How to read pet labels?

Pet food labels are typically divided into two separate sections: the principal product display and information about the product.

Principal display — product name: This part of the pet food label contains the brand name of the food as well as the specific food or formula contained in the can. It lists which meat is primarily used in the food and may indicate for which age group the food is intended (growing, maintenance, adult).

The informational section contains a list of ingredients, the guaranteed analysis, feeding instructions and nutritional breakdown.

The list of ingredients must be in descending order. This means that the most prevalent ingredient is listed first, followed by each ingredient in order by weight.

If your pet needs a diet low in protein, consider getting food with several carbohydrates listed in the top five ingredients. If your pet needs high protein, get a food with the first two ingredients as meat products.

Chicken Jerky treats for fido

If you don't trust what you are buying in the shops, try making some treats for your pets at home. Jerky made from chicken breast is low in fat and high in protein, and is also easy to make.

Ingredient

One chicken breast

Method

1. Rinse chicken breast.

2. Fill a pan with water, place the chicken in the water and boil for about 20 minutes. You can add some yellow rice wine and ginger to get rid of any unpleasant odor.

3. Tear the boiled chicken into smaller pieces and place on a microwave-safe plate.

4. Cook the chicken pieces in the microwave on high heat for six minutes or until the chicken is dehydrated, turning them every two minutes.

After cooling the jerky, you will have delicious chicken treats that your pets will love.

However, make sure the treats are eaten within two or three days to prevent them going off.