Nutrition labels on pet food

This is weird! With Marcie's possible diabetes and the fact that she's a bit overweight (not much...it's mostly muscle according to the vet) I've been thinking allot about just how much I'm feeding both of my cats. I've always wondered why pet food labels don't contain the food's caloric value. So as I searched for pet-related news articles I came across this article. I definitely think that this would give owners a better idea of just how much they should feed their pet.

While the labels indicate the amount of food you should give according to the weight of the animal, listing the number of calories per serving would give owners an even greater idea of just how much they are feeding their pets.

"Pet owners do not always know how much to feed. They may not realize the high number of calories associated with some of the pet food they are giving their pets," said John Branam, testifying on behalf of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

The information also would help consumers and veterinarians compare and choose the best food product, Branam said. For example, two cups of one product could have the same calories as one cup of another product.

....says the article.

Some people say it wouldn't work because it doesn't always work for people. But I look at it this way: Calorie counting worked for me when I joined Weight Watchers so why can't it work for a vigilant owner who wants to make sure their pet stays healthy and in shape. Of course it won't work for people who aren't willing to take that extra step.

While I don't want marcie to lose too much weight...losing about a pound would be great for her. Heheh! If this law does pass then maybe someone can start a Weight Watchers program for pets! LOL!!