As a pet owner, choosing the right food for your dog or cat can be overwhelming—especially when you’re faced with long, confusing ingredient lists on packaging. What exactly are “meat by-products” or “animal digest”? Are all grains bad? Are certain ingredients better than others?
This guide will help you understand 10 common ingredients found in pet food—what they really are, why they’re used, and what you should watch out for when reading labels.
1. Chicken (or Beef, Lamb, Salmon, etc.)
When the label simply says “chicken” or another named meat, it usually refers to clean flesh and skin, with or without bones, from the animal. It’s considered a high-quality protein source and is commonly used in both dry and wet pet foods.
What to know: Look for specific meat names (e.g., “chicken”) instead of vague terms like “meat” or “animal protein.”
2. Chicken Meal (or Meat Meal)
“Meal” refers to meat that has been rendered—cooked at high temperatures to remove water and fat, leaving a dry powder. Chicken meal still contains protein, calcium, and other nutrients.
Is it bad? Not necessarily. Meat meals can be nutritious and more protein-dense than fresh meat, but quality varies. Named meals like “chicken meal” are better than generic ones like “meat meal.”
3. Meat By-Products
By-products include organ meats such as liver, kidneys, lungs, and intestines. While this may sound unappetizing to humans, organ meats can be rich in nutrients and beneficial to pets.
What to look for: Avoid vague terms like “animal by-products.” Look for named sources such as “chicken by-products,” which are more transparent.
4. Corn, Wheat, and Soy
These are common grains or fillers used to provide energy (carbohydrates), bulk, and sometimes protein. While often criticized, these ingredients are not inherently harmful unless your pet has a specific allergy or sensitivity.
Grain-free myth: Many pets digest grains just fine. Grain-free diets are only necessary in specific cases and should be guided by your vet.
5. Brown Rice or Barley
These whole grains are more nutritious than processed grains like corn or white rice. They provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and are generally easier to digest for many pets.
What to know: If you want grains in your pet’s diet, look for whole grains like brown rice, oats, or barley instead of corn gluten or wheat middlings.
6. Animal Fat or Chicken Fat
These fats add flavor, energy, and essential fatty acids to pet food. Fat is important for skin and coat health, and animals generally love the taste.
Good or bad? Animal fat is fine as long as the source is clearly named (e.g., “chicken fat”). Avoid “animal fat” with no specific source, as this can mean lower-quality rendering.
7. Fish Meal or Fish Oil
Fish-based ingredients are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain development, skin health, and a shiny coat. Fish meal is also a protein source in some pet foods.
What to know: Look for named fish sources (like “salmon oil” or “menhaden fish meal”) and ensure they are not preserved with harmful chemicals like ethoxyquin.
8. Beet Pulp
This is a fiber-rich by-product of sugar beet processing. It’s included in pet food to support digestive health by helping with stool formation and improving gut bacteria.
Is it safe? Yes—beet pulp is not sugary and is a common, beneficial fiber source in pet diets.
9. Natural Flavors
This term refers to processed flavor enhancers derived from natural sources like meat, broth, or yeast. They’re used to make the food more appealing to pets.
What to be cautious of: While not harmful, “natural flavors” is a vague term. If your pet has allergies or sensitivities, you might want to avoid foods that don’t specify the source.
10. Preservatives and Additives
Common chemical preservatives include BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin—which are controversial due to possible health risks in large quantities. Safer alternatives include tocopherols (Vitamin E) and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C).
Watch out for: Artificial colors, sweeteners, and flavors, which don’t provide nutritional value and may trigger allergies in some pets.
Tips for Understanding Pet Food Labels
Now that you know what common ingredients mean, here are a few extra tips when analyzing pet food labels:
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Ingredients are listed by weight: Ingredients with more moisture (like fresh meat) appear higher on the list.
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Look for named sources: “Chicken” is better than “meat,” “salmon oil” is better than “fish oil.”
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AAFCO statement matters: Check if the food meets standards for “complete and balanced” nutrition.
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Avoid mystery ingredients: Avoid foods that list “animal digest,” “meat by-products,” or “animal fat” without naming the species.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what goes into your pet’s food is essential for keeping them happy and healthy. While not every complex-sounding ingredient is bad, knowing the difference between quality nutrients and low-grade fillers can help you make smarter choices. High-quality pet food will feature named proteins, healthy fats, digestible carbs, and minimal artificial additives.
Remember, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” formula—every pet is different. Always consult your veterinarian before switching diets, especially if your dog or cat has allergies or chronic health conditions.
With a little label-reading and awareness, you can confidently pick food that supports your pet’s energy, digestion, and long-term well-being.