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Nutrition in Cats & Dogs
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Jul 01 2012
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Proper nutrition for pets is one of the most imperative, yet easiest, methods of ensuring superior health. As in people, the appropriate diet help pets to live longer, healthier lives. In addition, a high-quality diet can even help prevent and/or manage certain disease processes. In order for pets to be well nourished, they should be fed a high quality diet the that is fitting for their life stage.
Diets for Young Dogs and Cats (<12months)
These youngsters need a nutritional program formulated for growing bodies. These diets help puppies and kittens develop strong muscles, bones and teeth. There are advanced levels of protein in these growth diets which provides the nutritional foundation for their life stage. It is very important that these little ones eat their own food rather than munch on the food of any other household pets. *The nutritional needs of puppies can vary by breed. For example, a large breed dog, such as a Great Dane, will require a diet formulated for such.*
Adult Diets (1-6 years)
The nutritional requirements of pets taper off once they reach adulthood. Dogs are omnivores, or eat meat, vegetables and grains. Although, they require a large amount of protein in their diets. Cats, on the other hand, are true carnivores, meaning that they require even more protein than their canine counterparts. In addition, cats are unable to produce taurine, an essential amino acid crucial to a healthy heart, and require this supplement in their diet.
Senior Diets (>7years)
Pets age differently, so before deciding put a pet on a senior diet, a veterinarian should be consulted. As a rule of thumb, most veterinarians will refer to any animal 7 years and over as a senior, or geriatric, patient. Senior diets will include antioxidant blends to help keep the immune system strong, joint supplements to help with any arthritic changes and special formulations to make digestion easier. Body weight can often become an issue in senior pets which is why there are senior diets to help manage both underweight and overweight pets.
Before making a decision regarding a pet’s diet, a veterinarian should be consulted. This is also true for switching a pet from one diet to another as, if not done correctly, it can result in various gastrointestinal issues. As always, an owner should stay alert regarding their pet’s health and let a veterinarian know immediately of any changes taking place.
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