A Guide to Pet Food Options: What to Feed Your Dog or Cat and Why It Matters

Choosing the right food for your pet can feel overwhelming. With shelves lined with colorful bags, freezers full of raw diets, and boutique options like freeze-dried meals all claiming to be the healthiest option for your furry friend, it can be hard to know what’s best. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—the best choice is unique to your pet’s needs and what works for your household. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of pet food options available, along with their pros, cons, and key points to consider.

Dry Kibble

Pros:

• Convenient and shelf-stable
• Typically more affordable than other types
• Easy to store and portion
• Fully cooked (less risk of bacteria)

Cons:

• Lower moisture content (a concern for some cats or dogs prone to urinary issues)
• May contain fillers or less digestible ingredients in some brands
• Can be less palatable for picky eaters

Best For: Busy households, pets without special dietary needs, and those who enjoy a crunch.

Canned/Wet Food

Pros:

• High moisture content, which is great for hydration
• More palatable for picky eaters
• Easier to eat for older pets or those with dental issues

Cons:

• More expensive per serving than kibble
• Needs refrigeration after opening
• May contribute to dental issues with long term use

Best For: Cats (especially those prone to urinary issues), senior pets, and picky companions who need encouragement to eat.

Frozen Raw

Pros:

• Closely mimics a pet’s ancestral diet
• Often made from high-quality, minimally processed ingredients
• May improve coat quality, digestion, and energy levels

Cons:

• Needs freezer space and safe handling to prevent bacterial contamination
• Requires careful balancing to meet nutritional needs
• Can be pricey and less convenient

Best For: Pet parents comfortable with handling raw meat and looking for a more natural diet.

Freeze-Dried Raw

Pros:

• Long shelf life without refrigeration
• High in protein and easily digestible
• Lightweight and easy to serve
• Can be fed dry or rehydrated with water

Cons:

• Often more expensive than both kibble and frozen raw
• Still requires attention to portioning and hydration
• May contain pathogens associated with raw meat
• May not be complete and balanced without supplements

Best For: Pet parents who want the benefits of raw feeding with more convenience.

Homemade Meals

Pros:

• Complete control over ingredients
• Can be tailored to specific allergies or sensitivities
• Offers variety and freshness

Cons:

• Time-consuming and requires meal prep
• Easy to miss vital nutrients without veterinary guidance
• Recipes must be researched carefully and followed precisely

Best For: Dedicated pet parents willing to consult with a vet or pet nutritionist to ensure a complete diet.

Things to Consider When Evaluating Pet Food Options

• Your pet’s age, breed, and health conditions: Puppies, kittens, seniors, and pets with medical needs all have different nutritional requirements.

• Lifestyle and budget: Choose a diet that fits your daily routine and financial comfort.

• Ingredient quality: Read labels and aim for foods with real meat as the first ingredient, and minimal fillers or by-products.

• AAFCO approval: Look for diets that meet the nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Thinking About Making a Switch?

Suddenly changing your furry friend’s diet can lead to an upset tummy and unpleasant accidents. When switching to a new tasty meal, always gradually increase the new food while decreasing the old food over 1-2 weeks.

No matter what you choose, the most important thing is that your pet is thriving—with a shiny coat, steady energy, and happy mealtimes. When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian.

Ready to pick up your pet’s favorite food or try something new? Stop by one of our Clever Critter Pet Shops— either North Woodstock or Waterville Valley, NH. We carry a curated selection of Fromm, Tucker’s, and Steve’s Real Food for every pet diet (well, except those homemade meals; we’ll leave those to you!).