Sara Hormozi
Head of Science and Education, UK Pet Food
From social media videos to online forums, pet owners are surrounded by feeding advice. Knowing what to trust has never been more important — or more challenging.
Pet nutrition in the age of misinformation
Never before have pet owners had access to so much information about feeding their pets. Social media influencers, adverts, podcasts and online communities all offer passionate advice, but that advice often reflects anecdotes, opinions or commercial interests rather than the full body of scientific evidence. The result? Many owners feel confused, anxious and worried they might be feeding their pets incorrectly.
Pet nutrition is rarely black and white
Claims that one ingredient is ‘good’ or ‘bad’ — or that one food format is the only healthy choice — often oversimplify a much more complex reality. Rather than asking whether a diet is raw, fresh, vegan, grain-free or high in meat, a more helpful question would be: is it complete and balanced?
Dogs and cats require dozens of essential nutrients every day in the right amounts and proportions. An appropriate complete pet food is formulated to provide this nutritional balance.
Pets have different nutritional needs
Dogs and cats have evolved with different digestive systems and nutritional requirements from our own. The best diet is one that is appropriate for the individual pet’s species, age, lifestyle and health — not necessarily the latest trend online.
Good nutrition is about more than just the ingredients list or the food format
Trust evidence, not algorithms
Good nutrition is about more than just the ingredients list or the food format. It is about the overall nutritional value of the finished product, supported by meaningful data, expert formulation and rigorous quality control.
If you are reviewing your pet’s diet, consider these questions: Is it complete and balanced? Are the claims backed by evidence? Is it appropriate for my pet’s individual needs? Have I discussed significant dietary changes with my veterinary team?
The goal is not to follow the latest feeding trend; it’s to give every pet the balanced nutrition they need to live a healthy, happy life. When you’re faced with conflicting advice, turn to trusted sources. UK Pet Food’s Pet Care Advice Hub provides independent, evidence-based information to help owners make confident decisions about feeding their pets.
Visit ukpetfood.org for the Pet Care Advice Hub.
