poor diet, antibiotics, steroids, NSAIDs, surgery, medications, acute and chronic diarrhea, chlorinated water, artificial ingredients and preservatives in foods, toxins in food and the environment and stress. V. Who should supplement with probiotics? Everyone should supplement with probiotics on a continuous basis to ensure that a healthy, viable population of beneficial bacteria are always present in the intestinal tract. Probiotics would be specifically recommended in situations where there are symptoms of imbalance or in which healthy bacterial populations may be adversely affected making your animal susceptible to disease, such as with antibiotic or steroid use. Supplementing with probiotics is easy and safe and a great insurance policy because not only do friendly bacteria decrease naturally in the body as we age, but we and our animals come in contact with so many things in everyday life that reduce healthy intestinal flora. VI. Is it okay to supplement with one type of probiotic? No, supplementing with one type of probiotic can lead to imbalances within the body. Since different bacteria have different actions an overbalance of one type is not desirable. It is best to take a probiotic supplement with a variety of different species of beneficial bacteria. VII. When during the day should probiotics be provided? It is thought that certain species of beneficial bacteria flourish in the morning and some at night, so, in a perfect world, splitting daily supplementation into two equal dosages would seem to make the most sense. Also, some species of beneficial bacteria are susceptible to strong stomach acid, so supplementing away from meals, when stomach acid is weakest, may be helpful as well. Though, in recent years probiotic science has come a long way so current probiotic cultures are much more resilient to stomach acid. For this reason, and a matter of convenience, mixing probiotics in with you dog or cat's food is fine. In addition, probiotic formulas, like that found in our Digestive Enzyme and Probiotics or our Daily Multi Plus, provide additional quantities of probiotics to make up for any potential loss during that may occur during digestion. VIII. Is yogurt good enough? Unfortunately yogurt, especially commercial supermarket brands, is not a good source of beneficial bacteria. Many yogurt products do not contain living organisms and if they do, only in small amounts and a narrow range of beneficial organisms. In addition, they acidify over time killing bacteria so there is very little healthy bacterial content when they get to you. Natural, organic yogurt can be better, but using a probiotic supplement containing billions of viable healthy bacteria is preferable. IX. What about foods or other products marketed as containing probiotics? Unfortunately this is more marketing, maybe with good intentions, than benefit for your animal. Pasteurization is a process in which a product is heated to 145 degrees or higher (depending on the pasteurization process) to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Pet foods are heated to a much higher degree during their processing effectively killing all bacteria, good and bad. To make up for this loss of friendly bacteria manufacturers add some in after processing, but because of exposure to oxygen and room temperature or higher during storage and delivery of the foods the potency of the probiotics is basically destroyed. This is kind of similar to the addition of fish oils to processed pet foods; heat and oxygen oxidize the healthy oils but even worse, carcinogenic compounds are also formed! Just for your information – the salmonella poisoning that has occurred from processed pet food is because of recontamination after processing. Remember (see ‘roles probiotics play in the body’ above) that one of the roles of beneficial bacteria is to keep the growth of undesirable bacteria in check. So, when pet food is heated effectively killing all bacteria and is recontaminated afterward with pathogenic bacteria, these potentially harmful bacteria thrive unchecked and can reach populations that can sicken and kill an animal! So much for being concerned with raw food where thriving populations of beneficial bacteria keep pathogenic bacteria levels in check! X. What are some examples of beneficial bacteria? Examples of beneficial bacteria include various species of Lactobacillus, Acidophilus, Bacillus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium and even beneficial yeast like Saccharomyces cerevisiae. XI. What is the suggested dosage of probiotics? Because probiotics are not drugs, but living organisms, precise dosages are not so important. A typical daily dosage for a 150lb person (get the percentage of the adult dose by dividing your animal’s weight by 150) is 3-5 billion live organisms. Actual live count varies dramatically so make sure you purchase a reputable brand from a responsible retailer! XII. Should probiotics be refrigerated? Yes, when you get the probiotic supplement home place it in the refrigerator to maintain the viability of the beneficial bacteria. Products that contain bacteria in a theoretically stabilized form and are marketed as not having to be refrigerated will have a longer viability if refrigerated when you get them home, especially after they are opened. In addition to heat, bacteria are also sensitive to oxygen and moisture so close the container quickly when you are done and make sure your hands are dry when handling. XIII. How should a probiotic supplement be provided? The preferable way to provide a probiotic supplement is in powder form. The reason for this is that if you use a tablet or capsule you are restricting benefits to the bowels (the small and large intestines). By supplementing with a powder you will be benefiting the entire digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Capsules may of course be opened and the contents emptied onto your animal’s food or placed into a small glass of water for human consumption. XIV. Why do probiotics sometimes cause nausea or vomiting? When the health of an animal has been compromised for some time, things can start out worse before they get better. This process is sometimes referred to as “cleansing” or a “healing crisis”. Experiencing digestive upset with probiotic use is most likely caused by the feeding of poor quality commercial pet food that is hard to break down and digest. Consequently, it moves slowly through the intestines allowing some fecal plaque to adhere to your dog’s intestinal walls. Once it gets a toehold, it thickens over time. Even fairly young animals can experience some blockage as a result of this build up. Probiotics will slowly begin to dissolve the fecal matter, and during this clearing/cleansing process, pathogens and microbes that were covered up with layers of fecal matter will be exposed and can cause episodes of diarrhea or vomiting. Depending on the buildup, it may take a few months before it is completely removed. To help restore your animal’s health and happiness we suggest a healthier, more digestible diet and reducing the dosage of probiotics to a level tolerated by your animal, building back up gradually as your animal begins to feel better. Also, a good fiber supplement with psyllium seed will help clear away the debris in your animal’s intestinal tract. XV. Should a probiotic supplement be provided when using antibiotics? Of course! Antibiotics kill friendly bacteria along with pathogenic bacteria. The colonies of beneficial bacteria must be maintained or populations of undesirable bacteria will flourish once the antibiotics are discontinued. This can result in the epidemic symptoms we see today ranging from itchy skin conditions to frequent infections to digestive problems as well as a population explosion of normally benign candida yeast that live throughout the body. When using antibiotics, supplement with probiotics at least two hours after the treatment and when the antibiotic treatment is complete double or triple the probiotic dosage for 7-10 days. Shop For Probiotics for Dogs and Cats

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Undesirable Pet Dog and Cat Food Ingredients

Animal Digest Related to meat by-products, being the dry or liquid by-product of the meat rendering process, and not fit for human consumption. The origin of the ingredients is unknown and can include zoo animals, road kill, what's often referred to as 4-D livestock (dead, diseased, disabled, dying) and even euthanized dogs and cats. This is a low-cost ingredient with little nutritional value and is not very digestible, usually being added to pet food as a palatability enhancer. Artificial Colors Added to food to make it more attractive to consumers. Generally, carnivores do not care about the color of their food (though it does play a role in human and bird behavior) because the flavor of food is largely determined by two senses, olfactory (odor) and gustatory (taste). Can be linked with liver and kidney problems, digestive disorders, aggravating behavioral disorders as well as increasing the risks of various cancers and tumors. Ex. FD&C Blue No. 1 and FD&C Red No. 40. Artificial Flavors A substance developed in a laboratory by a flavor chemist that mimics a natural flavor. These substances can often be quite powerful and are often designed to encourage over-eating or the consumption of items that would not be eaten under normal circumstances. Can be linked with liver and kidney problems, digestive disorders, aggravating behavioral disorders as well as increasing the risks of various cancers and tumors. Ex. Anything that gets carnivores to eat a corn or grain-based diet with a white powder of synthetic vitamins and think they are eating food. By-Products Consist mainly of animal parts that are the waste or by-products of the human food industry and are therefore not fit for human consumption; includes bones, organs, blood, fatty tissue and intestines. In the case of meat by-products this could include zoo animals, road kill, what's often referred to as 4-D livestock (dead, diseased, disabled, dying) and even euthanized dogs and cats. Some by-products that identify the species, such as chicken by-products, may come from adequate sources, but it's simply too hard to know what exactly is included in by-products, especially since these unwanted animal parts may contain unhealthy bacteria or even parts from cancerous animals. Chemical Preservatives Such as BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin and propylene glycol, which can be linked with liver and kidney problems, digestive disorders, aggravating behavioral disorders as well as increasing the risks of various cancers and tumors. Fillers Fillers are ingredients that have little to no nutritional benefit. These ingredients are added to provide bulk to the kibble, replace meat as a low-cost protein source or for other reasons such as adding bulk to form a firm stool. Fillers include ingredients such as peanut and soy hulls, brewers rice, cellulose, wheat or soy gluten, dried beet pulp, grains and glutens. Grain Fractions These are parts of the grain, usually after the healthy or useful stuff has been taken out for use in the human food chain. May include floor sweepings and other byproducts of the human food industry and are considered nutritionally inferior to whole grains because parts such as the germ, that is rich in fatty acids and essential nutrients that can go rancid quickly, has been removed. Ex. Wheat flour, wheat bran and brewers rice. Grain Splitting Listing two or more grain ingredients from the same source separately. Primarily done to allow meat ingredients to be placed higher on the ingredient panel leading consumers to believe there are more meat ingredients than grain. Ex. ground yellow corn and corn gluten meal instead of just corn. Low or Poor Quality Protein Carnivores require their protein to come from high-quality meat sources. This includes species specified sources such as chicken or high protein species specified sources such as chicken meal (although the quality of meal sources is very important; less expensive foods will generally have poorer sources). If the first ingredient is listed as a meat source (manufacturers are learning to do this to influence consumers) followed by several grains, this generally means that the bulk of the protein is being derived from grains and is not optimal for the health of your dog, cat or ferret. For healthy lean muscle development and maintenance as well as recovery from injury and proper immune system function, we like to see protein, from primarily or entirely meat sources, of 30% in kibble foods and 8% in canned foods (because of canned foods higher moisture content this would work out to a 36% dry matter protein level in the average canned food). Not Human-Grade If it isn’t specifically listed anywhere you can rest assured the ingredients in the bag are not fit for human consumption and that means they can be almost anything! This can include rendered meats from road kill, dead zoo animals, euthanized pets (yes, the drug sodium pentobarbital has been found in pet foods), spoiled meat from the supermarket (styrofoam wrap and all), the “4-D’s” of cattle (dead, dying, diseased and disabled), rancid restaurant grease (yes, those drums you see sitting outside restaurants) and byproducts of the human food industry such as chicken heads, feet, feathers and intestines, cow brains, tongues, esophagi, fetal tissue dangerously high in hormones, diseased and cancerous meat and even feces. Grains that are used have usually been deemed unfit for human consumption because of mold, contaminants, poor quality or poor handling practices and this can be made more obvious by the fact that many pet food recalls are the result of toxic grain products such as wheat or corn. In addition, many of these foods can include undesirable chemical preservatives used to preserve fats and rendering products and are not required to be listed on the label because the manufacturer themselves have not added them. Non-Species Specified Fats Usually comes from rancid restaurant grease. This grease sits in the back of restaurants sometimes for weeks and is then stabilized with powerful chemical antioxidants to prevent further spoilage. These fats are then often sprayed directly onto kibble to make an otherwise distasteful product more palatable to your carnivore. Concerns include the belief that these rancid fats become extremely carcinogenic and are extremely difficult for animals to digest, which can lead to a host of health problems for your companion such as diarrhea, gas, bad breath and other digestive problems. Ex. animal fat. Non-Species Specified Ingredients When the species of an ingredient is not specified you can be pretty sure that it is not fit for human consumption and you can never really be sure of the source. May include the rendered remains of zoo animals, road kill, what's often referred to as 4-D livestock (dead, diseased, disabled, dying) and even euthanized dogs and cats. Ingredients in which the sources are named, such as chicken meal, chicken fat or salmon oil, are generally going to be of a higher quality although sources vary, as do manufactures and copackers! Ex. meat meal, bone meal, fish oil and animal fat. Too Many Grains Grains are typically used as low cost fillers, low cost, inferior protein sources, fiber sources, sweeteners and binders. Carnivores such as canines, felines and ferrets need very little to no grains in their diet. Think of their evolutionary and natural eating patterns. They may get some grain, predigested, from the stomach of their prey. That’s it! Not only do grains very often cause digestive and food sensitivity problems, in addition, carnivores cannot derive adequate protein from plant sources such as grains.

Cats
Dogs
Nutrition

Top 10 Tips for Using Probiotics Supplements for Dogs and Cats

1). Provide a probiotic in powder or liquid form if possible The reason for this is that if you use a tablet or capsule you are generally restricting benefits to the deeper parts of the GI tract (the small and large intestines). By supplementing with a powder or liquid you will be benefiting the entire digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Capsules may of course be opened and the contents emptied onto your animal’s food or placed into a small glass of water for human consumption. 2). Provide a probiotic supplement with meals This is because high levels of stomach acid can quickly kill many strains of bacteria and food can act as a stomach acid buffer. When you eat, stomach pH rises (becoming less acidic), which helps fragile live cultures survive the harsh digestive tract. Research suggests that pairing probiotics with meals containing fats helps protect the microbes as they move into the small and large intestines. An exception to this rule is if you wish the probiotics to get into the digestive tract quickly and avoid competition with food and digestion - perhaps in cases where there is damage to the digestive tract lining. In this case, taking probiotics on an empty stomach can be best first thing in the morning or right before bed. 3). Probiotic supplements should be refrigerated (with an exception) Many products are now being marketed as shelf-stable. They are freeze-dried and with such low levels of moisture are placed in a dormant stage. However, there will be more viability of the beneficial bacteria if they are refrigerated. For probiotics being shipped to you, refrigerate the supplement as soon as you receive your package. Many probiotics, like the supplements we provide for dogs and cats, are formulated with extra bacteria taking any potential loss during storage or shipping into account. In addition to heat, bacteria are also sensitive to oxygen and moisture so close the container quickly when you are done and make sure your hands and utensils are dry when handling. The exception to this rule is for spore bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis or Bacillus coagulans that when facing harsh condition - such as a lack of food, excessive heat, or dryness - forms a tough, dormant external structure called an endospore. Once conditions become favorable again, such as in the digestive tract, the spore germinates and turns back into a regular, active probiotic bacteria. 4). The quality of the product is more important than dosage Since probiotics are living organisms, not drugs, precise dosages are not as important. It also varies by individual because certain dogs and cats are subjected to different environmental toxins and fed diverse pet foods. A typical daily dosage for a 50lb dog is 1 billion or so live organisms. However, the number of viable organisms varies greatly by product, so this is where quality really counts. You could have a product that promotes 2 billion live organisms compared to another that offers only 1 billion. Yet, the one with the smaller probiotic count on the package may actually have more viable, or living, organisms that enter your pet’s digestive tract. 5. Provide your dog or cat with probiotics when using antibiotics or steroids This is actually the time when your pet needs a probiotic supplement the most. Antibiotics and steroids destroy the mucous lining of the gut and with it the abundance of beneficial flora. Antibiotics don’t discriminate between good and bad microorganisms, and unfortunately opportunistic organisms, like Candida albicans, will flourish once the antibiotics are discontinued. When using antibiotics, supplement your dog or cat with probiotics at least two hours after the treatment (right before bed is a great time) and when the antibiotic treatment is complete double or triple the probiotic dosage for 7-10 days. 6). When probiotics are first used they can cause discomfort Experiencing digestive upset with probiotic use is most likely caused by the feeding of poor quality commercial pet food that is hard to break down and digest. Consequently, it moves slowly through the intestines allowing some fecal plaque to adhere to your pet’s intestinal walls. Once it gets a toehold, it thickens over time. Even fairly young animals can experience some blockage as a result of this build up. Probiotics will slowly begin to dissolve the fecal matter, and during this clearing/cleansing process, pathogens and microbes that were covered up with layers of fecal matter will be exposed and can cause episodes of diarrhea or vomiting. Depending on the buildup, it may take a few months before it is completely removed. To help restore your animal’s health and happiness we suggest a healthier, more digestible diet and reducing the dosage of probiotics to a level tolerated by your animal, building back up gradually as your animal begins to feel better. Also, a good fiber supplement with psyllium seeds will help clear away the debris in your dog or cat’s intestinal tract. 7). Supplement with numerous strains of beneficial bacteria Many commercial brands of probiotics contain one or two strains of bacteria. That is not optimal because different microorganisms bring different benefits to the table and over supplementing with one type can lead to imbalances in the body. The most common strains found in probiotic supplements are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, and while they may supply a good match for what is found in your pet’s GI tract, there are many other probiotic species that would be beneficial. 8). Not only antibiotics kill beneficial flora Anything that places stress on the body can reduce levels of friendly bacteria. Common culprits include a diet with low-quality ingredients, NSAIDs, surgery, various medications, acute and chronic diarrhea, chlorinated water, artificial ingredients and preservatives in food, toxins in food and the environment, and stress. What can you do? Feed a high, quality, whole food diet (preferably raw). Filter your pet’s water, that chlorine was put in there to kill microorganisms, and unfortunately, even well water can be contaminated. Avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs whenever possible. Much of what a vet prescribes antibiotics for can be accomplished with immune system support using herbs such as echinacea or olive leaf and wonderful antimicrobials like a silver hydrosol. 9). Those symptoms your dog or cat has can often be linked to dysbiosis Dysbiosis is an imbalance between the friendly and unfriendly bacteria in the GI tract and occurs when something damages the beneficial flora allowing opportunistic bacteria to gain a foothold. This imbalance where undesirable bacteria begin to flourish plays a role in many of the chronic disorders we see today. Symptoms in your dog or cat can include bad breath, diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas, foul smelling stool, allergies, autoimmune disease, skin conditions; poor vitamin K synthesis which can cause blood clotting problems and low bone density; magnesium deficiencies which can lead to asthma, migraines, fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, urinary incontinence and other related disorders; B vitamin deficiencies which can lead to lowered blood pressure, abnormal gait, lowered uric acid levels and lowered hydrochloric acid levels which can lead to malabsorption issues; irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, dairy intolerance and frequent vaginal, yeast, bladder and sinus infections. 10). Fermented foods are a great source or probiotic cultures Functional foods like kefir, yogurt and sauerkraut can do a world of good for your dog or cat. Unfortunately, what is found in the supermarket are not real examples of these products. Kefir is a food derived from raw goat or cows milk and is rich in beneficial bacteria and yeasts (some yeasts are good!) and is generally made at home using kefir grains. Yogurt is another superfood derived from milk, however, most of the products found in the supermarket don’t resemble the real thing. Most yogurt nowadays is processed and then freeze dried cultures are added before packaging. Shelf life and taste is the real important thing here, so sugars predominate and the amount and variety of probiotic cultures provides little benefit. Sauerkraut can be a functional food powerhouse, however, the mass produced varieties are made with vinegar, again for shelf life and ease or manufacture, so they provide little of the health benefit real fermented cabbage and other vegetables provide. The only option, really, is to make these products at home, which can be fun if you have the time, or to use a high-quality probiotics supplement for your dogs and cats. Shop for Probiotics Supplements for Dogs and Cats

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Nutrition

Top 10 Tips for Using Herbs for Dogs and Cats

1). Use herbs in their whole form Providing your dog or cat with an herbal remedy formulated from the whole herb, or the most commonly used portion of the medicinal plant, is almost always preferable to standardized extracts. When using herbs in this manner your pet not only gets the active constituent, or the phytochemical thought to have the most therapeutic value, e.g., silymarin in milk thistle, but they also receive the benefits of supporting constituents in the herb that can act as adjuncts, moderate potential side-effects and contain nutritious vitamins and minerals. 2). Purchase from a trusted retailer/manufacturer Along with the popularity of herbal remedies for dogs and cats comes the rise in the number of unscrupulous manufacturers. The potency and effectiveness of a specific herbal remedy is in direct correlation to its freshness and standards of manufacture. There are many remedies out there that are formulated with herbs that are past their useful life, along with remedies that contain little of what is indicated on the ingredient panel. The only thing a consumer can do is place trust in the retailer or manufacturer from which they purchase the herbs for their pets. A pet parent can help develop trust by asking questions about why a business carries a particular line of herbal remedies, or, if a manufacturer, what attention do they put into their ingredients and the manufacturing process, and make sure they receive a knowledgeable answer; if not, move on because you most likely will waste time and money. 3). Herbs alone are not a panacea Herbal remedies can be very powerful and provide help with many acute and chronic illnesses. However, they are not miracle workers. Using herbs for your pets must be viewed in a holistic fashion. This means that herbal remedies should be used as part of a wellness protocol that takes your entire animal into account. Your pet’s diet should be biologically appropriate, preferably raw, but at the very least containing foods as close to their natural, whole food form as possible. If you feed a kibble or canned diet you should feed an enzyme formula to help your dog or cat digest the gluten, starches and other processed ingredients found in dry and canned foods. A probiotic formula is highly recommended because if your pet is like many others, he has had his fair share of antibiotics and his beneficial intestinal flora has suffered as a result. Your dog or cat should also get daily exercise to help with lymphatic flow and the maintenance of lean muscle tissue and also to prevent boredom and lethargy. 4). Understand the medicine you are using The use of herbs can have very potent beneficial effects on your dogs and cats, and while not being drugs, they do form the basis of many of our pharmaceuticals and can have similar undesirable side-effects. For instance, many of us have heard of milk thistle and its useful effect on the liver; it can be detoxifying and hepatoprotective. However, there is also the belief that its over-use on a healthy liver can actually reduce liver function. What about licorice? It can be a very effective anti-inflammatory due to the constituent glycyrrhizin. However, this very beneficial phytochemical found in licorice, if abused, can also produce side effects similar to hydrocortisone and lead to hypertension and fluid retention. What to do? Find a retailer with an herbalist on staff, because that will be a clue that this is a company more dedicated than others to natural healing. In addition, purchase a book from a well-respected author and get on your way to becoming a knowledgeable user of herbal remedies for your dog or cat. 5). Select the philosophy of herbal medicine that suits you There are three principle philosophies of herbal medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurvedic Medicine and Western Herbalism. Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on the use of herbal combinations or formulas to strengthen and support organ system function. Ayurvedic Medicine originated in India and the Middle East and involves a very holistic approach of using herbs, eating certain types of food and modalities like massage and yoga that nurture the mind, body and spirit. Both of these approaches are very holistic in nature and can be quite complicated for the average person. Western Herbalism is the youngest of the three and draws from herbal traditions of Europe and the Americas. It relies on the synergistic and curative properties of plants to maintain health and rebalance and tonify the body. Even though it is best to use Western Herbalism in a holistic fashion, which involves diet, supplementation and exercise, it is much easier to grasp and most of the herbs are available in organic form right here in the USA. So, out of the three philosophies, Western Herbalism is better suited for the average do-it-yourself pet parent. 6). Choose the best type of herbal formula for your pet Herbs are available for internal use in a variety of forms such as powders, capsules, tablets and tinctures. In addition, herbs can be brewed into teas or infusions for administration both orally and topically. Herbs in powdered form are easy to add to food and provide all the nutrients the herbs have to offer in their natural form. While easy to administer, some animals can be sensitive to their taste or smell, so if this is the case with your dog or cat, using capsules or tablets can be a good alternative. Just be aware that there are typically synthetic ingredients added to capsules and tablets that assist with the manufacturing process. A tincture is an herbal remedy derived by placing herbs in an alcohol or glycerin (called a glycerite) solvent to break down the plant material and release the active constituents into the liquid. An advantage here is that the body quickly and easily utilizes the concentrated active constituents of the herb, making them useful for both acute and chronic illness. Alcohol is generally considered to be the best solvent, meaning that more of the beneficial properties of the herb are removed, but glycerin is a good alternative and tastes better so it is easier to get into an animal and is preferred for dogs, cats and birds as well as those animals sensitive to alcohol or who suffer with liver or kidney disease. 7). Understand how to use herbs properly It is generally recommended to begin with only one herbal remedy at a time when possible. This is because you want to be able to witness any positive effects or signs of intolerance due to its use. It is much more effective to dose your companion with herbs two or three times per day, rather that in one large dose, to allow the herbs to remain and build up in the system. If your companion is currently on any conventional medications you should be aware of any possible contraindications. To do this check with a person educated in herbal medicine, like a Master Herbalist or a knowledgeable holistic veterinarian familiar with herbs. 8). What to do with signs of intolerance Depending on an individual animal’s response, suggested dosages may need to be adjusted. If signs of intolerance are seen, such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea the remedy should be discontinued for a couple of days. After this pause, you may try again with 1/2 the original dosage to see if a lower dose may be tolerated. The opposite may also be true, where an animal is not responding to the recommended dosage, and in this case a VERY gradual increase in 10% increments up to 50% above the suggested dosage may be tried to see if any improvements are seen. The guidance of a good person/company with knowledge of the herbs being used may be helpful at this time. 9). Duration of use of the herbal therapy The duration of an herbal therapy varies by animal and in relation to the imbalance or symptoms you are confronting. Seasonal herbal cleanses generally last two weeks, the use of herbs to relieve allergy symptoms can run from two weeks before, and then throughout, the allergy season and an herbal therapy used to support a thyroid condition may have to be used over the course of an animal’s lifetime. When you are using herbs medicinally for an extended period of time, it is recommended that you take breaks in the schedule of herbal treatment. This is done to make sure an animal’s body does not develop a tolerance to the herbal remedy and to give the body a chance to eliminate any excesses that could produce undesirable symptoms over time. One recommended course of action is to take two days off from the herbal therapy every week - five days on, two days off. Another is to take one day off per week, one week off every six weeks and one month off every six months. After a couple of weeks or so on the maximum dosage, if no results are seen, it may be time to try another herb or holistic remedy or consult with a herbal specialist. 10. Practice patience We are all eager to see immediate results, but that is not how herbal remedies work. It takes time for herbs to build up in the system, and it may take several days or longer to see the effectiveness of a particular remedy. The difference between a successful herbal therapy and, for example, resorting to a steroid treatment, often amounts to a day or two of patient waiting. The severity of the condition and overall health of the animal will also play a role. However, the use of the correct herbal remedy can be very rewarding for your pet, allowing your dog or cat to avoid many of the potential drawbacks of pharmaceutical drugs. After all, you can always resort to medication as a last resort after more holistic and natural options have been failed to produce the desired results. Shop for Herbal Remedies for Dogs and Cats

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Nutrition

Top 10 Tips to Help You with Natural Flea and Tick Control

1). Select truly natural products Unfortunately, there are manufacturers that utilize popular terms, like “natural”, in order to lure you to their products; after all that is the purpose of marketing. It is important that consumers read labels because what is marketed as natural may not be entirely that when you read the ingredient panel. If you don’t know what an ingredient is do a quick internet search to see what comes up. Purchasing from a trusted retailer that focuses on natural products can make selecting the best product much easier. 2). Avoid gimmicky products As the market for natural products grows, so does the number of those looking to grab their share. Look at herbal flea collars, or any flea collar for that matter. Do you think an odor located at the front of a dog or cat is going to keep a flea off the tail area? In addition, a dog’s sense of smell is estimated to be 1000 times or more that of a human. The strong odor from a flea collar located just under a dog’s nose 24 hours a day must be maddening! 3). Treat the outside of your pet Apply natural and organic powders or sprays to help repel fleas and ticks. Sprays with essential oils will help repel insects for walks in the woods or during playtime at the dog park, while powders with ingredients such as diatom flour will help desiccate and kill fleas and ticks. Products containing concentrated essential oils should not be used on cats. 4). Fortify the inside of your pet Parasites, like fleas, will prey on weaker hosts. So, it can be very helpful to strengthen your pet’s resistance to them by using natural supplements with ingredients that cleanse the blood, support circulation, improve skin structure and reduce allergic response. You can also effectively make your dog or cat less "tasty" by using ingredients like garlic in moderation during flea and tick season. 5). Don’t over-shampoo Generally speaking, all-natural flea shampoos are much more gentle than their commercial counterparts. However, over-doing anything can be counter productive. Too much shampooing can damage the skin’s delicate balance making it more sensitive to things like flea bites that can result in a dermatitis skin condition with the associated itching and scrathing. 6). Practice good housekeeping Many pet parents focus on treating their animals to eliminate fleas. However, 80% of a flea’s lifespan and 95% of a flea population exists in your animal’s environment. A better option is to vacuum regularly and periodically wash pet beds and blankets. Also, brush natural flea powders into carpets and other areas where fleas could be hiding. Treating your outdoor property with beneficial nematodes that hunt and kill flea larvae is also a very effective natural control and much safer for your family than lawn pesticide applications. 7). Fortify your pet’s immune system While what we talked about in #4 above can help here as well, you can go a step further. Herbs such as Echinacea (E. purpurea or E. angustifolia) boost white blood cell activity and can help eliminate pathogens that enter the body due to external parasites (you can use it prophylactically in a regimen of 5 days on and 2 days off during flea and tick season). In addition, a product like Sovereign Silver, which is a colloidal silver hydrosol, can offer safe immune system support as a preventative (such as after a tick bite) and for acute or chronic infections. 8). Don’t get discouraged Even when we do everything right, our pet can still get the occasional flea and tick. Depending on where you live this can be a constant battle. However, if you follow the suggestions offered here your problems should be eliminated, or at the very least greatly reduced, safely and fairly easily. For animals whose resistance to external parasites has been diminished due to a poor diet or health concern, getting them built back up and strengthened may take a little time, but stick with it. Avoiding the long-term consequences of the use of chemicals to your family’s health (it is not just your pet that comes into contact with these toxins) is worth the effort! 9). Don’t be susceptible to fear mongering Many veterinarians make up to 40% or more of their income from the sale of products like topical flea and tick pesticides. If they stopped selling these products many would go out of business. Perhaps there are those vets that actually believe that the use of these products out-ways the dangers of not using them, or they really believe that natural products are ineffective. Whatever the case is, you may get a strong sales pitch for these types of products at your local vet’s office. Your vet may tell you that your pet may contract Lyme Disease or some other horrible illness if you don’t apply that topical pesticide product. But the truth is that a flea or tick can survive on your pet for 48 hours or more before the topical pesticide kills them; that leaves plenty of opportunity for a flea or tick to bite during this period of time. In addition, more than one holistic vet has mentioned that they see no difference in the number of animals that contract a parasite related infection between those that have been treated with a topical pesticide product and those that haven’t. We feel it is best to follow the guidelines that have been outlined here and avoid any chemical usage whether it is on your pet or around your home. 10). Improve your pet’s diet Generally, when it comes to flea and tick control, more often than not, pet parents think about applying something to their animal’s fur like a spot-on product, flea dip or shampoo. They also sometimes consider a “quick fix” such as garlic powder to make their animal less tasteful to biting insects. We talked a little bit about supplementation in #4 above, however, what is too often not considered, to the degree it should be, is diet. Feeding a biologically appropriate diet forms the foundation of your pet’s health and to accomplish this we recommend a raw food diet or a home-prepared diet formulated by a person knowledgeable in that area. At the very minimum the diet should be free of processed grains and fillers (it does not have to be whole-grain free) that are typically found in commercial kibble pet foods and can make your animal “sweet” and more attractive to fleas. Highly processed and heavily grain-based diets also promote inflammation and do not provide the immune system with all the nourishment it requires to protect your pet. Shop for Dog and Cat Natural Flea and Tick Control Treatment

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Taurine for Dogs and Cats

What is taurine for dogs and cats? Taurine is an amino sulfonic acid, but it is often referred to as an amino acid, a chemical that is a required building block of protein. Taurine is found in large amounts in the brain, retina, heart, and blood cells called platelets. The best food sources for taurine are meat and fish. In most animals it is a “conditional amino acid” in that it can be synthesized by the body. However, in members of the cat family, it becomes an “essential amino acid” because it can not be manufactured by the body and must be provided by the diet. Taurine is essential for cardiovascular function, the development and function of skeletal muscle, retinal health and the function of the central nervous system. If you feed a commercial processed pet food (canned or kibble diet) that is likely low in natural taurine, it will contain a synthetic substance produced in a laboratory by a chemical process but still misleadingly referred to as taurine on the label. Is taurine an essential amino acid for dogs and cats? For dogs taurine is a “conditional amino acid” meaning it can be manufactured by the body from other amino acids. However, for cats it is an “essential amino acid”. In the body the biosynthesis of taurine begins in the pancreas with the enzyme cysteine dioxygenase (CDO) converting the amino acid L-cysteine to cysteine sulfinate followed by the oxidation of hypotaurine to taurine. Cats lack the enzyme necessary to produce taurine and must therefore acquire it from their diet. The absence of taurine causes a cat's retina to slowly degenerate, causing eye problems and (eventually) irreversible blindness – a condition known as central retinal degeneration (CRD) as well as hair loss, tooth decay and feline dilated cardiomyopathy leading to heart failure. The availability of taurine is affected depending on how the food is prepared, with raw diets retaining the most taurine, and baking or boiling resulting in the greatest taurine loss. What is taurine good for in dogs and cats? Taurine plays a role in many physiological functions, however for the purpose of this answer we will describe what taurine is primarily used for with dogs and cats. Taurine plays a role in the maintenance of normal contractile function of the heart. Without sufficient taurine in the diet, or the essential amino acids that form taurine, an animal can develop dilated cardiomyopathy. This is a condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood is decreased because the heart's main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, is enlarged and weakened. This can lead to heart failure if taurine is not added to the diet soon enough. A taurine deficiency can also cause an animal’s retina to slowly degenerate, causing eye problems and (eventually) irreversible blindness. This condition, called central retinal degeneration (CRD), is not reversible with taurine supplementation. Because taurine aids in the movement of potassium, sodium, and calcium in and out of the cells, sufficient levels are important for the normal functioning of skeletal muscle contraction. What foods contain taurine for dogs and cats? The highest amounts of taurine can be found in shellfish, especially scallops, mussels, and clams. For dogs and cats the highest levels can be found in the dark meat of turkey and chicken but is found in all meat and fish.You can find particularly large amounts of taurine in the brain and heart; this is why we recommend a heart glandular that contains natural taurine for our clients with heart conditions. The availability of taurine is affected depending on how the food is prepared, with raw diets retaining the most taurine, and baking or boiling resulting in the greatest taurine loss. How much taurine for dogs and cats? Studies suggest taurine should be supplied at 10 mg/kg (5 mg/lb) of body weight per day for domestic cats. Supplementation is not necessary if cats are fed a raw meat diet. The story is similar for dogs as they obtain all they need from a raw meat diet. Dogs differ from cats because their body can synthesize taurine. However they need sufficient quantities of the amino acid methionine start the process. This can be found in sufficient quantities in meat and fish but must be supplemented in diets deficient in real meat like many processed pet foods. What does taurine do for dogs and cats? Taurine provides most animals with an important “conditional” amino acid (meaning it can be synthesized from other amino acids) that is extremely important to their cardiovascular health, the development and function of skeletal muscle, retinal health and the function of the central nervous system. For animals in the cat family taurine is even more important because it is an “essential” amino acid because it must be provided in the diet. Where can I buy taurine for dogs and cats? Synthetic taurine supplements can be found anywhere. However, if you would like a natural taurine supplement for your dog or cat you should try our Heart Glandular. This heart tissue is a superb natural source of taurine from grass-fed New Zealand cows that will help to keep your animal’s heart and eyes healthy. References Taurine: a very essential amino acid. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3501277/ Taurine. Retrieved from: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1024/taurine Taurine and skeletal muscle function. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25415270

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Safe Lawns for your Pets

Many dogs frequently play in the yard, walk on neighbors lawns or use the park. While they are outside, they may be exposed to the chemicals used to treat lawns. Approximately 67% of Americans treat their lawns to pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals can cause serious health problems not only in dogs, but also in people. Some of the problems that can be caused by lawn treatments are: reproductive and neurological damage, organ damage, and endocrine and immune system dysfunction. Illness caused by lawn chemicals can be prevented. Do not let dogs near lawns that have just been treated. The chemicals in lawn treatments will break down after time and from sunlight. If a dog has come in contact with these chemicals, immediately wash its paws and anything else that may have touched the chemicals. Another alternative is to use organic treatments instead of chemicals. Unlike many other illnesses, very few vets have studied the long term damage of lawn chemicals. The National Cancer Institute has discovered that rates of lymphoma to be twice as high in dogs whose owners use chemicals containing 2,4-D, a chemical found in most common lawn treatments, as opposed to owners who do not use 2,4-D. Long term exposure to chemical lawn treatments is not only harmful to dogs but to humans as well. Pesticide residue can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. In humans, the symptoms from herbicide poisoning are very similar to flu symptoms. Like humans, herbicide poisoning in dogs resembles other diseases making it difficult to diagnose. If a dog is believed to have been poisoned by lawn treatments, blood chemistry tests can be ordered but are rarely used due to the high cost. Some Lawn Chemical Facts Approximately 67% of Americans treat their lawns with chemicals. Lawn chemicals can cause reproductive and neurological problems, organ damage, endocrine and immune system dysfunction, and are intoxicating carcinogens. When used correctly, there is very limit risk of becoming sick from lawn care chemicals. Few vets have studied the long term effects of lawn care chemicals. National Cancer Institute found rates of lymphoma to be twice as high in dogs whose owners used preparations that contained 2,4-D on their lawn as in dogs whose owners did not use the chemicals. 2,4-D is a common ingredient used in most commercial â€˜weed and feedâ€™ lawn treatments. Long-term exposure to even low doses of pesticide exposure can cause many health problems in people. Pesticide residues can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin and cause nervous system disturbances and interfere with organ function. Poisoning of these chemicals can cause symptoms similar to those of the flu, allergy, headaches, nausea, fever, breathing difficulties, and high blood pressure (in humans). Herbicide poisonings in animals can reflect that of other diseases and can be difficult to diagnose. Blood chemistry tests could be used to help diagnose dogs but are very costly so they are used infrequently. To avoid exposure to these chemicals, do not let dogs near fresh applications of these chemicals. Avoid grass that has been recently treated with chemicals. Wash your dog's paws after exposure to chemicals and anything else that may have become in contact with the chemicals. Try using organic and natural alternatives to keep pets and people healthy.

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Primal Raw Dog Food Review

Primal Raw Dog Food is a frozen diet made by Primal Pet Foods out of California. This review aims to give consumers some information about this pet food in order for them to be able to make an educated purchasing decision. This dog food review is as unbiased as possible and is aided by our years of experience feeding Primal to our own animals and feedback from our customers. The Good Formulated with 100% human-grade ingredients. Made using antibiotic-free and steroid-free meats and certified organic produce. All ingredients are procured from ranches and farms throughout the United States and New Zealand. Formulas obtain “Complete Diet” status with the use of organic produce and unrefined nutritional supplements rather than synthetic vitamins . Primal’s selection of formulas, mixes, grinds and bones should satisfy everybody’s needs . The Not-As-Good They use a co-packer for a portion of their product line, though everything is produced in temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art, certified USDA and State Department of Agriculture food manufacturing facilities. Primal is using HPP processing on all of their poultry products (Chicken, Turkey, Duck, Pheasant and Quail) for their Formulas, Mixes, Grinds and Raw Meaty Poultry bones (Chicken Necks, Chicken Backs, Chicken Wings and Turkey Necks). This information was updated in June of 2011 so this entire review may not take this more recent information into account. The Bottom Line This is a top-of–the-line raw dog food. We include Primal in our own animal’s diet and all of our customers’ pets do well on this food and enjoy it as well. We love the fact that they do not use synthetic vitamins in their formulas. I think the only thing they could do better would be to use organic, humanely-raised meat, but then the likelihood is nobody would be able to afford the food! Update 6/2011 - We are not pleased with the use of HPP Processing at all, but at least this process is limited to Primal poultry products at this time. Review We believe Primal Pet Foods takes great pride in the formulation and production of their Primal Dog Food. Evidence of this is the fact that they use only 100% USDA human-grade ingredients and their products do not contain any cheap fillers like wheat gluten, rice gluten, rice protein-concentrate or any imported ingredients from China. Ingredients such as antibiotic-free and steroid-free meats and certified organic produce show their dedication. After all, how many pet foods use organic produce? This costs them more as a manufacturer, yet they generally can’t pass on all this cost to the consumer because their pricing has to be competitive. The use of organic fruits and vegetables is very important to many consumers who like to avoid pesticides for our own health and that of the planet and are very happy when we can find a pet food that also feels this is important. Another thing that makes Primal Dog Food stand out from the crowd of raw pet foods is the use of organic produce and unrefined nutritional supplements, like apple cider vinegar and coconut oil, to obtain the nutritional levels required for “Complete Diet” status in their Primal formulas. Many raw pet food manufacturers take the easy, less costly, route of using synthetic vitamins to accomplish this. Those consumers out there that are aware of the potential dangers of synthetic vitamins, and the fact that it is generally best to obtain nutrition from whole food sources, as nature intended, should be very pleased feeding Primal Raw Dog Food formulas to their canines. If you only knew how finicky we are, after all we started The Pet Health and Nutrition Center, you could be reassured that with us including a pet food like Primal Dog Food in our own animals diet it has to be good. Our animals, and those of our customers, readily accept and thrive on Primal Dog Food. This is one of our more highly recommended foods and you can feel very comfortable including it in your animal’s diet plan.

Pet Food Reviews

Primal Raw Cat Food Review

Primal Raw Cat Food is a frozen diet made by Primal Pet Foods out of California. This review aims to give consumers some information about this pet food in order for them to be able to make an educated purchasing decision. This cat food review is as unbiased as possible and is aided by our years of experience feeding Primal to our own animals and feedback from our customers. The Good Formulated with 100% human-grade ingredients. Made using antibiotic-free and steroid-free meats and certified organic produce. All ingredients are procured from ranches and farms throughout the United States and New Zealand. Formulas obtain “Complete Diet” status with the use of organic produce and unrefined nutritional supplements rather than synthetic vitamins . Primal’s selection of formulas, mixes, grinds and bones should satisfy everybody’s needs . The Not-As-Good They use a co-packer for a portion of their product line, though everything is produced in temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art, certified USDA and State Department of Agriculture food manufacturing facilities. Primal is using HPP processing on all of their poultry products (Chicken, Turkey, Duck, Pheasant and Quail) for their Formulas, Mixes, Grinds and Raw Meaty Poultry bones (Chicken Necks, Chicken Backs, Chicken Wings and Turkey Necks). This information was updated in June of 2011 so this entire review may not take this more recent information into account. The Bottom Line This is a top-of–the-line raw cat food. We include Primal in our own animal’s diet and all of our customers’ pets do well on this food and enjoy it as well. We love the fact that they do not use synthetic vitamins in their formulas. I think the only thing they could do better would be to use organic, humanely-raised meat, but then the likelihood is nobody would be able to afford the food! Update 6/2011 - We are not pleased with the use of HPP Processing at all, but at least this process is limited to Primal poultry products at this time. Review We believe Primal Pet Foods takes great pride in the formulation and production of their Primal Cat Food. Evidence of this is the fact that they use only 100% USDA human-grade ingredients and their products do not contain any cheap fillers like wheat gluten, rice gluten, rice protein-concentrate or any imported ingredients from China. Ingredients such as antibiotic-free and steroid-free meats and certified organic produce show their dedication. After all, how many pet foods use organic produce? This costs them more as a manufacturer, yet they generally can’t pass on all this cost to the consumer because their pricing has to be competitive. The use of organic fruits and vegetables is very important to many consumers who like to avoid pesticides for our own health and that of the planet and are very happy when we can find a pet food that also feels this is important. Another thing that makes Primal Cat Food stand out from the crowd of raw pet foods is the use of organic produce and unrefined nutritional supplements, like apple cider vinegar and coconut oil, to obtain the nutritional levels required for “Complete Diet” status in their Primal formulas. Many raw pet food manufacturers take the easy, less costly, route of using synthetic vitamins to accomplish this. Those consumers out there that are aware of the potential dangers of synthetic vitamins, and the fact that it is generally best to obtain nutrition from whole food sources, as nature intended, should be very pleased feeding Primal Raw Cat Food formulas to their felines. If you only knew how finicky we are, after all we started The Pet Health and Nutrition Center, you could be reassured that with us including a pet food like Primal Cat Food in our own animals diet it has to be good. Our animals, and those of our customers, readily accept and thrive on Primal Cat Food. This is one of our more highly recommended foods and you can feel very comfortable including it in your animal’s diet plan.

Pet Food Reviews