Our heritage
Take a look at our history
1960's
Our first nutrition facility is founded in the UK.
1961
We publish our first scientific review of the nutrient requirements of dogs.
1963
Our first original research paper is published in the Veterinary Record, investigating the iodine requirements of budgerigars.
1965
We open our first nutrition research facility on the Mars Petcare site, Melton Mowbray, UK.
1970's
Our nutrition research centre moves to Waltham-on-the-Wolds, Leicestershire, UK.
1973
The WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition opens at our current site.
1975
We help determine the amino acid requirements for dogs.
1980's
Our research is used to help define the National Research Council (NRC) guidelines for cats.
1982
We determine the levels of taurine required in wet and dry pet food to meet the nutritional needs of cats.
1982
We publish the first edition of the WALTHAM™ Book of Cat and Dog Nutrition.
1990's
Our purpose-built pet facilities designed to enrich the lives of our pets are opened.
1993
We publish the second edition of the WALTHAM™ Book of Companion Animal Nutrition.
1994
Princess Anne (HRH The Princess Royal) opens our latest cat care unit.
1995
Working with Mars Petcare product development teams we demonstrate that that one diet can help to control the formation of both struvite and oxalate stones in cats.
1997
Our scientists determine the levels of zinc and linoleic acid required to maintain good skin and coat condition in dogs.
1997
We develop the first real time, non invasive measure of odiferous flatulence in dogs and the first nutritional supplement to reduce it.
1997
Our researchers demonstrate the use of chicory for gastrointestinal health.
1997
We demonstrate that the natural dietary carotenoid lutein, enhances the colour in common goldfish.
1999
With Mars Petcare product developers we demonstrate that a diet supplemented with green lipped mussel is beneficial for joint health maintenance.
1999
We demonstrate that a diet low in phosphorus and protein doubles the lifespan of cats diagnosed with chronic renal failure.
2000's
A sensory garden for our elderly, convalescent and juvenile dogs is opened and our state of the art laboratory is built.
2000
Our scientists demonstrate the positive effect of dietary antioxidants on puppy and kitten immune health.
2002
Working with Mars Horsecare we support the launch of the first scientifically proven respiratory support formula for horses.
2003
We determine that cats prefer approximately 50% of their daily calorie intake from protein, 40% from fat and 10% from carbohydrate.
2003
Together with the University of Liverpool and Royal Canin, Waltham established the first pet weight management referral clinic in Europe
2005
In collaboration with Monell Chemical Senses Center our scientists determine that cats do not have active taste receptors to sugar.
2006
Our researchers determine the macronutrient profile of food preferred by dogs. Approximately 60% of their daily calorie intake from fat, 30% from protein and 10% from carbohydrate.
2006
Our new people and pets facility is opened.
2007
We develop a body condition score guide for budgerigars.
2007
As part of a global scientific collaboration, we determine that a single gene is a major determinant in dog size.
2007
We receive the pioneer award from the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organization (IAHIO) for our contribution to the field of human-companion animal bond.
2008
Our new laboratory facility is opened.
2008
We establish a partnership with the National Institute of Child Health & Development (NICHD) to support further research into Human Animal Interactions (HAI).
2008
With external collaborators we determine the genetic switches linked to stereotypical canine characteristics.
2009
With the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) and key academics, we establish a new safe upper level of vitamin A for puppies.
2010's
A sensory garden for our elderly, convalescent and juvenile dogs is opened and our state of the art laboratory is built.
2010
Waltham opens new Aquacentre.
2010
With the National Institutes of Health (NIH) public private partnership we co-edit two books on the interaction between humans and animals.
2011
Waltham co-author a book on the benefits of dog walking for people and pets.
2012
In collaboration with external research partners we discover that when obese dogs lose weight, their owners notice significant improvement in their quality of life.
2013
We celebrate 50 years of WALTHAM™ science
2014
Waltham publishes two landmark studies that shed light on the bacteria associated with oral health in dogs
2015
Waltham opens new purpose built care facility for small dogs
