Pamper Royal Fishies Catnip Cat Treats 250gm

Why More Veterinarians Are Saying ‘No Thanks’ to Raw Diets for Dogs As pet owners increasingly look for “natural” ways to feed their dogs, raw food diets have become one of the fastest-growing trends. Social media is filled with claims that raw feeding leads to shinier coats, cleaner teeth and healthier pets. But many veterinarians remain cautious, warning that the risks often outweigh the perceived benefits. According to Bob Martin’s veterinarian consultant, Dr Jan, while small amounts of carefully selected safe raw food may occasionally be offered as treats, he does not recommend raw diets as a dog’s primary source of nutrition. “There are simply too many variables and too little control,” says Dr Jan. “Many raw diets are not nutritionally complete, particularly homemade versions or feeding plans that rotate ingredients without proper formulation or quality control. Dogs need a carefully balanced diet, and it is surprisingly easy to create deficiencies or excesses over time.” The hidden health risk in the kitchen One of the biggest concerns among veterinarians is not only the dog’s health, but the health of the entire household. Raw meat or plants can contain harmful bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Pseudomonas and Listeria. Contamination with these bacteria can directly affect your dog and potentially result in serious health problems. However, not all dogs will show signs of illness after consuming contaminated food. Even dogs that appear perfectly healthy can still carry and spread these bacteria through their saliva, faeces, food bowls, bedding and even by licking family members. “This isn’t just about the pet,” explains Dr Jan. “Dogs can become carriers and expose people within the home. Young children, elderly family members, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system are particularly vulnerable.” Unlike cooked food, which undergoes a heat process that significantly reduces bacterial contamination, raw diets rely heavily on meticulous food handling and hygiene practices that can be difficult to maintain consistently in a busy household. Balanced nutrition matters Another challenge is ensuring dogs receive every nutrient they need. Commercial complete dog foods are formulated to provide the correct balance of protein, fats, vitamins and minerals required throughout different life stages. These are formulated using set global standards, and each batch of food is tested to ensure that all quality and nutritional standards are met. Homemade raw diets, however, often fall short unless designed by a veterinary nutritionist, and tested to ensure all standards are met and that batch-to-batch variation is prevented. “Many owners have the best intentions,” says Dr Jan. “They genuinely want to give their pets the very best. Unfortunately, what’s perceived as natural isn’t always what’s safest or most balanced.” South African feeding habits are evolving Research has found that while South African pet owners increasingly want food that looks more natural and wholesome, the majority still build their feeding routines around complete dry food, often adding wet food, treats or small amounts of real food for variety. The study also found that raw feeding remains a visible but niche practice rather than a mainstream feeding routine. The research highlights that pet owners are seeking feeding options that combine convenience, trust, nutritional value and affordability, while fitting into everyday routines. What should owners feed instead? Veterinarians generally recommend feeding a complete and balanced commercial diet that has been formulated to meet recognised nutritional standards. High-quality kibble brands, such as Olympic Professional, provide complete and balanced nutrition designed for different life stages and health needs. These foods also ensure that the nutritional needs are not only met but that each bag meets these standards. For owners who would like to add variety to their dog’s meals, cooked lean meats, small amounts of registered wet canned or pouched foods or veterinarian-approved treats can provide enrichment without introducing the same microbiological risks associated with raw feeding. “If owners want to supplement their dog’s meals, it’s always worth discussing those additions with their veterinarian,” says Dr Jan. “The goal is to support both long-term health and safety.” He concludes: “For me, the potential risks of nutritional imbalance and exposure to harmful bacteria outweigh the perceived benefits of feeding raw. A complete, balanced diet, including quality kibble such as Olympic Professional, remains the safest way to support a dog’s health throughout its life.” About Bob Martin & Co. Bob Martin & Co. was founded in 1892 by 25-year-old Robert Martin, and the Martin family, still passionate about animals and their health, owns the company to this day. Since Bob Martin & Co. was established, our love of animals has guided us to make affordable and high-quality pet healthcare available to all families. This is why many of our products are household names – available online and in stores worldwide.“

Anyone who lives with a cat knows that mealtime is rarely just about food. It is a ritual, a routine, and often, a very clear expression of personality. Some cats announce dinner loudly. Others hover quietly, inspect the bowl, take a few bites and walk away. Some want company while they eat, while others prefer a calm corner and no interruptions. To cat owners, this is often simply known as “cattitude”, but there is more behind these behaviours than attitude alone. Cats are naturally independent, territorial animals, and their feeding behaviour is closely linked to instinct, routine and environment. In the wild, cats are solitary hunters who eat several small meals throughout the day. This helps explain why many domestic cats prefer to graze, return to their bowls often, or show strong preferences around where, when and how they eat. Their senses also play a major role. Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, which means aroma is often just as important as taste. Texture, temperature and freshness can all influence whether a cat accepts a meal enthusiastically or gives it a very dramatic side-eye. Dr Jan, consulting veterinarian to Pamper, says mealtime behaviour can offer useful insight into a cat’s comfort and preferences. “Cats are creatures of habit, but they are also highly individual. Their behaviour around food can tell us a lot about their confidence, comfort and routine. A quiet feeding space, consistency and food they enjoy can all help support a calmer, more positive mealtime experience,” says Dr Jan. Because cats are sensitive to change, even small disruptions can affect how they eat. A new bowl, a different feeding spot, household noise, other pets nearby or a change in routine can all influence mealtime behaviour. For pet parents, paying attention to these cues can help create a feeding environment that feels safe, familiar and enjoyable. Dr Jan’s tips for supporting your cat’s cattitude at mealtime Keep it consistent Cats feel more secure when feeding times and routines are predictable. Try to feed at similar times each day and avoid unnecessary changes to their bowl or feeding area. Create a calm feeding space Choose a quiet spot away from heavy foot traffic, loud noise, litter trays and other pets. Many cats prefer to eat where they feel safe and undisturbed. Pay attention to texture and aroma Cats can be particular about smell, texture and freshness. If your cat seems hesitant, it may be responding to more than just flavour. Respect their independence Some cats enjoy company while they eat, while others prefer space. Watch your cat’s behaviour and let them guide the routine. Watch for changes A sudden change in appetite, eating speed or feeding behaviour can be a sign that something is off. If it continues, it is best to check in with your vet. For Pamper, feeding is about more than filling a bowl. It is about recognising the small behaviours that make each cat unique and creating everyday moments that support their natural independence, mood and personality. Pamper offers tasty, satisfying meals made for cats with character, helping pet parents turn daily feeding into a moment of care, connection and understanding. Whether your cat is a dramatic dinner announcer, a quiet grazer, a fussy foodie or the ruler of the kitchen, the right mealtime routine can help them feel seen, settled and satisfied. Because when it comes to cats, feeding is never just feeding. It is part instinct, part routine and part cattitude. Image by Wirestock from Getty Images About Bob Martin & Co. Bob Martin & Co. was founded in 1892 by 25-year-old Robert Martin – and the Martin family, still passionate about animals and their health, owns the company to this day. Since Bob Martin & Co. was established, our love of animals has guided us to make affordable and high-quality pet healthcare available to all families. This is why many of our products are household names – available online and in stores worldwide.