The hidden reason processed pet foods are so addictive
A hand in a pocket, the opening of a cabinet door, or simply a carelessly spoken phrase – "meal" – may be the indication. You're stumbling over a pet who is eagerly anticipating a piece of... dull-brown dry pellets before you realize it. What is it about these mystery morsels that makes them taste as good as grilled chicken, wild salmon, or fresh herb bundles? Take, for example, my roommate, a little black rabbit. He may be found sitting intently with his paws on his empty food dish for a substantial chunk of every day, anticipating his next mouthful of kibble - even though it looks like his droppings and smells as unappealing. He used to have an automated dispenser with a timer, but he learned how to hurl it across the room to get to the contents before the timer ran out. Whatever luxuries I put in front of him — home-grown parsley, soft-cut hay, fresh carrot tops , organic kale – he prefers commercial pet food. This does not appear to be rare. The cat who suffers a dail...