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Companies like Wild Balance and GuauCat See 15% Monthly Growth in Spain
Eating healthy has become a top priority for many during the long months of the pandemic. Not only for humans, but for pets as well. Families spent more time at home, which raised interest in better pet nutrition and less processed foods. In 2021, more homes reported owning dogs than families with children under 14, reflecting a shift in daily routines and dietary choices. This change has triggered a broader transformation in what people feed their animals and why.
One business leader remarked that reconsidering a pet’s diet can feel personal. The shift toward a more natural approach to pet food is framed as a move away from ultra processed options toward nourishment that preserves natural properties. Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, or BARF, is cited as a model of a diet that emphasizes minimal processing while keeping a natural profile. Many brands offer frozen options, though some lines are available canned or ready to eat without freezing outside of their brand specifications.
comfort barrier
A major hurdle for these diets is the perception that they are hard to integrate into everyday life. To address this, Wild Balance launched in 2020 with a focus on simplicity for pet owners. The business is experiencing strong monthly growth and recently expanded a large facility in Valencia, now around 1,800 square meters. Their products include small portions like 50-gram hamburgers and one kilogram bags, plus steamed cans that do not require freezing. The operation employs around 25 people and generates about 2 million euros in annual revenue, with plans to surpass 20 million euros by 2025 through international expansion.
Owners consider pets as family members, so clear, readable ingredient lists on labels matter. Obesity remains a concern, with estimates suggesting about one in three dogs and two cats are overweight. Experts explain that animals may overeat when bored, whereas natural diets tend to curb that tendency and be more appealing to the palate. Poorly designed foods can contribute to health issues similar to those seen in people, underscoring the value of quality ingredients.
meaningless
Excessive heat processing can denature proteins and strip away vitamins and additives, which may reduce how appealing a product feels to a pet. A veterinary professional notes that certain ultra-processed cans may include vague terms like dried poultry protein, which can be difficult to identify. Proteins remain a fundamental building block for all animals, and many pet foods rely on carbohydrate-heavy bases that may not align with carnivorous digestive systems. Some studies have linked long-term kidney concerns in older cats when the diet is too low in moisture, highlighting the importance of balanced hydration and nutrition.
When dogs cross the street to a meal, they often respond with enthusiasm rather than hesitation. Diets focusing on natural preservatives and essential fatty acids can support cardiovascular health and coat condition. The sense of a fresh, wholesome meal is often celebrated in veterinary settings as pets arrive for checkups and care.
Reasonable price
Economic considerations can slow the adoption of new feeding formats. GuauCat emphasizes affordability as a driver of change, aiming to provide two to five euros of food per day for dogs across Spain. The brand offers a diverse menu with 24 different dishes and continues to grow at a steady pace. Revenue sits around two million euros, with projections to reach ten million in a couple of years. The company employs about 40 people and operates a 700 square meter facility in Granollers, with expansion plans already in motion for 2023.
Overall, demand for natural and organic ingredients in pet foods appears poised to rise in the coming years. Nutrition experts suggest that once consumers see the benefits, the shift toward higher quality, minimally processed options is unlikely to reverse. The movement toward healthier pet diets is gaining traction as families seek lifestyles that support longer, healthier lives for their companions.
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