NUTRITION & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

 

​​​Cats and dogs have different and unique nutritonal

requirements. Cats are carnivores. This means that they have

to eat meat in order to stay healthy.  Plant protein is not an

adequate source of protein.  Their bodies require much more

protein to function properly than non-carnivores. This means that

choosing the right food is essential when creating a diet plan for

your cat.  In general, a canned, high protein, low carbohydrate

diet is best for most cats. 

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Dogs, however, are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. A balanced diet of adequate caloried derived from protein/fats/carbohydrates is needed, but may change from dog to dog depending on health status, breeding status, and working status. 

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Weight management is a widespread issue in companion animals. They are often indoor too much and rarely exercise enough, unless your pet is a working or sporting dog. 

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Overweight pets are at increased risk of developing diabetes, arthritis, breathing problems, and sanitary issues.   The good news is, we can help!

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We will weigh your cat or dog, determine his/her body condition score (BCS),

muscle condition score (MCS), and calculate the recommended daily caloric and protein requirements to help develop a custom nutritional plan. Knowing how much to feed is essential... our goal is slow weight loss or weight gain, especially for cats... Rapid weight loss is dangerous to cats and can result in life threatening liver failure. 

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We understand there is is a lot of confusion about commercial diets, home cooked diets (they MUST be balanced and supplemented), raw diets (concern in cats for avian influenza), grain free diets (these have been linked to heart failure), and are happy to discuss the best options for your pet.

 

Please see these links as well for more information!