About Purina
Purina is a global pet care and nutrition brand owned by Nestlé. Recognised as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of dog and cat food, it produces an extensive range of dry and wet food, treats, and veterinary nutrition products. Established in 1894 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, Purina has accumulated over 130 years of experience in animal nutrition and is noted for integrating scientific research with pet care innovation.1
Overview
- Brand Name: Purina
- Founded: 1894
- Founder: William H. Danforth
- Headquarters: St. Louis, Missouri, United States
- Parent Company: Nestlé
- Industry: Pet Food and Pet Care
- Products: Dog food, cat food, pet treats, veterinary diets, nutritional supplements
- Markets: Available in more than 75 countries worldwide
- Slogan: “Your Pet, Our Passion.”2
History
William H. Danforth founded the company in 1894 under the name Robinson-Danforth Commission Company, initially manufacturing feed for farm animals. Danforth held the conviction that high-quality nutrition could enhance animal health and productivity. The business eventually expanded into companion animal nutrition and adopted the Purina name to reflect its commitment to product quality and purity.3
Key milestones in the company’s history include:
- 1926: Established the industry’s first pet nutrition research centre in Gray Summit, Missouri.
- 1957: Introduced one of the first extruded dry kibble products, transforming commercial pet food production.
- 1961: Became the first company to add taurine to dry cat food to support feline health.
- 1993: Developed the Body Condition Score system, which is now widely used by veterinarians.
- 1999: Created the world’s first Canine Reference Family DNA Distribution Centre to support canine genetic research.
- 2001: Acquired by Nestlé, leading to the formation of Nestlé Purina PetCare and combining Purina with Nestlé’s existing pet care brands.
- 2018: Launched the Purina Institute to promote evidence-based nutritional education for veterinarians and pet professionals.4
Research and Innovation
Purina is recognised for its significant investment in scientific research. The company employs hundreds of specialists, including veterinarians, nutritionists, behaviourists, microbiologists, and food scientists, who conduct studies on pet health, nutrition, digestion, ageing, immunity, and disease management.
Notable research contributions include:
- Development of nutritionally balanced pet diets
- Early adoption of taurine supplementation for cats
- Research in nutrigenomics (nutrition and gene interaction)
- Specialised diets for kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, allergies, and digestive health
- Studies on probiotics, microbiome health, and immune support5
Product Portfolio
Purina markets numerous pet food brands across various price points and nutritional requirements.
Dog Brands
- Purina Pro Plan
- Purina ONE
- Dog Chow
- Beneful
- Beggin’
- Busy Bone
- Dentalife
Cat Brands
- Fancy Feast
- Friskies
- Felix
- Purina ONE
- Pro Plan
- Beyond
Veterinary Nutrition
Purina also develops prescription diets under the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets range. These formulations are designed for pets with specific medical conditions, such as:
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Food allergies
- Obesity
- Urinary tract disease
- Liver disease
These diets are generally recommended under veterinary supervision.6
Global Presence
Purina products are sold across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates research centres, manufacturing facilities, and distribution networks globally, adapting products to meet regional nutritional requirements and consumer preferences.7
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Purina states that its corporate responsibility efforts focus on:
- Responsible ingredient sourcing
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Improving recyclable packaging
- Supporting pet adoption initiatives
- Disaster relief for animals
- Veterinary education and research
- Community partnerships promoting responsible pet ownership8
Reputation
Purina is widely regarded as a leading science-based pet nutrition company. Its products, particularly the Pro Plan and Veterinary Diets lines, are commonly recommended by veterinarians due to extensive nutritional research and feeding trials. As with many large pet food manufacturers, the company has faced periodic public scrutiny regarding ingredients or product quality; however, it maintains comprehensive quality control programmes and continues to invest heavily in research and product safety.9
