Pet Digest

Pecan Shells in Dog Food?! What’s Going On, Hills? Pecan Shells in Dog Food?! What’s Going On, Hills? Yes, you read that right. Some Hill’s dog foods — including select formulas in their “Science Diet” and “Prescription Diet” lines — list pecan shell fiber as an ingredient. And for many dog parents, the reaction is: Wait, what? Why are there nutshells in my dog’s food? Let’s unpack why this ingredient shows up, what it actually does, and whether it’s something you should be concerned about. 🥥 1. What Are Pecan Shells Doing in Dog Food? Pecan shells are a by-product of the nut industry. When pecans are processed for human consumption, the leftover shells are sometimes ground down into a fine powder. Dog food companies then add that powder as a source of insoluble fiber — essentially roughage to help bulk up stool and promote bowel regularity. Hill’s isn’t the only one to use it; other pet food manufacturers have experimented with things like beet pulp, ric...

  🧪 Part 2: Summit Ridge Farms – Pioneering Pet Food Testing and Feeding Trials Pet owners today are more informed than ever, seeking products that are not only safe but scientifically proven to support optimal health. Summit Ridge Farms (SRF) has been a cornerstone in the pet food testing industry for over two decades, providing AAFCO-approved feeding trials, palatability assessments, and clinical research services . These services are critical for pet food companies seeking to demonstrate nutritional adequacy and safety in real-world conditions. In this post, we’ll explore SRF’s methodologies, the importance of their work, areas where data transparency may fall short, and why pet owners and manufacturers should carefully consider how this testing informs product decisions. The History of Summit Ridge Farms Founded in the early 2000s, Summit Ridge Farms quickly became one of the most trusted testing facilities in the pet food industry. Their focus has always been on scienti...

Companies Excelling in Feeding Trials  In the pet food industry, ensuring the nutritional adequacy and safety of products is paramount. While formulation-based methods meet basic nutrient requirements, feeding trials provide real-world data on the food's performance and safety when consumed over time. This post examines how leading pet food brands conduct comprehensive feeding trials to guarantee the health and well-being of pets. Zignature: Beyond Standard AAFCO Trials Zignature conducts 6-month (26-week) feeding trials with 8 healthy dogs, adhering to AAFCO protocols. However, they go beyond the standard requirements by incorporating over 40 measurable parameters, including: Echocardiograms evaluated by board-certified cardiologists Cardiac biomarker testing (e.g., troponin I) at three timepoints Amino acid and taurine levels in whole blood and plasma Plasma carnitine analysis to assess nutrient absorption Weekly health checks by licensed veterinarians Stool...

Bugs on the Menu: A Friendly Guide to Insect-Based Dog Foods Insect-based dog food may sound futuristic, but it’s quickly becoming a mainstream, sustainable alternative to traditional animal proteins. Once seen as an experiment, it’s now a practical and safe option for pet parents seeking eco-friendly, allergy-conscious, or novel-protein diets for their dogs. 🐛 Which Insects Are Used in Dog Food? The pet food industry relies on a few key insect species that are easy to farm, nutrient-dense, and approved by regulatory bodies: Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) – Hermetia illucens ; rich in protein, calcium, and lauric acid, making it the top choice for insect-based diets. Mealworms – Tenebrio molitor ; prized for high-quality protein and unsaturated fats, often used in dry kibble and treats. Crickets – Acheta domesticus ; a good source of amino acids and fiber, appearing in several emerging brands worldwide. Other species – such as silkworm ...

🐾 Popular Pet Food Brands in Mexico (2025): Local Innovations & International Favorites Mexico’s pet food market in 2025 continues to thrive — blending local innovation with international expertise . From raw and natural diets to advanced veterinary formulations, pet parents across Mexico now enjoy a diverse range of nutritious, accessible options for dogs and cats alike. With pet ownership continuing to rise, many families now see their pets as full members of the household. This shift has driven demand for healthier, more transparent, and premium-quality food options. Whether you prefer raw diets, holistic blends, or established brands, the Mexican market has something for every type of pet parent. 🇲🇽 Notable Local Pet Food Brands in Mexico 1. Marley® BARF Marley® is a Mexican brand leading the fresh and raw feeding movement . Its recipes follow the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model, designed to provide dogs and cats with balanced, natu...

🐾 Top Pet Food Brands in Hong Kong (2025): Local Innovations & Global Favorites Hong Kong's pet food landscape in 2025 is a dynamic blend of locally crafted, sustainable options and trusted international brands . Whether you're seeking fresh, human-grade meals or specialized veterinary diets , Hong Kong offers a wealth of choices to cater to every pet's needs. 🇭🇰 Local Hong Kong Pet Food Brands 1. Furry Green Furry Green is a standout local brand that transforms surplus food into nutritious, human-grade meals for dogs and cats. Their innovative approach not only reduces food waste but also offers ambient-stable fresh pet food that maintains nutritional integrity for up to two years without refrigeration. Key Features: Upcycled ingredients, ambient-stable packaging, local production. Why It's Popular: Combines sustainability with premium nutrition, supporting both pets and the planet. 2. Petsona Petsona introduces dehydrated dog food ...

Top Pet Food Brands in Singapore: Local and International Favorites in 2025 Singapore’s pet scene has grown tremendously over the past decade, and with it, the pet food market has expanded to offer a wide variety of options for cats and dogs. From fresh, locally made meals to internationally trusted brands, pet owners now have access to nutritious, high-quality food options to keep their furry friends healthy and happy. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most popular pet food brands in Singapore in 2025 , focusing on both local innovators and international staples. 🏠 Local Singaporean Pet Food Brands 1. PetCubes PetCubes is one of Singapore’s leading local pet food brands, offering fresh, human-grade meals for dogs and cats. Their products include both raw and gently cooked options, formulated with input from nutritionists and veterinarians. Key features: HACCP-certified production, tropical-friendly nutrition, high-quality ingredients. Why it’s popular: ...

Understanding Ketogenic Diets: High Fat, Low Carb Nutrition Explained The ketogenic diet—often called “keto”—has gained popularity in recent years for both humans and pets. But what exactly does “ketogenic” mean, and why is it such a hot topic? At its core, a ketogenic diet shifts the body’s main fuel source away from carbohydrates and toward fat. This metabolic state, known as ketosis , can have profound effects on energy use, weight management, and even certain health conditions. What Is a Ketogenic Diet? A ketogenic diet is typically described as: High in fat : The majority of calories (often 70–80%) come from fats such as oils, animal fats, and fatty cuts of meat. Low to moderate in protein : Protein intake is controlled—too much protein can interfere with ketosis. Low to no carbohydrates : Carbohydrates are severely restricted, often less than 5–10% of daily calories. This composition encourages the body to produce ketones —molecules created from fat metabo...

  Rosemary Extract in Pet Food: Natural Preservative or Hidden Risk? In recent years, more pet food companies have shifted away from synthetic preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. Instead, many brands now highlight “natural preservatives” on their labels—most commonly rosemary extract. Rosemary extract is valued for its natural antioxidant properties, but some pet parents have concerns about whether it may be linked to seizures in dogs. Let’s break down what rosemary extract is, how it’s used, and what the science says about its safety. --- What Is Rosemary Extract? Rosemary extract is derived from the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis), a common culinary herb. In pet food, it isn’t used for flavor but for its antioxidant compounds, particularly carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid. These compounds help slow down the oxidation of fats and oils in kibble and treats, extending shelf life and preserving nutritional quality. Pet Food Institute – Preservatives --- ...

Subscription Dog Foods: Expanded Brand Guide — Why Try Them, What to Watch For Part 2 — a follow-up to “Subscription Dog Foods: Trend or Something to Rely On?” . This picks up where that post left off and expands the brand-by-brand breakdown, pricing guidance, the difference between autoship and subscription, and a deeper look at why this isn't just a passing trend. Quick connecting paragraph If you read our overview post, you already know the basics: subscription services promise convenience, customization, and fresher-feeling options than traditional kibble. Below we dig deeper into five popular companies — what makes each appealing, the real caveats pet parents should consider, and how cost and logistics factor into long-term reliability. How to read the ratings Cost rating (quick guide): 💲 = Most affordable 💲💲 = Moderate 💲💲💲 = Premium 💲💲💲💲 = High-end 💲💲💲💲💲 = Luxury / very high ...

Science Diet’s Microbiome Launch — What Does It Really Change? Science Diet recently introduced its new “Microbiome” formulas, featuring prebiotics and specialty fiber blends (ActivBiome+). Many pet parents are wondering: does this update meaningfully improve the food — or is it mostly a marketing refresh? What Is Microbiome Nutrition? The gut microbiome is the community of trillions of microbes living in the digestive tract. These bacteria influence: Nutrient absorption Immune system regulation Skin and coat health Behavior via the gut–brain axis Hill’s ActivBiome+ adds prebiotics (fermentable fibers) intended to feed beneficial gut bacteria, which can help with stool quality and gas control when paired with an overall balanced diet. Why quality matters in dog food: would you rather feed better? The Ingredient Concern Despite the microbiome-forward marketing, many Science Diet formulas still list corn, wheat, or animal by-pro...

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food? (And Why Cats Should Never Eat Dog Food) --- Caught Your Dog Snacking from the Cat Bowl? You’re Not Alone. It’s a common scene: you turn around, and your dog’s muzzle is buried in the cat’s food bowl—tail wagging like they’ve discovered buried treasure. But is it safe? Can dogs eat cat food? And why is it such a big deal if your cat eats the dog’s food? Let’s break it down. --- 🐾 The Big Difference Between Cat Food and Dog Food Cats and dogs may both be carnivores, but they have very different nutritional needs. Cats are obligate carnivores – they must eat meat to survive. Dogs are opportunistic omnivores – they thrive on a balance of animal proteins, fats, and carbs. This means that cat food is much richer in animal protein and fat—designed to fuel your feline’s meat-powered metabolism. Dog food, on the other hand, is typically more balanced and lower in protein. --- 🍽️ Key Nutritional Differences Nutrient Cat Food Dog Food Protein Very high Moderate to high F...