Glossary of Terms

• Anti-oxidantsAntioxidants in the food work to keep free radicals (pollutants that interferes with cell functioning) in check. Free radicals are thought to be a contributing factor in ageing, cancer and arthritis. They result from radiation, toxins, infection, trauma and normal ongoing metabolism. Antioxidants are found naturally in plants (fruit and vegetables). Oscar pet foods are preserved naturally using tocopherols,a blend of fruit and vegetable extracts in addition to Vitamin E. All dry pet foods require an antioxidant in order to prevent the fat components in the diet from becoming rancid on exposure to air. Oscar do not use any artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
• AshThe incombustible inorganic residue remaining after incineration; generally the mineral content of the food. In pet food the constituents are broken down in to several components: carbohydrate, moisture, protein, fibre and fat/oil. Anything that does not come into one of these categories is called by the general term 'ash'.
• Beet PulpThe dried residue from production of sugar from sugar beets. A good source of both soluble and insoluble fibre. The soluble fibre is a good food source for the friendly bacteria in the large intestine. It also slows the rate of food passage through the gut ensuring a preferential transit time of food, leading to maximum digestion and absorption of nutrients. The insoluble fibre increases peristalsis, helps an animal to feel satisfactorily full and provides a crunchy texture to the kibbles to aid oral hygiene. Oscar use an unmolassed beet pulp from Holland.
• Beneficial FibreA source of fibre which is vital to Fibrevores. Quality nutritional fibre which not only is essential to the digestion but also provides emotional comfort
• BFAThe British Franchise Association http://www.thebfa.org/
• BHAButylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and the related compound butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are phenolic compounds that are often added to foods to preserve fats. (Not used in any of Oscar Pet Foods products)
• BHTbutylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and the related compound Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) are phenolic compounds that are often added to foods to preserve fats. (Not used in any of Oscar Pet Foods products)
• Bio-flavonoidsRefers to a class of plant secondary metabolites (organic compounds) most commonly known for their antioxidant activity. They provide health benefits against cancer and heart disease as the result of other related mechanisms.
• BiotinBiotin is a water-soluble, nitrogen-containing acid essential for growth and well-being in animals and some microorganisms. Helps the utilisation of protein and since hair/feet are formed from proteins extra biotin is often added to feeds for horses and dogs to encourage healthy coats and feet.
• Brewer's YeastAn excellent source of B-complex vitamins and amino acids. Oscar source their brewer's yeast from Germany.
• Calcium carbonateIt is a common substance found in rock in all parts of the world, and is the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, pearls, and eggshells. Calcium carbonate is the active ingredient in agricultural lime, and is usually the principal cause of hard water. It is commonly used medicinally as a calcium supplement
• CarbohydrateCarbohydrates are a group of chemical compounds which include sugar, starch and cellulose fibre. Some can be readily burned as energy, while fibre has numerous effects in the gastrointestinal tract. Carbohydrates are the main source of readily digestible energy (calories) converted to sugars.
• CarrotsNatural source of beta carotene (precursor to Vitamin A needed for immune function). Oscar use dried carrots from Lincolnshire.
• Catnip"Catnip" is the common name for a perennial herb of the mint family. It is native to Europe and is an import to the United States and other countries. Given to the right cat, catnip can cause an amazing reaction! Although no one knows exactly what happens in the cat's brain, it is known that the chemical nepetalactone in catnip is the thing that triggers the response.
• ChickenChicken is highly palatable, highly digestible and is an excellent protein source. It has an extremely high biological value meaning that it is easily broken down into its constituent amino acids (the building blocks of protein) necessary for a variety of structural and metabolic functions within the body. Oscar use meat from chickens reared in the UK and it does not contain heads, feet or feathers except in trace amounts which are unavoidable.
• Chicken DigestA powder or liquid made by taking clean tissue and breaking it down using emblematic hydrolysis. It does not contain heads, feet or feathers except in trace amounts which are unavoidable. Digest names must be descriptive of their contents - that is, chicken digest must be made from chicken and beef digest made from beef. Homogenised meats, prove to be very palatable for dogs and cats. Oscar source their digests from a leading company in the world, based in France.
• Chicken FatSee Poultry Fat
• ChondroitinBenefits the skeletal system and blocks destructive enzymes that break down cartilage in the joint. There is always a low level of these destructive enzymes in the joint, but when injury or abnormal wear occurs the enzymes multiply. Chondroitin is a safe and natural ingredient, and any excess that is not required by the body is simply excreted in the urine. Derived from a renewable porcine source.
• CitralifeA blend of high quality yeast, seaweed and a special type of citrus pulp. The yeast gives added B vitamins to the diet important for skin, coat and nerves. The seaweed is a source of important trace elements for coat condition and general health. The citrus pulp is high in natural bio-flavonoids which are a natural anti-viral. Citralife contributes to all round health, vitality and condition with the added benefit of giving firmer stools. Can improve appetite of poorly dogs. We believe a healthy animal, getting all the nutritional requirements from a diet rich in Citralife, will be significantly less susceptible to illness.
• Citrus PulpContains pure Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) and is good for immune support, helps reduce cholesterol. A natural preservative and a digestive cleanser. Contains oils that can stimulate the immune system.
• CopperCupric Sulphate - Copper is a trace mineral necessary in animal nutrition. The metabolism and functions of copper are closely tied to those of iron. Copper is necessary for normal absorption and transport of dietary iron. Along with iron, copper is essential for the normal formation of haemoglobin. Copper deficiency results in disorders similar to that seen with iron deficiency. Some signs are de-pigmentation of colored hair coat and impaired skeletal growth in young animals. Although copper deficiency is not common in dogs and cats, an inherited disorder of copper metabolism that results in copper toxicosis occurs in several different breeds of dogs.
• CornSee Maize
• Cranberry ExtractWas once used as a vitamin C supplement to prevent scurvy on sailing expeditions, and as a remedy for gallbladder disorders, gastric ailments and blood problems in times gone by. Added to our cat food to aid Urinary Tract Infections
• Cupric Sulphate(See Copper) Function in haemoglobin formation and in oxygen transport. Cu is also required as an enzyme cofactor in endochondral bone growth.
• Dicalcium PhosphateA source of the minerals Calcium and Phosphorous
• D-TocopherolSee Vitamin E and Tocopherol extracts of natural origin
• EggThe yolk is a good fat source, whilst egg whites contain the purest form of protein found in whole foods. Eggs are also a valuable source of vitamins and minerals. Oscar source dried egg powder from Yorkshire.
• Egg ShellsEgg shells are an excellent source of calcium with a small amount of protein. Oscar used to add limestone as a source of calcium but egg shells provide a superior, environmentally friendly source.
• EthoxyquinEthoxyquin is a quinoline-based antioxidant used as a food preservative (E324) and a pesticide (Not used in any of Oscar Pet Foods products)
• FatFats include both oils and fats. The function of fats is to provide energy in the most concentrated form, containing twice the amount of energy per unit weight of either carbohydrate or protein. Increasing the percentage of fat in a pet's diet provides a very concentrated, readily digestible source of energy that substantially increases the calorific density of the food. Also serve as a carrier for fat soluble vitamins. Normally solid at room temperature.
• FibreSee Beet Pulp. Fibre is important for maintaining normal gastrointestinal transit time and motility. A quality fibre source in the correct proportion may help to reduce the incidence of conditions such as diabetes, mellitus and obesity. It may also help to prevent constipation and diarrhoea.
• FibrevoreRabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas are Fibrevores. They don’t just enjoy eating fibre; they have to have it to stay healthy and happy.
• Fish OilA natural ingredient, high in the health promoting omega-3 very long chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA, often simply referred to as 'omega-3s'. DHA an omega 3 fatty acid is important for healthy brain development in puppies. Omega 3 fatty acids help reduce skin irritations and improve the health of skin and coat.
• FlavonoidsRefers to a class of plant secondary metabolites (organic compounds) most commonly known for their antioxidant activity. They provide health benefits against cancer and heart disease as the result of other related mechanisms.
• Flax SeedFlax seed is rich in fiber and omega 3-fatty acids
• Fly StrikeFly strike is particularly nasty condition that can affect rabbits with damp or dirty fur. Green Bottles lay their eggs in the fur, where they hatch into larvae and migrate down into the skin. Following their moult the larvae then start to eat their way into the body tissue.
• Fructo-oligosaccharidesBeneficial bacteria in the gut attach to and grow on fructo-oligosaccharides. Known as 'Prebiotic' they are derived from the chicory plant. Promotes the beneficial intestinal flora, and helps to limit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It may also aid in enhancing the immunity within the gastrointestinal tract and improve the utilisation of the nutrients.
• GlucosamineDerived from the shells of crustaceans made up of sugars (glucose) and amino acids. Benefits the skeletal system and provides the building blocks to synthesise new joint cartilage. Glucosamine is a safe and natural ingredient, and any excess that is not required by the body is simply excreted in the urine.
• GlutenGluten (from Latin gluten "glue") is the composite of two proteins called gliadin and glutenin. These exist, conjoined with starch, in the endosperm of most cereal grains.
• HelplineA FREE service for OSCAR customers; providing advice on Behaviour, Veterinary and Nutritional queries
• Herb ExtractsA combination of herbs included to reduce the effects of arthritis and to help general health.
• HerringA natural ingredient high in protein, energy, minerals, vitamins and micronutrients. High in the health promoting omega-3 very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA, often simply referred to as 'omega-3'. Oscar source herring from Norway.
• HidePressed Bison hide
• Honest Label100% declaration of the ingredients within our foods. Compare for yourself with your current food; not every label is easy to read and clear
• HypoallergenicA general term that in itself is largely meaningless. Used to indicate the absence of allergens likely to cause adverse reactions such as upset stomachs or skin problems.
• Inorganic MatterSee Ash
• KelpA naturally found seaweed rich in Iodine
• LambRich in calcium, and is produced from meat trimmings and the clean parts of the carcass cooked and dried. It does not include the wool, blood, head, hooves and specified risk material such as the spinal cord. A source of protein, considered less likely to cause allergic reactions in dogs. Oscar source Lamb from the UK.
• LimestoneIngredient added to provide Calcium, an essential nutrient
• LinseedThe residue of flaxseed oil production. Oscar use pressed Linseed cake produced in the UK. The oil in the cake helps to get a sheen on the coats of dogs
• Local Nutritional AdvisorThe OSCAR network of local nutritional advisors will visit you at home to introduce the foods and services we offer. Your Local Nutritional Advisor will also deliver your OSCAR products directly to your door
• MaizeMaize (or corn) is a member of the starch family of carbohydrates used as an energy source. Helps to ensure a steady release of energy throughout the day and stable blood sugar levels. Cooked in an extremely effective way meaning that almost all of the starch is 100% digestible. Oscar use certified GM free maize from France.
• Manan-oligosaccharidesJust as beneficial bacteria in the gut attach to and grow on fructo-oligosaccharides, 'bad' bacteria attach to manan-oligosaccharides enabling them to be passed out of the gut with the transit of waste material, benefiting digestive health. Known as a 'Prebiotic', they are derived from yeast. This prebiotic limits pathogenic bacterial development. It has a positive effect on nutrient digestibility, improves faecal quality and assists with natural immune defences.
• Mechanical EnergyA term used to describe the design of OSCAR Super Premium Agility and Premium Agility cat foods. Designed to work with the way that cats eat; air pockets are added to the kibble so that it crunches easily. Cats sheer their food rather than chewing it.
• MineralsInorganic elements with many functions, including bone and cartilage formation, enzymatic reactions, maintaining fluid balance, transportation of oxygen in the blood, normal muscle and nerve function, and the production of hormones.
• MOBILITY SYSTEMUnique to Oscar ULTRACARE Pinnacle+ designed to help your dog in middle age. Contains glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin for lubricating joints. Added manan-oligosaccharides to help remove 'bad' bacteria in the gut.
• Montmorillonitea natural Australian clay, which offers a rich supply of essential elements to help maintain healthy digestion.
• MSMMethylsulfonylmethane naturally high in sulphur which is a large component of connective tissue. Vital for the formation of Keratin/Collagen and Elastin which gives flexibility/tone plus strength to muscles, bones and joints.
• Mussel ExtractsGreen mussel extract contains glycosamino glycans a natural source of chondroitin sulphate.
• Natural anti-oxidantsOscar pet foods are preserved naturally using tocopherols,a blend of fruit and vegetable extracts in addition to Vitamin E. All dry pet foods require an antioxidant in order to prevent the fat components in the diet from becoming rancid on exposure to air. Oscar do not use any artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
• NucleotidesThese are the small units that link together to form long chain DNA. Simply put; a single strand of DNA is a long chain of nucleotides. We use inactive yeast is as a carrier for these Nucleotides and these act as a good supply of essential B vitamins. These natural short-chain proteins (derived form yeast) are able to enhance metabolic function and have particular benefits to the digestive and immune systems. Nucleotides allow optimum levels of nutrients to be absorbed by the body, e.g. they help the villi (tiny finger like outgrowths from the wall of the gut which absorb the nutrients) to flourish. Nucleotides also facilitate a more rapid cell multiplication in response to an outside challenge. Nucleotides help the beneficial bacteria to grow.
• Nutraceuticalsnutrients obtained and refined from naturally occurring sources and presented as feed supplements
• OilSee Fat. Normally liquid at room temperature, e.g. Sunflower or Soya Oil.
• Omega-3See Herring and Fish Oil. These fatty acids have been identified as the main nutrients associated with benefits such as reduced heart and circulatory diseases, moderation of allergic responses, inflammation, and participation in the mechanisms involved in the prevention of cancer.
• Omega-6Polyunsaturated fatty acids - naturally occurring essential nutrients for dogs. Linoleic acid. Fatty acids to support health and vitality, joint fexibility and a silky, glossy coat
• PeasA excellent source of protein and starch sourced in the UK.
• Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA's)Also known as Polyunsaturated fats; PUFA's can be found mostly in nuts, cheese, seeds, fish, algae, leafy greens, and krill.
• PotatoOscar use Potato starch, a highly digestible carbohydrate low in protein. Good for use in diets for dogs with sensitive digestion. Oscar source a top quality potato starch from Denmark.
• Poultry FatOscar use only pure chicken oil purchased from a supplier to the human food industry. Its digestibility is superior over the cheaper beef tallow, lamb and blended fats used in many other pet foods, and it is an excellent source of energy. Chicken oil has a high and consistent level of the essential fatty acids that are necessary for a healthy skin and coat, and is considered to be the highest quality fat source available.
• Prairie MealPrairie Meal is the dried by-product of the manufacture of maize starch. Rich in protein and energy, it is also a reasonable starch source
• PrebioticSee Mannan-oligosaccharides.
• ProbioticSee Fructo-oligosaccharides.
• ProteinMade up of amino acids, protein serves numerous functions in the body, including muscle growth, tissue repair, enzymes, blood, immune functions, hormones, and energy. Quality of protein is very important – highly digestible proteins are for example – egg, herring, chicken and chicken meal, whilst poorer digestible proteins could be soya bean or certain wheats.
• RiceWhole grain white rice. High in energy low in protein. Brown rice is often perceived as the healthier option, but white rice is simply brown rice with the husk removed. Rice husks are not of particular nutritional value to dogs, and are therefore not included. Rice is a very digestible energy source and is used to promote a steady energy release throughout the day and to help stabilise blood sugar levels
• SaltAdded to diets as a source of Sodium and Chloride and to help palatability.
• Sea CucumberSea Cumber is rich in mucopolysaccharides (mainly chondroitin sulfate), which is a cartilage builder and often lacking in people with arthritis and connective tissue disorders; and, consequently, it has been used to ease joint pains and arthritic conditions.
• SeaweedSeaweed feeds the shafts and the ducts of the scalp to help improve the health of the hair. Seaweed has the reputation for enhancing health, boosting the immune system and having an ability to detoxify.
• Soya hullsSource of fibre. Oscar use Soya Hulls processed in the UK from Soya Bean grown in North and South America.
• Soya oilMeat free oil source extracted from Soya Beans. Oscar use Soya Oil processed in the UK from Soya Bean grown in North and South America
• TaurineAn essential amino acid that is vital for normal heart muscle function, vision & reproduction in cats. It is also needed to form the bile salts that aid in digestion.
• Tocopherol extracts of natural originSee antioxidants. Superior source of natural Vitamin E oils.
• TurkeyAn alternative to Chicken as a primary protein source.
• VITALITY SYSTEMUnique to Oscar 'Junior Dog' formulations for the best possible start in life. A special blend high in nucleotides (the building blocks of DNA). Promotes cell regeneration and growth, aids digestion, fortifies the immune system and helps 'friendly' bacteria grow in the gut. Also see Nucleotides
• Vitamin AVitamin A is required by the eyes in at least two functions. It is also necessary for normal skin growth and the integrity of mucous membranes, and so amongst other things can influence susceptibility to infection. Vitamin A is required also in normal cartilage growth of bones and in the remodelling of bones.
• Vitamin DVitamin D derived from the diet and through the direct influence of ultraviolet light on the skin, is essential for calcium metabolism. The dog and the cat can utilise both vitamins D2 and D3.
• Vitamin EAntioxidant - Allows natural stabilisation of the food (see Tocopherol).
• VitaminsVitamins work in concert with other vitamins and nutrients to nourish the animal in various ways. Different vitamins play roles in maintaining the health of different systems in your dog.
• WaterMoisture content in dry food is approximately 8%. Water is the most important nutrient, it constitutes 56% of the body of an adult dog; a deficiency of water can be very serious, even a 15% loss can result in death. Its function is to act as a solvent for chemical reactions; disperses heat which is produced by chemical reaction; regulates the body temperature; transports nutrients to body cells; removes waste products via the kidneys. There are 2 main sources of water, ingested water by drinking and eating and metabolic water – via fats, protein and carbohydrates as they are broken down into energy.
• WheatHigh Quality - UK grown.
• YeastSee Brewer's Yeast
• YuccaPlant extract with antioxidant properties, also helps to reduce faecal and body odour.

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