Factors To Consider When Buying Pet Food

Like us, animals need a balanced diet with the right nutrients in order to stay healthy. A good diet ensures your pet has sufficient energy, maintains muscle mass, and keeps their coat glossy, so it’s your responsibility as an owner to ensure you are feeding your pet the correct food. With so many choices on offer, it can be difficult to know if you are giving your pet everything they need and in the right quantities. You should always consult your veterinarian if you think your pet’s health may be deteriorating as a result of his diet, but in the meantime, our experts here at Jaycliffe Pets have compiled a few factors to consider when buying your pet food.

Spayed/neutered or intact

If you have had your pet spayed or neutered, you should consider that their energy requirement is diminished compared to an intact cat or dog. Spayed/neutered pets require approximately 25-30 percent less calories than intact pets – this should be applied when looking at serving sizes on food containers, which will typically display the nutritional and serving information for intact cats or dogs.

Lifestyle

A house cat or dog that is walked only once for half an hour a day will burn far less energy than others, and will require less calories to keep them fueled. Consider how active your pet is, how often you walk them, and any health conditions they have – these will all factor into how your pet’s specific needs may vary.

Age

It’s important to feed your pet the correct food based on his age. A kitten or puppy will have vastly different nutritional needs than a fully grown cat or dog, so this should be taken into account. Different food choices are available depending on your pet’s age here at Jaycliffe Kennels & Cattery, so we can be sure that even when you’re away, your pet stays healthy and happy.

Portion size

Many pets are overweight simply due to owners incorrectly weighing out their food. Judging by eye is a quick way to overfeed your pet and even risk them becoming overweight!

Carefully check the serving advice on the container of the pet food, and ensure you are feeding your pet the right amount. Take into consideration your pet’s size also, as a Chihuahua and a Great Dane are clearly going to need very different servings!

Preferences

Some pets can be fussy with their food, or show a clear rise in energy levels with a particular type of food, be it dry, wet or a mix of both. Take note of your pet’s preferences and act accordingly – providing the food meets your pet’s nutritional needs, allowing them their favourite is a sure way of ensuring they their meals regularly and stay healthy.

Human food is not always good for animals

Many new owners assume that healthy human food will be good for their pet, too. However, many foods that we consume on a regular basis are inedible for dogs. For example, chocolate, garlic, onions, raisins,and nuts are all toxic to dogs and in extreme cases can even be fatal. Always consult your veterinarian if you want to cook your pet food instead of buying it in order to ensure you are providing a healthy and balanced meal.

Here at Jaycliffe Pets, we know how important a sustainable diet is to the health of every pet, even when they are away from home. That’s why we stock all varieties of pet food for your cat or dog, ensuring we have something that suits their needs while they’re with us.

For more information on the services we provide, or to discuss booking your pet in for a stay with us while you go on holiday, contact us today, and we’ll be happy to assist you.