What to Feed Your Pets: Nutrients Needed for Pet Health and Diet

As pet owners, we all want what is best for our furry friends. We often think of the wants of our fur babies, such as a good home, a comfortable bed, and the best toys. Sometimes we forget the needs of our pets, and the most important need we provide is nutrition in the form of a daily meal plan and a carefully balanced diet. An adequate diet and proper nutrition are crucially important for the health, wellbeing and longevity of our pets. It is vital that your pet does not suffer from malnutrition or obesity. A well balanced diet will help prevent these conditions.

Choosing the right diet can be a challenge and, in this blog, we will provide tips on how to understand the different components of pet food and the essential ingredients that make up a balanced diet.  

Protein 

Protein is the most important element of your pet’s diet. It is necessary for the healthy development of bones, muscles and other tissues. Dogs and cats are carnivores and require a high-quality protein source, such as meat, fish or poultry. Some dogs can be allergic to certain proteins and may require novel protein like kangaroo or duck or if your pet is on a specific diet, they may require hydrolysed protein. It is important to note that animals descended from hunters require a meat protein source and cannot survive on a vegetarian or vegan diet. When deciding on a diet for your cat, make sure that it includes Taurine. Taurine is essential for cats to maintain their vision and healthy function of the heart. 

A diet such as Hill's Science Diet Mature Adult 7+ Cat Dry Food contains taurine and other nutrients for your cat. 

Fat 

Fat is another essential element in your pet’s diet that will provide energy, maintain a healthy coat, and support organ function. It is important to feed your pet the right type of fat such as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which can be found in fish oil and other sources, Skin, Coat & Mobility Oil Supplement for Dogs. Fat makes your pet’s food more palatable and will help with absorption of vitamins and insulate the body and protect the organs. It is important to feed fat in the right proportions to prevent obesity. A commercial diet will already have balanced levels of fat. 

Carbohydrates 

Carbohydrates in the form of fibre will maintain your pet’s digestive health. These can be included in the diet as whole grains, vegetables or fruits. Please note that puppies and kittens do not require a high-fibre diet but should have a diet comprised mostly of proteins and fats to support growth. Check the packet of your pet food to ensure the diet is formulated for growth in puppies and kittens.  
A diet such as Royal Canin Kitten Wet Food and Royal Canin Mini Puppy Wet Food  

Vitamins and Minerals 

Vitamins and minerals are essential to support normal metabolism, immune function and bone health. A balanced diet of proteins, fats and carbohydrates should give your pet all the vitamins and minerals they require. Additional supplements should only be administered under veterinary advice, or they might have adverse effects. A balanced commercial diet will be formulated with vitamins and minerals in the correct proportions to prevent deficiency or toxicity.  

Water 

Providing constant access to clean, fresh water is necessary for normal bodily function and to maintain hydration. We have a great range of smart water bowls 

Tips for Feeding Your Pets a Well-Balanced Diet 

Your pet will have individual dietary requirements depending on their age, breed, health status and activity levels. Consult with your veterinary professional to ensure the diet you are feeding your pet is the most appropriate or Ask one of our Experts. 

• Select a premium diet with high-quality ingredients. Always follow packet instructions when calculating a daily meal plan to avoid under or overfeeding.  
• Avoid feeding human food, leftovers and table-scraps. If you have selected a balanced pet food, this is a complete diet. Any additional food is completely unnecessary and can predispose to obesity. Some human foods can even be harmful to pets, such as fatty foods, grapes, onions, chocolate, nuts and cooked bones. 
• Monitor your pet’s body weight and body condition score to ensure your diet is appropriate. Consult your veterinary professional on how to perform a body condition score.  
• Provide fresh, clean water at all times. 

Feeding your pet, a well-balanced diet is essential for their health, happiness and well-being.It is important that you ensure your pet’s diet comprises high-quality protein, healthy fats, balanced vitamins and minerals, and access to fresh water. If you are unsure of what to feed your pet, or you are concerned your pet has special requirements, consult a veterinary professional to create a diet plan that meets your pet’s individual needs. A high-quality, healthy and balanced diet will help provide your pet with the happiest and healthiest life possible.  

If you need further assistance in selecting a diet that is best for your pet, book an appointment to speak with a Your Pet PA veterinarian or nurse via our Ask our Experts page. 

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