Nutritional Advice

Nutritional Guidance: Fuelling Your Pet's Health and Well-being

In addition to regular exercise and veterinary care, providing your pet with proper nutrition is crucial for their overall health and longevity.

Let's explore the essential nutrients your pet needs:

  1. Water: The most vital nutrient, water constitutes approximately 70% of your pet's body. Ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times to prevent dehydration and support proper bodily functions.
  2. Carbohydrates: Found in sugars, starch, and fibre from plant sources, carbohydrates provide energy and help keep your pet's brain and muscles active and vibrant.
  3. Fats: Alongside supplying energy, the right amount of fats is necessary for building strong cells and facilitating nutrient absorption. However, excessive fat intake can lead to obesity-related health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis.
  4. Proteins: Essential for maintaining a healthy coat, skin, and nails, proteins provide the amino acids needed for enzyme and hormone production, as well as a robust immune system. While proteins can come from plant and meat sources, cats and dogs require high-quality animal protein.
  5. Vitamins and Minerals: These micronutrients play a vital role in regulating various body systems. For instance, calcium and phosphorus are necessary for strong bones, while antioxidant vitamins like E and C support your pet's immune system, especially during times of stress.

How do you make sure your pet's diet is healthy?

 

We strongly recommend that you:

 
  1. Opt for premium pet foods: These foods offer high-quality ingredients, are developed by nutritional research-focused companies, and have a proven track record of quality and palatability. Generic pet foods may lead to obesity, irregular bowel movements, or excessive intestinal gas.
  2. Ensure freshness: When purchasing pet food, check for freshness and buy only the amount needed for your pet. Store it in a cool, dry place with a tightly closed container. Dispose of uneaten food and always serve fresh food in a clean bowl. Hard kibble promotes dental health, while soft canned food is often more palatable and can be stored longer.
  3. Feed the right amount: Consult with us or refer to the feeding guidelines on the label to determine the appropriate amount based on your pet's ideal weight, not their current weight. Avoid overfeeding or providing a large amount in one sitting, as this can lead to obesity, digestive upset, or even life-threatening conditions like bloat.
  4. Establish a daily routine: Maintaining a regular feeding schedule helps your pet maintain normal bowel movements and prevents indoor accidents. Puppies and energetic pets may require more frequent meals, while older pets benefit from diets lower in fat and enriched with fiber for optimal health.
  5. Steer clear of "people" food: Your pet's digestive system is different from yours and can be easily upset by changes in their diet. Feeding table scraps can result in an unbalanced diet, stomach upsets, or even pancreatitis, a severe inflammation of the pancreas.


Life Cycle Feeding


As your pet ages, their nutritional requirements change. Puppies need specific puppy food, higher in energy, calcium, and protein. However, feeding this to adult dogs can lead to obesity. Older pets benefit from diets lower in fat and higher in fiber, supporting their unique health needs. Premium senior diets often include additives for arthritis management, promoting comfort and well-being.
Please contact us to discuss your pet's nutritional needs. We can create a personalised diet plan tailored specifically to your pet, ensuring they enjoy an optimal quality of life.