Iams vs. Eukanuba — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 27, 2023
Iams and Eukanuba are both pet food brands, with Iams primarily focusing on cats and dogs, while Eukanuba specializes in high-performance dog nutrition.
Difference Between Iams and Eukanuba
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Iams and Eukanuba, at a glance, both appear as renowned brands in the pet food industry. However, their focuses and origins set them apart. Iams, established by Paul Iams in 1946, offers nutritional solutions catering to both cats and dogs. Eukanuba, on the other hand, came into existence a bit later in the 1960s, and its name is derived from a jazz term meaning "the best." Eukanuba's emphasis has been more on high-performance nutrition tailored primarily for dogs, particularly those with active lifestyles or specific dietary needs.
Both brands have had their fair share of evolution and have been subjected to various acquisitions over time.
Notably, while both brands once belonged to the Procter & Gamble portfolio, they are currently managed by Mars, Incorporated.
While Iams offers a range of products catering to general pet nutrition needs, Eukanuba stands out with formulations that address specific dietary requirements, ages, and breeds, reinforcing its focus on tailored dog nutrition.
Comparison Chart
Origin
Founded by Paul Iams in 1946.
Started in the 1960s.
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Primary Focus
Nutrition for both cats and dogs.
Specialized high-performance nutrition for dogs.
Name Derivation
From founder's last name.
From a jazz term meaning "the best."
Ownership
Was owned by Procter & Gamble, now by Mars, Incorporated.
Was owned by Procter & Gamble, now by Mars, Incorporated.
Product Variety
General pet nutrition.
Tailored nutrition based on age, breed, and needs.
Compare with Definitions
Iams
A brand of pet food.
Iams provides balanced nutrition for my cat.
Eukanuba
Name means "the best."
The name Eukanuba reflects its commitment to quality.
Iams
Founded in 1946.
Paul Iams started the Iams brand over seven decades ago.
Eukanuba
A dog food brand.
Eukanuba offers specialized diets for my active dog.
Iams
Offers cat and dog food.
Iams has a diverse range for both cats and dogs.
Eukanuba
Focuses on tailored nutrition.
Eukanuba provides specific formulas based on breed and age.
Iams
Once owned by Procter & Gamble.
Procter & Gamble managed Iams before its acquisition by Mars.
Eukanuba
Targets active dogs.
Eukanuba's high-performance range suits sporty dogs.
Iams
Known for quality ingredients.
I trust Iams because of its quality ingredients.
Eukanuba
Owned by Mars, Incorporated.
Mars oversees the production and distribution of Eukanuba products.
Iams
Iams () is a popular brand name for dog food and cat food manufactured by Spectrum Brands in Europe and Mars, Incorporated worldwide. The company sells pet food for cats and dogs formulated for puppy/kitten, adult and mature.
Eukanuba
Eukanuba ( EW-kə-NOO-bə) is a brand name of dog food and cat food, owned and manufactured by Mars, Incorporated worldwide and by Spectrum Brands in European markets; previously handled by Procter & Gamble from 1999 through 2014. The company produces 17 different types for dogs, based on age, breed, and performance area, as well as 13 formulas for cats, including kitten, adult maintenance, hairball, sensitive stomach and weight control, indoor and outdoor, and mature.In its largest divestiture in five years, Procter & Gamble announced in April 2014 that it would sell its Eukanuba, Iams and Natura pet food brands in all markets except Europe to Mars, Incorporated for $2.9 billion in cash.
Common Curiosities
Does Iams produce food for other pets besides dogs and cats?
Iams primarily focuses on cat and dog nutrition.
Which company previously owned both brands?
Both were owned by Procter & Gamble before Mars, Incorporated.
Why is Eukanuba's focus mainly on dogs?
Eukanuba specializes in high-performance dog nutrition, addressing specific needs.
Do Iams and Eukanuba use real meat in their products?
Both brands emphasize the use of quality ingredients, including real meat.
Which brand is older, Iams or Eukanuba?
Iams is older, founded in 1946, while Eukanuba started in the 1960s.
Are there grain-free options in Iams?
Yes, Iams offers grain-free formulations in their product lineup.
Why is Eukanuba often recommended for athletic dogs?
Eukanuba specializes in high-performance nutrition suited for active dogs.
What does the name "Eukanuba" signify?
It is derived from a jazz term meaning "the best."
Are Iams and Eukanuba the same?
No, they are distinct brands but both are under the umbrella of Mars, Incorporated.
When was Iams founded?
Iams was established in 1946.
Are Iams products suitable for puppies?
Yes, Iams has formulations designed specifically for puppies.
Does Eukanuba have breed-specific formulas?
Yes, Eukanuba offers nutrition tailored for specific breeds.
Do both brands have veterinarian-endorsed products?
Both brands collaborate with veterinarians to ensure the quality and appropriateness of their products.
Is Eukanuba suitable for senior dogs?
Yes, Eukanuba offers formulas tailored for senior dogs.
Are there wet food options in Eukanuba?
Yes, Eukanuba offers both dry and wet food varieties.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
