5 years ago
If you've ever been to a pet food store, you've probably encountered a lot of pet food products that claim they are the healthiest option for your pet. While some pet foods do include healthier nutrients for your pets, that does not make them the ideal option for your pet.
The truth is that every pet is different. If you have two dogs, one may end up with bloating and gas from a specific type of food that the other loves. You never really know until you try different diets with each of your pets.
One thing you should always watch out for is price. Some dog and cat foods are more expensive than others, but these do not necessarily make them healthier for your pet. The cheapest brand at your local grocery store may be more agreeable to your pet's health than the expensive brands.
For every claim you read about a specific type of diet's potential for increasing your pet's lifespan and activity, search for the sources. If there are no studies or research to back up their claims, ignore them.
The times when dietary changes are most important tend to be after serious life changes. When your dog is a puppy, you should feed them puppy food products that are better for their growth. Kittens should be fed kitten food up until one year of age. If your cat or dog has recently been spayed or neutered, the best practice is to reduce their food consumption until they have completely recovered. Then, slowly increase the amount you feed them until you reach a comfort point for both you and your pet.
Always do your research on diets for your pets before trying new products. You want your companions healthy and happily at your side for years to come!
