Myth: Corn is a poorly digested “filler” that causes allergies. Corn is an excellent source of many nutrients. • “Fillers” may be defined as feed ingredients with little or no nutritional value. Based on this description, corn is certainly not a filler. • Corn provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein and essential fatty acids in the diets of dogs and cats. • Corn is a good source of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid required by both dogs and cats and also contains abundant amounts of antioxidants, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene. Myth: Wheat commonly cause allergies in dogs and cats Wheat is a valuable pet food ingredient. • Wheat is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates for energy, as well as a source of protein. • Food allergies constitute only a small percentage of allergy problems in pets. While the exact incidence is unknown, it is estimated that only 10% of allergic skin conditions are caused by food. • Flea bites and environmental allergens, such as pollens, mold and dust mites, are more common triggers of allergic symptoms than food. Myth: Pet foods should be grain-free Grains supply energy. • Most cells in the body use carbohydrates as a primary source of energy. • The nervous system (i.e., brain and nerves) requires the carbohydrate glucose to support normal functions. • If carbohydrates, such as those from grains, aren’t available, dietary protein is diverted away from its most important function — protein synthesis —to make glucose. If carbohydrates are available, dietary protein is used to build and maintain muscle and tissue. Myth: A raw food diet is the most natural and, therefore, the best diet for cats and dogs. Raw diets may contain bacteria. • Raw meat and poultry may be contaminated with harmful microorganisms, such as salmonella. • Feeding raw meat to pets can expose them to bacteria, parasites and protozoa. Preparing and feeding a raw diet can also expose your family to harmful organisms. Please download a copy of the file below for more information and pet food myths and facts!
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