Labrador adult and British Shorthair adult in black and white

Royal Canin's Nutritional Philosophy

Royal Canin has been at the forefront of science-led nutrition since the very first day. Our approach to pet nutrition has always been based on scientific facts and is constantly fed by research from nutritionists, veterinarians and scientists from across the world. Our nutritional philosophy, nurtured with science and observation since our creation, is rooted in three main principles; the needs of cats and dogs first, nutritional precision, and constant innovation.

Needs of cats and dogs first

A dog is not a person, and a cat is not a small dog. The basic physiological differences between humans, cats and dogs call for specific nutritional requirements. At Royal Canin, we strive to understand even the smallest of nutritional differences between each species and in doing so, help ensure that our diets support their unique needs.

This means that new products are researched and developed, not through trends in human nutrition or the preference of pet owners, but utilising science and observation to produce a precise combination of nutrients vital to each cat or dog's health. Putting the real needs of the animals first helps ensure that we have a clear focus to guide our research and underpin the nutritional mission of all our foods.

Applying our in-depth knowledge of nutrients to the specific requirements of cats and dogs enables us to deliver a tailored solution. By focusing single-mindedly on helping cats and dogs have healthy lives, we give you the best reason possible to choose our nutritional diets.

Illustrated walking cat with green background

Cats

Taste buds: 475

Daily energy intake: 200 - 300 kcal/day

Food intake time: Multiple small meals

Diet: Carnivorous

Illustrated walking dog with green background

Dogs

Taste buds: 1,700

Daily energy intake: 130 - 3,500 kcal/day

Food intake time: 1 - 5 minutes

Diet: Semi-carnivorous

Illustrated walking human with green background

Humans

Taste buds: 9,000

Daily energy intake: 1,800 - 2,500 kcal/day

Food intake time: 30 - 60 minutes

Diet: Omnivorous

Nutritional precision

ROYAL CANIN®’s products are the result of years of careful research focused on the precise nutritional needs of cats and dogs. Unlike many of our competitors who take an ingredients-led approach, we are committed to a detailed, nutrient-led philosophy.

In a nutrient-focused approach, the specific nutritional needs of cats and dogs are evaluated first, and an optimal diet profile is based on the needs that have been established. These needs are determined by the species of the pet, but also their breed, lifestyle, age and health condition or sensitivities. From here, high quality, highly digestible ingredients are selected which can be combined to match the specific nutritional profiles.

To make sure our nutritional formulas are precisely tailored to real-world needs, we partner with pet experts - veterinarians, breeders, professional groups and organisations. This has allowed us to develop a deep understanding of individual breeds, varied life stages and lifestyles, as well as the consideration of many medical conditions.

Constant innovation

Royal Canin is part of an ever-evolving industry, with various feeding trends becoming increasingly popular. To avoid misinformation or chasing trends, and to ensure we are making decisions in the best interest of pets, we put research and innovation at the heart of everything we do. The more we understand, the better placed we are to make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of cats and dogs.

From the conception of Royal Canin in 1968, observation and innovation have led to the development of over 200 unique products, tailored to the needs of cats and dogs. But we won't stop there. We never take learning for granted and maintain ongoing dialogues with scientific experts, pet professionals and owners to inform our developments.

By increasing our knowledge and sharing it with our partners, we create credibility and trust, allowing us to add value to all of their interactions with pets, and ensuring there is always a direct link to the known needs of animals.

Furthermore, at Royal Canin our research, insights and partnerships allow us to expand our nutritional solutions. In our quest to offer increasingly precise formulas, we constantly test and review adaptations to the shape, texture, palatability and digestibility of products and ensure its safety at every step.

Find a product

ROYAL CANIN®’s products are the result of years of careful research focused on the precise nutritional needs of cats and dogs. Each formula has been created to deliver nutrition tailored to your pet’s health needs whatever their breed, age or lifestyle. Browse the full range of Royal Canin products.

Adult Brown Labrador Retriever and ginger cat lying down on a white rug indoors

Selection of three Royal Canin kibbles