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Does your pet suffer from itchy skin, chronic ear infections, excessive gas, loose stools, vomiting, or just not eating? It may be time to take a look at their diet. As pet parents, we always want what’s best for our furry friends. That includes giving them a well-balanced diet. Picking out the right recipe for your dog or cat can be tough: even the most seemingly natural pet foods can be full of filler ingredients and digestive irritants. That’s why it’s important to know right from the start what foods to look out for on pet food labels.  We’ll cover what ingredients are traditionally bad for dogs and cats so you can keep your pets happy and healthy.   What Ingredients Are Bad for Dogs and Cats?   [Source] Here are some common ingredients in cat and dog food that have been shown to cause digestive problems: 1. Excessive starches (green peas, beet pulp, potato, sweet potato, etc.) Sometimes, we make the error of assuming that, if an ingredient is good for us, it must be good for our pets. The reality is, dogs and cats are natural carnivores that thrive on a high protein diet. While humans can benefit from a variety of ingredients in our diet like green peas and sweet potatoes, the same cannot be said for pets. Excessive starches are common ingredients in pet food–but they’re not doing our pets any favors. These are filler ingredients that keep manufacturing costs down. They provide no health benefits to dogs and cats, and can often be digestive irritants. Pet food companies may claim that peas, corn, and other similar ingredients are good for your pet, but they actually may be the culprit of your pet’s digestive problems, like constipation, diarrhea, or even food allergies.  If your dog or cat is suffering from digestive upset or food allergies, be sure to check their food for the following ingredients that could be causing these issues: Green Peas Beet Pulp Potato Corn Barley   2. Animal by-products, meat by-products, and grain by-products Take a look at your pet food ingredients list. Do you see a protein source that ends in “by-product?” A significant number of pet food brands choose to use these products, rather than the true protein (i.e. meat by-product instead of a meat source itself) to keep costs low while maintaining a higher protein and calorie content.  Look for animal proteins in the first three ingredients for the most beneficial source of protein and essential amino acids. When the meat source is unspecified, it truly is unknown what your pet is consuming. This can be problematic when dealing with a food allergy.  If your dog or cat is experiencing food-related allergies, be conscientious of what protein source is in their food to determine if that’s the cause, and if there’s a better alternative for them.   3. Soy products (soybean meal, textured vegetable protein/TVP, isolated soy protein, etc.) In recent years, soy products have been used more and more frequently in pet foods, including prescription diets. Soybean meal is the most common and is used often because it’s a cheap source of protein. Some manufacturers even state that soy is a good alternative protein source for pets with food allergies to meats like chicken or turkey.  Despite their prevalence, soy products can actually be an allergen as well. For dogs and cats alike, it can cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, and hair loss in addition to stomach upset. This is an increasing trend among genetically modified products.  Additionally, studies have recently emerged that have linked soy to gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), or bloating. GDV is a serious condition, where air accumulates in the stomach, causing the stomach to twist and restricting blood flow throughout an animal’s body. If not treated immediately, the risk of fatality is high.  While the causes of GDV, as well as preventative steps, are still being researched, there are a few facts we know. According to the American Kennel Club, “foods containing soybean meal or having oils or fats in the first four ingredients increase the risk [of GDV] by fourfold.” Although bloating is most common in large-breed dogs, it can develop in small dogs and even cats. If you’re concerned that your pet is experiencing bloating, make sure to contact your veterinarian immediately.   4. MSG, melamine, & other chemically altered proteins (hydrolyzed chicken, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, etc.) Hydrolyzed proteins are typically prescribed by veterinarians to minimize the food allergies pets may experience. It is also prescribed to dogs and cats that have been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).  These foods are formulated through hydrolysis, a process in which water chemically breaks down protein into pieces that are so small that the immune system no longer reacts to them. So if a cat or dog has allergies to chicken, they may be given hydrolyzed chicken instead to see if that eliminates the reaction while ensuring they’re getting sufficient protein. Many veterinarians (and even pet parents themselves) report good results from hydrolyzed proteins - but that’s not always the case. In many of the studies cited that link a reduction in food allergies or IBS to a hydrolyzed diet, they often had ties to the pet food manufacturers in the first place. Independent research, on the other hand, could not find such definitive results.  In fact, a 2016 study completed by Masuda, Kenichi et al. found that anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of dogs fed hydrolyzed protein will still experience symptoms due to food hypersensitivity. The reality is that elimination of a food allergen is the most effective way to prevent a reaction.  The best option for your dog or cat is to try different, single-meat recipes. Feeding them a novel protein (a protein that your pet has never eaten before), is a great place to start. Attempting to feed your pet the same protein they’re allergic to, just in a different format, is ineffective at best, and can be detrimental to your pet in the long term.  Instead, feed your dog or cat a novel protein such as rabbit cat food or limited ingredient dog food to see if that eliminates their stomach upset. Explore limited ingredient dog food   5. Artificial preservatives, colors & flavors Preservatives are formulated into nearly all pet food recipes to ensure they have a long shelf life. Preservatives aren’t inherently bad, it’s just a matter of which preservatives are being used.  Natural preservatives, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E family), and Rosemary Oil are perfectly safe antioxidants that naturally slow the rate of oxidation down to preserve a product. Though these are safe options, many pet food companies instead choose to use artificial preservatives because they are much cheaper to manufacture.  Not all artificial preservatives are bad, but there are some to be wary of. Two infamous additives are butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) which have both been identified as possible carcinogens for pets.  They’re cheap ways to guarantee the shelf life of a product and are used as a synthetic alternative to Vitamin C. Many manufacturers will claim that they are harmless, but studies have shown otherwise. Ethoxyquin is another controversial additive used in pet foods. It has been banned in the European Union and Australia, but is still permitted by the FDA to be used in pet foods in the U.S. in small quantities. Ethoxyquin is commonly used in pesticides, and studies have linked it to certain forms of cancer.  Fortunately, most pet food brands have removed it from their recipes due to the backlash from consumers. Still, it serves as an important reminder to be conscious of what preservatives are used in our pet foods, and to do our research before feeding our pets.   6. Added sugars or sweeteners While pets, like humans, can enjoy naturally sweet treats like fruit, sugar can be toxic and unhealthy in large amounts. A sugar-heavy diet can cause digestive upset, tooth decay, obesity, and diabetes in pets, so avoid ingredients like brown sugar, powdered sugar, processed sugar, and cane sugar.  Artificial sweeteners can also be dangerous for your pets. Xylitol, an added sugar used in things like human candies, is very poisonous to dogs. Some kinds of peanut butter contain xylitol, so make sure you check those labels! Theobromine, often used in low-sugar chocolate, is also toxic for dogs.  If you like sharing your human treats with your pet, make sure you check the ingredients list and consult your veterinarian.   7. Certain fats While fats are an essential part of your pet's nutrition–and too much “bad fat” doesn’t affect their cholesterol levels or their risk of heart attack or stroke quite as much as in humans–there are some high-fat foods they should not eat. Fatty human foods can be dangerous to your pets. For example, hide trimmings can cause pancreatitis in both dogs and cats, a condition that can be life-threatening or lead to long-lasting health conditions.  Although avocado fat is considered healthy for humans, the persin in avocados causes digestive upset for our furry friends.   8. Unnecessary thickeners While some thickeners are safe in pet food, such as agar, a plant-based thickener, some thickeners in pet foods are unnecessary and may cause health problems.  Carrageenan, for example, which is extracted from red seaweed, can cause stomach irritation and has been linked to cancer and insulin problems.  It’s important to check the type of thickeners used by your pet food brand to avoid adding unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients to your pet’s diet.   9. Corn syrup  Corn is a common ingredient in pet food, but it can be dangerous when in the form of high fructose corn syrup. Humans may use it frequently to sweeten our own food and drinks, but just as too much of it can create health problems for us, so too is corn syrup a dangerous ingredient for our pets when consumed in excess.  Too much sugar leads to gastrointestinal discomfort, weight gain, and eventual obesity, alongside the health conditions that often accompany obesity. And if your pet has diabetes already, the rapid blood sugar spike may be particularly dangerous.   10. Nitrates or nitrites  Human foods like hot dogs, ham, and deli meats often contain nitrates or nitrites, preservatives that increase meat products’ shelf life. Some pet foods also include sodium nitrite as a preservative, but nitrates (or nitrites) in high doses can be dangerous for pets.  High levels of nitrates or nitrites in animals can lead to nitrate poisoning, methemoglobinemia (or anemia), and cancer.   11. Too much salt  Dog owners in particular need to pay attention to their pets’ salt intake. Dogs with high levels of salt intake may develop salt toxicity, which causes gastrointestinal issues (like vomiting and diarrhea), and if the condition isn’t treated, it may cause seizures and death.  “Too much” depends on the size of your dog, so it’s best to talk to your vet about the salt in your pet’s diet.   Specific Ingredients to Avoid for Cats  [Source] Cats may be picky eaters, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll choose foods that are best for them. That’s why we need to check pet foods to ensure they don’t have harmful ingredients. Check labels for any of the following: 1. Artificial colors Some cat food brands use artificial colors to make the food more visually appealing, but coloring agents may be harmful and have been linked to serious health effects.   2. Artificial flavor These flavors are often used to make plant-based foods more appealing to carnivorous cats. Know that some food brands use ingredient names that aren’t immediately obvious as artificial flavors, like animal digest or glandular meal.   3. Carrageenan Some gravy-style wet cat foods use carrageenan as a thickening agent and emulsifier to create a smoother texture. The FDA has labeled it as safe, but more studies are needed; degraded carrageenan is known to cause inflammation, gastrointestinal ulceration, and other gut health issues, and some studies have shown that food-grade carrageenan may cause inflammation, as well.   4. Highly-refined grains You don’t have to remove all grain from your cat’s diet. But you should check to make sure your cat food doesn’t include highly processed grains like wheat flour or ground corn, which have been refined to separate the nutrient-rich bran and germ and are often used as fillers.    5. PFAS (also known as Teflon) PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are used to slow fat oxidation, protect against moisture, and extend shelf life. They are considered “forever chemicals” by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), meaning they don’t break down in the environment and also stay in the body for years (possibly decades). They may contribute to infertility, kidney problems, and testicular cancer.   6. Soy products Soy is one of the top ingredients used as fillers in lower-quality cat food because soybean meal and other soy products are inexpensive sources of protein. The isoflavones in soy can cause a range of health issues for cats, including thyroid conditions or hormone-related health issues, while the phytic acid in soy products may also cause a lack of nutrient absorption.   7. Sweeteners Did you know cats only have 500 taste buds as opposed to humans’ 9,000? Since cats aren’t able to taste sweetness with those taste buds, sweeteners (including cane sugar and molasses) serve no purpose in their food.  Too much highly-sweetened cat food may contribute to weight gain and obesity, which causes multiple health problems and shortens your beloved pets’ lifespan.   8. Synthetic preservatives Natural preservatives are safe in pet foods, so if you see ingredients like tocopherols and rosemary extract, you’ve found a safe bet. But if you see synthetic preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), return that food to the shelf. High doses of these chemicals have been linked to kidney and liver damage in cats and have been linked to allergic reactions. Ethoxyquin is another chemical preservative to watch out for. It is technically FDA-approved for pet foods, but it was initially used as a pesticide and has been banned in Europe and Australia.   9. Meat by-products Brands often don’t know what species of animal their meat by-products come from, and by-products are also considered an inferior form of protein for cats. The rendering process destroys (or changes) natural enzymes and proteins, and is generally low-quality.  Look for brands that use higher-quality protein sources like chicken or salmon rather than meat by-products or meat concentrate.   Specific Ingredients to Avoid for Dogs [Source] Many dogs are excited to get their paws on any food, but it’s important to make sure they’re eating food that gives them the nutrients they need and that doesn’t include ingredients that may affect your dog’s health and well-being.  Here are some ingredients to avoid:   1. Synthetic preservatives Like cat food, some dog foods, treats, and bones use synthetic preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), Ethoxyquin, Nitrates/Nitrites, Propyl Gallate, Carrageenan, MSG, or Sodium Hexametaphosphate. They give the food a longer shelf life, but they’re also known carcinogens that may cause liver or kidney failure and other health issues.   2. Corn syrup or xylitol (sweeteners) Dogs don’t particularly enjoy sweetened food, so sweeteners are unnecessary. On top of that, these ingredients can harm your dog’s health; their high glycemic index increases your dog's risk for diabetes. Xylitol, although used as a sweetener for human foods, is toxic to dogs and may cause fatal incidents of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or liver failure.   3. Food dyes Artificial coloring increases your dog’s risk for diabetes. It’s better to use food with its own natural coloring!   4. Unspecified meat meal/meat by-products Unspecified meat meal and other meat byproducts may increase the amount of protein in dog food, but they are made from animal scraps, and manufacturers often don’t know the origins of those scraps, which means it can be hard to anticipate the effect byproducts may have on your dog.   5. Unhealthy fats Some unhealthy fats to avoid include rendered fats and vegetable oil. Rendered fats may be a source of toxins and a potential source of harmful bacteria or mold growth. And vegetable oil is both unnecessary and may trigger inflammation, particularly for dogs with arthritis.   6. Melamine Used to increase the amount of protein, melamine may cause kidney failure if ingested in high amounts.   7. Propylene glycol Propylene glycol may help manage moisture in semi-moist foods, but it can also be toxic in large amounts. It can trigger allergic reactions and cause skin, liver, and kidney damage.    8. Unnecessary fillers Fillers bulk up dog food, but they have little nutritional value. Such unnecessary fillers include wheat gluten, cellulose, and potatoes.   9. Gluten and certain grains for dogs with allergies Most dogs can have grains in their diet, but some dogs may have allergies to grains like corn, wheat, soy, and gluten.    10. Soy products Soy can be used as a filler, but it’s not a nutrient-dense protein. The isoflavones, a type of estrogen, may cause health issues by affecting your dog’s endocrine system. It’s also a common allergen that may cause gas and bloating.   What Ingredients to Look For in Dog Food & Cat Food [Source]   Choosing nutritious food for your pets doesn’t just mean looking for ingredients to avoid; it’s just as important to look for specific foods that are healthy and contribute to their overall health and well-being. Protein  Protein is an essential part of your pet’s diet, but many pet food brands pad their foods with unhealthy or unnecessary proteins. Meat, however, should be a primary ingredient - first on the label. Cats are carnivores, and although dogs can survive on plant-based diets, they won’t thrive. Meat can provide your pets with all the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids they need.   The key is to look for brands that specifically name the proteins they use. The ingredients should list beef, chicken, or other specific meats rather than generic “meat” or “poultry.” Fats Some fats are unnecessary or unhealthy, but healthy fats are an essential part of a nutritious diet. They promote healthy skin and coats, and they help prevent chronic inflammation, which can cause or accompany many diseases.    Omega-3 fatty acids, one kind of healthy fat, are found in fish, chicken, flaxseed oil, olive oil, egg yolks, and more. If you want to buy products that guarantee there are enough fats to make a difference in your pet’s diet, look for a guaranteed analysis on the label. Fiber Like humans, pets need dietary fiber for a well-rounded, healthy diet. Fiber helps regulate the digestive system, which helps maintain blood sugar levels. You can ensure your pet has the fiber they need by looking for ingredients like beet pulp, pumpkin, sweet potato, whole grains, and psyllium husk. Vitamins & Minerals  Your pets need certain vitamins and minerals for a healthy diet just like you. Aim for food that provides your pets with:   Vitamin A for a healthy immune system and cell function. You can find vitamin A in liver, fish oil, and various fruits and vegetables. B Vitamins for metabolic health and a healthy nervous system. You can find them in meat, eggs, and whole grains. Vitamin D for bone health. Find vitamin D in fish and beef liver. Vitamin E for fat metabolism and to protect against oxidative damage. Find it in leafy greens, seeds, and some oils. Vitamin K for helping blood clot. Find in leafy greens and fish. Calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones and teeth. Find them in dairy (for dogs rather than cats), fish, and meat. Potassium for muscle function and nerve transmission. Find in many whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Magnesium for vitamin absorption and protein protection. Find in leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains. Iron for the formation of red blood cells. Find in meat, which provides the highest quantities. Cats specifically need the amino acid taurine, which, unlike dogs and humans, cats can’t synthesize from other amino acids. If cats don’t get taurine from their diet, the subsequent taurine deficiency can lead to heart disease, blindness, and other health issues. Make sure your cats get the taurine they need from meat, especially organ meats like heart and liver.   How to Make Sure Your Dog or Cat Is Eating the Right Ingredients Making sure your pet is eating the right food might seem overwhelming at first, especially with so many ingredients to look for and avoid. To make things easier, focus on the following steps for finding the best food for your pet’s needs:   1. Carefully read cat and dog food nutrition labels  Skip past the claims on the front of the label and turn right to the ingredients list and nutrition label. Make sure the brand you’re interested in doesn’t have any of the “Ingredients to Avoid,” and then look for major ingredients that provide the nutritional value your pet needs, such as clearly-identified meats, certain fruits and vegetables, and certain grains.   2. Learn about alternative diets for dogs Sometimes, when our pets are suffering from troublesome symptoms, we turn to alternative diets, just as we might for ourselves. Alternative diets, such as grain-free or gluten-free diets, may help your pet achieve good overall health by identifying food intolerances.  One such diet is a novel protein diet for dogs. This diet involves introducing your dog to a protein that they’ve never tried before (which is what makes it “novel”). Many dogs may not have been exposed to rabbit or pork, so those are good meats to start with.  A novel protein diet can help you address food sensitivities or allergies to chicken or beef that your dog may have developed. KOHA offers a line of novel protein foods for dogs, all of which are primarily meat-based meals with protein sources such as duck, rabbit, pork, or salmon.   Limited ingredient diets are another method for treating allergies.  Limited ingredient dog foods have fewer ingredients than most other dog foods. But make sure you still check the label–sometimes even limited-ingredient dog foods have hidden ingredients that may cause problems for dogs with allergies! KOHA offers a range of limited ingredient foods that contain 90% meat (with options for novel proteins like salmon or duck) and pumpkin for digestive support. Learn more about the novel protein and limited ingredient diets for dogs!   3. Choose high-quality dog or cat food  Another way to guarantee your pet’s diet is nutritious and free from problematic ingredients is to choose brands known for their high-quality dog or cat food. Many of these higher-quality brands value providing pet owners with healthy foods. If you’re looking for a brand you can trust, KOHA focuses on providing quality pet foods that are safe for sensitive stomachs, free from unnecessary or “junky” fillers, and a proven hit with picky pets!  Find healthy, pet-approved food today.   We know your pet’s health is important to you. To help you choose the best food for your furry family members, here are a few more questions to consider: What foods are toxic to cats? Some foods toxic to cats include: Avocados Onions and garlic Raw eggs or meat Chocolate Caffeine Alcohol Milk and dairy products Grapes Raisins What ingredients should I stay away from in cat food? Some of the most common ingredients you should stay away from in cat food include animal by-products, unnecessary grains and fillers, artificial colors or flavors, unhealthy preservatives, added sugars, and rendered fats. What is the most unhealthy food for cats? Some of the most unhealthy foods for cats include: Chocolate Onions or garlic Grapes or raisins Alcohol or yeasted dough Dairy products Citrus Raw potatoes Fat trimmings Excessive treats What are toxic foods for dogs? The following foods are all toxic for dogs: Avocado Cherries Chocolate Grapes and raisins Tomatoes Mushrooms Onions and garlic Rhubarb Sugar-free candy and gum (specifically, xylitol, the sweetener used in such candies) Peanut butter that contains xylitol Flavored waters, which often use xylitol Dairy products Caffeine Alcohol Macadamia nuts Uncooked yeasted doughs Moldy food What should the first three ingredients in dog food be? When shopping for healthy food for your dog, look for products with the following listed as the first three ingredients: High-quality protein like chicken, beef, fish, lamb, or other specified meat sources. Dogs need protein for muscle and tissue development, a healthy immune system, and healthy skin and nails! Natural carbs like those from whole fruits and veggies. Healthy fats from animal fats or plant-based oils. Is chicken meal bad for dogs? Chicken meal isn’t necessarily bad for dogs. If a product lists chicken meal by-product, you may want to avoid it due to the lack of oversight in regards to where meat by-products come from. But chicken meal on its own can provide lots of protein, amino acids, glucosamine (for healthy joints), and important minerals.  So make sure you look for high-quality, trustworthy brands that list “chicken meal” rather than “chicken by-product” as one of the ingredients. What ingredient is bad for dogs in peanut butter? Some peanut butter brands contain xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener. This is the only ingredient in peanut butter that may be dangerous for dogs. Otherwise, peanut butter is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins, so it can be a healthy treat.  Make sure you look for brands without xylitol! My Cat or Dog Eats One or More of These Ingredients…Now What? If your pet has any of the above ingredients in their food–don’t panic! There’s still time to get them adjusted to a new diet.  If you’re concerned about the quality of your dog or cat’s diet, check out KOHA’s pet food options. All of the recipes are high quality, filler-free, and high in meat protein. For especially sensitive stomachs, we recommend the Limited Ingredient Diet entrées for dogs and cats. Before you switch your pet to a new food, make sure to transition, over the course of five or more days to avoid additional stomach upset. You’ll soon see the difference that a healthy diet can make. Check out healthy, pet-approved meals at KOHA!             --  References Grognet, D. J. (2022, March 14). Bloat (or GDV) in dogs - what it is and how it's treated. American Kennel Club. Retrieved August 24, 2022, from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/bloat-in-dogs/ Masuda, K., Sato, A., Tanaka, A., & Kumagai, A. (2020, February 18). Hydrolyzed diets may stimulate food-reactive lymphocytes in dogs. The Journal of veterinary medical science. Retrieved August 24, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7041975/ Juncker, J.-C. (2017, June 7). COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) 2017/962 of 7 June 2017 suspending the authorisation of ethoxyquin as a feed additive for all animal species and categories. Europa. Retrieved August 24, 2022, from https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32017R0962&from=HR

Many pet foods advertise their products as “complete and balanced,” but that may not be enough if your dog has a food intolerance. If your dog is showing signs of intolerance, finding the right diet plan is important. Dealing with constant diarrhea and an upset stomach is no way for a dog or pet parent to live.  That’s why switching your dog to a food that does not cause these symptoms is your best chance to combat dog food intolerance or allergies.  Here are some tips for treating food intolerance in dogs.   What is Food Intolerance in Dogs? If your dog is scratching or licking themselves frequently or suffering from gastrointestinal symptoms, they may have a food intolerance or allergy. Food intolerance is a chronic condition in which your dog is unable to properly digest a certain ingredient. As a result, dogs who suffer from a food intolerance often experience gastrointestinal discomfort (including flatulence, diarrhea, or vomiting), itchy skin, or chronic foot or ear infections.   Food intolerance vs food sensitivities vs food allergies Food intolerances or sensitivities are often confused with food allergies, which occur less frequently. So what’s the difference? While food intolerance is a chronic condition resulting from a dog’s inability to digest certain foods, food allergies involve an immunological response, such as hives, swelling, itchiness, gastrointestinal symptoms, or, in worse cases, anaphylactic shock.  As you can tell, symptoms for the two conditions can overlap, making it hard to determine which is the cause of your canine’s symptoms. Dogs with allergic reactions build up antibodies against the trigger food, so allergies may only manifest after prolonged exposure to the food or ingredient.   Signs of Food Intolerances and Allergies in Dogs [Source] Even if your dog’s food intolerance or allergy isn’t immediately life-threatening, the associated symptoms affect their well-being and comfort. If you notice any of the following symptoms, talk to your vet about your dog’s diet.   Upset Stomach & Vomiting Gastrointestinal symptoms are the most common food intolerance and allergy symptoms for dogs. If your dog frequently vomits or burps after eating, it may be a sign that they’re experiencing an upset stomach and might have an allergy or intolerance to their current food.   Skin Rashes & Itching Ever heard the term “ears and rears”? It’s a term often used to describe commonly afflicted areas when your dog suffers from rashes and itching. Allergy- or intolerance-related itching can be more widespread, however, and if your dog is scratching often, you should talk to your vet.   Diarrhea Diarrhea is another gastrointestinal symptom to watch out for. If your dog has loose or unformed stools more often than usual (the general benchmark is loose stools three or more times a day), you should investigate their food and talk to your vet. (If your pooch suffers instead from constipation, learn more about common causes of constipation and foods to help get things moving!)   Hair Loss Also known as alopecia, fur or hair loss (depending on your dog’s breed) is often associated with allergies or intolerances. Some loss of fur is normal, but losing enough fur to reveal the skin underneath is not.    Ear Infections Ear infections can be a symptom of food intolerance, although it’s not a direct result of allergies or intolerances. Infections are secondary symptoms often caused by your dog’s scratching and chewing to relieve their itchy skin. Make sure you take your dog to the vet to receive treatment for the infection alongside your change of food.   How to Manage & Treat Food Intolerances in Dogs We know you want to alleviate your dog’s symptoms and improve their quality of life as soon as possible so they can get back to their normal, happy self.  Here are some steps you can take to address food intolerances in dogs:   1. Switch to a Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food The first thing to do is switch your dog to a limited ingredient diet dog food. Limited ingredient foods include meats like duck, pork, or beef and limited additional ingredients like green mussel and pumpkin, limiting exposure to several ingredients that could cause issues for your dog. This helps you and your dog avoid potential allergies to unnecessary fillers and allows you more control over their nutrition. Changing their food to a brand that includes high-quality animal proteins and limited beneficial ingredients can help reduce digestive issues. For example, KOHA’s limited ingredient products offer nutrition without all the junky fillers. Their limited ingredient diet entrées are composed of 90% meat and include minimal secondary ingredients known to support canine health.  Explore tasty limited ingredient meals for your dog!   2. Make Sure it’s Not Food Allergies The main cause of dog digestive problems can be either food intolerance or food allergies. Dogs suffering from dog food intolerance usually suffer through digestive issues while dogs with allergies tend to exhibit symptoms such as flaky skin, constant itching and scratching, rashes, and vomiting (though symptoms for allergies can also include diarrhea, nausea, and other stomach issues).  Even if you think you’ve figured out what ingredient or ingredients might be the source of your dog’s issues, check with your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.  Learn more about the best dog foods to address food allergies.   3. Pick a Food with Novel Protein Novel proteins are excellent for dogs with food intolerance and sensitivities. Novel proteins are protein sources that have not been previously fed to your pet, as opposed to staple choices like beef, poultry, pork, and tuna.  KOHA offers a variety of novel protein foods for your pooch. Choose from duck, rabbit, salmon, or lamb for your dog’s entrée and top off their meal with the Elk & Venison Raw Topper!  Watching a pet suffer from dog food intolerance is never easy, but with these tips, you can help your dog find a diet that makes him happy and healthy.   More About Food Intolerance in Dogs Interested in learning more about food intolerance in dogs? Below we answer several frequently asked questions about dog food sensitivities and address common concerns.   Is my dog sensitive to a certain food? If your pup exhibits gastrointestinal distress or scratches themselves excessively, they might have a food sensitivity or food allergy. Determining which food they’re sensitive to can take time, since it may take up to 8-12 weeks of using a new diet to determine if it’s effective for your dog.   Is there a dog food intolerance test?  While several companies market pet allergy tests, many commercial blood and saliva tests aren’t validated, meaning they haven’t shown results indicating actual clinical changes in pets.  It’s tempting to find fast, simple methods of determining your dog’s sensitivities, since you want to alleviate their suffering as soon as possible. The gold standard for diagnosing or ruling out allergies and intolerances is an elimination diet and “re-challenge,” or re-introduction of an ingredient to determine if a reduction of symptoms was simply a coincidence rather than food-related allergens.   How do I know if my dog has a food intolerance? Changes in behavior or general health are often strong indicators that something is wrong with your pooch.  Signs of food intolerance include: Digestive upset (including vomiting or diarrhea) Itchy skin, paws, or ears Changes in energy levels Weight loss Aggression However, it’s important to consult your vet to rule out any other underlying conditions and to discuss possible changes in your dog’s food.   How do you fix a dog with food intolerance? One of the best ways to manage food intolerances is by updating your dog’s diet. Consult with your vet to determine the best dietary changes for your dog.   What is the most common dog food sensitivity? The most common dog food sensitivities are beef, dairy products, chicken, wheat, and lamb. Less commonly-reported food sensitivities include soy, corn, egg, pork, fish, and rice.  Some other ingredients that cause stomach upset include meat by-products, starches, chemically-altered proteins, and artificial preservatives. If your pup has a sensitive stomach, try some sensitive dog food recipes.   What do you feed a dog with food intolerance? If your dog is suffering from symptoms of food intolerance or allergies, you have options for helping them feel better with tasty and nutritious food.  Some of the best options for dogs with food intolerance include: Bland diets: A bland diet for dogs is a meal plan that’s low in fat and contains easily digestible carbohydrates. They usually include lean protein sources and carbohydrates. Protein, essential for healing and recovery, is often provided through boiled chicken (without the skin and bones) or beef. Novel protein foods: Novel proteins are proteins that your dog wouldn’t have been exposed to before and can include foods like elk, venison, duck, or fish. Limited-ingredient foods: These foods contain minimal ingredients so you can avoid junky fillers and control the ingredients you and your dog test on their system.   Manage Your Dog’s Food Intolerance with the Right Diet Your dog deserves to live a happy, healthy life free of troublesome symptoms due to food intolerance or food allergies. Luckily, you can help your best friend manage their food intolerance with simple dietary changes!  KOHA is dedicated to helping dogs achieve optimal health with high-quality food that even picky pets enjoy.  Check out KOHA’s Recipe Guide for Dogs to help you find the best meal options for your dog’s needs!

Have you ever sought out the perfect food for your pet, done the research, and invested in a high quality product - just for them to turn away at the bowl? Unfortunately, dogs and cats can be very picky, even when the food you purchase is well balanced. Having a finicky appetite here and there isn't uncommon, but when it happens frequently there may be cause for concern. If your pet constantly refuses to eat, here are a few potential reasons why:   1. Texture Like humans, dogs and cats can have preferences when it comes to food. Texture can play an important role in whether or not your pet likes a given type of food. While their preference may be as simple as wet food versus dry food, it can also be more specific. Wet food can come in a variety of textures, including loaf/paté, shredded, cuts of meat, and in a broth or gravy.   If your pet doesn’t seem to be digging their dinner, try introducing a new entrée with a different texture to see if that caters to their taste. Make sure to transition gradually to avoid stomach upset, which can lead to even more picky eating. We recommend a transition period of at least eight days to help your dog or cat get accustomed to a new diet. 2. Upset Stomach Sometimes our pets won’t want to eat for a simple reason: their stomach hurts! Just like it’s difficult for us to eat when we're nauseous, pets can experience the same thing. It can often be difficult to identify an upset stomach, simply because our dog or cat can’t communicate to us. Fortunately, there’s some other symptoms we can look out for to determine if this is the case: Fatigue Drinking less water Lethargy/lack of activity Vomiting Diarrhea If your dog or cat is exhibiting any of these signs in addition to not eating, an upset stomach could be the cause. If this is unusual for your pet, it may be a good idea to schedule a trip to their vet just to be safe. Often times, food allergies may be the culprit.   3. Too Many Treats Does your dog or cat go crazy for a treat? Many pets do! It can be hard to resist spoiling them, especially when they give you the “look”.   Sound familiar? It’s very easy to underestimate the amount of treats your pet is getting everyday, which is where the problem may lie. If your dog or cat is getting too many treats, they’re going to be too full for their meals! Excessive treats also put your pet at risk of being overweight - which can have serious health implications. Extra weight puts stress on the joints, and increases your pal's risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Being overweight has also shown to lower the lifespan of a dog or cat. If you’re worried that your pet is overweight and want to find a solution, check out this blog.  Treats should make up no more than 10% of a pet’s daily calorie intake. Pay special attention to the calories per treat for your pet, and when possible, opt for a snack that is lower in calories, minimal ingredient, and high in protein. Keep treats to a minimum until your pet begins to consistently eat their meals again.    4. Follow a Strict Feeding Routine It’s easy to get in the habit of putting out a bowl of food, and letting your dog or cat get to it whenever they feel hungry. But free feeding can encourage unfavorable habits, including picky eating. When pets learn that food is always available, they’ll pick and choose whenever they feel like taking a bite. This can encourage them to either undereat or overeat. If you haven’t already, try to establish a consistent feeding schedule for your dog or cat. Most dogs and cats do well eating twice per day. Set your schedule, and put their food out at the same time each day. Don’t let the food sit for more than 15-20 minutes: if they haven’t eaten, simply put it away until their next scheduled meal. Your pet will quickly get accustomed to the routine, and learn that they need to eat when their food is available. Best of all, you’ll have full control of your pet’s diet and know exactly how much they're eating each day.   5. Change it Up! Picture this: you buy your picky cat or dog a new brand of food, and they LOVE it! They lick the plate clean, and you pat yourself on the back for a job well done. Flash forward a few weeks, however, and all of a sudden it’s back to square one: your pet won’t even look at the food. It’s more common than you think! The likely reason for this behavior is that your pet is simply sick of the same food all of the time. Think about it: if you had to eat your favorite meal every single day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it would get old, pretty fast. It may be time to switch your pet’s plate up if you suspect they may be suffering from mealtime boredom.  Meal toppers for dogs and cats are a great way to make things exciting again! Just sprinkle it on top of their usual food, and watch their food instantly become irresistible. You can also try a different flavor of the same recipe to see if that helps them regain interest.  The bottom line? Don’t be afraid to try new things to make mealtime fun for your dog or cat.   6. Underlying Condition If you’ve exhausted all of the above options, a trip to the vet may be necessary. Reduced or no appetite can sometimes, in serious cases, be indicative of an underlying problem.  Picky eating should be evaluated by a veterinarian, if accompanied by the following symptoms: Your pet begins vomiting and/or having diarrhea Your pet has been constipated for two or more days If your dog or cat appears to be in physical discomfort or pain Your pet has little or no appetite that persists for longer than 2 days Your pet is under six months of age, or considered a senior If you're worried about your furry friend, go ahead and schedule a visit with your trusted animal clinic. They can help get you on the right track, and help your pal get back to thriving! And if food allergies or upset stomachs continue to be a problem, it might be time to change their diet altogether. KOHA Limited Ingredient Diet entrées for dogs and cats are designed to help the most extreme food sensitivities. Each recipe is 95% Meat with no fillers or unnecessary ingredients.

When it comes to providing a nutritious diet for our furry friends, it's essential to understand the crucial components that contribute to their overall health and well-being. Taurine, an essential amino acid, plays a vital role in the diet of both dogs and cats. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of taurine and its benefits for our pets.   What is Taurine? Taurine is an amino acid that is an essential dietary requirement for dogs and cats. Taurine helps the body function, providing support such as nervous system and cell regulation and aiding in distribution of other amino acids. While certain animals can synthesize taurine on their own, dogs and cats have limited ability, making it a must-have nutrient. When a dog or cat has a taurine deficiency, it leaves them at risk for heart, vision, and urinary problems. That's why it's important to ensure their diet is providing enough taurine to help them thrive.   What are the Benefits of Taurine for Dogs and Cats? Cardiac Health Taurine for cats and dogs is crucial for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. It regulates heart rhythm, improves heart muscle function, and reduces the risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and other heart disease in dogs of all ages and breeds. For cats, adequate taurine intake is essential for preventing feline dilated cardiomyopathy. Vision and Eye Health Cats inherently have a higher taurine requirement than dogs due to their unique physiology. Taurine is necessary to maintain excellent feline vision. That being said, taurine still plays a significant role in maintaining optimal vision and eye health for dogs as well. In cats and dogs alike, it supports retinal functioning, prevents retinal degeneration, and helps avoids vision impairments and potential blindness. Digestive Health Taurine plays a role in maintaining healthy digestion in cats and dogs. It aids in the digestion and absorption of fats, ensuring optimal nutrient utilization and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and malabsorption. Immune System Taurine serves as an anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant in a pet's diet. This can help protect the body against inflammatory diseases and may reduce allergy-related inflammation. Reproductive Health Adequate taurine levels are necessary for promoting healthy pregnancy, proper fetal development, and milk production in lactating mothers. Taurine plays a role in ensuring optimal reproductive health for dogs and cats, particularly during breeding and nurturing stages. If a mother has a taurine deficiency, it can lead to poor development and growth of their kittens or puppies.   Sources of Taurine To meet your pets' taurine requirements, provide them a with a balanced diet. Most high-quality pet food specifically formulated for dogs and cats generally contain adequate taurine levels. However if you prefer feeding a homemade diet, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure your pet's taurine needs are met. Ensure proper handling and preparation of these foods to retain their nutritional value, as cooking and processing methods can affect taurine levels. You may consider incorporating a supplement, such as Progility Multivitamin, to ensure your dog or cat is receiving adequate nutrients in their diet. Additionally, incorporating taurine-rich foods into your pet's diet is beneficial. Taurine is naturally found in meat, so choosing a high protein recipe that contains meat as the first ingredient is important. KOHA recipes are high in animal protein, and include added taurine to ensure all dogs and cats are receiving the necessary amount.   Final Notes Taurine is a vital nutrient for both dogs and cats, impacting various aspects of their overall health. From promoting cardiovascular well-being to supporting vision and digestion, meeting your pet's taurine requirements is crucial. Provide balanced diets that cater to their nutritional needs by incorporating taurine-rich foods, to keep them health and thriving. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the optimal diet and nutritional requirements for your furry friends.  ___ If you are concerned about your pet, please make sure to schedule a visit to a trusted clinic. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.

Urinary health is an essential aspect of your pets' overall well-being. Both dogs and cats can experience urinary tract problems, which can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. In this blog post, we'll discuss some important tips for maintaining good urinary health for your furry friend.     Why is Urinary Health Important? Maintaining good urinary health is crucial for both dogs and cats as it directly impacts their overall well-being. The urinary system plays a vital role in eliminating waste and toxins from their bodies, regulating fluid balance, and maintaining proper kidney function. Urinary tract problems, such as infections, bladder stones, or blockages, can cause discomfort, pain, and even life-threatening conditions if left untreated.  It’s important to know the signs of problems, such as a urinary tract infection in dogs and cats, so you can know how to help them. By prioritizing urinary health, pet owners can help prevent urinary issues and ensure their beloved dogs and cats lead happy, healthy lives.    1. Ensure Your Pets Stay Hydrated Dehydration is one of the leading causes of urinary tract problems in pets. It's important to ensure your pets have access to fresh water at all times, and that they're drinking enough of it. It is recommended that dogs drink one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. Cats, on the other hand, are recommended to drink 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight daily.    You can encourage your pets to drink more water by providing them with a water fountain, adding a little bit of water to their food, or adding wet food to their diet. Read more about how to keep your pet hydrated, here.   2. Monitor Your Pets' Urination As a pet parent, you should be familiar with your pets' normal urination habits. Detecting urinary tract problems in pets can be challenging, but there are several signs that may indicate an issue. One common symptom is frequent urination. If you notice your pet needing to urinate more often than usual, straining to urinate, or having accidents in the house despite being house-trained, it could be a sign of a urinary problem. Similarly, if your pet seems to be in pain while urinating, vocalizes during the process, or displays signs of discomfort like whimpering or whining, it's crucial to pay attention and seek veterinary care. This could be a sign of a dog or cat urinary tract infection.  Changes in the appearance of urine can also be indicative of urinary tract problems. Keep an eye out for urine that appears cloudy, bloody, or has a strong, unpleasant odor. Cats, in particular, can suffer from Feline Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) - this can be caused by an accumulation of urinary stones or urinary crystals, or even stress. It's essential to note any of these symptoms and promptly consult with a veterinarian. They can conduct a thorough examination, perform diagnostic tests, and provide appropriate treatment to address your pet's urinary health concerns.   3. Keep the Litter Box (and Them) Clean For cats, a dirty litter box can lead to urinary tract problems. It's important to clean your cat's litter box regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances. A good rule of thumb is to scoop the litter box at least once a day and completely replace the litter weekly. Another important factor to consider is that cats are naturally good groomers - dogs, on the other hand, may not clean themselves as well. That’s why it’s important to keep them well-groomed, and bathe them regularly. This can help prevent buildup of bacteria that can cause UTIs and other urinary problems.   4. Consider Your Pets' Diet Your pets' diet can have a big impact on their urinary health. Feeding your pets a high-quality, well-balanced diet can help prevent urinary tract problems. Look for pet food that's specifically formulated for urinary health and that contains plenty of moisture. One effective way to increase your pet's hydration is by incorporating moisture-rich foods into their diet. For dogs, consider feeding them wet or canned food as a meal or a topper, as these options typically contain a higher water content compared to dry kibble. Kibble can often be dehydrating, due to the process in which it is manufactured. You can also mix a small amount of water into their meals to further enhance hydration. For cats, wet food is also an excellent choice. A recipe that includes cranberries can be beneficial, as it can support urinary tract health in cats. Additionally, if urinary health is a concern for your dog or cat, you may want to monitor their diet to avoid excessive levels of calcium, phosphorus, or magnesium, which can cause cat urinary crystals. You can also try a supplement, such as Nootie Urinary Support for Dogs, that can promote a healthy urinary tract and bladder.   5. Visit the Vet Regularly Regular veterinary checkups are important for maintaining your pets' overall health, including their urinary health. Your veterinarian can check for any signs of urinary tract problems during these checkups and can recommend preventative measures if necessary. Your vet may also recommend a special prescription medication or diet to help treat any urinary problems your dog or cat is experiencing.   Maintaining good urinary health is important for your pets' overall well-being. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can help keep your pets healthy and happy for years to come.

To feed grain-free, or grain-inclusive? In the past few years, there has been much confusion about what type of food is best for our furry friends. The FDA investigation into dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and certain grain-free dog food in July of 2018 brought even more concern among pet parents. As further research has come out, this correlation has been disproven and the FDA has not identified a link. What the FDA has found is that the high level of legumes, peas, and plant protein found in low quality pet foods has been one of the leading causes of DCM and other health issues in dogs - not grain-free food itself. The reality is, pet food should be full of only necessary, beneficial ingredients. Grain-inclusive pet foods inherently include unnecessary ingredients, like rice, wheat, and corn. These ingredients provide no nutritional benefits for pets, and in some cases can be digestive irritants and cause food allergies. That’s why grain-free dog food and cat food are an ideal choice for pets: they're free from these filler ingredients.   Although it’s a great way to feed, not all grain-free recipes are created equal. It’s important to opt for a high quality, grain-free cat food or dog food. But how do you know if your grain-free pet food is up to par? Here are a few key things to look out for:   Real Meat is the Main Ingredient  Dogs and cats are carnivores that naturally thrive on a high protein diet. When selecting a grain-free dog food or cat food, always make sure real meat is the first ingredient. Real meat contains the essential amino acids that dogs and cats need to thrive.  Many low-quality grain-free pet foods will be full of potatoes, starches, and other filler ingredients that are unnecessary. This can cause health problems, so it’s important to do your research and understand all of the ingredients in your pet’s food, whether it’s grain-free or not.   No Low Quality Ingredients  As previously mentioned, pet foods with filler ingredients should be avoided. But there are also several ingredients that, although high in protein, can be digestive irritants for your dog or cat. This includes meat and bone by-product (meal), soy, plant protein, and carrageenan. These ingredients are lower quality, highly processed, and can cause health problems in your pet. To learn more, check out our blog, here. Always opt for a recipe that is free from these common ingredients - your pet will thank you.   Minimally Processed Your grain-free food for dogs or cats should use natural ingredients and be formulated to retain all of its nutrients during cooking. What does this mean? Traditionally, dry dog food (i.e. kibble) is cooked multiple times at high heat, which can destroy the nutrients and flavor of the ingredients. That’s why a minimal ingredient wet food will always be a great option for your pet - it’s cooked naturally and retains the highest nutritional value.    High in Protein A dog and cat’s diet should always consist of mostly protein. But many pet food manufacturers unfortunately incorporate much more carbohydrates in their recipes than protein, as it keeps costs low. This is biologically inappropriate for pets, and can make them prone to weight gain and obesity. When choosing the best grain-free pet food, make sure that the protein content is high. Meat should always be the main ingredient in your dog food or cat food.   Moisture-Rich Traditional kibble lacks moisture, and can actually be dehydrating for your pet. Many pets, cats especially, do not get enough hydration from water alone - that’s why wet food is so beneficial. It matches the moisture content of their ancestor’s natural diet, and helps their bodies function well. Poor hydration is associated with symptoms such as diarrhea and lethargy in the short term, and conditions like diabetes and kidney dysfunction in the long term. Feeding grain-free, wet food (in combination with daily access to water) ensures your pet is hydrated and thriving.    A high quality, grain free pet food will always be a great choice for our furry friends. But make sure the recipe you choose meets all of the criteria above.  It can be daunting to find the right recipe for your pet - that’s why we made KOHA Limited Ingredient Diet Recipes for dogs and cats. These grain-free entrées contain 90-96% meat, are moisture-rich, and are always filler-free and minimally processed. We offer several single meat options (including novel proteins) that your pet will love.    If you’re concerned about your dog or cat’s diet, please schedule a visit with a trusted veterinarian. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.

As pet parents, we’re always trying to find the best quality food for our furry family members. That’s why freeze-dried dog food and cat food has increased significantly in popularity in recent years. Many find that freeze-dried pet food meets all of the nutritional requirements their pets need, in a convenient to serve format. But is freeze-dried the right choice for your dog or cat? Keep reading to find out! What is Freeze-Dried Pet Food? Freeze-drying is a modern food preparation method in which raw meat is freeze-dried in a pressurized vacuum chamber at an extremely low temperature. This process extracts the moisture from the meat, while still retaining all of the nutrients and taste.Freeze-dried food comes in a variety of forms, including freeze dried dog treats, meals, and toppers to help with picky eating. Each contain the same nutritional value, and can be a great addition to any dog or cat’s diet. What are the Benefits of Freeze-Dried Pet Food?   Feeding pets freeze-dried food has several benefits, which include: Nutritional Value Raw food is the purest form of nutrition for pets. Freeze-drying retains the quality of the meat's proteins, amino acids, enzymes, fats, probiotics, and other nutrients. It promotes healthy skin & coat, vitality, and optimal digestion. Ease of Feeding/Convenience A raw diet is a great way to feed, but it can be difficult to prepare. It requires freezing or refrigeration, as well as thawing and prep time. Freeze-dried offers the same nutritional value as raw dog food or cat food, but in a more convenient way. If you’re looking for a softer texture, you can also rehydrate with water to add moisture. Freeze-dried pet food is a great option for those that are often on the go, or aren’t able to access high quality raw meat. A freeze-dried topper can also be beneficial for those that serve wet food or dry food, to give an added nutritional boost without making a radical change to your pet’s diet. Shelf Life Traditional raw food will last you a few days at most. Freeze-dried raw food, on the other hand, can last up to two years. This is because 90% of the moisture has been safely removed from the meat to prevent bacteria from growing. Freeze-dried lasts longer without a reduction in quality. Is Freeze-Dried Right for my Pet? Feeding freeze-dried raw food for dogs and cats is a great option for many pets. You may find it to be the perfect match for your furry friend if any of the following applies: Your pet is a picky eater Your pet has digestive problems, or a sensitive stomach You’re looking for a more nutritious diet for your pet You want to feed your pet a raw diet in a more convenient way It’s always important to consult with your trusted veterinarian before switching your pet’s diet. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and see if freeze-dried raw is the right choice for your pet. Are All Freeze-Dried Pet Foods Made the Same? As great as freeze-dried cat food or dog food can be, not all are created equal. Many manufacturers will still include filler ingredients in freeze-dried raw food, that are unnecessary and can be digestive irritants. Here at KOHA, we follow a minimal ingredient philosophy: that means, we do not add a variety of additional ingredients, starches, or fillers. This makes our recipes highly digestible and the best choice for pets with food sensitivities We also include the added benefits of pre and probiotics to help the body absorb vitamins and minerals, and support digestive health. Our Raw Life Freeze-Dried Bites and Toppers are 96% meat that is locally sourced here in the USA.   Our Freeze-Dried Raw Bites for Dogs have 3 great ways to feed: as a meal, topper, or as a treat! And for picky eaters, our Freeze-Dried Raw Topper for Dogs and Cats is easy to sprinkle on to make every meal irresistible.

Pet food labels can be confusing - don't fall for this common pet food industry trick! Read more to find out how to buy the best food for your dog or cat.

It’s Summertime! That means sunny skies, trips to the beach, and more time outdoors. With all of the fun summer brings, it’s important to make sure not only you, but your pets are staying hydrated! July is National Pet Hydration Month for good reason. Read more and you’ll find everything you need to know about hydration, as well as some tricks to help your furry friends stay eager for water! Why is Hydration So Important? Just like for us humans, hydration is crucial for your pet’s health. Being properly hydrated ensures that their body is functioning and thriving. Dogs and cats that don’t drink enough water are at risk of developing diarrhea, lethargy, or even heatstroke. If your pet remains chronically dehydrated, there can be even worse implications. This includes kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary infections. Hydration allows your body to perform necessary functions, like optimizing organ function and regulating body temperature. If you want your pet to be healthy, getting plenty of water is a must!   How Much Water Does My Dog or Cat Need?   It is recommended that dogs drink one ounce of water daily, per pound of their body weight. Cats, on the other hand, are recommended to drink 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight, per Cornell University. So, if your Tabby weighs 15 pounds, she should be getting about 12 ounces of water daily. On the other hand, if you have a Labrador Retriever who weighs 60 pounds, he can drink up to 60 ounces of water per day.    Keep in mind the amount of water your dog or cat needs, and be sure to supervise to see if they're drinking enough water throughout the day.   How to Tell if My Dog or Cat is Dehydrated? Unfortunately, your dog or cat won’t bring their water bowl to you and ask for more. That’s why it’s crucial to monitor their water intake. While dogs generally drink water without issue, cats tend to be a bit more finicky. In fact, most cats don’t feel the symptoms of dehydration until the problem becomes more serious. Because your pet won’t always express that they're dehydrated, be sure to check for the following physical signs. Skin Elasticity  Gently pull up on the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades and see how long it takes to return to normal. In a well-hydrated dog or cat, the skin should return to normal quickly. Dry Gums Pull back your pet’s cheeks and give them a gentle touch. They should feel wet. If they feel sticky, your pet is probably dehydrated.  Sunken Eyes  Check to see if your pet has dull, unfocused, or sunken eyes. Dehydrated Coat  Feel your pet’s coat and skin. Is it dry or flaky? If so, they may be dehydrated.     How Can I Keep My Pet Hydrated and Healthy? Let’s face it: no one has the ability to watch their pet all day, every day. We won’t always be able to make sure our pet is drinking all the water they need - but we can take the steps to make it as easy as possible for them!   Be mindful of temperature and activity level It’s always important to make sure your dog or cat is getting enough exercise. If your pup loves running with his friends at the dog park, that’s great! But it’s crucial to give him plenty of water before, during, and after playtime. Pets, especially dogs, that get a lot of exercise need extra hydration throughout the day. The hotter it is outside, the more they need. In addition to providing water, make sure to limit the amount of time spent outdoors in high temperatures. Excessive exposure to heat can put your pet at risk of overheating.   Always provide a source of water Your dog or cat can’t drink water if their bowl’s empty! Make sure your pets always have access to water. If you have the option, you can always buy your pet a water fountain dispenser. It’s less of a hassle to monitor if their bowl is full, and actually can encourage them to drink up!  Cats in particular respond better to running water: this is because of their biological predisposition. Cats in the wild looked for running water rather than still, to ensure what they were drinking was fresh and uncontaminated by bacteria. With a water fountain for cats, you’ll be keeping your furry friend hydrated in no time!   Give Your Pets Moisture-rich food You may ask yourself: Does wet food hydrate cats or dogs? The answer is yes!  You might not know this, but water is not the only way to keep your pet hydrated. Dogs and cats can both get hydration from moisture-rich foods. It’s always best to provide your pets with wet food, rather than dry food. Due to the production process of kibble, all hydration is eliminated from the product and it can actually be dehydrating for your pets. You can read more about the benefits of wet food, here. For cats, our Minimal Ingredient Stews, Poké Bowls, and Pure Shreds are all designed to help fight against dehydration. Like all of our food, they are minimal ingredient and safe for cats with digestive concerns. For dogs, try our Pure Shreds! They’re delicious, low fat, and cooked in a savory broth to help keep your pup hydrated.    Keeping your dog or cat hydrated and healthy doesn’t have to be a struggle! Just make sure you’re providing your pet with the right amount of water, and the right food! If you’re concerned that your dog or cat is dehydrated, please schedule a visit with a trusted veterinarian. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.   ------ References Cornell Feline Health Center. (2021, July 8). Hydration. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Retrieved July 27, 2022, from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/hydration#:~:text=Cats%20need%20to%20consume%20about,cup%20of%20water%20per%20day.

Does your pooch dread going to the groomer’s or vet? Does he or she hide under the bed every time there’s a thunderstorm or fireworks? Is having company over or going on a road trip a source of stress for you and your pup? If any of the above apply, it may be time to figure out how to help your dog.   What Causes Anxiety in Dogs? Dogs, just like us humans, can be prone to anxiety. The trigger can be very specific in certain cases (think, loud noises or strangers,) or it may be a generalized problem for your pooch. Studies have shown that nearly 25% of all dogs experience situational or separation anxiety. The factors that affect the mental health of our dogs are complex. Genetics, environmental stressors, and early life experiences are a few of the main contributors that determine dog anxiety. Some of our puppies may naturally tend to stress out more than others. Anxiety can also be age-related. As your dog gets older, unfortunately, they may begin to be limited physically and mentally. This can cause them to feel anxious and act out. How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Anxiety? Sometimes, the signs of anxiety can be pretty apparent in your furry friend. If they shake and cry excessively when you walk into the vet, that’s a clear sign of situational anxiety. Stressed dog body language, with their tail between the legs, is also a clear indicator. Not every dog exhibits their anxiety in the same way, however. It’s important to know the signs. Sometimes what we perceive as bad behavior, is really the way a dog is expressing that they're stressed out. If you’re not sure if your dog is experiencing anxiety, take some time to do a little research, or ask your veterinarian.   The American Kennel Club (AKC) identifies the following symptoms of anxiety: Aggression Urinating or defecating in the house Drooling Panting Destructive behavior Depression Excessive barking and/or whining Pacing Restlessness Repetitive or compulsive behaviors   If you’re concerned for your pup and want to find a solution, you’ve come to the right place! Here are three ways to manage dog anxiety.   How To Help My Dog with Anxiety? 1. Early Intervention If you got your dog as a puppy, there’s a lot that can be done! Early socialization is a crucial part of any dog’s development. It helps diminish fear and anxiety caused by unfamiliar situations. This can be done by taking your puppy to visit new places, meet new people, and play with other dogs (after they’ve received all the necessary vaccinations, of course). By increasing exposure to new environments, dogs are less likely to be scared in new situations. If you notice your pup is scared of certain triggers, such as the car or the bath, try to work with them and build up a tolerance. Use treats and praise to make these situations positive for them rather than negative. The earlier you start, the easier it will be.   2. Set a Routine Regardless of age, keeping your pooch in a familiar routine also helps them as well. Dogs recognize structure, and will quickly become familiar with a daily schedule if you follow it consistently. This way, he or she will start to learn that when you leave for work daily, it won’t be forever.  Within their routine, make sure to designate time every day for not only physical exercise, but mental exercise as well. Boredom can leave dogs feeling restless and can contribute to anxiety. Each breed varies in the amount of stimulation they need, so don’t be afraid to do some research.   3. Use a Calming Supplement Sometimes, there are certain situations or triggers that we simply cannot avoid. In these situations, a calming supplement is a great choice. Almost immediately, calming supplements promote relaxation and decrease stress. We’ve done the research, and have designed our own Calming Aid Supplement that is all natural, with the most effective ingredients.  It’s specially formulated with a combination of Melatonin, Valerian Root, Passion Flower, L-tryptophan, and L-theanine to naturally calm your dog. It also includes probiotics and thiamine (aka Vitamin B1) to give a healthy boost to their digestive and immune system at the same time.   Dog anxiety can be, for lack of a better word, pretty stressful. But with patience and a little bit of work, you can help alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life! If you are concerned about your pet, please make sure to schedule a visit to a trusted clinic. This text cannot and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian. This blog is for educational purposes only.   ------ References Kriss, R. (2021, November 10). Dog anxiety: What dog owners need to know. American Kennel Club. Retrieved June 21, 2022, from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/  

Mixing wet food with dry food for dogs is a great way to give your pup the nutrients they may not be getting from a kibble-only diet and can also make meal time more exciting for those picky eaters.

Grain-free or not grain-free? Perhaps one of the most common, yet controversial, questions from dog owners has finally gained some clarity. Groundbreaking Study Clears Grain-Free Dog Food An ongoing theory touted by academic researchers and investigated by the FDA involving a potential link between canine heart disease, also known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and certain grain-free pet foods have been debunked, according to a far-reaching study recently released by a working group of veterinary professionals and animal nutritionists. The groundbreaking findings, which is the subject of a peer-reviewed article published in June 2020 in the Journal of Animal Science, showed no clear link between grain-free diets and DCM in dogs - despite recent arguments from academia and regulatory agencies. “While determining the cause of recently reported cases of cardiac disease is of the utmost importance, based on this review of the current literature, there is no definitive relationship (between) these implicated diet characteristics and DCM,” according to the study, which involved an exhaustive examination of nearly 150 previous studies.The new study pointed to potential sampling bias and other confounding factors for debunking the claim - saying the scrutiny comes “without merit because there is no definitive evidence in the literature.”“At this time, information distributed to the veterinary community and the general public has been abbreviated synopses of case studies, with multiple variables and treatments, incomplete medical information, and conflicting medical data and opinions from veterinary nutrition influencers.” It ultimately established no definitive link between grain-free diets and DCM and called for further study and analysis.While the findings should be considered certainly good news for pups that thrive on grain-free diets, it’s crucial for dog owner’s to do their homework before feeding them any old meal. Because believe it or not - not all grain-free diets are created equal.  What to Look For When Going Grain-Free Grain-free is the best choice for your dog, but only if it's the right high-quality grain-free food. Simply put, while these foods are “grain-free," they do not provide your pet with the health benefits of high-quality grain-free foods. Think of it as substituting bad for bad.  Grain-free dog foods are foods that do not contain grains such as corn, rice, and wheat. Good grain-free dog food should have meat as its main ingredient. It should also be biologically appropriate, minimally processed, and moisture-rich.Many low-quality grain-free dog foods contain comparable carbohydrate levels to those made with grains. Although technically "grain-free", their main ingredients are starches such as potatoes and peas. These low-quality, biologically inappropriate ingredients have been linked with health problems including obesity, digestive disorders, and skin conditions in dogs. How to Choose the Best Grain-Free Dog Food Let’s take a look at a few important characteristics that high-quality grain-free dog foods should possess, and how this could impact the health of your pup. High in Meat Protein  - High-quality grain-free dog food will list real meat as the main ingredient; not unnecessary fillers such as potatoes and starches. Dogs are primarily carnivorous and thrive on a meat-based diet. When real meat is listed as the first ingredient, you can be sure your dog's food contains a high ratio of a quality protein source that will support their overall health.  Minimally Processed - The best grain-free dog foods are made with minimally processed, whole, and natural ingredients. Dry dog foods are cooked multiple times at high heat, which destroys nutrients and diminishes flavor. By comparison, minimally processed wet foods contain ingredients and nutrients closer to their original state.  Moisture Rich - A dog's natural, carnivorous diet contains around 70% moisture. High-quality, wet grain-free dog food mirrors mother nature by providing adequate moisture to help the body function. Unlike dry dog food, it's biologically appropriate and can help prevent health problems including urinary tract infections, digestive issues, and obesity.  What to Avoid in a Grain-Free Dog Food When choosing a grain-free dog food, keep it simple. Always check the ingredients on the label and do not buy the food if the main ingredients (or first couple of ingredients) include the following:  Meat and Bone Meal - Meat and bone meal is a product of the rendering industry. It is made from the portions of animals that are unfit for human consumption. Meat and bone meal is of lower quality than real meat. It is also highly processed, which makes it difficult to digest. Starches - Starches like potatoes, green peas, sweet potatoes, and beet pulp are cheap filler ingredients in many grain-free dog foods. These food ingredients are biologically inappropriate, increase calories, and can contribute to obesity and other health issues. Soy Products - Soy products are commonly used in low-quality grain-free dog foods as an inexpensive form of protein. They are biologically inappropriate, highly processed, and often genetically modified. This means that they are difficult to digest and can lead to health problems in dogs. Carrageenan - Carrageenan is a thickening agent that's used to improve food texture. It has no nutritional value and has been associated with gastrointestinal inflammation in dogs. Artificial Preservatives - Artificial preservatives are used by many pet food manufacturers to extend the shelf life of their products. Grain-free dog foods that contain these chemicals should be avoided, as they have been linked with toxicity in pets. The Best Grain-Free Dog Food Money Can Buy True dog lovers don’t skimp when it comes to their pup’s health and wellbeing. If you are concerned about the quality of your dog's food, KOHA offers high-quality grain-free dog food that's high in meat protein, minimally processed, and moisture-rich? Check out our Limited Ingredient Diets for dogs.  Our premium wet dog foods contain no carb-loaded fillers, unnecessary thickening agents, artificial preservatives, or other harmful ingredients. Instead, we pack them with 70%-96% real meat to mirror Mother Nature. And with 8 delicious single meat recipes to choose from, you're sure to find a variety your pup loves.

You may have noticed the last time you went to buy pet food there seems to be an explosion of foods that are considered “good for dog skin allergies” or “cat food allergies.” How prevalent are pet skin and food allergies?

Grain-free, high protein dog food has been trending for the last 5-10 years. Is this a fad or is there a scientific basis for feeding your dog a filler-free product like Koha Super Premium Food Dog Food?The ideal nutrient ratio for dog food is a controversial topic. On one side, there are those who advocate that dogs eat zero carbohydrates, while their opponents point out that dogs are not wolves and have adapted to digest starch (Axelsson et al., 2013). There are many strong opinions, but no one really knows the exact ideal canine diet. However, we do have some research in favor of higher protein diets for dogs. Wild Wolf Diet vs. Modern Dog Food A 2014 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that free-living wolves have a protein–fat–carbohydrate ratio of 54:45:1% on a calorie basis (Bosch, Hagen-Plantinga, & Hendriks, 2015). OK, so wolves get 1% of their calories from carbohydrates. Average dry dog foods provide 40-70% of calories in the form of carbohydrates!Our dogs are getting a lot more carbohydrates from their food than wild wolves choose to eat. Even if dogs have adapted to tolerate a higher carbohydrate level, 40-70 times more than wolves is probably not ideal. High Carbohydrate Diets and Obesity The ratio of protein to carbohydrates has an effect on the bacteria in dogs’ intestines (the gut microbiome). A study found that when obese dogs were fed a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, there was an increase in gut bacteria associated with weight maintenance (Li, Lauber, Czarnecki-Maulden, Pan, & Hannah, 2017).This effect was more prominent in obese dogs than in lean dogs. It would seem that high carbohydrate diets favor a gut microbiome that leads to obesity in some dogs. Carbohydrates Have Some Benefits So why do dog food producers put so many carbohydrate ingredients in dog food? There are a few reasons: Kibble must contain some carbohydrates to hold its shape. Like a cookie, dry dog food kibbles won’t hold together unless there is some starch in it. That’s why dry dog food tends to have a higher carb content than wet dog food. Carbohydrate ingredients generally cost less than meat. Think about the cost of a pound of flour versus a pound of steak. The difference can be tremendous in large-scale production. Including some carbohydrates, ingredients keep the cost affordable for pet owners. Carbohydrates combine with meat to create a more palatable texture. Think about the difference between a low-quality, tough cut of beef and meatloaf. The meatloaf is more pleasant to eat because it has a better texture. Carbohydrate as Filler Calories Dogs can benefit from a small amount of high-quality carbohydrates in their diet as a source of energy. But when starches contribute the majority of calories in a recipe, they’re acting more like “fillers.”Overabundant starch isn’t the only “filler” found in your average bag or can of dog food. Let’s take a look at some other sneaky ingredients that cause problems for dogs. Dog Food “Fillers” to Avoid A dog food “filler” is an ingredient that has questionable nutritional value. There are many things in the average dog food your dog would never recognize as food, including: Meat by-products and grain by-products (chicken by-product, wheat middlings, corn gluten meal, etc.)–cheaper ingredients than meat, used to increase protein and calorie content. Starches (green peas, beet pulp, potato, sweet potato, etc.)–these increase calories and allow kibble to hold its shape. Starch provides a ready source of energy, but too much starch doesn’t support good health. Soy products (soybean meal, textured vegetable protein/TVP, isolated soy protein, etc.)–a cheaper source of protein than meat. Questionable thickeners (carrageenan)–used to improve food texture. Food coloring (yellow 6, red 40, etc.)–makes the food more attractive to humans Chemically altered proteins (hydrolyzed chicken, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, etc.)–increase protein content in hypoallergenic dog foods. Any of these filler ingredients could cause an adverse reaction when ingested by your dog. Anything that irritates the gastrointestinal tract can trigger chronic digestive and skin problems.Finding a high-protein dog food with no problematic fillers can be a challenge. You could spend hours online or in a boutique pet food store reading labels and still walk away empty-handed. Koha Limited Ingredient Diet for dogs was created to solve this problem. It has no grain, potato, or soy so you can be sure you’re feeding your dog a meat-based diet with no unnecessary fillers. References: Axelsson, E., Ratnakumar, A., Arendt, M. L., Maqbool, K., Webster, M. T., Perloski, M., ... & Lindblad-Toh, K. (2013). The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet. Nature, 495(7441), 360.Bosch, G., Hagen-Plantinga, E. A., & Hendriks, W. H. (2015). Dietary nutrient profiles of wild wolves: insights for optimal dog nutrition?. British Journal of Nutrition, 113(S1), S40-S54.Li, Q., Lauber, C. L., Czarnecki-Maulden, G., Pan, Y., & Hannah, S. S. (2017). Effects of the dietary protein and carbohydrate ratio on gut microbiomes in dogs of different body conditions. MBio, 8(1), e01703-16.

Have you ever wondered how many times a day a dog should eat? Chances are, you adopted your current dog feeding habits from whatever you saw your parents do. Maybe you decided to free-feed your dog for the sake of convenience. You might be hurting your dog’s health without realizing it. Free-Feeding Has Its Limitations The term free-feeding means that you put out more food than your dog would eat in a day so that he has food available at all times. You allow the dog to eat as much as he wants.Free-feeding is a reasonable strategy in some cases. For instance, small and medium breed puppies need to take in such a large amount of food they may do better when food is always available. Dogs with digestive trouble and those who are underweight sometimes do better with free-feeding, too.However, there are some serious problems with free-feeding most dogs. The biggest problem is that many dogs take in too much food when it’s always available. Overeating leads to obesity and an increased risk of many diseases including diabetes (Briand et al., 2006) and osteoarthritis (Smith et al., 2006).Other problems encountered with free-feeding dogs is that it makes it difficult to track their food intake. You might not notice that your dog’s appetite has decreased until several days have passed. Also, if you have multiple dogs and one is more timid it may not have enough access to food. Finally, leaving food out in a bowl attracts insects and wild animals to the area. Food-Restricted Meal Feeding Is Better for Most Dogs For the average dog, offering meals of a measured amount of food has many advantages. You’ll be able to monitor your dog’s appetite and intervene if it’s abnormal.Allowing a dog to have more time between meals allows his hunger to develop between meals. This is a normal situation and a closer approximation of how their ancestors lived. Take advantage of your dog's pre-meal hunger by doing some training using some delicious treats as rewards. Meal feeding will allow you to give dogs in multi-pet homes an individual portion. Timid dogs will have access to the right amount of food and overeaters can be kept from stealing from their housemates. Transitioning Your Dog to Meal-Feeding Transitioning to meal feeding doesn’t have to be difficult. Most dogs do well eating two meals a day, so it’s only going to require about 15 minutes of your time twice a day during the transition period. Using highly palatable, moist foods like Koha Pet foods can make the transition easier.Decide on a day to start. The night before your starting day, take away your dog’s bowl of food. Letting him go overnight without eating should be no big deal. In the morning, offer him a meal with half his daily food allotment.Put the food bowl down on the floor and make sure your dog knows it’s there. If he doesn’t eat it, that’s OK. Just leave it there for 15-20 minutes. At the end of that time, pick up the food and discard it or store it until the next feeding time.At the next feeding time, offer a meal again. Your dog will be more likely to eat now that his hunger has had a chance to build throughout the day. It shouldn’t take more than a few days for him to get used to meal-feeding if you stick to feeding him at the same time twice a day.If he begs for food or pesters you between meals, it’s best to let his hunger build until the next mealtime. Normal, healthy dogs can easily go for 8-12 hours between meals, so don’t let him bully you! If your dog is less than a year old or has health challenges, discuss your plans with your veterinarian before you start the transition to meal-feeding. Reference Briand, F., Ougerram, K., Krempf, M., & Nguyen, P. (2006, May). Insulin resistance is not associated with glucose intolerance in dog made obese by overfeeding. In JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE (Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 771-771). 7175 W Jefferson Ave., Ste 2125, Lakewood, CO 80235 USA: AMER COLL VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE. Smith, G. K., Paster, E. R., Powers, M. Y., Lawler, D. F., Biery, D. N., Shofer, F. S., ... & Kealy, R. D. (2006). Lifelong diet restriction and radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis of the hip joint in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(5), 690-693. Zentek, J., Meyer, H., & Daemmrich, K. (1995). The effect of a different energy supply for growing Great Danes on the body mass and skeletal development. 3. Clinical picture and chemical studies of the skeleton. Zentralblatt fur Veterinarmedizin. Reihe A, 42(1), 69-80.

You’d probably know a healthy dog or cat if you saw one, right? They’re the ones with a lean body, a shiny coat and a sparkle in their eye.Good nutrition goes a long way toward supporting this picture of excellent health. A very important component of good nutrition is the right amounts and kinds of fats. What Are Essential Fatty Acids? Dogs and cats must have fat in their diets. They use fat for energy, cell building, hormone synthesis, and insulation, among other things.Fats are made up of smaller components called fatty acids which are classified based on their carbon structure. You may be familiar with the term omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but did you know there are also omega-7’s and omega-9’s?Dogs and cats need many different kinds of fatty acids to thrive. They can make some of them in their bodies from other components. There are a few fatty acids that dogs and cats cannot synthesize from other fatty acids.These are called essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids must come from the diet since pets cannot form them from other components.Essential fatty acids required by dogs and cats (NRC, 2006): Linoleic acid (omega-6) Arachidonic acid (cats only)(omega-6) Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) Eicosapentaenoic acid (omega-3) Docosahexaenoic acid (omega-3) Additionally, the ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids in the diet has an effect on overall health. Too much omega-6 tips the scales toward inflammation. Many pet foods have a lot of omega-6 EFA’s and less omega-3 EFA’s. Flaxseed’s Beneficial Component: ALA Flaxseed is a natural source of the omega-3 EFA alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Other foods have significant ALA, including chia seeds, walnuts and rapeseeds (canola oil). But flaxseeds have a much higher ALA level than almost any other food source!ALA happens to be a delicate fatty acid that can break down easily under storage conditions. Adding extra to the diet helps make sure your pet is getting enough. Including flaxseed as part of a pet food’s ingredients provides a constant source of ALA. How Flaxseed and ALA Can Help Your Pet Flaxseed supplementation has been the subject of many scientific studies. It has some clear benefits... Dogs with skin allergy symptoms showed improvement in clinical scores when they were supplemented with flaxseed oil (Mueller et al., 2004). Flaxseed oil supplementation alters the expression of inflammatory-related genes in dogs (Purushothaman et al., 2014). Cats had a reduced skin inflammation response when their diet was supplemented with flaxseed (Park et al., 2011). Flaxseeds improve the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio since they contain more than three times as much omega-3 as omega-6 fatty acids (Adolphe et al., 2016). Dogs (and cats at a lower rate) can convert some ALA to other anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (Bauer, 2006). Flaxseeds are a source of dietary fiber, potentially benefitting pets prone to stress-induced diarrhea. Increased fiber can also aid in maintaining your pet’s healthy weight (German et al., 2010). Summary With their high ALA and fiber content, flaxseeds can benefit dogs and cats in many ways... Promote healthy skin and coat Decrease inflammation in the body Improve some digestive problems Help pets maintain a healthy weight References Adolphe, J., PhD, RD, & Fitzpatrick, K., MSc. (2016, October). FLAXSEED: Nutrition Benefits for Dogs and Cats. Retrieved November 5, 2018, from https://flaxcouncil.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/10... Bauer, J. E. (2006). Metabolic basis for the essential nature of fatty acids and the unique dietary fatty acid requirements of cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(11), 1729-1732. German, A. J., Holden, S. L., Bissot, T., Morris, P. J., & Biourge, V. (2010). A high protein high fibre diet improves weight loss in obese dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 183(3), 294-297. Mueller, R. S., Fieseler, K. V., Fettman, M. J., Zabel, S., Rosychuk, R. A. W., Ogilvie, G. K., & Greenwalt, T. L. (2004). Effect of omega‐3 fatty acids on canine atopic dermatitis. Journal of small animal practice, 45(6), 293-297.National Research Council (NRC). (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. National Academies Press. Park, H. J., Park, J. S., Hayek, M. G., Reinhart, G. A., & Chew, B. P. (2011). Dietary fish oil and flaxseed oil suppress inflammation and immunity in cats. Veterinary immunology and immunopathology, 141(3-4), 301-306. Purushothaman, D., Brown, W. Y., Vanselow, B. A., Quinn, K., & Wu, S. B. (2014). Flaxseed oil supplementation alters the expression of inflammatory-related genes in dogs. Genetics and Molecular Research, 13(3), 5322-5332.

According to veterinary nutritionists, about 50% of all pet dogs are overweight or obese. Obviously, excess body fat slows your dog down, but it also acts as a source of inflammation. All the systems of the body are affected--from the bones and joints to the heart and liver.I know what you're thinking. You dread putting your dog on a diet because you feel so guilty for depriving your best buddy. I'll show you how to trade guilt for satisfaction while improving your relationship with your dog. Is My Dog Overweight? Morbidly obese dogs are easy to spot, but moderately overweight dogs are harder to recognize. We've all become so used to seeing overweight dogs, it almost seems normal for them to be pudgy.To evaluate your dog's weight, first look at the outline of his body from the side and from the top. If you can't see much of a waist from either direction, he's probably too fat.Next, feel his body with your hands. When you run your hands along the sides of his chest, you should be able to feel (but not see) the bumps of his ribs without pressing very hard. You should be able to feel the tops of his pelvic bones with a thin layer of fat over them when you pet his lower back.Check out a canine body condition score chart for more guidance. Ideal body condition is a 5 out of 9 on the chart. How Much Should My Dog Weigh? OK, so you've faced the fact that your dog is packing some extra padding. Now you need to figure out how much he weighs now and how much he should weigh.Your vet's office will have an accurate scale to weigh your dog and a record of his weight history. Many dogs are at their ideal weight when they're about two years old. Ask your vet for an opinion on the ideal weight for your dog.Recheck his weight every two weeks on the same scale once you start his weight loss regimen.Your vet clinic will most likely be happy to let you use their scale free of charge.A good goal is 1-2% of body weight loss every couple of weeks. If he's losing faster, increase food allotment by 5-10%. If he's not losing weight, speak to your vet for advice on what to do next. How Much Should I Feed My Dog for Weight Loss? Stating the obvious: you need to feed your dog less than he's eating now to get him to lose weight. A good place to start is to feed 25% less total food for weight loss. If you're not sure how much he's eating because he gets treats from other people in your home, use a dog nutrition calculator to estimate his caloric requirements. If your pup is more than 10% overweight, you might want to add 10% to the calorie calculation so his hunger doesn't become extreme. When he reaches the point of being only 10% overweight, change to feeding amount for his ideal weight. 3 Tricks to Help Your Dog Lose Weight Without the Guilt Most dog lovers dread putting their buddy on a diet. The guilt can be overwhelming when he gives you hungry puppy dog eyes ten times a day! There are some tricks you can use to help your dog feel less deprived (and you feel less guilty). 1. MORE Mental StimulationHouse dogs have cushy (and boring) lives compared to their wild ancestors. They don't have to spend all day hunting for food or mates. The big highlight of a house dog's day is meal time and snack time. If you remove the mental stimulation that constant snacking provides, you should replace it with something equally stimulating.Try teaching your dog some fun behaviors like putting his feet in a box or any clicker training trick you like. Most dogs love clicker training, especially when it's used for shaping activities. Make sure to use tiny, low calorie treats for rewards.Add extra exercise time by taking your dog for a walk around the block when he gives you sad/hungry eyes. Take him to some new places he will find interesting. Even a quick car ride around the neighborhood will work in a pinch. The idea is to provide mental stimulation, exercise, and novelty.2. MORE FoodWhen I say "more," I mean feed food with more volume. Wet food has the advantage over dry food due to its high moisture level. Since it hasn't had all the water removed, wet food calories take up more space in the stomach than dry food calories. The stomach has stretch receptors that send signals to the brain that it's full. Wet food stimulates those stretch receptors more!Putting a larger volume of food in the stomach helps your dog feel more satisfied. It's like the difference between eating a giant salad for lunch versus eating a donut. They both have the same amount of calories, but you'll feel more satisfied from the salad because it literally "fills you up."3. FEWER FeedingsA continuous flow of snacks all day may actually make your dog feel hungrier. When a dog eats many times each day, his insulin levels are elevated all the time. High insulin levels have been found to correlate with feelings of hunger in humans and the same effect likely applies to dogs.Feed one or two meals per day and very few, if any, between-meal snacks. If you're giving treats, use very low calorie/high fiber foods like baby carrots or apple slices. Substitute play, fun training exercises and other attention for treats.Remember that just like people, dogs need to break bad habits like constant snacking in order to lose weight. Skipping the snacks will soon become the new normal and your dog won't feel as hungry without them.

Have you ever wondered whether to feed your pet wet food or dry food? There are pros and cons to each choice, but in the end, wet food is best for pets. Dry pet food was introduced to the public in the late 1800’s. It was based on the idea of “hardtack” used as a ration for sailors at sea. Manufacturers later developed pet food in biscuit and pelleted form and promoted it as a cheaper, more convenient alternative to feeding table scraps to pets.It’s tough to argue with the fact that dry pet food is cheaper and easier to store. Putting aside cost and convenience, there are many reasons dry pet food doesn’t stack up to wet pet food when it comes to optimal health. Moisture Level is Higher To make dry pet food, a dough is formed by mashing and mixing ingredients. The dough is heated to relatively high temperatures to cook and dry the ingredients. It’s then extruded (think Play-Do Fun Factory) and cut into kibble. A low moisture level makes the food less likely to spoil so it is shelf-stable. The moisture level in the average dry pet food is 6-12%. Compare that to a moisture level of closer to 70% in their ancestral or wild diet.The moisture level in food is particularly important when it comes to feeding cats. Modern domestic cats descended from desert-adapted ancestors and have low thirst drive. Cats depend on the moisture in food for adequate hydration. Cats fed dry foods consume approximately half the amount of total water (in their diet and through drinking), compared with cats eating canned foods (Kane 1981).A higher moisture level benefits all the body systems, but nowhere is it more important than in the urinary system. When dogs and cats take in more moisture, they produce more urine. A larger urine volume dilutes the minerals that are naturally present in urine, reducing the chance of kidney and bladder stone formation.Finally, consider what happens to dry kibbles in your pet’s stomach. Most animals swallow the majority of their kibble meals whole. When the intact kibble reaches the stomach, a lot of liquid must be absorbed before the dry chunk breaks down. It takes a lot of digestive juices to accomplish this! The swollen kibbles can stay in the stomach for a long time which can cause discomfort and symptoms of indigestion. More Protein and Fat (Less Carbs) Wet (canned) pet food is lower in carbohydrates than dry pet food. Dry pet food must have a large quantity of starchy ingredients so it can be shaped and baked into its kibble form. The other reason carbohydrates make up a large part of dry food is that carbs are cheaper than protein and provide about the same amount of calories.Dogs and cats can eat a diet relatively high in carbohydrates, but a high carb diet is not similar to their ancestral/wild diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients that only come from meat. Wild cats survive eating rodents, small reptiles, and insects (Freeman 2013). They don’t eat corn or potatoes.Dogs have adapted more than cats to sharing the human diet, but many experts believe that even dogs fare better on lower carbohydrate diets. Neither cats nor dogs have a nutritional requirement for any carbohydrates. So why would you want to give them dry foods that have more than 50% of their calories coming from carbs? Food Stays Fresher Part of the reason dry pet food is so convenient is that it has a long shelf life. The truth is that the pet food shelf life has no legal regulation. Even if there is a “Best By” date on the bag, stores are not required to dispose of them after that. The food may or may not be nutritionally adequate after that date, but it’s still legal to sell it to the public.Pet food manufacturers calculate how much vitamins, fats, and minerals break down over time. Dry pet food is made with higher starting levels of nutrients. This is done in an attempt to ensure the food will still be nutritionally adequate after it has sat in a bag on a warehouse shelf for a long period of time. Bags of dry pet food that are at or past the “Best By” date most likely have some level of fat rancidity and decreased vitamin content.Wet pet food, on the other hand, is sealed into a container which prevents contact with the outside environment. That means that ingredients are less affected by oxidation, desiccation and moisture absorption. Properly stored wet/canned pet food will have some degradation of nutrients over time but can be expected to stay fresh longer than dry pet food in a bag. Conclusion Wet pet food is best for pets for numerous reasons. It’s closer to what dogs and cats would eat if they had to find their own food. For that reason, wet food tastes better and is more appealing to most animals. The lower carbohydrate level, higher moisture level and increased freshness of wet pet food make it the clear winning choice for optimal pet health. Resources Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A., & Weeth, L. P. (2013). Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 243(11), 1549-1558.Kane, E., Rogers, Q. R., & Morris, J. G. (1981). Feeding behavior of the cat fed laboratory and commercial diets. Nutrition Research, 1(5), 499-507.Zoran, D. L. (2002). The carnivore connection to nutrition in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221(11), 1559-1567.

In recent months, pet owners all across the country have unfortunately had to face natural disasters. From hurricanes to floods to fires, keeping your pet safe adds an extra level of stress to an already difficult situation. When it comes to pet hurricane preparedness, the first question facing most families is generally whether or not to evacuate and, if evacuation is an option, whether it’s best to travel by car or plane with a pet. Both choices come with extra headaches, such as finding out an airline’s rules and restrictions or making sure there’s a pet-friendly hotel with availability on the road. You should make these calls as soon as possible so that you can get the reservations you need for your pet. Whether you’re staying put or traveling, there are some basic items you can plan for in advance of a storm or disaster: Food – Make sure you have enough pet food to last you several weeks. Leashes/Collars/ID Tags/Microchips – Be sure to have at least two leashes on hand, and make sure your pet’s collar is on correctly and has his or her name and your contact number on a tag. If your pet has a microchip, confirm that all of the information is accurate in case you are accidentally separated. It’s also a good idea to carry a photo of your pet in case he or she gets lost. Medicine – If your pet regularly takes any medicine, have extra on hand in case you can’t get to the store or vet for a prolonged period of time. Calming Supplements – If your pet is likely to get nervous in a hurricane or other disaster, speak to your vet in advance about ways to calm him or her. Your vet may prescribe medicine or recommend items you can buy to soothe your pet. Nootie.com has a line of Soft Chew Supplements including a calming supplement. Bathroom Options – If you have a cat, this may be as simple as making sure you have extra litter on hand or taking your litter box if you evacuate. If you own a dog and your dog won’t be able to go outside, you might want to buy pads for your home or “portable” grass options that are sold online and can be placed in your house or garage. Some people get creative and buy sod and line a kiddie pool with it. Also have extra cleaning supplies and plastic bags on hand to clean up accidents. Toys or distractions – If your pet is the kind to get completely distracted by a new toy for hours, you may want to buy a few to put away for the worst part of a storm. Also, if your pet has a favorite toy, keep it nearby to calm him or her. Motion Sickness – If you plan to fly or drive with your pet, talk to your vet about how you would treat potential motion sickness. Carriers/Harnesses – If you are flying with your dog or cat, make sure you have the right type of carrier. If you plan to drive with your pet, plan in advance for how he or she can sit safely in your car. There are a variety of options, from carriers to harnesses to gates. Water – Whether you are staying home or traveling, make sure you will have enough fresh water for your pet. In a hurricane, it’s possible to lose your power and water for days to weeks, so when you are stocking up on bottled water, make sure you buy enough for your pet too. Evacuation Shelters – If you are considering this option, keep in mind that most cities will offer pet-friendly shelters. However, some of these shelters may fill up early, so call around and see if you can make a reservation. Preparing for any kind of storm or natural disaster isn’t easy. With pets, there are just a few extra steps you need to take to make sure every member of your family, including the four-legged, is safe. Making plans in advance is a great way to save yourself aggravation and stress down the road. Have any pet hurricane preparedness tips you’d like to share? Leave a comment below!

It's not just kids — dogs also sometimes do the darndest things. But does occasional weird dog behavior have an underlying cause, or are they just showing their individual personalities? That depends on the behavior itself. For example, a lot of dogs chase their tail. Oftentimes, they just do it because they're full of energy, and it's an easy game to play alone — no toy or human required. But if your dog does it all the time, it could be a nervous habit or a sign of a physical condition, such as fleas, that needs to be treated by your vet. Does your dog do anything strange when it's time to get into his or her dog bed? Does he or she turn in circles or dig at the bed before deciding it meets some requirements you can't see? Theory has it that this behavior is a throwback to when canines lived in the wild and had to create their own bed from leaves and twigs and scare off any bugs. One behavior every dog owner is familiar with is their pet's way of greeting other dogs by sniffing their backsides. Why do they do this? No one really knows, but just remember that a dog's nose works a lot better than ours, and somehow they're learning something about their new friend through this olfactory introduction. A lot of dogs love to kick grass after they've done their business outside. Why? This is another throwback to their ancestors that lived in the wild. Dogs actually have glands with their personal scent under their paws, and the scent is released when they scratch. It's just another way they "mark" their territory in their "wild" backyard. And the last weird dog behavior we'll address in this blog may be the most common — licking. A lot people like to say their dog is "kissing" them or just likes the salty sweat on their skin, but a dog's licking is really more important than that. For starters, licking is one of the first behaviors a dog learns. It's how they relate to their mother from the moment they are born, so it's significant in their world. In addition to possibly signifying love and trust, many dogs lick as a submissive behavior. So if your dog licks you, he or she is letting you know you're in charge. So, just like people, dogs have their own quirky or weird behaviors that make us laugh. But in many cases, the behavior is common in many dogs and may have a link back to their ancestors. In other cases, a compulsive behavior may need a trip to the vet just to rule out anything more serious. Generally speaking, these funny behaviors are just dogs being dogs.