How to choose food for your cat or dog

Not sure which bag to buy? Start with your pet's needs, rather than the picture on the packaging. A food that suits one animal may not suit another.

Match the species and life stage

Choose food made for cats or dogs, and for the right stage of life: growth or adult maintenance. Growing animals have different needs. Ask your vet about suitable growth food for a large-breed puppy. “Senior” on a label does not describe one standard diet for every older pet.

Look for a complete diet

Check that the product is a complete, balanced daily food for that life stage. Treats and complementary foods are not the same thing. A label may refer to AAFCO or FEDIAF nutritional standards; that is not a personal brand recommendation. You can ask the maker who formulates the food and how quality is checked.

Measure and review

Use the feeding guide as a starting point, then measure portions. Review your pet's weight and body condition with your vet. Activity and health affect the amount needed. Remember that treats count towards the day's intake, and keep fresh water available.

Before you buy

Take a photo of the label and note your pet's age, weight, medicines and health conditions. A pet with kidney disease or a suspected food allergy needs an individual feeding plan. The most expensive bag is not automatically the best fit.