One in four UK dog and cat owners have either never reviewed their pet’s food or cannot remember the last time they checked it was still meeting their needs, according to new research from Pets at Home.
Based on an estimated population of 13.5 million UK dog and cat owning households, that equates to 3.4 million owners, despite 85% believing they are feeding their pet the best possible diet, says the retailer.
The findings are based on research conducted by Censuswide last month among a nationally representative sample of 1,501 UK dog and cat owners. According to the survey, one in 10 owners do not know how their pet’s nutritional needs change with age, while 9% would not recognise when it may be time to review their food.
The poll shows that many owners are unable to find the right nutritional needs for their pet – 15% say there are too many pet food options to choose from, 10% feel there is too much conflicting advice available, 9% find information online confusing, and 7% struggle to understand pet food labels.
Sources of advice have also become more fragmented, with 32% of owners turning to vets first, followed by pet food packaging (11%), friends and family (9%), retailers (8%), online articles (7%), brand websites (5%) and social media (5%). More than one in 10 (11%) say they don’t actively seek nutrition advice from anywhere.
Pets at Home is encouraging owners to carry out regular nutrition checks, particularly as their pet gets older or if they notice changes to their weight, appetite, behaviour or health.
Veterinary director Dr Samantha Butler-Davies said: “Owners care more about their pets’ nutrition than ever before. We’re seeing many of the same trends that have shaped human nutrition, from tailored diets to functional ingredients, making their way into pet food too. But with more products, more claims and more advice online than ever, it’s understandable that choosing the right food can feel overwhelming.
“Every pet is different, with many variants like breed and exercise levels affecting what nutrition your pet needs. What suits them at one stage of life might also not be the best fit later. That’s why it’s important to review their diet regularly, particularly as they grow older or if you notice changes to their weight, appetite, behaviour or health. Our Petcare Advisors are on hand in store to help owners cut through the confusion and find the right nutrition for their pet’s individual needs.”
