Pet Food Buying Guide: 15 Things Every Indian Pet Parent Should Know

You don't need a nutrition degree to shop wisely. Just know what to look for, and keep this checklist close for your next order.

On the label

1. Complete and balanced. A main food must say it is complete for your pet's life stage. Everything else is a treat or a topper.
2. A named protein first. Chicken, lamb, fish or egg near the top of the list is a good sign. Vague words like "meat derivatives" tell you less.
3. Right for the species. Dog food is not cat food. Cats need taurine and more protein, and dog food does not give them enough.
4. Right for the stage. Puppy and kitten food is richer than adult food; senior food is lighter.
5. Dates. Check the manufacturing and expiry dates. For dry food, more than a few months of life left is ideal.
6. The legal details. A packaged product in India must show MRP, net quantity, the maker's or importer's name and address, and a customer care contact.

When you buy

1. Buy from an authorised seller. Fakes and old stock are most common with very low prices and unknown sellers.
2. Look at the seal. The pack should be sealed by the brand, with clean printing and no re-sticking.
3. Price per kg, not per pack. Bigger packs are often cheaper per kg, but only buy what your pet finishes before the food goes stale.
4. Check the return policy. A good seller replaces damaged, wrong or expired items.

At home

1. Store it right. Keep dry food in its own bag, inside an airtight box, away from heat and damp. Indian monsoons make kibble go soft and mouldy fast.
2. Use wet food quickly. Once opened, cover and refrigerate it, and use it within a day or two.
3. Change slowly. Switch to a new food over about a week to avoid an upset stomach.
4. Measure meals. Use a cup or a kitchen scale. Eyeballing is the most common cause of weight gain.
5. Watch your pet. A shiny coat, firm stools, good energy and a steady weight mean the food is working.

Chicken And Liver in Gravy Dog Wet Food 120gm, 12 pack₹720Add

Grilled Chicken in Gravy Dog Wet Food, 12 pack₹720Add

Meat as Meal Chicken with Pumpkin 500gm, 1 pack₹880Add

Meat as Meals Chicken Recipe, 12 pack₹1,215Add

One last thing

If your pet has a health condition, ask your vet which food to buy. A medical diet chosen by a vet beats any list.