Pet food labels carry a lot of information, and learning to read them helps you make informed choices for your dog or cat.
Ingredients are listed by weight before cooking, so the first few items make up most of the food. A named protein source such as chicken, salmon, or lamb near the top is generally a good sign. Remember that whole meats contain a lot of water, while meat meals are more concentrated sources of protein.
The guaranteed analysis lists minimum protein and fat and maximum fibre and moisture. These numbers help you compare foods, though comparing dry and wet food requires adjusting for their very different moisture content.
Look for a nutritional adequacy statement, often referencing an accepted feeding standard. It tells you whether the food is complete and balanced and for which life stage, such as growth, maintenance, or all life stages.
Words like natural, premium, and holistic have limited regulated meaning, so focus on ingredient quality and the adequacy statement rather than the label's adjectives. If you are ever unsure whether a food suits your pet, your veterinarian can help you weigh the options based on age, weight, and health.