I’m looking for a holistic pet food. What should I consider to find the best diet for my cat? She’s been eating a food recommended by her doctor. But after reading the label, I’m concerned about the ingredients.

There are many brands you could choose. However, even the so-called premium foods don’t contain the most natural, healthy ingredients. The best diet will not only make your pet healthy but will minimize diseases.

Here are ingredients I recommend for any commercial food you feed your pet:

Human-grade meats: Most pet foods contain harmful meats and meat byproducts. When you hear “byproduct,” think “trash.” Anything left from slaughtering not thrown away can be turned into pet foods. So byproducts can include the uterus, lungs, intestines, bladders and anything else that doesn’t classify as meat.

Whole grains: Whole grains such as wheat, rice (ideally brown) and barley are more nutritious than grain byproducts.

Fatty acids: The omega-3 fatty acids help to fight inflammation. Think of omega-3 fatty acids as nature’s alternative to steroids.

Healthy fruits and vegetables: Kelp, carrots, peas, chicory, various berries and yucca provide natural vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Probiotics and prebiotics: These ingredients help maintain a healthy digestive tract, minimize harmful bacteria and yeast in the bowels, reduce the chances of diarrhea and vomiting, and promote proper utilization of nutrients.

Enzymes: Enzymes help free up nutrients in pet’s food and increase digestion and absorption of nutrients. They’re important as therapy for pets with a range of diseases, including allergies, arthritis, cancer and bowel disorders.

Natural preservatives: Avoid foods with potentially harmful chemicals such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin. Choose foods with natural preservatives (rosemary, mixed tocopherols and vitamin C).

— Dr. Shawn P. Messonnier, author of the “8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog” and “The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats” is a veterinarian and pet care advocate.