Research Notes

Olive extract didn’t influence cat food palatability

While online claims that olives affect cats like catnip don’t have scientific backing, olive extract may hold potential as a novel ingredient for cat food.

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Study evaluates insect meal’s sustainability potential in feed applications

A new life cycle assessment highlights the conditional environmental benefits of insect protein compared to soybean and fish meal, offering pet and animal food formulators insight into its role in sustainable sourcing.

Cat Kibble Close Up Andrea Gantz

Avian Influenza

Experts urge avian flu monitoring in cats after surge in H5N1 infections

University of Maryland researchers call for increased surveillance as a global review links rising cat infections to emerging H5N1 strains.

University of Maryland researchers call for stronger avian flu monitoring in cats after a 20-year review reveals a sharp rise in feline infections.

Insect-based Cat and Dog Food

Study: Insect protein enhances skin and antioxidant health in dogs

Brazilian research on Protix’s ProteinX shows improvements in skin hydration and oxidative stress markers in dogs.

According to the study, the inclusion of ProteinX in the diet was shown to improve the skin barrier and enhance antioxidant defense mechanisms.

Insect-based Cat and Dog Food

U.S. pet owners open to insect protein, but knowledge lags

A new Kansas State University study shows U.S. dog owners are receptive to insect-based proteins — but lack knowledge about their health benefits, presenting a key opportunity for pet food brands.

A recent survey revealed that while pet owners are relatively informed about insect protein’s nutritional content, fewer understood potential health benefits.

Purina opens 2026 research grant applications on human-animal bond

Universities, NGOs and research institutions can apply for up to $40,000 in funding by August 15, 2025, to study the effects of human-animal interactions.

The Human-Animal Bond Studies (HAB) program supports innovative scientific research to deepen the understanding of the unique connections between humans and their pets.

Pet Food Market

Health over habit: How U.S. pet owners are reshaping the pet food market

As budget-conscious consumers redefine value in the pet aisle, health and wellness benefits — not just prices – are driving purchasing decisions, says Packaged Facts’ Shannon Landry.

While pet owners are more cost-conscious these days, they are not simply buying the cheapest options. They’re seeking out pet foods that offer better value, especially through health-related benefits.

Pet Food Ingredients

Study: Microbial protein shows strong pet palatability

In taste tests, cats and small dogs preferred MicroHarvest’s MPX protein over control diets, demonstrating potential for microbial protein in pet food formulations.

According to MicroHarvest, more than twice as many cats (68%) picked MPX protein versus the control food (32%).

Toxic heavy metals found in pet foods imported into China

Chinese researchers identified chromium, arsenic and mercury in U.S., European and Asian dog and cat foods.

80s hair(ball) metal band, Meowtallica.

Pet Food Ingredients

Upcycled carrot gummies and sauces for dogs are palatable, healthy

Carrot-based gummies and sauces are both palatable and nutritious, while upcycling misfit roots to reduce agricultural waste.

Watercolor painting of a dog holding a carrot in its mouth

Survey reveals gaps in pet obesity awareness, owner-vet communication

New data from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention highlights low body condition score awareness and mixed communication around pet obesity.

Pet owner awareness of their dog or cat’s body condition may be improving.

Pet Food Ingredients

Report: Rendered ingredients support $51.7B pet food industry

New research highlights the nutritional, safety, and sustainability benefits of rendered ingredients, which made up over 4 million tons of U.S. pet food in 2024.

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