Carbohydrates in pet food – Sugars

Sugars are the smallest and simplest form of carbohydrates. The most basic form of carbohydrate is glucose which is a monosaccharide. Glucose is the most important energy source in animal cells but is rarely found in nature. When enzymes break down starch, glucose becomes available. These small glucose molecules can pass through the cell membrane and release energy when metabolised. In nature, most available sugars are in the form of disaccharides (two monosaccharides joined together). Examples include; sucrose, lactose, and maltose.

Carbohydrates in pet food – Starch

Despite the perception that some dogs should be fed the same food as wolves, studies have confirmed they can digest starches and break them down into sugars as an available energy source. Whilst cats don’t have a specific requirement for starches, they are able to utilise them as an energy source. Both cats and dogs have the necessary enzymes to break starch down into small molecules, which can help to produce energy for their cells. In the wild, both cats and dogs would consume some carbohydrates from the digestive tract of their prey.

Starch also plays an important role in the structure of kibble. Dry extruded pet foods require an amount of structure-forming ingredients, like starches, to support the kibble’s shape, texture, and expansion.

Carbohydrates in pet food – Fibre

Depending on its solubility and fermentability, dietary fibre can provide health benefits to cats and dogs. Soluble fibre dissolves in water and is fermented in the colon. This type of fibre supports digestion by stimulating the growth of beneficial intestinal microbes through fermentation, which helps to reduce harmful bacteria colonisation. Insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water and instead absorbs water as it moves through the digestive tract. This type of fibre helps to form a bulk to pass through the digestive tract and help with faecal consistency. Insoluble fibre does not provide energy and will not contribute to weight gain. This type of fibre may be used in ‘light’ diets to help provide satiety without contributing energy.

Carbohydrates Versus Protein & Fat for Energy

When fed a complete and balanced diet, carbohydrates can help provide some of the key ingredients for a dog’s happy and healthy life. A dog’s body can break down protein, fat and carbohydrates for energy. However, there is a difference between the energy provided by carbohydrates and the energy that is found in fat and protein.