Pet Digest

All Natural vs Organic – Is There a Difference? Pet parents are more label-conscious than ever. But in the ever-growing world of dog food marketing, two labels often create confusion: “Natural” and “Organic.” These words may seem interchangeable, but they’re not. Understanding the difference is crucial for making informed, healthy decisions for your dog’s diet. What Does “Natural” Mean in Dog Food? According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), natural dog food must be: Derived from plant, animal, or mined sources Not produced by or subject to a chemically synthetic process Not containing any chemically synthetic additives or processing aids However, the term “natural” is not federally regulated in the U.S., and there is no consistent third-party verification. It’s also important to note that foods labeled “natural” can still contain things like: Preservatives (e.g., mixed tocopherols, used to keep fats from going rancid) Synthetic vitamins or minerals (like V...

Treats That Should Be Marketed for Both Dogs and Cats Because good ingredients don’t need a species label. We live in a world where dogs steal cat treats and cats nibble on dog jerky—and the truth is, many treats don’t need to be separated by species at all. Especially in multi-pet homes, the overlap in healthy, species-appropriate ingredients is huge. So why are treats marketed so differently? Why the Divide Exists Short answer: marketing and money. The pet industry thrives on duplication—more labels, more packaging, more sales. But if you read the back of a high-quality single-ingredient cat treat and compare it to a dog treat… they’re often identical. Dogs are scavenging carnivores, cats are obligate carnivores, and both benefit from meat-first, low-carb, additive-free snacks. Treats That Are Perfect for Both Dogs and Cats 🐟 Freeze-Dried Fish (Salmon, Minnow, Whitefish) Why it works: High in Omega-3s, supports joint and coat health, and irresistible to both speci...