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Pet food: how to choose the right formula without falling for marketing

Choosing pet food is not simply a matter of comparing the price per kilo. With claims such as “high in protein”, “grain-free”, “natural” and “premium”, it is easy to lose sight of what really matters. The actual composition, the food classification and the recommended serving sizes remain the most important criteria.

For a dog or cat living in France, three pitfalls come up time and again:

  • Confusing complete food with complementary food: a treat or sauce cannot replace a balanced daily ration.
  • Relying solely on marketing claims: “high in protein” or “grain-free” is not enough to determine whether a recipe is genuinely suitable for your pet.
  • Overlooking format and storage: a large bag may seem economical, but it can lose freshness if it is not properly resealed or is used too slowly.

Here are the points to check before filling your basket.

Essential factors to check

1. Legal classification: complete or complementary food

The term “complete food” means that the product is formulated to make up your pet’s daily ration, provided that the manufacturer’s recommendations are followed. Conversely, a product labelled “complementary pet food” must be given alongside the main diet.

INABA Churu cat treats, for example, can be fed by hand or added to cat biscuits, but they must not replace a complete meal. The recommendation generally states 1 to 2 portions per day, adjusted according to the cat’s weight and activity level. Their stated water content is as high as 91%, but that does not make them a balanced ration.

2. Composition and analytical constituents

Start with the ingredients list rather than the claims highlighted on the packaging. For dog biscuits, pay particular attention to:

  • the types of animal-derived ingredients and where they appear in the list;
  • protein and fat levels;
  • fibre, ash and minerals;
  • whether fish oil or omega-3 is included.

Acana Weight & Fitness Dog Food lists chicken, eggs, whole herring, cod liver oil and legumes among its ingredients. Its analytical constituents are 33% crude protein, 11% crude fat, 7% crude fibre and 12% moisture. The product information also states 0.6% omega-3 fatty acids. These figures allow you to compare recipes more objectively, without automatically assuming that they provide a particular health benefit.

The term grain-free food should also be viewed in context. A recipe containing no wheat, maize or rice may suit certain preferences, but it often includes other sources of carbohydrates, such as peas, chickpeas or lentils. It is therefore better to assess the composition as a whole.

3. Your pet’s age, weight and lifestyle

Kitten food cannot be replaced with food intended for an adult cat. Nutritional needs also change after neutering, in cases of low activity or when weight needs to be monitored.

For food intended for a neutered cat, check the recipe name as well as the feeding guidelines. A formula for a neutered adult cat may be more suitable than a standard recipe, but the amount served should always be adjusted to the individual animal. Weigh portions with scales rather than relying solely on a measuring cup.

Storage conditions also matter: keep biscuits in a cool, dry place, close the bag carefully and refrigerate opened wet-food pouches in accordance with the instructions on the packaging.

Our selection based on your shopping needs

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget
Gourmet Sauce Mini Filets Cat Food Variety Pack

Gourmet Sauce Mini Filets Cat Food Variety Pack - 4 x 85 g

Why this choice suits this profile: The four 85 g pouches let you try several flavours without having to buy a large pack straight away.

How this product avoids the pitfall

It is presented as a complete food for adult cats, and the instructions specify how many pouches to give each day.

Main benefit and key features

Four flavours, stated moisture content of 80% and individual pouches that are easy to store before opening.

Recommended for: Premium food enthusiasts
Acana Weight & Fitness Dog Food 11,4 kg

Acana Weight & Fitness Dog Food, 11,4 kg

Why this choice suits this profile: The large bag is aimed at households looking for a dog recipe with detailed analytical data in a family-sized format.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies that it is a complete food, lists the analytical constituents and provides recommended portions based on the dog’s weight.

Main benefit and key features

33% crude protein, 11% crude fat and stated inclusion of cod liver oil.

Recommended for: Specific needs and frequent users
Farmina N&D Ocean Neutered Cat Herring 1,5 kg

Farmina N&D Ocean Neutered Cat Herring 1,5 kg

Why this choice suits this profile: Its name specifically targets neutered cats, whose portions and body condition need to be monitored regularly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This product is clearly intended for neutered cats rather than being presented as a universal recipe.

Main benefit and key features

The 1,5 kg format makes it easier to monitor freshness and adjust daily quantities.

Recommended for: Adults looking for an omega-3 supplement
WEIGHTWORLD Omega-3 Fish Oil 1000 mg 400 capsules

WEIGHTWORLD Omega-3 Fish Oil 1000 mg, 400 capsules

Why this choice suits this profile: This omega-3 food supplement is intended for adults looking for a long-lasting format for their own consumption, not for feeding animals.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between the amount of fish oil, 1,000 mg, and the amount of omega-3, 300 mg per capsule.

Main benefit and key features

The product information states that each capsule contains 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA, with 400 capsules per bottle.

Treats, tuna and omega-3: mistakes to avoid

Cat treats should remain a small part of your pet’s daily intake. INABA tuna and chicken sticks, along with the bites in tuna, scallop, salmon, crab and prawn flavours, are presented as complementary foods. Their stated water content is as high as 91%, but their purpose remains that of a reward or supplement.

Canned tuna intended for human consumption, such as PETIT NAVIRE in natural juice, should not be considered complete food for cats. The same applies to MASROJANA anchovy-stuffed olives: this is a food product intended for humans, containing fish and nearly 2.96 g of salt per 100 g. It is not designed for animal nutrition.

For adults, an omega-3 fish oil supplement should be selected by checking the actual EPA and DHA content, allergens, recommended dosage and storage conditions. Never give your pet a supplement intended for humans without consulting a vet.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about pet food

How much food should you give a dog or cat?

The amount depends on your pet’s weight, age, activity level, neutering status and the recipe’s energy density. Start by following the table on the packaging, then monitor your pet’s weight and body condition regularly. If given frequently, treats should be deducted from the daily intake.

Is grain-free food suitable for all pets?

The term “grain-free” describes a composition, but on its own it is not a sufficient criterion. Check the other sources of carbohydrates, whether the food is complete and whether the recipe is suitable for your pet’s age. If your pet has an identified allergy or dietary issue, ask a vet for advice.

How long can cat food be kept after opening?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Once opened, wet-food pouches should generally be refrigerated and consumed quickly, often within 24 hours. For a tin of tuna intended for human consumption, the PETIT NAVIRE product information recommends refrigeration and consumption within two days.