Pet Food History

Pet Food History, food, designed for consumption by pets, is commonly available in pet stores and supermarkets, with specific varieties like dog food or cat food. While most meat used in pet food comes from the human food industry, it is not considered “human grade.”

For cats, a crucial aspect is their obligatory carnivorous nature. Commercial cat food typically includes both animal and plant materials, supplemented with essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. The amino acid taurine, vital for cat nutrition, is a key ingredient. Optimal taurine levels in cat food are established by the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition.

Dogs, however, have varying dietary recommendations. Some argue that dogs have historically thrived on human leftovers, while others criticize commercial dog foods for potentially containing poor-quality meats and additives. Scientific nutritional studies inform many commercial dog food formulations.

In Pakistan, the pet food landscape has evolved. Previously, pet food imports faced super taxes under an interim government. Consequently, local pet food manufacturing began to emerge. Brands like Fluffy, Pawfect cat food, Woof, and Procan for dogs entered the market. Despite claims of quality, some scepticism persists, with one cat food brand, Pawfect, initially withdrawn due to quality concerns.

However, pet lovers are increasingly turning to locally made pet food due to its affordability compared to expensive imports. While there have been instances of scepticism and product recalls, manufacturers strive to improve quality, emphasizing nutritional value. This shift towards domestically produced pet food reflects both economic considerations and growing confidence in the local pet food industry and playing its role in making pet food history.