natural pet


We are seeing more cancer, neurologic


conditions and kidney disease, and there


is evidence that the increase in these


diseases may be due


to harmful ingredients in commercial,


meat-based foods. ~Armaiti May


Kibble Quandary E


A Fresh Look at Pet Food by Julie Peterson


ating healthy is a family affair, and that includes the fam- ily pet. However, what works


for humans may be less than optimal for Fluffy or Fido, as each requires a species-specific, nutritionally balanced regimen. Most pet parents opt for com- mercial dog or cat food that comes in a bag or a can, but many are beginning to


consider more natural options. “Kibble is often the most economical way to feed your pet. But its processed state makes it the least optimal,” says Angie Krause, DVM, at Boulder Holistic Vet, in Colorado. Canned food is also heavily pro-


cessed and potentially toxic. In 2017, Clean Label Project, a nonprofi t testing


CAT OF THE MONTH H


ello! I’m Bobbi. I’m the best cat around, and I know it. I’m confi dent and outgoing, and I’ll make sure you


notice me when you come into the room. My physique is very impressive, but the folks here say I’d be more comfort- able if I shed some weight. Maybe you could help me with that? I really love chasing laser pointers and wand toys, so I’m sure we’d have fun working out together! Besides playing, I love tummy rubs, cheek scratches, and sticking out my little pink tongue. If you take me home, I promise endless hours of silly fun and warm snuggles. A great cat like me won’t last long, so come meet me soon! Oh, did I mention that I’m available for foster-to-adopt? T at’s like a two-week trial to see how I do in your home. What do you have to lose?


To learn more about Bobbi or other pets to adopt, visit AustinHumaneSociety.org.


26 Austin Area Edition AustinAwakenings.com


laboratory, completed a study of 1,084 pet food products, screening them for more than 130 toxins and contaminants linked to cancer and other conditions. Results showed cadmium, a heavy metal, in 94 percent of the products, along with arsenic and lead. Contaminants aren’t the only con-


cern. “Up to 50 percent of commercial foods are composed of meat meal and byproducts,” says Armaiti May, DVM, owner of Dr. May’s Veterinary House Calls, in Los Angeles. T ese can include meat from dead,


dying, diseased or disabled animals, and even rendered dogs and cats from animal shelters, says May. “We are seeing more cancer, neurologic conditions and kidney disease, and there is evidence that the increase in these diseases may be due to harmful ingredients in commercial, meat- based foods.”


Healthy Alternative Diets Owners that switch from commercial foods report their animals display thicker coats, brighter eyes and greater energy. However, dogs and cats require specifi c ranges of vita- mins, minerals, fats and carbohydrates, so it’s important to ensure that nutritional needs are met and a healthy balance is maintained.


Home-Cooked Pet food recalls have prompted some families to start cooking for their charges, but it’s not as simple as sharing the family dinner. “T ere are online calculators that can help you create and balance recipes for dogs and cats. Balancing a diet can be


Chendongshan/Shutterstock.com


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