A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for all of our family members, including our pets. With all of the information that is abounding in today’s world, it can be hard to determine what actually is the healthiest option, especially when it comes to pet health and wellness. As a pet parent, understanding the basics of pet nutrition makes it easier to choose the best food, treats, and supplements to help your fur baby live a long, healthy life.
Basics of Canine Nutrition
Dogs are part of the scientific order of Carnivora, which sounds like they should have a heavily meat-based diet. However, as mammals within this order, they have varying dietary needs. This means that dogs–Man’s Best Friend– are more omnivorous than carnivorous. That means your pup can (and should) eat both plant and animal products to have a healthy, balanced diet.
There are basic nutrients that dogs, at all life stages, require:
- Protein
- Fat
- Carbohydrates (aka carbs)
These nutrients, along with vitamins and minerals, will help keep your pup’s vital systems running smoothly. However, different breeds have different needs—nutrition isn’t one-size-fits-all. A high-energy breed or a working dog, for example, will require a higher carb diet to keep their spunk. An active dog will require more carbs and energy in their diet than a more sedentary house dog.
Quality and quantity play a factor, as well, when it comes to ingredients, so always read labels! Dog food labels list ingredients by weight, so we recommend choosing foods with the most recognizable, whole-food ingredients, especially at the beginning of the list. Look for brands that list meat ingredients first—not meat byproducts or grains—as those processed byproducts and grains can be more difficult for your pet’s tummy to break down and digest. Also, over time, these processed ingredients can lead to tummy troubles.
Basics of Feline Nutrition
Cats, like their large feline relatives, are obligate carnivores. This means their diet must include meat, and the bulk of their nutrients should come from animal-derived sources. That isn’t to say they can’t eat plant matter, it’s just means vegetarian ingredients are much less beneficial for them. Meat and animal-derived foods are a must-have for cats. Cats cannot be vegan or vegetarian without becoming nutrient deficient.
Cats, unlike their canine companions, are not quite as domesticated and retain much of their ancestor’s dietary needs. If left to their own devices, your sweet kitty would be eating a diet that is high in protein and moisture, obtained from animal meat/organs–such as mice and other creatures.
The most crucial nutrient factors to consider when choosing a quality cat food are:
- Moisture Content—typically, the higher the better, but at least 70 percent.
- Protein
- Fat
- Carbs—look for 10 percent or less when possible.
Feline nutrients should be considered in that order! Carbs, while still necessary for energy and healthy gut function, are a lower priority for our frisky feline friends. Feeding your kitty a low-carb diet can also help prevent kidney disease, urinary tract problems, and diabetes.
Pet Nutrition at Bayside Animal Hospital
We know that understanding your pet’s nutritional needs can feel overwhelming, confusing, and impossible at times. However, there are tons of expert resources to guide you on the right path, and we’re here when you need us. Ask our team for recommendations during your next visit to Bayside Animal Hospital, and we’ll be more than happy to help you find the food, treats, and nutritional pet foods that are best for your pet.