F.A.Q.

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Why does NATURINA use Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

NATURINA, in the recipes of the ELITE line, uses the integration of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It has always been considered a food and a phytotherapic at the same time, in fact, on the basis of recent studies, EVO oil is a useful natural method for the prevention of various diseases. The choice of NATURINA to use this valuable oil is precisely the concept of ensuring through the daily diet a healthy and preventive action even in our animals. Its integration also makes the products of the ELITE line very palatable and a healthy touch for the health of the digestive system.

Why does NATURINA use corn in some of its recipes?

NATURINA uses corn or maize as a source of carbohydrates in some of its main recipes because it represents a valuable source of easily digestible starches. The corn we use comes only from domestic producers and is free of genetically modified substances (NO GMO). As a precautionary measure, we only use maize for human use to guarantee the healthiness of our food. We do not use maize for zootechnical use in our formulations.

Why does NATURINA include maize in the first place in some recipes?

NATURINA in some of its recipes (Adult, Puppy, Light) uses corn as the only source of cereals and for this reason it appears in first place in the composition/ingredients. Some manufacturers use a single protein and several grains in the same formula so that meat appears as the first ingredient. NATURINA has prioritized animal health over marketing regions by choosing to use two quality protein sources of chicken and dehydrated fish while balancing them to ensure palatability and functionality of the feed at the same time. This is why those who use our products find a marked improvement in their animal's health.

Why do some recipes with maize have a high price?

NATURINA combines high-quality human and pet food ingredients in its recipes. This is demonstrated by a low crude ash content and the balance of Ω3 and Ω6 fatty acids in all formulas with the help of high-quality fish oil. NATURINA pays attention to the calcium/phosphorus ratios, which are very important in adult dogs and particularly in growing dogs. The assimilable calcium/phosphorus ratio on NATURINA PUPPY is 1:1.2 thanks to the combination of quality foods such as fish meal (Tuna, Salmon and Norwegian Herring), fish oil, etc.. This ratio, thanks to a strong attention in the formulation phase, favours a gradual growth of the puppy and a correct development of the different organs, in particular of the skeletal system without forcing overgrowth and overweight. In the recipes NATURINA SECCO CANE there is a core of integration called Naturina BIO PROTECION that promotes pigmentation and immune system. This core increases the cost of the formulation because it is composed of human-use ingredients such as: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Spinach, Tomato, Carrot, Apple, Blueberry and Currant. NATURINA offers quality products at the right price.

What is raw ash?

Raw ashes, or crude ashes, are inorganic materials, MINERALS for short, derived from the incineration of organic substances, which is why they are called ashes. In order to guarantee a quality feed, these must not exceed 8% on a dry feed. NATURINA pays a lot of attention to the content of crude ash, so much so that it guarantees a very low percentage of crude ash on dry dog food, equal to 5.3% on ADULT croquettes.

NATURINA is a Cruelty Free company?

The expression cruelty free is used to indicate all productsthat have been produced without any tests on animals. NATURINA is a 100% Cruelty Free company, in fact it does not perform tests on animals both during the experimentation of the products and when the product is finished. NATURINA carries out only clinical tests on the success of its products to benefit the health of animals. It also encourages "conscious consumption" trying to raise consumer awareness to use products that have the least negative impact possible, especially with regard to animal health. NATURINA is present in the positive list provided by OIPA, the International Organization for Animal Protection, a list that includes petfood companies that produce in respect of animals.http://www.oipa.org/italia/listepetfood/

NATURINA is a Dolphin Safe company?

The Dolphin Safe policy is aimed at protecting animals accidentally caught during fishing. NATURINA uses open-sea fishing techniques to protect the marine ecosystem and the animals that live in it. During tuna fishing trips, dolphins are often caught and end up in the nets. NATURINA therefore, to avoid mistreatment and their capture, through the Dolphin Safe policy carries out "natural" fishing trips aimed at protecting dolphins and other sea inhabitants.

How long do you feed the pup with the specific food?

The maturity of a puppy depends mainly on its size. In many breeds, maturity is reached by 9 to 12 months, as is the case with small dogs, but in medium to large breeds it can vary from 18 to 24 months. For puppies NATURINA offers the PUPPY MINI line, for small dogs, and the PUPPY line for medium-large dogs. Both references are available both in kibble (dry) and in cans (wet) to ensure perfect growth for all the different types of size, providing then, when the puppy matures, the ADULT MINI and ADULTlines.

For kittens, NATURINA proposes KITTEN with BEEF, a complete food that can accompany our friends from weaning up to the first year of age, proposing then for the maintenance many references with chicken, tuna, etc.

How to make the change from one food to another?

The precautions for changing food are mainly taken with regard to dry food. In fact, a drastic change of a food can lead to diarrhoea, large stools and general malaise in the animal, since the new enzymes specific to the digestion of the new food must be formed. For this reason, NATURINA recommends mixing the "old" food with the one you wish to introduce for about 3/4 days, gradually introducing the new food. When using the dry food NATURINA diarrhoeal phenomena do not usually occur, but the advice is to prevent this, especially in young animals, by gradually introducing the new foodNATURINA.

What does NO GMO mean?

The acronym GMO is a very complex concept that means Genetically Modified Organism. Modified organisms therefore have their genetic heritage manipulated. Vegetables, fruit and animals are usually modified in the laboratory to obtain faster growth, more attractive crosses and to model the characteristics determined in favour of man. Organisms modified in this way have a different genetic heritage than they would have if they followed Nature's dictates. NATURINA uses in its recipes only fruits, vegetables and meats that have NOT been generically modified (NO GMO), grown and bred with traditional methods. In addition, NATURINA is against the release of GMOs into nature through cultivation and breeding because accidental contamination can produce harmful and irreversible effects on ecosystems.

What does COMPLETE FOOD mean?

A complete food is that type of food which has certain characteristics for which it can be given exclusively to our four-legged friend. In fact, it does not need any accompanying food as it represents the correct balance of ingredients to satisfy the complete nutritional requirements of our animals

What is the difference between COMPLETE and COMPLEMENTARY FOOD?

A complete food is that type of food which has certain characteristics for which it can be given exclusively to our 4-legged friend for the whole of his life without this leading to nutritional deficiencies or health problems as it represents the correct balance of ingredients to satisfy the complete nutritional needs of our animals A complementary food, on the contrary, is not suitable to be administered as a single food, but should always be associated with a complete food. NATURINA therefore recommends supplementing complementary foods with a complete dry food, e.g. NATURINA Umido GattoElite Trancetti di Tonno integrated with NATURINA FRESH/EASY croquettes .

Why does NATURINA use fresh meat in the FRESH line?

NATURINA FRESH is a line of complete and balanced dry food for adult cats of all sizes. It contains the integration of fresh meats of first choice aimed at guaranteeing high digestibility and excellent palatability. The choice to use fresh meat has been made especially to pay attention to the high number of cats with digestive sensitivities, providing a food that brings well-being to the digestive system thanks to the integration of ingredients such as barley and beet pulp.

How to feed a puppy with NATURINA?

During lactation, your puppy receives antibodies directly from the colostrum of its mother's milk.

With weaning, antibody levels drop, drastically reducing the puppy's natural defences just as the immune system is developing. Immunity remains low until five months of age. It is important to know, therefore, that when the puppy comes to live with his new family he is in the midst of lowering his immune system.

It is essential to provide him with a diet that ensures the correct intake of nutrients and calories.

Our veterinary nutritionists have formulated NATURINA PUPPY with CHICKEN and FISH.

NATURINA PUPPY with CHICKEN and FISH is composed of natural foods of the highest quality, from certified Italian suppliers. Our veterinary nutritionists have developed NATURINA BIO PROTECTION, a natural protection system composed of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, seaweed, vegetables, fruit, FOS and MOS, which promotes an efficient immune response thanks to the high content of antioxidants and natural vitamin precursors.

NATURINA PUPPYhasbeen specially formulated to meet the energy requirements of puppies and puppy dogs of all sizes from 60 days up to 18 months of age. It is also suitable for pregnant and lactating bitches.

NATURINA PUPPY provides a complete and balanced meal in the correct proportions to allow a correct development of the different organs, in particular of the skeletal system without forcing overgrowth and overweight. Chondroitin and Glucosamine help protect joint health. The fats present are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and contain a balanced intake of Ω3 and Ω6 (1:6 ratio). Particular attention has been paid to the intake of essential amino acids as well as vitamins and minerals with correct ratios of calcium to assimilable phosphorus (ratio 1:1.2).

How many meals a day should a puppy be given?

Until weaning, the puppy's main food is its mother's milk, which is particularly nutritious. From the fifth week onwards, the puppy is given wet food, which should be mixed with dry food to get it used to chewing and then continue with dry food only or mixed according to preference. The frequency of the meals becomes 3/4 per day.

Until the puppy reaches the adult stage, it is advisable to feed 3 times a day and then reduce them to twice a day once the puppy has become an adult.

What does NATURINA recommend for an elderly dog?

With the onset of old age, the dog's body undergoes an irreversible slowdown of the basal metabolism and consequent changes in eating habits.

NATURINA has thought of a hypoallergenic LIGHT product, specific for elderly dogs which, besides keeping energy excesses under control (only 8% of fat), is enriched with Chondroitin and Glucosamine, precious substances for the health of joints.
NATURINA LIGHT single-protein fish food is very digestible thanks to the protein used and the low fat content, it provides a complete and balanced meal, avoiding excess in proteins, fats and calories ensuring the right energy intake. The fats present, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, contain a balanced intake of Ω3 and Ω6. It contains an adequate level of fibre, which helps to maintain a good function of the digestive system.

As an accompaniment NATURINA has created LIGHT umido PESCE CON VERDURE, a soft pâté with only 4.5% fat, steamed with top quality ingredients and with the addition of Extra Virgin Olive Oil!

What is meant by natural preservation?

The preservation of industrial feeds, both dry and wet, is a compulsory process to guarantee their wholesomeness (healthy food) and organoleptic characteristics (taste, colour and smell) for a reasonably long period of time.

Naturina has chosen not to use preservatives, colorants and chemical appetizers in respect of the biology of the animal and the environment. For this reason, in all the recipes Naturina uses exclusively a natural preservation based on natural tocopherols (Vitamin E), rosemary extract and natural antioxidants that among other things provide greater protection against oxidative stress within the animal organism. In addition, today NATURINA is the first petfood company to be able to boast the use of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which in addition to being a valuable antioxidant, thanks to its characteristic flavor ensures an excellent palatability 100% natural.

What is a functional food?

The line Naturina Elìte dog is characterised not only by the high quality of the raw materials, but also by the presence of the so-called NUTRACEUTICS, natural ingredients that carry out a beneficial and therapeutic action in a natural way through the daily diet. There are many nutraceuticals used in our recipes including fruit and vegetables, organic seaweed, noble cereals such as millet and barley, medicinal herbs such as lemon balm, fennel and cumin and of course the precious Extra Virgin Olive Oil, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer.

Why do you use millet in SKIN CARE?

NATURINA uses the milletin the SKIN CARE recipe , itis a cereal rich in nutrients and very usefulfor the digestive system, nails and skin. It has always been known as an instrument of care, in fact it is known for its significant benefits that affect mainly the skin, in fact we find that it is used in a large number of skin products. NATURINA, through its use, wanted to create a recipe that goes in fact to protect the health of the skin and hair of the dog.

Millet also consists mainly of carbohydrates and has a fair share of protein. Its protein component is greater than that of other cereals and for this reason it is more easily absorbed by the body. It is rich in minerals, including phosphorus, magnesium, iron and potassium.

NATURINA SKIN CARE is available in wet and dry versions.

Why do you use barley in DIGESTION?

NATURINA uses thebarley in the recipe of DIGESTION, it is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties, it is usefulfor the intestine and in case of constipation. NATURINA in fact, through the use of this ingredient, wanted to create a product with high digestibility and particularly beneficial for the intestinal system.Barley has remineralizing propertiesand contains a fair amount of mineral salts. It has anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for the bladder and intestine. Since it is rich in fiber, it stimulates digestion , helps regulate intestinal function and is particularly useful in cases of constipation or diarrhea

NATURINA DIGESTION is available in wet anddry form .

What does NATURINA recommend for pregnant/lactating cats?

For cats in gestation or lactation, NATURINA has created several products that contribute to providing all the necessary nutrients for the needs of our cats. The first proposal concerns EASY VITALITY croquettes, a product with a good protein content that aims to contribute to the vitality and energy of the animal. The second proposal concerns the references of the FRESH line, made with fresh meat and with a remarkable ratio of Ω3/Ω6 that contributes to stimulate an anti-inflammatory function

If my dog refuses kibble, is he fed up?

If your dog refuses kibble, it does not necessarily mean that he is fed up. It may happen that dogs have periods in which they have a greater or lesser appetite, so even if your dog skips a meal or two, you do not need to be alarmed immediately. NATURINA advises to offer the food anyway and leave it at the dog's disposal for about 5 minutes and then remove the bowl even if he does not eat. If the problem persists for more than 3/4 days, it is advisable to contact your vet.

What is the most suitable food for my cat?

As far as your cat's diet is concerned, NATURINA recommends integrating both dry and wet food. NATURINA provides various products specially designed for your cat's lifestyle, such as the croquettes from the EASY line, or, to satisfy even the most difficult palates, we recommend the FRESH line, made with fresh meat. Moreover, it is very important to use the wet food, which contributes to stimulate the appetite and helps the cat to take a dose of water necessary for its well-being. NATURINA offers two lines of wet cat food; the ELITE line preserved in cooking water and the EASY line in jelly. NATURINA recommends carefully following the different nutritional tables on the packaging.

What is the most suitable food for my dog?

As far as your dog's diet is concerned, NATURINA recommends supplementing both dry and wet food. For dogs NATURINA has developed different foods that cover the different needs of your dog. You should always leave fresh water available for your dog.

How can I store tins of wet food?

In order to store a tin, you need to proceed with some simple precautions: it is advisable to close the package with a cap, aluminium foil or kitchen foil and store it in the fridge, afterwards it should be taken out 2/3 hours earlier to serve it at room temperature. NATURINA advises, once the package has been opened, to store it in the fridge and use it within 2/3 days.