How Do You Interpret The Guaranteed Analysis On Pet Food Labels?
The guaranteed analysis chart on all bags of pet food represents the recommended profiles for nutrient requirements, established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). As a pet owner, you need to know how to read between the lines of this chart! Understand that while it may look like a scientific statement of product effectiveness, the guaranteed analysis chart really only represents the food’s minimum crude amount of protein, fat, carbohydrate and water. But it makes no statement as to whether or not your pet’s body can absorb and use the nutrients provided. Look for the guaranteed mineral content on the chart. You’ll want to know that dog food contains calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, sodium and linoleic acid, while cat foods should contain taurine and magnesium. Compare wet and dry food choices by using the chart values and this formula: First, multiply the crude percentages listed on the wet foods by 25
