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The foods we feed and don’t feed our pets will greatly influence their health, the diseases they may or may not get, and the quality and length of their lives. We do not have control over a pet’s genetics, but we do have control over what they eat that can affect their health. Puppies and Kittens need special foods designed for growing bones and organs. Feed only dry food and pick a quality brand; you will get what you pay for. Do not feed cheap generic food in which you can see the hairs and bone fragments in the kibbles. Puppies that will be 55 pounds or greater when fully grown need a specially formulated large breed puppy food instead of just regular puppy food. Large breed puppy food has a different balance of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, to try to prevent bone disorders as the puppy rapidly grows and develops. Once your pet has been spayed or neutered at 6 months of age your veterinarian may suggest a gradual switch to dry adult food to start early prevention of obesity. Neutering does slow down the metabolism which can lead to abnormal weight gain if the calories and exercise of the pet are not strictly monitored. The benefits of surgery far outweigh the potential for weight gain, though.
When switching to adult food, make sure it is specifically for adults. A food that says it is good for all life stages will have the calories and mineral balance of a growth formula which is NOT in the best interest of your pet’s health and longevity. If your pet shows any signs of being plump, put it on light food, measure its daily meals, and make sure it exercises. Cats and dogs should not be fed from the table nor should they be given real bones. Not even if the bones are sterilized, flavored, processed, etc.; bones can fragment and splinter in the mouth and intestines and can cause teeth to fracture. Most overweight pets that veterinarians see are being fed too much of the wrong foods plus too many treats and scraps. Obesity is preventable. Obesity leads to diseases of the liver, kidneys, heart, and pancreas. It can also predispose your pet for having diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs when you pet their side without a handful of fat over the ribcage.
Once your pet is seven years old it is considered a senior citizen. Gradually switch your pet to a good quality dry senior diet that will be lower in protein, lower in fat, higher in fiber, lower in sodium, and that contains glucosamines and chondroitin for joint health.
Have an annual geriatric profile and urinalysis performed to catch signs of early disease. There are excellent prescription diets that are designed for such diseases as kidney disease, liver disorders, bladder stones, heart failure, obesity, periodontal disease and many other disorders that require specific dietary restrictions or additions.
Please research your pets’ nutrition so that you can keep your pet healthier by spending money on good quality food and nutrition instead of spending your money on a disease that could have been prevented.
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