FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Welcome to Tilly & Ted's FAQ page – your go-to resource for quick answers about our pet food products. At Tilly & Ted, we prioritise your pet's well-being by providing premium nutrition. Discover essential information and make informed choices for your furry friend's health and happiness.

What are prebiotics and why do you use them in your recipes?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers and compounds that promote the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. These substances serve as a food source for the beneficial microorganisms, such as probiotics, that naturally reside in the digestive system. By fostering the growth of these "good" bacteria, prebiotics contribute to a healthier and more balanced gut microbiome. 

In pet food recipes, prebiotics are included to support and enhance the digestive health of animals. The benefits of incorporating prebiotics into pet food include: 

  1. Gut Health: Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which can contribute to a well-balanced and healthy gut microbiome. A thriving microbiome is associated with improved digestion and nutrient absorption. 
  2. Immune System Support: The gut plays a crucial role in the immune system, and a healthy gut microbiome can positively influence immune function. By supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics indirectly contribute to overall immune system health. 
  3. Stool Quality: A balanced gut microbiome helps regulate bowel movements and can lead to the production of well-formed stools. This can be particularly important in maintaining a cat's or dog's gastrointestinal comfort and health. 

How do I switch my pet to Tilly & Ted? 

  1. Days 1-2: Mix 75% current petfood with 25% Tilly & Ted petfood. 
  2. Days 3-4: Increase to a 50/50 mix of current and Tilly & Ted pet food. 
  3. Days 5-6: Shift to 75% Tilly & Ted and 25% current pet food. 
  4. Day 7 onwards: Feed only the Tilly & Ted. 

Observe your pet for any signs of digestive upset, maintain regular feeding times, be patient, and consult your veterinarian if needed.

Where do the ingredients in your pet food come from?

  1. Meat and Animal Products: High-quality proteins such as chicken, beef, lamb, fish, and other meats come from reputable meat Origin of the Ingredients of Animal Origin (UK, EU, etc). 
  2. Grains and Vegetables: Common sources include rice, barley, sweet potatoes, peas, and carrots. Origin of ingredients (UK, EU, etc). 
  3. Supplements: Essential vitamins and minerals are often added to ensure the pet food meets nutritional requirements. These may include sources of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Origin of ingredients (UK, EU, etc) 
  4. Prebiotics and Probiotics: Some pet foods include prebiotics and probiotics to support digestive health. These may come from various sources, including inulin, chicory root, and specific bacterial strains. Origin of ingredients (UK, EU, etc).

Can I feed Tilly & Ted to a Kitten/ Puppy?

Feeding adult pet food to a kitten or a puppy is generally not recommended. Kittens and puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult cats and dogs, respectively. They need food that is specifically formulated to support their growth and development. 

Here are some reasons why you should not feed adult pet food to a kitten or a puppy: 

  1. Nutritional Needs: Kittens and puppies require higher levels of certain nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to support their rapid growth and development. Adult pet food may not provide these nutrients in sufficient quantities. 
  2. Caloric Density: Kitten and puppy food tends to be more calorie-dense than adult food to support their high energy needs. Feeding them adult food may not provide enough calories for their growth and may lead to nutritional deficiencies. 
  3. Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio: Proper calcium and phosphorus levels are crucial for bone development in growing animals. Kitten and puppy food is formulated with the appropriate ratio of calcium to phosphorus to support healthy bone growth. 
  4. Digestibility: The digestibility of kitten and puppy food may be different from adult food. Their digestive systems are still developing, and they may require food that is easier to digest. 
  5. Immune Support: Young animals have developing immune systems and may benefit from specific nutrients, such as antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which are often included in kitten and puppy food to support immune function. 

Feeding adult pet food to a kitten or a puppy could potentially lead to developmental issues, nutritional deficiencies, and health problems. It's essential to choose a pet food specifically formulated for kittens or puppies and follow feeding guidelines provided by your veterinarian or the pet food manufacturer.

What benefits do superfoods add to Tilly & Ted? 

Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods that are considered to be particularly beneficial for health due to their high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Incorporating superfoods into pet food can offer various potential benefits for pets: 

  1. Nutrient Density: Superfoods are typically packed with essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can contribute to overall health and well-being in pets. 
  2. Immune Support: Many superfoods contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, as well as phytonutrients, which can help support the immune system and protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. 
  3. Digestive Health: Some superfoods, like pumpkin and sweet potatoes, are high in dietary fibre, which can aid in digestion and promote gastrointestinal health by regulating bowel movements and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. 
  4. Joint Health: Superfoods like blueberries and fish oil, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may help support joint health and mobility, which is especially beneficial for senior pets or those with arthritis. 
  5. Skin and Coat Health: Certain superfoods, such as salmon and flaxseed, contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat in pets. 
  6. Weight Management: Superfoods that are low in calories but high in nutrients, such as spinach and kale, can be beneficial for pets who need to manage their weight or maintain a healthy body condition. 

It's important to note that while superfoods can offer numerous health benefits, they should be part of a balanced diet rather than the sole focus. Consulting with a veterinarian about the specific dietary needs of your pet and choosing high-quality pet foods with appropriate nutritional profiles, including superfoods, can help ensure your pet receives optimal nutrition for overall health and well-being. 

Important Considerations: 

Always follow feeding guidelines provided on the food packaging. 
Monitor your pet's weight and adjust their food intake accordingly. If they are gaining or losing weight, you may need to adjust the portion sizes. 
Consult your veterinarian for personalised recommendations, especially if your pet has specific health concerns or dietary needs. 
Always ensure access to fresh water. 
Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to obesity and related health issues. 
Remember, these are general guidelines, and individual pets may have unique nutritional requirements. It's always best to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice on feeding your cat or dog. 

What are Meat & Animal Derivatives? Why do you use them? 

"Meat and animal derivatives" is a term commonly found on pet food labels. It refers to animal-derived ingredients that may come from various parts of the animal, such as muscle tissue, organs, or other parts not typically consumed by humans. These ingredients can include things like liver, lungs, spleen, kidneys, and blood. 


The use of meat and animal derivatives in pet food serves several purposes: 

  1. Nutritional Content: These ingredients provide essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals that are necessary for the overall health and well-being of pets. 
  2. Palatability: Many pets find meat-based ingredients highly palatable, which can encourage them to eat their food and maintain a balanced diet. 
  3. Variety: Including a variety of animal-derived ingredients in pet food formulations can offer a broader range of nutrients and flavours, which may appeal to different pets and their individual preferences. 
  4. Sustainability: Using a variety of animal-derived ingredients can help reduce waste in the food industry by utilising parts of the animal that might otherwise go unused. 

It's important to note that the specific source and quality of meat and animal derivatives can vary among pet food brands. It's recommended to choose reputable brands that prioritise the quality and safety of their ingredients and to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet's dietary needs are being met.

What are derivatives of Vegetable Origin?

"Derivatives of vegetable origin" refers to ingredients in pet food that are derived from plants. These ingredients are typically used to provide essential nutrients, fibre, and other beneficial components to a pet's diet. Some common derivatives of vegetable origin found in pet food include: 

  1. Grains: Ingredients such as rice, corn, wheat, barley, oats, and sorghum are often used as carbohydrate sources in pet food. They provide energy and can also contribute to the texture and palatability of the food. 
  2. Vegetables: Ingredients like carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, spinach, and pumpkin are often included in pet food for their vitamins, minerals, and fibre content. They can add nutritional value and natural flavour to the food. 
  3. Fruits: Fruits such as apples, berries, bananas, and cranberries may be used in pet food for their antioxidant properties, vitamins, and natural sweetness. 
  4. Legumes: Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and beans are sometimes used in pet food as alternative protein sources or as a source of fibre and carbohydrates. 

How do I make contact for Support?

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hello@tillyandted.co.uk