Feed the Diet That Keeps Your Pet Healthy
Grain free labels can make a bag of pet food look like the healthier choice, but the label doesn’t tell you what your pet needs. At Pleasant Valley Pet Clinic in Placerville, CA, we help pet owners read the research, understand the FDA’s findings, and pick a diet that fits each pet’s age, breed, and health.
Request an AppointmentWhat the FDA Report Says About Grain Free Diets
The FDA has looked into reports of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition, in dogs eating certain diets. Many of those diets were labeled grain free and relied heavily on peas, lentils, legumes, or potatoes. Researchers have not proven a direct cause, and the investigation is still ongoing. Read the report below, then talk with us about what it means for your pet.
Points to Keep in Mind When Choosing Pet Food
- Grain free does not mean low carbohydrate. Many grain free foods replace grains with other starches.
- True grain allergies are uncommon in dogs and cats. Food allergies are more often triggered by proteins such as beef, chicken, or dairy.
- A diet that suits one pet may not suit another. Age, weight, activity level, and medical history all matter.
- Switching foods suddenly can upset your pet’s stomach. Make any change gradually and with guidance.
- If your dog has been on a grain free diet for a long time, ask us whether a check-up or heart screening makes sense.
Diet Help From Our Placerville Veterinarians
Our team can review your pet’s current food, treats, and feeding routine and suggest changes if they are needed. Learn more about nutritional counseling for pets, or book an exam and consultation so we can look at your pet’s overall health before recommending a diet.
Grain Free Food Questions Answered
Is grain free food better for my dog or cat?
Not necessarily. Most pets digest grains well, and grain free is mainly a marketing term rather than a sign of better nutrition. The right food depends on your pet’s age, health, and any diagnosed sensitivities.
What did the FDA report about grain free diets and heart disease?
The FDA investigated reports of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, many of whom ate diets labeled grain free with high amounts of peas, lentils, or potatoes. A direct cause has not been proven, but the findings are enough that pet owners should review their dog’s diet with a veterinarian.
Should I switch my dog off grain free food?
Talk with us before changing your dog’s diet. We can look at your dog’s current food, health history, and breed, and let you know whether a change is a good idea and how to make it safely.
How can I tell if my pet has a food allergy?
Ongoing itching, skin or ear infections, and chronic soft stools or vomiting can point to a food sensitivity. Our veterinarians can examine your pet and guide you through a proper diet trial, since symptoms like these can have other causes.
What should I look for on a pet food label?
Look for a statement that the food is complete and balanced for your pet’s life stage, and for a manufacturer that employs qualified nutrition experts and does feeding trials. Ingredient lists are only part of the picture, so bring the bag to your visit and we will go over it with you.
Do cats need grain free food?
Cats are carnivores and need a diet high in quality animal protein, but they do not need to avoid grains. Many complete and balanced cat foods contain grains. If you are not sure what to feed your cat, we are happy to help.
Can your veterinarians recommend a diet for my pet’s weight or health condition?
Yes. We can recommend foods for weight management, sensitive stomachs, skin concerns, kidney or other chronic conditions, and the needs of puppies, kittens, and senior pets.
Not Sure What to Feed Your Pet?
Call (530) 644-2424 or schedule a visit, and our team will help you choose a diet that supports your pet’s long-term health.