Diet is the foundation of pet health. The Australian market offers many options, but not all are worth buying.
Dry vs wet food
Kibble is convenient, economical, and helps clean teeth. Wet food has higher moisture and better palatability. Many vets recommend a mix: kibble as base, wet food as supplement.
Read the ingredients
First three ingredients should be named meats (chicken, beef, fish), not "meat meal" or "cereals." Avoid artificial colours and preservatives (BHA/BHT).
What NOT to feed
- Chocolate (theobromine is toxic)
- Onions and garlic (damages red blood cells)
- Grapes and raisins (possible kidney failure)
- Xylitol (sugar-free gum — highly toxic to dogs)
- Avocado (toxic to birds and rodents)
Weight management: ~40% of Australian pets are overweight. Overweight pets are more prone to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Weigh regularly, feed per package guidelines, and skip table scraps.