The 6 Ingredients to Proper Nutrition for your Pet (and why they are Important!)
Most pet owners often think about how they can help keep their animal’s active, happy, and healthy. There are many factors’ that add up to make this happen, and one of the main ones is nutrition. Which treat is good for them, and won’t add too many extra calories to their daily diet? Do they need supplements? What about skin sensitivities? Is there a pet food that addresses certain issues my pet may have (UTI’s, weight loss, kidney care)?
The answer is YES! Veterinary Diets are made with high quality ingredients, which contain the proper balance of nutrients that are essential to your pet’s health. These nutrients are balanced to meet the specific needs of each individual pet that matches their lifestyle, special needs, and stage of life.
The six magical ingredients that help your pet stay healthy every single day are: water, fats, protein, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Here’s why:
Water
The essential nutrient of life. Even though dry food has up to 10% moisture, and canned food has up to 78% moisture, water deficiency is still something to keep in mind. It can lead to serious illnesses, and even death. To prevent this from happening make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times, after all, your pets adult body weight is made of 60-70% water!
Fats
Fats provide your pet with more than twice the energy compared to carbs and protein. Not only do they act as protection and insulation for the inside organs, but they are also needed for the structure of cells and hormones, and to use and absorb vitamins. You have to make sure that the proper amount of fat is being used in your pets daily diet, as too much can cause problems like skin issues and growth issues etc.
Protein
A lot of your animal’s proteins come from other animals; i.e. meats (chicken/beef), and other sources like fish and eggs. Proteins help your animal build tissue, cells, enzymes, hormones, organs, and antibodies. They are needed to help aid reproduction, repair, and growth, which is why they are known as the “building blocks” of nutrition.
Carbohydrates
Cons: they are a cheaper form of nutrition which can cause weight gain if not regulated properly.
Pros: They provide energy for body tissues, they are said to help reproduction, and certain carbs like fibre are used to help the intestines have proper bacteria levels to help manage chronic diarrhea.
Vitamins
It is important that your animal gets these from their diet, because their bodies cannot produce essential vitamins. They are needed nutrients because they keep your pet’s body’s systems functioning properly. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian regarding vitamin supplements, because they can diagnose any vitamin deficiency’s your pet may or may not have.
Minerals
They also need to be provided in the diet of your animal because they cannot be produced by the body. They help maintain a normal fluid balance, make up teeth and bones, and play a part in maintaining metabolic reactions.
Remember, Veterinary Diets are scientifically proven and formulated to adhere to your pet’s specific needs. On your next Vet visit, ask them which formula may be right for furry family members!
Written by: Harbour Cities Veterinary Team
