You're sitting at the vet's office, your dog has just been examined – and almost casually, the vet recommends a specific brand of dog food. Maybe it's even displayed right on the shelf for purchase. But where does this recommendation really come from? From medical conviction – or could there be more to it?
Note: This article is not directed against individual veterinarians or manufacturers but aims to encourage pet owners to look critically and make informed decisions.
The Chain Reaction Many Don't See
Who hasn't experienced this: The dog has been eating an expensive brand of dog food for years. Then the first problems arise – skin issues, digestive problems, itching, lethargic behavior. You go to the vet. And what often happens?
The vet recommends an even more expensive special food – often from the same brand. This food contains additional additives that can alleviate symptoms for a while. But the actual cause often remains untreated. New complaints can arise. A chain reaction that many pet owners are familiar with.
What's Really Behind "Poultry Protein" & "Beef Protein"?
Many food packages prominently display: "Poultry Protein" or "Beef Protein". This sounds like high-quality meat – but according to EU feed law (Regulation EC No. 767/2009), these terms can also include slaughter by-products unsuitable for human consumption.
What feed law allows to be hidden behind these terms:
- Feathers – hydrolyzed so they can be measured as protein
- Beaks, heads & feet – Category 3 slaughter by-products
- Hair & bristles – also hydrolyzable
- Low-quality offal – lungs, tripe, uterus
A study by the University of Leipzig (2019) on feed labeling showed that the biological value of hydrolyzed feather meal is significantly lower than that of real muscle meat – the body cannot utilize the amino acids as effectively.
The paradox: precisely these inferior protein sources can trigger allergies and intolerances – which then lead you to the vet.
How Feed Manufacturers Influence Veterinary Medicine
A study by the British Medical Journal (2003) already showed for human medicine how industry sponsorship influences doctors' recommendations. Similar mechanisms are known in veterinary medicine:
- Sponsorship of chairs and degree programs by feed corporations
- Free product samples and training for veterinary practices
- Continuing education co-financed by manufacturers
- Direct sale of food in the practice
This doesn't mean that veterinarians deliberately give wrong advice. But it's worth getting a second opinion here too – just like with a human doctor.
What Really Helps
Many pet owners report significant improvements simply by switching to natural, meat-based food – without medication, without special products.
What to look out for:
- Real meat first – not "poultry protein" or "animal meal"
- Clear, understandable ingredient list – without hidden additives
- High real meat content – at least 60-70%
- Get a second opinion – e.g., from a pet nutritionist
- Ask critical questions – What exactly is in this food? Where does the meat come from?
Our Approach at Kallisbest
At Kallisbest, real meat comes first – no hydrolyzed feather meal, no slaughter by-products as the main protein source, no hidden tricks. We rely on complete transparency in ingredients.
🐶 Dry food for dogs – Meat first, always
🐶 Wet food for dogs – natural & no frills
🐱 Wet food for cats – species-appropriate & transparent
This article serves general information purposes. For health problems with your pet, we always recommend consulting a veterinarian – and getting a second opinion if needed.
Your pet deserves honest food. 🐾