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The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) was formed in 1909 to establish a framework for uniform regulation of the feed industry. Although not a government agency, AAFCO operates within the guidelines of federal and state legislation including laws administered by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
AAFCO establishes standards or models for regulations aimed at ensuring that manufacturers provide clear, accurate, and consistent information about animal feed, including pet food.
Every year AAFCO issues an official publication called the AAFCO Manual. This manual, in addition to listing ingredient definitions and feed terms, addresses labeling issues such as label format, ingredient lists, nutrition claims, and guaranteed analysis.
These model regulations are different than laws. However a large number of state governments have adopted AAFCO pet food model regulations into state law.
The “AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy or purpose,” also called a “nutrition claim” or “complete and balanced statement,” identifies which life stage and/or lifestyle the product has been approved for. Under AAFCO regulations, this statement must be substantiated by the manufacturer.
AAFCO recognizes three methods for substantiating the claim:
AAFCO has outlined very specific protocols, or guidelines, for conducting feeding tests. The protocols specify test criteria including such things as:
Each life stage has its own protocol. Life stages are the same for both dogs and cats and are defined as:
A pet food with an 'All Life Stages' claim can be used from weaning through adulthood. This claim is considered an unqualified (absolute) representation of nutritional adequacy. If substantiated through feeding trials, the protocol for gestation/lactation and growth must be performed sequentially, using the same group of animals.
AAFCO regulations state that specific wording must be used when a diet is intended for special nutritional or dietary needs that require the involvement of a veterinarian for diagnosis, management, and follow-up.
Understanding the AAFCO statements for nutritional adequacy can help customers choose a high-quality diet that provides complete and balanced nutrition for the appropriate life stage of their dog or cat.
A newborn cat brings endless love and laughter to any household. However, as a new kitten parent, it is important to understand that caring for a kitten is not just about feeding and playing with them. Kittens have specific dietary needs, and it is important to provide them with high-quality kitten food that meets their nutritional requirements. Regular grooming, vaccination, and preventive care are essential in keeping your kitten healthy and free from diseases. This guide will give you all the information you need to raise a healthy kitten and ensure that it grows into a happy and healthy adult cat.
Check out the below table to understand how a cat develops with time:
Age | Milestone |
5 to 6 months old | Sexual maturity |
8 months old | Full set of adult teeth |
9 months old | Comparable digestion ability to adult |
12 months old (female) and 18 months old (male) | Reach adult body weight |
Between 10 to 12 months of age | Energy requirements go down to adult levels |
Want to know how old your cat is in human years? Check out the below table and find out:
| Life stage | Cat age | Cat age in human years |
|---|---|---|
| Kitten | 0 to 1 month old | 0 to 1 years old |
| 2 months old | 2 years old | |
| 3 months old | 4 years old | |
| 4 months old | 6 years old | |
| 5 months old | 8 years old | |
| 6 months old | 10 years old | |
| Junior | 7 months old | 12 years old |
| 12 months old | 15 years old | |
| 18 months old | 21 years old | |
| 2 years old | 24 years old | |
| Adult | 3 years old | 28 years old |
| 4 years old | 32 years old | |
| 5 years old | 36 years old | |
| 6 years old | 40 years old | |
| Mature | 7 years old | 44 years old |
| 8 years old | 48 years old | |
| 9 years old | 52 years old | |
| 10 years old | 56 years old | |
| Senior | 11 years old | 60 years old |
| 12 years old | 64 years old | |
| 13 years old | 68 years old | |
| 14 years old | 72 years old | |
| Super senior | 15 years old | 76 years old |
| 16 years old | 80 years old | |
| 17 years old | 84 years old | |
| 18 years old | 88 years old | |
| 19 years old | 92 years old | |
| 20 years old | 96 years old | |
| 21 years old | 100 years old | |
| 22 years old | 104 years old | |
| 23 years old | 108 years old | |
| 24 years old | 112 years old | |
| 25 years old | 116 years old |
In conclusion, raising a healthy kitten requires a lot of care and attention, but with the right knowledge and commitment, you can ensure that your kitten grows into a happy and healthy adult cat. Always consult your veterinarian for any questions or concerns, and don't hesitate to seek advice or guidance. With the right care and love, your kitten will bring you years of joy and companionship.
