Walk down any grocery aisle and you’ll see it: snacks, drinks, bars, even boxes of macaroni and cheese loaded with protein, all promising wellness from the inside out. The human health movement has evolved — and now, it’s influencing how we care for our pets, too.
Jesse Fenton
Senior Nutrition Scientist, MARS Pet Nutrition
“Pet parents,” who make up nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population,[i] have for generations focused on whether the bowl was full. Today, the question is a bit more nuanced: Is my pet thriving?
At Mars and its Waltham Petcare Science Institute, scientists have spent decades studying what helps dogs and cats live active, healthy lives. Four in five pet parents in the United States consider pet food to be the most important health and wellness product for their pets[ii] — showing that small, daily choices can make a meaningful difference in helping pets stay active and thrive as they age.
So, what does everyday wellness look like, and what should pet parents watch for? Science highlights several key nutritional factors that can help support pets’ overall health:
1. Skin and coat health
A shiny coat isn’t just cosmetic — it reflects overall well-being. Dull fur, flaking, or itching can indicate a nutritional imbalance. Diets rich in essential omega-6 and -3 fatty acids, help support skin and coat health, keeping fur soft and healthy-looking. While the optimal omega 6:3 ratio contributes significantly to these benefits, our recipes deliver skin and coat health support across all products featuring essential omega-6 fatty acids.
2. Digestive well-being
Just like people, pets benefit from a balanced gut. Consistent stools and a regular appetite are signs of digestive health. Prebiotics help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and promote healthy digestion. Tools like IAMS Poopscan, a digital stool analyzer, give pet parents insight into the visual indicators of their pets’ poop consistency — helping them know when to check in with their veterinarian.
3. Healthy activity levels
Muscle tone and strength are key to pets’ natural energy. When pets slow down, it can be a sign that their nutritional needs are changing. Nutrients such as L-carnitine, found in select recipes, help support metabolism and maintain lean muscle mass during weight loss, while natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin help nourish healthy joints — so pets can stay active and playful.
4. Fuel for play
Active pets use a lot of energy. Pairing regular exercise with a diet that includes healthy grains and high-quality animal protein helps maintain energy and endurance, supporting a healthy, active lifestyle.
5. Immune support
A strong immune system helps protect pets from everyday challenges. Nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help support a healthy immune system — and contribute to overall vitality throughout life.
Pet parents are increasingly shifting from reactive care to proactive nutrition, helping dogs and cats stay healthy at every age. This science-led approach has long guided the work at the IAMS brand, which has been dedicated to advancing pet nutrition for nearly 80 years.
Because well-being isn’t about adding years — it’s about making every moment count. By understanding the science behind nutrition and health, pet parents can take small, informed steps each day to help their companions live full, healthy lives.
Our pets give us their best years; they deserve the same from us.
[i] NielsenIQ Pet-O-Graphics Survey, Q2 2025.
[ii] Petfood Industry, April 2025
