FARMINGDALE – Is going organic right for you and your pet? Dr. Nina Malik of the New York Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center says that misleading labels and not achieving a nutritious balance are among the potential pitfalls of organic diets. "If you can make a balanced diet out of organic ingredients that are home-cooked for your pets, it's a no-brainer that whole food is going to be better and healthier for your pet than a commercial diet," Malik says. Avoid pet foods that claim to be natural, holistic or human-grade – and instead opt for those stamped with the USDA organic logo. Even organic pet products can have side effects, and those containing essential oils can be especially dangerous for cats.

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