Pet Nutrition to Improve Pet Health

It is no secret that pet nutrition has a direct effect on pet health. What you feed your pet, its composition (whether it is balanced or not), the ingredient quality, and the amount of food the pet consumes are all components of pet nutrition. At Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, we follow up and advise on the nutritional needs and deficiencies of your pet for optimum growth and performance.

The Basics of Pet Nutrition and Pet Care

Pets, like humans, have their preferences over what they like to eat. However, this doesn’t mean the pet gets to choose what to eat. You can find ways to introduce a healthy diet for your pet. For example, you can easily add fruits and vegetables. They are low in calories, so your pets can nibble on them.

Most pet food has the basic nutrients that pets need. However, the ingredient quality varies. Premium pet food tends to have a higher quality food combination compared to regular pet food. However, you need to know what to look for in the food, and not just the price. At Valley Animal Hospital, we give detailed guides on diet and food selection.

Your pet’s age, breed, and energy needs will influence how you feed your pet. The pet's health also influences what you feed your pet. For example, pets with allergies or those with diabetes have different dietary needs. Your veterinarian will help you determine the ideal diet for your pet.

Some people cannot resist the “pleading pet eyes” during mealtime. So, they keep feeding them food served for the family. Unfortunately, human food tends to be fatty and high in calories. This is not the ideal pet food. It may cause pet diseases, including pancreatitis.

Pet Caloric Needs For Optimal Pet Health

Your pet’s calorie needs are ideally pegged to the pet’s weight, age, and activity level. Large dogs that weigh at least 50 pounds (22.7kg) should consume at least 1,000 calories a day. Unfortunately, this analogy assumes that you are weighing your pets frequently to determine how much food to give them. This is not practical.

Your pet's lifestyle and age are a more practical way to determine food quantity. Older dogs tend to rest more, so their calorie demands are much lower. Active dogs need a higher-calorie diet. What’s important is to ensure your pets are not underfed or overfed. At Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, we will help you come up with the best pet diet for optimal health.

Contact Valley Animal Hospital For a Healthy Pet

Pets should undergo frequent wellness exams to ensure they are eating well. At Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, we will guide you on your pet’s nutritional needs. We will also identify and address potential health problems. Are you looking for a veterinarian near you? Call us on (973) 509-5225 and our friendly veterinary staff will attend to you. We will also provide tips on how to better manage your pet’s health.