NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

Enhance The Life Of Your Pet

Every cat or dog has unique nutritional needs due to variations in size, breed, age, physical activity and environment.

That’s one reason why it’s important to discuss the best diet and feeding schedule for your dog or cat with your veterinarian. When you focus on all of the elements that affect your animal’s feeding schedule, your pet will continue to receive the proper nutrition on a daily basis.

Body Condition Score (BCS)

Obesity is one of the most serious health issues affecting our four-legged companions. From heart disease to joint problems, overweight or obese pets face a host of potential problems, and proper nutritional management is a big part of obesity prevention and treatment. Talk to your veterinarian about evaluating your pets’ body fat with a Body Condition Score (BCS). There are different numerical systems used for this, but ideally the animal should be well proportioned, with its waist observed behind its ribs when viewed from above, palpable (noticeable/easily touched) ribs with a slight covering of fat, with minimal fat on its abdomen.

Feeding Management & Environmental Factors

If you have tried to lose weight, you will know that diet and exercise are both important factors. The amount and type of physical exercise your pet receives directly affects how much they’ll need to eat, so you and your veterinarian should review the types of activities they enjoy, including leash walks, time in the backyard, and off-leash activities, as well as how frequently these activities occur. Studies show shown that environment, such as indoor confinement and physical inactivity, has a direct impact on nutrition.

Home Monitoring

No one knows better than you exactly what your pets eat and how they behave at home. Adult animals in good health and physical condition should be assessed regularly, and pregnant, senior, and growing animals need even more frequent monitoring. If you notice any changes in their appearance or behavior, or if symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea develop, call your veterinarian immediately.
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