Our Top Nutritional Tips for Healthy Dogs and Cats

When it comes to our furry friends, nutrition plays a crucial role in their overall health and well-being. Just like humans, dogs and cats require a balanced diet to thrive. With so much information available, it can be overwhelming to determine what is best for your pet. This guide will provide you with essential nutritional tips to ensure your dogs and cats lead healthy, happy lives.

Understanding Pet Nutrition

The Basics of Pet Diets

Dogs and cats have different dietary needs. While dogs are omnivores and can thrive on a variety of foods, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet primarily composed of meat. Understanding these differences is the first step in providing proper nutrition.

• Dogs: They can eat fruits, vegetables, and grains, but their diet should be primarily protein-based. Look for high-quality dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient.

• Cats: They need a diet rich in animal protein. Look for cat food that contains real meat, fish, or poultry as the main ingredient.

  
  

Key Nutrients for Pets

Both dogs and cats require a balance of nutrients to stay healthy. Here are the essential nutrients to consider:

• Proteins: Essential for growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues. Look for high-quality sources like chicken, beef, or fish. Some exotic proteins may be beneficial to some pets with extensive allergy issues.

• Fats: Provide energy and support cell function. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for skin and coat health.

• Carbohydrates: While not essential, they can provide energy. Some whole grains and vegetables can be good sources.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Necessary for various bodily functions. Ensure your pet's food contains a balanced mix of these nutrients. Be extra careful if you prepare your own diets. Be absolutely certain you are providing the correct vitamins and minerals.

  
  

Choosing the Right Food

Read the Labels

When selecting pet food, always read the labels carefully. Look for:

• Quality Ingredients: The first few ingredients should be high-quality proteins. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, wheat, soy, or by-products.

• Nutritional Adequacy Statement: This indicates that the food meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

  
  

Consider Life Stage and Size

Pets have different nutritional needs based on their age and size. Puppies and kittens require more calories and nutrients than adult pets. Similarly, larger breeds may need different formulations than smaller breeds. Always choose food that is appropriate for your pet's life stage and size.

Homemade vs. Commercial Pet Food

The Convenience of Commercial Food

Commercial pet food is convenient and often formulated to meet all nutritional needs. Look for reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. Not all well-known brands have high quality ingredients. Do your homework and make your own decisions. Beware of cheap big box brands that are full of cheap fillers like corn and wheat. The bag may cost less, but most likely the feeding guidelines will require you to feed more food. Are you really saving any money when you have to feed your dog twice as much cheap food as you would with a nutrient dense quality food that may cost slightly more?

Rotational Feeding

Include Variety: Use a mix of proteins, vegetables, and some grains to ensure a well-rounded diet. We are big believers in the "Rotational Approach" to feeding. This not only encompasses different proteins, but also different textures of food such as dry kibble, cans, gently cooked, frozen raw, freeze dried raw, and dehydrated foods.

Feeding the same food to your pet day after day for extended periods has the potential to make them lose interest in food and become finicky. There is also the possibility of them developing allergies to certain protein sources that are fed over extended periods.

Consider this: we do not eat the same food at every meal. Your pets shouldn't either. Do your pets a favor and rotate things periodically. Jazz it up with a spoonful of a canned food, or a few freeze dried toppers; drop a few carrots or green beans on top of their dinner bowl. Keep things interesting for them.

The Benefits of Homemade Diets

Some pet owners opt for homemade diets to have more control over their pets' nutrition. They can be time consuming and tricky to get a proper balance. If you choose this route, ensure that you Consult a Pet Nutrition Specialist. We have several in our stores, including a Certified Clinical Pet Nutrition Specialist who can provide limited assistance to you in creating a balanced diet that meets all your pet's nutritional needs.

Feeding Guidelines

Portion Control

Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is a significant health risk for pets. Here are some ideas to help you maintain a healthy weight for your pet.

• Check Feeding Guidelines First: Most pet foods provide feeding guidelines based on your pet's weight and age. Use these as a starting point and monitor their weight. If your pet puts on weight, feed a little less. If they are losing too much weight, add a little food back in. It's all about balance. Just like us, our pets have different metabolisms.

• Measure Portions: Use a measuring cup to ensure you are feeding the correct amount. Make sure all people in your household who feed the pets are all on the same page regarding feeding. The simple formula is healthy and balanced food, portion control, and exercise.

  
  

Frequency of Feeding

The frequency of feeding can vary based on your pet's age and health:

• Puppies and Kittens: They typically require three to four meals a day.

• Adult Dogs and Cats: Most can be fed twice a day, but some may prefer free feeding. However, free-feeding often leads to finicky behavior and unhealthy weight gain.

  
  

Special Dietary Needs

Allergies and Sensitivities

Some pets may have food allergies or sensitivities. Common allergens include:

• Corn

• Wheat

• Beef

• Chicken

• Dairy

  
  

If you suspect your pet has a food allergy, consult one of our specialists for guidance. We are here to help. It's what we do.

Weight Management

If your pet is overweight, consider a weight management diet. These foods are formulated to provide fewer calories while still being nutritious. Regular exercise is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight. Healthy food with portion control and exercise is the answer. We have scales in our stores to make it easy for you to weigh your pet when you bring them with you to the store.

Hydration is Key

Fresh Water Availability

Always ensure your pet has access to fresh, clean water. Hydration is crucial for overall health.

• Monitor Water Intake: If you notice a significant change in your pet's drinking habits, consult your veterinarian.

• Food Sources: If you are feeding an exclusively dry kibble diet, substitute a small amount of the kibble with canned or other wet food. It may not seem like much, but the added moisture in these foods can be a critical component of your pets overall health. If nothing else, splash some water into their bowl of dry kibble.

  
  

Treats and Snacks

Healthy Treat Options

Treats can be a great way to bond with your pet, but they should be given in moderation. Choose healthy options such as:

• Meat Jerky or other Natural Prey based treats: - In the wild, dogs and cats kill things and eat them. Meat, muscle, ligament and other "body parts" are very desirable to pets and provide an additional option in a Rotational Diet.

• Bones: These are good to keep them occupied and can also help keep their teeth clean. Stick with bones that do not splinter. No chicken bones. Beef marrow bones are a favorite. Our specialists can help you with good choices.

• Fruits: Apples (without seeds), blueberries, and bananas can be great treats for dogs.

• Vegetables: Carrots and green beans are low-calorie options that many pets enjoy.

  
  

Avoid These Common Nutritional Mistakes

Avoid Harmful Foods

Some human foods are toxic to pets. Avoid giving your pets:

• Alcohol

• Chocolate

• Coffee/Tea or other caffeine

• Fat Trimmings

• Grapes and raisins

• Onions, garlic, chives - Garlic can be safe when used in small, appropriate amounts and may offer supportive benefits, including helping to combat certain bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.

• Avocado - Avocado flesh can be safely consumed in small amounts; however, the pit and skin are not considered safe.

• If in doubt, check it out

Cheap Dog and Cat Food

Cheap foods found at grocery stores, big box retailers, and most national outlets rely on cheap fillers to keep the price down. These foods barely meet the AAFCO guidelines, often contribute to allergies and loose stools, and their feeding guidelines recommend feeding far more of it than you would a more nutrient dense food. When you do the math for the savings in feeding amount, unnecessary supplements, and vet visits for allergy shots, there are better choices that won't break the bank. Consider paying a little more for high quality foods that are nutrient dense, biologically appropriate, and properly balanced. We can help you.

Too Many Supplements

A high quality pet food, that is properly balanced, will provide all necessary nutrients that your pets need without cheap fillers.

Conclusion

Providing the right nutrition for your dogs and cats is vital for their health and happiness. By understanding their dietary needs, choosing quality food, and maintaining a balanced diet, you can help your pets live long, healthy lives.

With these nutritional tips, you can ensure that your furry companions receive the best care possible. Start making informed choices today for a healthier tomorrow! If you have questions about dog or cat nutrition, we encourage you to stop by any of our stores and visit with our staff. We love answering your questions!