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Your
pet's diet
What
type of food and how much food should I feed my pet?
The type and daily serving size for an animal is based upon the
animals weight and age, the type of food being fed, and the animal's
activity level. It is best to consult your veterinarian regarding
feeding.
Are table scraps okay to feed my pet?
Table scraps are not nutritionally balanced and there for should
be avoided. Most people foods contain too much salt, fat and even
seasonings that my even be harmful to your pet. Vomiting and diarrhea
can result from feeding table scraps, but also more serious conditions
such as pancreatitis and obesity may occur.
What do food labels really mean?
Food labels allow customers to see what ingredients and nutritional
contents are included in each product. They also provide the information
needed to determine if the food is right for your pet. When reading
pet food labels look for the "as-fed" amounts as the best
determinant of quality.
What are the differences among pet foods? Standard/commercial
pet food is food that you can find in the grocery store. Premium
food is pet food that you can find at the pet store or veterinary
clinic. Prescription diets are foods that are designed for specific
medical problems or needs. These can only be purchased through your
veterinarian. Most commercial brands vary the supplier of the protein
source depending on the lowest market value. For example if chicken
byproducts are cheaper this month they replace that for a higher
quality protein source. Premium and prescription pet foods maintain
a premium, high quality supplier of their ingredients.
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What types of vitamins or supplements should I give my pet?
Usually your veterinarian will suggest a specific vitamin or supplement
depending on your pet's needs. However in most cases if you are feeding
a premium food it that is nutritionally balanced, supplements are
not necessary.
How can I take weight off my pet?
It is very important that your pet maintain a normal, healthy body
weight. Obesity can contribute to arthritis, diabetes, hepatic lipidosis,
hyperlipedemia, chronic constipation, breathing problems, hypertension,
skin problems, and anesthetic complications. One way to help your
pet loose weight is to encourage exercise and to slowly decrease the
amount of calories your pet is ingesting. Another option is to put
your pet on a prescription diet food. It is best to consult with your
veterinarian before beginning a weight loss program for your pet.
Certain disease conditions can predispose your pet to gaining weight
regardless of exercise and diet. Also, it can be dangerous for your
pet to loose weight too rapidly. Your veterinarian can help you determine
the best program for your individual pet's needs.
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