THE REFERENCE SHELF
Buying checks
Check a pet-treat lot against FDA notices
Match the complete product, species, format, package size, lot and date details in the current official notice. A familiar brand, a future best-before date or an empty search result does not establish safety clearance.
Cat and dog treats: compare the intended species first
Check whether the exact product is intended for cats, dogs or both. Similar ingredients or a familiar flavor do not automatically make two differently labeled products interchangeable.
Choose a chew by its exact instructions, not an online photograph
A photograph cannot establish chew dimensions, hardness, appropriate species or suitability for an individual pet. Check the exact package and ask the manufacturer or veterinarian about unresolved fit concerns.
Inspect an online treat order before putting it in the cupboard
Match the delivered item to the order and check its condition, identification and date. A listing photograph and a delivery confirmation are not a substitute for inspecting the actual package.