Two-thirds of American households have a pet, and they are increasingly appreciated as members of the family. It is only natural that pet owners strive to provide the best food and care for their animals, which has led to a significant increase in interest for high-quality natural pet food.

There are considerable benefits to investing in quality pet food. Spending a little more money on high-quality pet food promotes better health for dogs and cats both now and in the future, reducing the need for interventions like antibiotics and veterinarian visits. This not only protects pet health but also saves pet owners money in the long run.

Plant-Based and Organic  Pet Food

“Poor-quality products in the pet food industry directly contribute to many pet illnesses, and cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs and cats,” explains Dr. Eric Weisman, internationally awarded scientist and founder of Evolution Diet Pet Food in Minnesota, the world’s first plant-based pet food. One of the key advantages of natural pet food is the stringent quality control that most smaller manufacturers maintain. Unlike large corporations that produce a wide range of products and often use cheaper lower-quality ingredients, smaller companies tend to embrace a holistic philosophy that ensures the ingredients are responsibly sourced and free from harmful additives.

The rise in plant-based diets among humans has a parallel in the pet food industry. Organic pet food, free of pesticides, antibiotics and chemicals, constitutes over $22 billion a year in sales in the U.S. Vegan pet food sales are also growing globally, projected to increase by 12 percent annually. Ingredients like ancient grains such as amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and millet are now included in gluten-free formulas to cater to this market.

Whole food ingredients, those that are unprocessed and unrefined, contain more nutrients and fiber which promotes better digestive health for pets and prevents constipation and diarrhea. Pet food makers add natural savory flavors and kitchen ingredients like vinegar instead of chemical enhancers to enhance the taste of plant-based options. Thus, nutritionally complete plant-based cat and dog food that is made by trustworthy brands still has appealing flavor and key nutrition, and it is void of harmful fillers and chemicals that can be hidden in many popular pet food brands.

Sustainable Pet Food: Healthier for People, Pets and Planet

Many pet owners are seeking out food that is sustainable and responsibly sourced. A survey of U.S. dog and cat owners found that 69 percent reported concern about the treatment of animals raised for use in pet food.

By choosing pet food from local brands and carefully reading labels, pet owners can make smart choices. While “premium” and “gourmet” are marketing adjectives that carry no beneficial meaning, labels such as “organic,” “non-GMO,” “all-natural” and “whole-food” can help buyers decipher the food that is really inside the bag or can. Brands that are registered or licensed also support credibility, as do award-winning pet food products, which can help pet owners make healthy choices for their companions.

Just as food is medicine for humans, a pet’s health and happiness begins in the bowl. By first reading about a brand, checking labels and making smart choices whether in-store or online, pet owners can support the best health of their furry family members.