As a pet owner, you want nothing but the best for your four-legged friend, including their diet and nutrition. While commercial pet foods are readily available and convenient, more and more pet owners are turning to homemade pet food. But, is this the right choice for you and your pet? In this comprehensive guide, our Milford Animal Hospital team delves into the pros and cons of making your pet’s food at home.

Benefits of making your pet’s food at home

When pet owners assess the pros and cons of making their pet’s food at home, they likely consider the following benefits:

  • Ingredient control — One of the most compelling reasons why pet owners consider homemade pet food is its unparalleled control of ingredients. Unlike commercial pet foods, where ingredient lists can be lengthy and filled with unfamiliar additives, making your pet’s food allows you to select each component with meticulous care. 
  • Customization — Homemade pet food allows you to tailor your pet’s diet to their nutritional needs, preferences, and dietary restrictions. By eliminating common ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, you can create meals specifically for your pet’s dietary needs and sensitivities. This level of ingredient transparency not only promotes digestive health but also provides peace of mind, because you know exactly what goes into your pet’s food bowl. Whether your pet has allergies or sensitivities or requires a specialized diet, you have the flexibility to accommodate their special requirements.
  • Nutritional quality — By preparing meals at home, you can ensure that your pet receives optimal nutrition. You have the power to ensure that every ingredient, from high-quality proteins (e.g., lean meats, poultry, or fish) to fresh vegetables and whole grains, meets your standards for freshness and nutritional value.
  • Enhanced digestibility — Homemade pet food may be more digestible for some pets compared with commercial alternatives. Since you control the ingredients and cooking methods, you can minimize potential digestive issues and improve nutrient absorption.

Drawbacks of making your pet’s food at home

While pet owners choose homemade diets with their pet’s best interests at heart, they may run across the following cons of homemade pet food:

  • Nutritional imbalance — Despite the best intentions, homemade pet diets that are not properly formulated can lack essential nutrients. Achieving the right balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals can be challenging, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies or excesses.
  • Time-consuming — Preparing homemade pet food requires time, effort, and planning. Sourcing ingredients, cooking, and portioning meals can be time-consuming, especially for busy pet owners with hectic schedules.
  • Cost — Homemade pet food can be more expensive than commercial options, particularly if you use high-quality ingredients or incorporate specialized supplements. The cost of fresh meats, vegetables, and other wholesome ingredients can add up and impact your household budget.
  • Foodborne illness risk — Improper handling, storage, or cooking pet food at home can increase the risks of foodborne illnesses for pets and their families. Follow safe food handling practices and good hygiene to minimize this risk, especially if your household includes small children or elderly adults.
  • Lack of convenience — Unlike commercial pet foods, which come in convenient packaging and can be stored for long periods, homemade pet food requires more frequent preparation and typically has a shorter shelf life. 

The decision about making your pet’s food at home is a personal choice that requires careful consideration of the pros and cons. Homemade pet food offers numerous benefits but also comes with challenges. Ultimately, weighing the pros and cons against your pet’s individual needs, your lifestyle, and your ability to commit to providing a balanced and safe diet is key. 

Consulting with a veterinary nutritionist or other reputable source can help ensure that your homemade pet food meets your pet’s nutritional requirements and supports their overall health and well-being. Contact our Milford Animal Hospital team to discuss how you can best ensure your pet’s diet is nutritionally balanced.