Gastro Dog Food

[Marg]

I have a 15 year old mini schnauzer who has a history of stomach upsets, otherwise, she is in excellent health. She is on MediCal Gastro dog food which I believe is Select Care in the U.S. MediCal was bought out by Royal Canin. I noticed her poop has changed and is now 'grainy'. I checked an old label and a new label and discovered that they have changed some of the ingredients. The protein has gone from 21% to 20%. The fat has changed from 9.3% to 8%. The fibre has gone from 1.8% to 3% (more fillers?). Are these changes significant enough to change the quality of the food? Should I leave well enough alone or should I look for a new food? At her age I don't want to bounce her from diet to diet but I am worried that MediCal is not the same quality. Of course, I am also annoyed that they would change a gastro diet without warning! Any input would be appreciated and I will discuss any changes with my vet. Thanks!

[Traci]

Does the product still contain Medi-Cal's labelling or has it changed to Royal Canin's brand labelling? Ask your vet to consult with Royal Canin about the product, he can get a comparison sheet from them that outlines the old migrating to the new, as well as the product ingredient/rationale list.

It wouldn't surprise me if the formulas have been changed, but it doesn't necessarily mean the quality has changed. However, if your dog's appetite, palatability or interest in her food has changed, or if she develops vomiting, etc, then discuss with your vet an equivalent diet --perhaps to the Sensitive formula(s)--, or an equivalent in another veterinary brand.

[Marg]

Thanks, Traci. The food is still "Medi-Cal". After reading your message I talked to my vet. She is going to call the representative and get back to me. She said pretty much the same thing that you did - if there are some changes they are not necessarily bad. I appreciate your input and the link!