All about holistic pet food. Review of the best brands.

The food consumed directly affects the health and activity of a pet. Breeders recommend purchasing holistic pet food as the most complete and digestible option. Let’s find out what lies behind this concept, what to consider when making a purchase, and present a ranking of the best holistic pet foods.

A little theory

The term “holistic” comes from the concept of “holism,” which translates from Greek as “wholeness.” Initially, holism portrayed all living beings on Earth as a single organism. Later, this idea evolved into the field of alternative medicine known as “holistic medicine.” It considers the complex causes of diseases without separating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Healing is achieved not only through medication but also through lifestyle changes, dietary choices, and even mindset.

Joseph Koquyt, the founder of Golden Eagle, an English company, decided to apply these principles to the creation of pet food. He believed that only whole, natural ingredients would benefit domestic animals. The main concept of his company became the use of raw materials intended for human consumption in the production of pet food.

Joseph Koquyt said, “We are what we eat. The health of our pets is no less important than our own.”

Examining the composition

There are several key factors that can help identify a holistic pet food.

• The foundation is high-quality animal-based ingredients: fish or meat. Carefully examine the label, as animal protein is often substituted with plant-based alternatives, and meat may be replaced with meat meal or by-products. The specific type of meat should be specified, such as rabbit, beef, lamb, etc.
• Carbohydrates are sourced from rice or oats. Legumes are used in grain-free formulas. Wheat and corn are excluded.
• To provide fiber, fruits and berries are added.
• Natural preservatives, such as chicken fat rich in essential Omega fatty acids, are used to maintain freshness.
• The product should not contain artificial flavors, taste enhancers, preservatives, or colorants, as they can often cause allergic reactions.

Important! The “holistic” label on the package is not always used conscientiously. It may be added for marketing purposes, while the product itself may be far from ideal. Among reliable manufacturers, notable brands include Grandorf, NOW!, Farmina N&D, GO! Natural, and AATU.

By choosing holistic pet food for your furry friend, you make a significant contribution to their longevity. Let’s list the advantages of such nutrition.

• All components undergo careful selection and are often cultivated directly by the manufacturing company. Unique ingredients may be included, such as wild boar or wild salmon, which can be difficult to find independently.
• Specific breed and age requirements are taken into account. There are special therapeutic diets available for allergic pets. The food is highly digestible and contains all the necessary components, including prebiotics, antioxidants, and joint protectors.
• There is no need for additional vitamin supplements.

Despite the higher cost, holistic diets can be cost-effective in the long run. Firstly, smaller portions are needed due to the high energy density. Secondly, veterinary visits may be less frequent as the immune system improves, resulting in fewer illnesses.

Top 5 Holistic Dog Foods

Manufacturers focus on what wild dogs eat in their natural habitat. The main component is protein, comprising 50 to 80% of the total diet. The protein source must always be meat or fish. Berries, herbs, and a small amount of grains are added to improve digestion. Raw materials are processed at low temperatures to preserve maximum beneficial properties.

Note! The shelf life of such food is usually shorter than other types because vitamins E and C are used as preservatives.

When choosing a diet for your pet, consider the breed, size, age, physiological characteristics, and any existing health conditions. Carefully examine the composition: in addition to protein and fat, it should include healing herbs, antioxidants, and prebiotics. Here are the minimum percentage contents of important components:

• Protein – 30%;
• Fat – 18%;
• Fiber – 10%.

1. T29 Nutram Total Grain-Free, grain-free formula for small dog breeds, with lamb and vegetables.

The products of the Canadian company are produced based on the principle of “optimal combination”. Carefully selected quality ingredients, when consumed regularly, improve the well-being and appearance of the pet. The grain-free food has a low glycemic index, reducing the risk of obesity. T29 Nutram stimulates the digestive system and protects against allergic reactions. The pellet size is optimal for small dog breeds.

The key component is lamb meat, with a minimum content of 30%. Vegetable proteins, such as chickpeas and lentils, are added to promote strong and healthy muscles. Chicory root and pumpkin are powerful prebiotics that improve digestion. Yucca Schidigera extract reduces the amount of ammonia in feces, resulting in minimal odor.

2. Low-grain dry food Farmina N&D, for medium and large dog breeds.

As a result of research, Farmina has developed the perfect feeding scheme for our four-legged friends. The low glycemic index promotes gradual energy release for the pet’s activity throughout the day. The food does not contain GMOs or artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants and extracts, rich in tocopherol, enhance the preservation of the food.

Here, there is a whole range of diverse protein sources: lamb meat, eggs, herring, as well as whole spelt and oats. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate help maintain joint health. The formula is enriched with vitamins that have long-lasting effects due to the “cold infusion” technology.

3. Dry food for large breed dogs Savory, with fresh turkey and lamb meat.

A complete diet for dogs weighing over 25 kg is developed taking into account all the needs of large breeds. The recipe includes carefully selected natural protein ingredients supplemented with vegetables and fruits. Regular consumption of the food increases the pet’s activity, strengthens their immune system, and improves the condition of their skin, coat, bones, teeth, and joints.

The natural fresh turkey and lamb give the product an appealing taste for dogs. The formula with reduced grain content helps avoid the development of food allergies. Spinach and tomatoes have antioxidant properties, while rice and zucchini normalize the digestive system. The food contains chia and quinoa seeds, which possess numerous beneficial properties.

4. Pronature Holistic Puppy Chicken & Sweet Potato, with chicken and sweet potato, for puppies of all breeds.

Puppies require a special diet, and Pronature Holistic takes this into account. The specially formulated food for puppies aged 2 to 12 months is made from carefully grown and selected ingredients. The food is easily digestible and has excellent taste qualities. Pronature Holistic Puppy Chicken & Sweet Potato contains 47% fresh chicken meat, 18% vegetables and fruits. Sweet potato has an increased content of vitamin A, which helps boost immunity. Natural prebiotics, vitamin E, and vitamin C are also present in the food for this purpose. Carob helps improve digestion, while Omega-3 stimulates brain development. The food contains calcium and vitamins for healthy bone growth, which is especially important for puppies.

5. Pronature Holistic Adult Atlantic Salmon & Brown Rice, with salmon.

Full-ratio food for adult dogs of all breeds is aimed at maintaining the health of dogs’ skin and coat. The optimal combination of Omega-3 and Omega-6 contributes to the growth of thick, shiny fur. The key ingredient is salmon. The total proportion of protein components is 36%. Brown rice is a supplier of fiber and B-group vitamins. Avocado, with its high content of vitamin E, has antioxidant properties and improves the condition of the skin and cardiovascular system. Organic fenugreek lowers blood sugar levels, which is important for dogs predisposed to diabetes. New Zealand green-lipped mussels and crab shell are added for joint health.

Top 4 Holistic Cat Foods

Despite cats being domesticated for a long time, they are still classified as carnivores. This means that their diet must include animal protein. Dry food should contain at least 30% protein, while canned and pouched food should contain at least 8%. Fish, poultry, or seafood serve as quality sources of protein for cats.

Pay attention! The first ingredient listed in the food composition is the one with the highest percentage. If it is not a protein product, it is worth avoiding such a diet.

Carbohydrate content should not exceed 10%. Opting for grain-free products is the optimal choice. However, if grain-based food is preferred, look for those that contain brown rice or oats.

Among other components, probiotics improve digestion, fatty acids contribute to a beautiful, shiny coat, and vitamins and minerals are also essential. The following rating will help you choose the best formula for your beloved pet.

1. Savory Kitten Dry Food with Fresh Turkey and Chicken.

Provide high-quality food produced in Belgium for kittens aged 1 month to 1 year. Turkey is used as the main ingredient, with its tender meat being hypoallergenic, easily digestible, and containing all the necessary nutrients. Berries, fruits, and vegetables provide the growing body with essential micronutrients. The small kibbles are easy for the pet to swallow. Savory’s healthy nutrition guarantees proper development for the kitten. The food does not contain GMOs, gluten, chemical additives, preservatives, or artificial colorings.

2. Carnilove Fresh Chicken&Rabbit for Adult Cats.

The company takes into account the natural characteristics of cats: they are predators endowed with strong hunting instincts. Natural nutrition provides energy to the animal at any age. A special formula with a high meat content, grain-free and potato-free, enriched with vegetables, herbs, and berries, is designed for adult cats. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which support the health of ligaments and joints. Brewer’s yeast promotes the development of lacto- and bifidobacteria, strengthening the immune system. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this food meets 100% of the needs of your pet.

3. Pronature Holistic Mediterranea for cats.

The Mediterranean diet is a guarantee of health and longevity for both humans and animals. Its main components are fish, fresh vegetables, nuts, legumes, olive oil, and herbs. The Mediterranea series takes these characteristics into account when creating menus for your pets.

The noble sea fish, such as salmon and American herring, serves as the protein component in this diet. The necessary dietary fiber is provided by lentils, which also help control blood sugar levels. Flaxseed contributes essential Omega-3 fatty acids. Sun-dried herbs and tomatoes strengthen the immune system, improve skin health, and protect the body from free radicals.

4. I17 Nutram Ideal Solution Support Indoor Cat for indoor cats.

The recipe is developed based on the latest research, taking into account the needs of indoor cats. The formula is rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring the harmonious development of all organs. The food is made from chicken meat, oats, and chicken eggs. The low fat content helps prevent weight gain. Salmon oil and flaxseed oil promote the growth of beautiful, shiny, and dense fur. The dietary fibers from green peas have a low glycemic index and, in combination with pumpkin, help regulate digestion and eliminate hairballs.