Pet Nutrition

Young pets, adults, and elderly animals all have different nutritional needs, and therefore need different diets. Puppies and kittens need higher proteins and more fats, while elderly pets need more supplements integrated into their diet. Neglecting to acknowledge your pet’s specific nutritional needs could result in negative health effects.

Most food allergies result in ear infections or skin problems, both of which can be difficult to detect in your pet. One of the tell-tale signs is excessive licking of the paws. Most pets (namely dogs) lick their paws due to an allergy, whether grass or food. Try changing their pet food to a higher quality brand, or change the flavor of food. For example, often pets are allergic to chicken or lamb, but not both. Wait 2-3 weeks after introducing the new food to see if your pet’s habits change. If you are still having issues and can’t find an appropriate food, our veterinarians might be able to offer a medicated diet.

Because raw meats can contain E. coli and Salmonella it is recommended that you do not feed your pet raw meat. While a raw diet can provide an abundance of protein, it lacks in other vital nutrients and can be harmful to older pets.

Homemade meals can be beneficial for your pet when prepared by a licensed pet nutritionist. Many of us believe that because homemade meals are healthier for humans, they must also be healthier for pets. When properly balanced, a homemade diet can be beneficial, but unless you have extensive knowledge of pet nutrition, preparing your own meals can be harmful to your pet.

While most pet treats are usually high in fat and calories, there are options for overweight animals. Many gourmet pet treats are sweetened with honey rather than sugar which cuts down on the carbohydrate content. There are also weight management dog treats available at most national retailers that offer low-sodium, sugar-free, or grain-free (low carb) options. Other pet treats include dehydrated natural vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, and for hot days, you can offer your pet frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, soy beans). A good rule to follow is that treats should never consume more than 10% of your pet’s total food consumption.

 It used to be a common belief that corn was the number one cause for pet food allergies. However, current studies show that less than 3% of pet food allergies are caused by corn, and more than 70% are the result of chicken, beef, dairy, or wheat. If your pet is not allergic to corn, it is highly beneficial to include it in a pet’s diet, because it offers several antioxidants and is an excellent source of proteins that help with muscle and tissue growth.