The 6 Types of Pet Food

by Critters Online November 17, 2023

Choosing the right pet food is crucial for your furry friend's health and well-being. With tons of options available, it's essential to understand the various types of pet food to make informed choices that suit your pet's needs and fits your budget and lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the six primary types of pet food and their unique characteristics.

Grocery Kibble $:

This category of pet food is commonly found in grocery stores at a lower cost. However, it often contains fillers like corn, wheat, soy, and meat by-products, which is not be the healthiest choices for your pet's diet. The cost per bag may be lower but to ensure your pet is getting their daily nutritional requitements you may have to more compared to a premium kibble.

Premium Kibble $$:
A popular choice due to its convenience, but quality can vary greatly based on ingredients and manufacturers. Opt for premium pet foods that prioritize more meat and whole ingredients, preferably made in Canada with high-quality components for optimal nutrition.

Shop our Premium Kibble here.

Oven-Fresh $$$:

An economical alternative to raw food, prepared in ovens similar to those in households. This method preserves nutrients better than traditional extruded foods by using gentle preparation techniques. These foods are usually made in small batches, taking longer to prepare but offering a better understanding of their composition through ingredient deciphering.

Shop our Oven Fresh here.

Canned $$$$:

Canned food is often used to increase moisture in a pet's diet and stimulate appetite. However, the quality can vary, so it's essential to check the ingredient list and choose reputable pet food companies.

Shop our Canned Food here.

Dehydrated (Air-Dried, Freeze-Dried) $$$$$:

A great substitute for frozen raw pet food, involving minimal processing by removing moisture through air-drying or freeze-drying. While beneficial, feasibility might hinge on budget constraints. It can be integrated as a supplement or mixed with regular food to provide raw-like nutrition.

Shop our Dehydrated Food here.

Raw $$$$$$:

Considered an optimal natural diet but requires careful consideration due to handling raw meat. Quality among brands varies, emphasizing the importance of choosing reputable companies. Look for CFIA inspected meats, guaranteed analysis, and comprehensive ingredient lists on labels. Comparing ingredient inclusion rates among brands is vital, ensuring a balance of nutrients for your pet's well-being.

Shop our Raw Food here.

See our blog What pet food should I feed my dog or cat? Here is some helpful insight. for a deep look into what ingredients you should be looking for.