Just like humans, our furry friends need the proper nutrition to live long and healthy lives. Unfortunately, not all pet foods on the market are created equal. To ensure that your dog or cat is getting the nutrients they need, it’s important to understand what their bodies require and why. Complete Pet Care, one of the top Raleigh Vet clinics, is here to assist pet parents in understanding proper nutrition for dogs and cats.
What Do Dogs Need?
Dogs need a variety of nutrients including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Proteins are responsible for growth and repair while fats provide energy and help with the absorption of vitamins. Carbohydrates give dogs quick energy but aren’t as essential as the other nutrients. Vitamins and minerals help to keep bones, teeth, and muscles healthy, which means less time spent at a vet Raleigh NC and more time spent enjoying life.
While all of these nutrients are important, protein is especially vital for dogs since they are carnivores by nature. The best source of protein for dogs is meat such as beef, chicken, lamb, etc. Pet foods that are made with high-quality ingredients will list meat as the first ingredient on the label. Dogs can have allergies to certain ingredients, so if you see any unusual symptoms, make a note of them and contact your Raleigh vet. It’s also important to look for foods that have been specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of your dog based on their age, activity level, and health condition. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs since they’re growing. Senior dogs may need food that is easier to digest since they tend to have reduced energy levels and decreased muscle mass.
What Do Cats Need?
The nutritional needs of cats are similar to those of dogs but there are some key differences. First, cats are obligate carnivores which means that their bodies can only properly digest animal-based proteins. Secondly, cats require more protein than dogs since they have higher energy needs. Thirdly, cats don’t produce certain enzymes in their liver so they must consume them in their diet to absorb certain nutrients properly. Lastly, cats require more taurine than dogs since it’s vital for their heart health. If you have any concerns about your cat’s diet, your vet Raleigh NC at Complete Pet Care is here to help!
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Now that you know a little bit more about proper nutrition for dogs and cats, you can make sure that your furry friend is getting everything they need to live a long and healthy life. When choosing pet food, always look for one that is made with high-quality ingredients and has been specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of your pet based on their age, activity level, and health condition. Speaking to your Raleigh vet about different types of food that would best benefit your pet is also imperative to helping them live a happier and healthier life. Your furry friend will thank you!
