If your adult dog or cat is healthy, you may have chosen a pet food based simply on whether or not your pet will eat it. Cost may also play a factor in your decision. However, not all pet foods are equal. What’s more, feeding the right amount is not as simple as following the directions on the package (they’re just guidelines). Choosing an appropriate diet can set your pet on a path of lifelong good nutrition and help prevent many problems including allergies, nutritional deficiencies, skin/coat disorders, and obesity. To book your pet in for a consultation, call us at 705-692-4446.
What are the nutritional requirements for my dog or cat?
Nutritional requirements for dogs and cats vary depending on a variety of factors including age, breed, and health. For instance, senior pets have significantly different requirements than puppies or kittens, and animals with diabetes, kidney disease, and other health conditions can benefit from special diets. Our veterinarians can help you make informed decisions about your pet’s diet. We can counsel you on which foods are the best choices based on your pet’s needs and your financial considerations, how much to feed, and even how to decode pet food labels. We can create a nutrition plan specifically for your pet, and we’re also happy to work with owners to help their overweight pets get down to a healthy weight.
What’s the first step of nutrition counselling in dogs and cats?
Initially, we will evaluate your pet's general well-being and existing diet to identify nutritional deficiencies. Taking into account factors such as age, breed, and overall health, we will then provide customized dietary advice. Additionally, we can customize your pet's diet to address specific health concerns, including allergies, skin problems, obesity, diabetes, and nutritional deficiencies.
Why is nutrition counselling important in dogs and cats?
Understanding the nutritional value of the food you provide your pet is crucial for their well-being, especially as they age and encounter health changes. A nutritional consultation with the veterinarian involves assessing the patient's diet in relation to their growth and overall health. Pet owners will receive guidance on appropriate feeding portions, deciphering pet food labels, as well as preventing deficiencies, allergies, and obesity in their pets.