During a short break between foster kittens this season, I thought it would be a good idea to mention a reminder to us all about the importance of the quality of the food we give our furry friends. Recent events, with the sad deaths of many cats and resulting massive pet food recall this spring, drive home the point that not all cat food is equally good for our pets. Unfortunately, some pet food manufacturers and ingredient suppliers really just don't care about the health and safety of animals; some are only interested in selling product at the highest profit margin possible, even if it kills some of their customers.
One general rule I follow is the "does the major ingredient match the label" rule: if the first ingredient listed on the label of the cat food doesn't match the product name (i.e., if its "tasty tuna" brand cat food and doesn't primarily consist of tuna), it's not the best quality. Also, I try to stick with reliable brands from companies who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting humane causes. If I've never heard of the company and the ingredients don't look like something I'd actually want to eat, then I put it back on the shelf.
Of course, unless we make our own cat food (and who but an expert has the ability to do so?), we really have no choice but to rely on the good-will and ethics of the supplier. One challenge, especially in the light of recent facts uncovered in the recall, is that most cat food labels don't identify the origins of the ingredients. Who knew that cat food from your local grocery store contained wheat gluten imported from China? In addition, pet food does not receive the same level of scrutiny that food intended for human consumption receives. Since the United States FDA so far has no additional authority to regulate pet food in the same fashion as human food, we really are left on our own until Congress acts.
The Humane Society of the United States is involved in helping encourage greater pet food safety and in supporting passage of the Pet and Human Food Safety Act. Our cats and kittens totally rely on us to provide them with clean water and nutritious food - get involved in supporting this legislation today!
The Humane Society also offers resources for current information about the pet food recall in their Pet Food Safety Center.
