Nutrition

The nutrition of your pet forms an integral part of its health and well-being. Feeding the right diet with a good balance of nutrients and minerals is essential.

Energy, protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids (including essential fatty acids), vitamins and minerals form the major building blocks of a healthy diet. Water is also an essential addition to any diet, and ideally should be provided fresh daily to your pet.

Most commercial diets are formulated to match the dietary needs of your pet depending on its life-stage and any other specific needs. There are commercial diets available for kittens and puppies, adults, geriatric (older animals), as well as diets for specific problems.

Kitten and puppy diets should be fed for up to a year, and feed should not be restricted in kittens, puppies or lactating mothers until they they are weaned. Once the kitten or puppy is around 12 weeks of age you can start feeding according to the instructions that come witht he diet you have chosen to feed.

Adults can be maintained on any adult commercial diet that they are happy to eat. If you think that your dog or cat is putting on weight, you can try to decrease the amounts you are feeding slightly and increase exercise levels in your pet. Alternatively, if feed restriction and exercise are not working, there are diets specifically formulated to help with weight control in your pet.

Older pets also have diets specially formulated for them. These diets are often lower in protein but higher in energy. These help to maintain energy levels while putting as little stress on your pets metabolic functions (especially the liver and kidneys).

Specific diets are available for hairball control, very active animals, and many others. Diets that are specially formulated for sick animals are also available under prescription by your veterinarian. If you think that your pet is ill, contact one of the clinics to organise a visit.