🐾 Introduction
Feeding your animals right shouldn’t feel like guesswork — but with so many feed options on the market, it often does. Whether you’re raising a few backyard chickens, caring for a senior horse, or trying to find the perfect dog food for your energetic farm pup, it all starts with knowing what’s in the bag — and who you’re buying it from.
At Bloomfield Feed, we’ve been helping families and farmers across Chatham-Kent make those decisions with quality feed we’ve used since 1949. We’re not a big-box store. We’re a family-run feed store built on the same values you live by: quality, trust, and care for the animals that depend on us.
We use the same Canadian-made Purina products we sell — and we’ve seen firsthand the difference proper nutrition can make, from stronger hooves and healthier coats to calmer energy and better digestion. So, whether you’re feeding dogs, cats, horses, cattle, or poultry, this guide will help you choose the right feed for your animals — and understand why what you feed truly matters.
Why Nutrition Matters for Pets & Livestock
Whether you’re feeding a herding dog that’s always on the move or a horse coming in from the pasture, the right feed can make all the difference. Proper nutrition isn’t just about full bellies — it’s about supporting energy levels, muscle tone, immunity, coat condition, and even behaviour.
In our experience serving the Chatham-Kent community, we’ve seen the difference first-hand: when animals are well-fed with quality ingredients, they perform better, recover faster, and simply look and feel healthier.
Here’s a quick look at the different nutritional goals for pets and livestock, and why tailoring their feed matters:
Pet vs. Livestock Nutrition Comparison
| Pets (Dogs & Cats) | Livestock (Horses, Poultry, Cattle, etc.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Longevity, comfort, energy, coat/skin health | Growth, performance, weight gain, reproduction |
| Diet Focus | Balanced protein/fats, sensitive systems, wellness | Species-specific energy, protein & mineral balance |
| Common Challenges | Allergies, obesity, digestive upset | Underfeeding, mineral deficiencies, seasonal energy dips |
| Feeding Frequency | Once or twice daily | Varies (free access or scheduled based on species/age) |
| Key Ingredient Needs | Real meat, omega-3s, probiotics | Protein, fibre, trace minerals, electrolytes, gut support |
Feeding isn’t one-size-fits-all — especially in rural communities like Chatham-Kent, where you might be caring for a few pets, a coop of laying hens, and a retired trail horse — all under one roof.
That’s where our team at Bloomfield Feed comes in. We help you match each animal’s needs with the right Purina feed — based on species, age, workload, and even season.
What to Look for in a Quality Feed
Not all feed is created equal — and if you’ve ever stood in the aisle comparing labels or wondering if “grain-free” is just a marketing term, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we hear at Bloomfield Feed is: “What should I actually be looking for in a good feed?”
The answer? It depends on your animal’s age, activity level, species, and health — but there are a few core principles that apply whether you’re feeding your dog, your horse, or your laying hens.
Top 5 Qualities of a Reliable Pet or Livestock Feed
✔ Real Protein Sources First
Look for feeds where a named meat or protein (like chicken, beef, fish, or soybean meal) is listed first — not generic by-products or fillers. Protein is critical for growth, muscle maintenance, coat condition, and immune strength.
✔ Made in Canada with Transparent Sourcing
Feeding local supports our economy and animal health. We only carry Canadian-made Purina feeds, which are crafted with traceable, high-quality ingredients. You know what’s in the bag — and what’s not.
✔ No Unnecessary Fillers or Artificial Ingredients
Avoid feeds that rely heavily on wheat middlings, corn gluten, or artificial colours. These may provide calories, but not always usable nutrition. Purina’s formulas focus on bioavailable nutrients — what your animals can actually absorb and use.
✔ Tailored to Age, Species, and Purpose
A senior indoor cat doesn’t need the same diet as a working farm dog. A pasture horse and a competition horse? Completely different needs. Look for formulas that are targeted — puppy, senior, performance, growth, maintenance, or recovery.
✔ Backed by Science, Proven by Results
At Bloomfield Feed, we trust Purina Canada because they put decades of research behind every formula — from microbiome balance to coat health and digestibility. We’ve seen it work on our own animals, and we wouldn’t recommend anything we don’t believe in.
Real-World Example:
We had a local customer from Dresden bring in her senior retriever who was slowing down and having digestive trouble. After switching to Purina Pro Plan® Sensitive Skin & Stomach, his energy improved, his coat came back to life, and his digestion normalized within weeks.
That’s the kind of transformation that comes from choosing the right feed — not just a trendy label.
Recommended Pet Feed Options from Purina
At Bloomfield Feed, we don’t just carry feed — we use it ourselves. Over the years, we’ve seen how the right formula can make a noticeable difference in pets’ energy levels, digestion, and coat health. That’s why we proudly carry a wide selection of Purina’s Canadian-made pet food, trusted by vets and backed by science.
Here are a few of our top picks — all available in-store and carefully chosen to meet the needs of local pets in Chatham-Kent and surrounding farms.
Purina Pro Plan® – For Performance and Sensitive Pets
Best for:
✔ Active dogs, working dogs, dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs
Why we recommend it:
Pro Plan® is Purina’s high-performance line, offering targeted nutrition for dogs and cats who need a little extra — whether it’s energy, joint support, or digestive ease. With formulas like Sensitive Skin & Stomach (made with salmon and rice), it’s ideal for pets with itchy skin or tummy trouble.
Local story: We had a customer from Blenheim with a border collie who couldn’t tolerate most dry food. After switching to Pro Plan Sensitive, the results were visible within days — no more scratching, and her coat looked fantastic.
Purina ONE® – Everyday Nutrition, Naturally
Best for:
✔ Most adult dogs and cats, pet owners looking for real food at an affordable price
Why we recommend it:
With real meat as the first ingredient, no fillers, and added vitamins and minerals, Purina ONE® offers balanced, digestible nutrition for everyday health. It’s a great choice for pet parents who want quality without breaking the budget.
Pro tip: The Healthy Weight formula is perfect for indoor or older dogs who may be slowing down but still love to eat.
Beyond® – Limited Ingredient & Grain-Free
Best for:
✔ Cats or dogs with food sensitivities or allergies
✔ Owners looking for natural, grain-free options
Why we recommend it:
Made with non-GMO ingredients, no corn/wheat/soy, and clean protein sources like wild-caught salmon or cage-free egg, Beyond® is ideal for pets that do best on simple, clean formulas.
Many of our rural customers who raise livestock also choose Beyond® for their pets because they value transparency in sourcing and ingredients.
Puppy Chow® / Kitten Chow® – For Growing Pets
Best for:
✔ Puppies and kittens under 1 year old
Why we recommend it:
These formulas support strong bones, healthy brain development, and fast growth, with added DHA and nutrients tailored to your young pet’s needs. Easy to digest and great for early life stages.
At Bloomfield Feed, we’ll help you find the exact formula to match your pet’s life stage, health needs, and energy level — and we’ll always take the time to answer your questions.
Looking for something we don’t carry yet?
Just ask! We’re always happy to hear from our customers — if there’s a specific product or formula you’d like us to stock, let us know and we’ll do our best to bring it in for you.
At Bloomfield Feed, we’ll help you find the exact formula to match your pet’s life stage, health needs, and energy level — and we’ll always take the time to answer your questions.
Recommended Livestock Feed Options from Purina
When it comes to livestock, choosing the right feed isn’t just about keeping animals full — it’s about healthy growth, consistent performance, and long-term vitality. At Bloomfield Feed, we work with small farms, hobbyists, and rural households across Chatham-Kent, helping them match the right Purina livestock feed to their animals’ specific needs.
Whether you’re raising backyard chickens, managing a small herd of cattle, or caring for senior horses, here are our go-to feed options — all Canadian-made and stocked right here in-store.
Purina Equine Senior® / Senior Active® – For Aging Horses
Best for:
✔ Senior horses with dental issues, weight loss, or digestive concerns
Why we recommend it:
These formulas are easy to chew, highly digestible, and designed to support older horses with joint support, protein, and prebiotics. They help maintain weight, energy, and comfort — especially in winter.
One of our regulars in Chatham switched to Senior Active for her 24-year-old gelding and saw improved coat shine, better mood, and no more loss of condition over the cold months.
Strategy® GX & Healthy Edge® – For All-Purpose and Working Horses
Best for:
✔ Performance horses, pleasure riders, and horses on pasture
Why we recommend it:
Strategy® GX provides balanced energy for training, trail riding, and general maintenance. Healthy Edge® is lower in starch and ideal for easy keepers. Both options support hoof strength, coat health, and stamina.
Poultry Layer & Starter Feeds – For Backyard Flocks
Best for:
✔ Laying hens, broilers, chicks, and mixed flocks
Why we recommend it:
From Starter Grower Crumbles to Layena® Layer Pellets, Purina’s poultry feed supports egg production, shell quality, and healthy growth. They contain balanced calcium, protein, and omega-3s — perfect for hobby farms and urban chicken coops in Chatham-Kent.
Beef Cattle & Calf Feeds – For Growth and Weight Gain
Best for:
✔ Beef cattle, 4H calves, small-scale operations
Why we recommend it:
Purina’s beef rations offer protein- and energy-dense nutrition to support daily gain and efficient feed conversion. Whether you’re growing calves or finishing steers, we can recommend the right formula based on your goals and feeding method.
Goat, Sheep, and Specialty Feed Options
Best for:
✔ Dairy goats, meat goats, sheep, and small ruminants
Why we recommend it:
Purina’s Noble Goat® and Lamb Starter formulas are designed for safety and performance, balancing protein with minerals and vitamins to support immune function and efficient growth.
Don’t see what you need? Just ask us!
We’re always happy to hear from farmers and small-scale producers. If there’s a specialty product or custom feed option you’re looking for, we’ll do everything we can to bring it in for you — or recommend the closest match available.
Whether you’re new to livestock or a seasoned farmer, Bloomfield Feed is your local source for trustworthy, high-performance feed — and honest advice from people who live the same lifestyle you do.
Real Questions from Chatham-Kent Feed Buyers
At Bloomfield Feed, we’ve helped thousands of pet owners and farmers across Chatham-Kent choose the right feed for their animals. Here are some of the most common questions we get — and the answers that help our customers make informed decisions.
What is the best dog food for active breeds in Ontario?
The best dog food for active breeds in Ontario is Purina Pro Plan® Sport or Sensitive Skin & Stomach. These formulas offer high-protein nutrition to support energy levels, digestion, and joint health. At Bloomfield Feed in Chatham, we carry Pro Plan® products trusted by working dogs, herding breeds, and energetic family pets.
What feed should I give my senior horse?
Senior horses need a feed that’s easy to chew, highly digestible, and nutritionally complete. We recommend Purina Equine Senior® or Senior Active®, which include prebiotics, joint support, and balanced fiber to maintain weight and muscle. These are available at Bloomfield Feed and are ideal for aging horses in cold Ontario winters.
What’s the right feed for backyard laying hens?
For laying hens, choose a layer feed with balanced calcium, protein, and omega-3s. At Bloomfield Feed, we carry Purina Layena® Layer Pellets, designed to support healthy egg production and strong shells for your backyard flock. We also stock chick starter and grower formulas.
Where can I buy livestock feed in Chatham-Kent?
You can buy high-quality livestock feed at Bloomfield Feed, located just outside Chatham. We carry a full line of Purina feed for horses, poultry, cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats — all made in Canada and backed by decades of research.
Do I need different feed for different animal species?
Yes, each animal species has unique nutritional needs. For example:
- Dogs need protein, omega-3s, and joint support
- Horses require fiber, energy, and vitamin/mineral balance
- Poultry need calcium and protein for egg production
- Livestock like cattle and goats require energy-dense, species-specific feed
At Bloomfield Feed, we help you match each feed to your animal’s age, health, and purpose.
Want help choosing the right feed?
Visit us in-store or call us anytime — our team is always here to help you feed your animals with confidence.
📍 Bloomfield Feed – 7792 Seventh Line E, Chatham, ON
📞 (519) 351-3375
📧 [email protected]
Visit Bloomfield Feed for Expert Advice and Trusted Nutrition
At Bloomfield Feed, we know that choosing the right feed is more than just a label — it’s about supporting the health and happiness of the animals you care for every day.
Whether you’re raising backyard chickens, feeding senior horses, or looking for the best food for your dog or cat, we’re here to help you make the right choice. We proudly stock a full line of Canadian-made Purina® pet and livestock feed, and we’re always happy to answer questions, offer advice, or help you try something new.
Looking for a product you don’t see in stock? Just ask!
We’ll do our best to bring in what you need — because at Bloomfield Feed, we believe in service that’s personal, honest, and rooted in the community.
📍 Visit Us in Chatham-Kent
Bloomfield Feed
7792 Seventh Line E
Chatham, ON N7M 5J6
📞 (519) 351-3375
📧 [email protected]
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
We’re proud to serve Chatham-Kent, one bag of feed at a time. Stop in today — your animals will thank you.
Further Reading from Purina Canada
Looking to make informed decisions about what to feed your pets? These expert resources from Purina Canada dive deeper into pet nutrition, breed-specific needs, and ingredient transparency — perfect for responsible pet owners in Chatham-Kent and beyond.
🔗 How to Choose the Best Dog Food
Learn how to read labels, compare ingredients, and choose the best formula for your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/dog/nutrition/how-to-choose-best-dog-food
🔗 The Best Diet for Your Puppy’s First Year
A complete guide to feeding your puppy from weaning to adulthood, including portion sizes and nutritional milestones.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/dog/puppy/the-best-diet-for-your-puppys-first-year
🔗 Feeding Your Cat at Different Life Stages
Find out how your cat’s dietary needs change from kitten to senior and how to support their health at every stage.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/cat/nutrition/feeding-your-cat-at-different-life-stages
🔗 Grain-Free Dog Food: What You Need to Know
Explore the pros and cons of grain-free diets and when they might be the right choice for your dog.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/dog/nutrition/grain-free-dog-food
🔗 Senior Dog Nutrition: What to Look For
Tips for choosing senior dog food that supports joint health, digestion, and weight control in older pets.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/dog/nutrition/senior-dog-nutrition-what-to-look-for
🔗 How to Read a Pet Food Label
Break down confusing ingredient lists and guaranteed analysis to make confident feeding choices.
https://www.purina.ca/articles/dog/nutrition/how-to-read-a-pet-food-label
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