Cranberries are being included in many pet foods without issue, but there is very little evidence that they are providing substantial urinary tract benefit.

Cognitive function has not been considered a criterion for evaluating nutrient requirements, but the benefits derived from lipoic acid regarding memory may merit reconsideration.

Folic acid is a small but important part of a properly fortified pet diet.

Thermal processing—also known as cooking—of petfoods provides a number of benefits, including convenience, enhanced flavor and texture, improved consistency, pathogen control and decreased spoilage. However, extensive processing can increase variability, destroy essential nutrients and create unwholesome by-products. From a formulator’s perspective, this creates a dilemma regarding how to assure the diet is sufficiently fortified while avoiding excess after accounting for processing effects.