Family Vet Limited
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
Along with regular exercise and veterinary care, careful nutrition is the best way to contribute to your pet’s prolonged good health.
These are the basic nutrients every pet needs:
Water is the most essential nutrient in any diet. Your pet’s body comprises approximately 70% water and will quickly perish without it. Ensure your pet can access fresh, clean water at all times.
Carbohydrates supply energy and come from sugars, starch, and fibre from plant sources. Carbohydrates help energize the brain and muscles, making your pet bright and active.
Fats also supply energy and, in the right amounts, help build strong cells and promote nutrient absorption. Too much fat, however, can lead to obesity-related health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and osteoarthritis.
Proteins are required for a healthy coat, skin, and nails. Your pet’s body uses the amino acids in proteins to make enzymes and hormones in the bloodstream and to maintain a healthy immune system. Proteins can come from plant and meat sources, but cats and dogs need high-quality animal protein.
Vitamins and minerals help regulate many body systems. For example, your pet needs minerals, calcium and phosphorous for strong bones. Antioxidant vitamins like vitamins E and C help boost your pet’s immune system during times of stress.
We strongly recommend that you:
Feed premium pet foods. Premium foods offer high-quality ingredients, are made by companies specialising in nutritional research, and show a solid track record of quality and palatability. Feeding generic pet foods may lead to obesity, irregular bowel movements, or excess intestinal gas.
Make sure the food is fresh. When you purchase pet food, check for freshness and purchase only the amount necessary for your pet. Store pet food in a cool, dry place and keep it tightly closed. Discard uneaten food and always place fresh food in a clean bowl. Hard food (or “kibble”) is generally preferred for maintaining dental health and minimizing tartar build-up. Soft, canned food tends to be more palatable and can be stored for longer.
Feed the right amount. Ask us or check the label for how much to feed according to your pet’s ideal weight (not necessarily the same as their current weight). Avoid feeding pets as much as they want or feeding a large amount at once. Doing so can lead to obesity, gastrointestinal upset, or even bloat, a life-threatening condition.
Maintain a daily routine. A regular schedule will help your pet keep normal bowel movements and avoid indoor accidents. Younger pets must be fed more frequently, as they are usually more energetic and burn more calories.
Avoid “people” food. Your pet’s digestive system is simpler than yours and can be easily upset by changes. Feeding table scraps will result in an unbalanced diet can cause stomach upsets or even life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
Your pet’s nutritional requirements will change as they age. Puppies need puppy food because it is higher in energy, calcium and protein, but feeding it to an adult dog can lead to obesity. Likewise, older pets need diets restricted in fat and supplemented with fibre for their optimum health. Many premium senior diets also contain additives to assist in managing arthritis and can make your pet more comfortable.
Please give us a call to discuss your pet’s nutritional needs. We will tailor a diet specifically for your pet, giving them the optimum quality and length of life.
Remember, you are what you eat, and so is your pet!
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
