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Real discussions from product enthusiasts
Picky Eaters Love Cesar, But Users Question Nutritional Value
Many dog owners find Cesar's wet food highly palatable, making it a go-to for enticing fussy eaters or dogs with dental issues. However, community discussions frequently raise concerns about its ingredient quality, with some users describing it as 'junk food' rather than a nutritionally sound staple.
Digestive Upset and Skin Issues Linked to Cesar Food
Several users have reported experiencing adverse reactions in their dogs after feeding Cesar, including severe diarrhea and increased itching. Veterinarians have sometimes advised against the food, with some owners observing complete resolution of these health issues upon discontinuing Cesar.
Cesar Perceived as Expensive with Questionable Calorie Value
Despite its palatability, Cesar Classic Loaf is frequently criticized for its high price point relative to its perceived nutritional value. Users question the manufacturer's calorie recommendations, suggesting they may be inflated, and consider it an expensive option, especially for larger dogs.
Community Recommends 'Science-Backed' Diets Over Cesar
Online communities often direct users seeking high-quality nutrition toward brands like Purina Pro Plan, Royal Canin, and Hill's Science Diet, which are considered 'science-backed.' Cesar is frequently characterized as a 'boutique food' appealing more to owners than to veterinary nutrition standards.
Expert answers based on real user experience
For small breed dogs, Cesar Classic Loaf's high palatability is a frequent draw, often serving as a successful enticement for picky eaters or those with dental discomfort hindering kibble consumption. Users leverage its appealing texture and taste, sometimes mixing it with dry food to encourage intake. While dogs may readily consume it, discussions highlight concerns that this palatability might overshadow its nutritional density. With approximately 90 kcal ME per 100g tray, it's important to consider its role as a supplement or treat rather than a sole diet, especially if seeking maximum nutritional value per calorie.
Reddit discussions
Cesar
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Cesar CESAR Classic Loaf in Sauce Adult Wet Dog Food Beef Selects Variety Pack, 24x100g Trays. Features: FOR SMALL BREED ADULT DOGS: Contains one (1) 24-count case of 100g trays of C.... MIX IT UP: Serve CESAR wet dog food on its own, as a topper to dry food, or m.... 100% COMPLETE & BALANCED NUTRITION: Fortified with vitamins and minerals. HIGH-QUALITY PROTEIN: To aid digestion with no artificial flavours and no fil.... TASTY CUTS OF MEAT OR POULTRY: Meat or poultry is the first ingredient.
| ASIN | B08JQNXDM5 |
| Manufacturer | Mars Canada Inc |
| Item model number | 058496451950 |
| Place of Business | BOLTON, ON, L7E 4W4 CA |
| Product Dimensions | 36.8 x 9.2 x 15.2 cm; 2.4 kg |
Community discussions frequently flag ingredients like 'Animal Plasma' and artificial 'Filet Mignon Flavour' as reasons for labeling Cesar a 'junk food' or source of 'empty calories.' While the product claims to be 100% complete and balanced, fortified with vitamins and minerals, and lists meat or poultry as the first ingredient, some users express skepticism. These ingredients, along with others, are sometimes perceived as less desirable for canine health compared to whole food sources. The brand states its ingredients are 'Natural as defined by AAFCO,' but consumer perception often leans towards seeking more transparent or whole-food-based ingredient lists.
Reddit discussions
Users have reported specific adverse reactions, most notably gastrointestinal upset such as severe diarrhea lasting several days, particularly with lamb or chicken/liver flavors, though some dogs tolerate the beef variety. Skin issues, including significant itching and coat darkening, have also been noted, especially in breeds like Maltese known for sensitive stomachs. In some instances, veterinary professionals have advised against the food, suggesting it's 'no good' or unsuitable, and owners observed complete resolution of these symptoms upon discontinuing Cesar.
Reddit discussions
The approximate 90 kcal ME per 100g tray of Cesar Classic Loaf indicates a relatively low calorie density. For adult dogs weighing over 20 lbs, or those with higher activity levels, this product alone may not provide sufficient caloric or nutrient intake. For example, a 14 lb dog might need around 400 calories daily, requiring multiple trays, while a 20 lb dog could need upwards of 500-600 calories. While Cesar is formulated to meet AAFCO standards for adult maintenance, its low caloric content per serving means larger dogs might require excessive volumes to meet energy needs, potentially making it an impractical or economically inefficient primary food source.
Product specifications & user feedback
Relying on foods perceived as 'empty calories' can pose long-term health risks by potentially leading to micronutrient deficiencies or imbalances, even if minimum AAFCO requirements are met. These foods might lack the specific fatty acids, antioxidants, or fiber profiles found in more 'science-backed' diets, which are formulated through extensive research and feeding trials. This can impact immune function, coat health, and overall vitality. Brands like Purina Pro Plan or Hill's Science Diet are often recommended because their formulations are developed with veterinary nutritionists, aiming for optimal bioavailability and addressing specific health concerns, potentially leading to better long-term health outcomes compared to diets focused primarily on palatability.
Veterinary nutrition principles & user comparisons
