We all want our pets to live their best lives, and a huge part of that is making sure they’re eating right. But with all the pet food choices out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—especially when we’re tempted to sneak them a bite of our leftovers (spoiler: not everything on our plates is as good for them as it is for us). In this post, the pet pros at Coyote Ridge Veterinary Clinic break down the dos and don'ts of pet nutrition to make sure your furry friend’s diet is as healthy as possible—and maybe help you keep a few crumbs for yourself!
The Dos of Pet Nutrition
Choose High-Quality Pet Food
Just like we wouldn’t want to eat junk food every day (well, most of us wouldn’t), our pets deserve the best, too. High-quality pet food ensures they get the right nutrients in the right amounts, helping them stay healthy and happy. Look for food that lists meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with a lot of fillers like corn or by-products. Ideally, opt for brands that meet AAFCO standards, which means they’ve gone through a rigorous process to ensure complete and balanced nutrition. Your pet will thank you in the long run with a shinier coat, brighter eyes, and maybe even a few extra tail wags.
Measure Their Food Properly
It’s easy to get carried away when your pet looks up at you with those big, hopeful eyes. But overfeeding is a real thing, and it can lead to obesity, which comes with a slew of health issues. Make sure you’re measuring their food according to their size, breed, and activity level. Your vet can help determine the best portion sizes for your pet, and once you have that, stick to it. If you’re not sure whether you’re feeding your pet too much, or if your pet’s weight seems to fluctuate, a quick check-up with Coyote Ridge Veterinary Clinic can help keep things on track.
Provide Fresh Water
We definitely feel our best when we’re well-hydrated. The same goes for pets! Fresh water is a must for digestion, circulation, and keeping everything moving smoothly inside their little bodies. Make sure their water bowl is always full and clean—after all, a thirsty pet is an unhappy one. And remember, water intake can also be affected by the type of food they eat. Wet food typically boosts hydration, while dry kibble will have them drinking more water to balance things out. Cats, in particular, should get most of their water from wet food to maintain proper hydration.
Include Variety in Their Diet
Just like we enjoy a little variety in our meals, pets can benefit from a bit of culinary adventure, too. Consider rotating between different high-quality food brands, getting variety packs with mixed flavors, or (for dogs) mixing in a little cooked chicken or veggies (but keep those portions controlled!). This not only keeps mealtime exciting for your pet, but it also ensures they’re getting a variety of nutrients. Just be sure to check with your vet before introducing any new foods or making any other major dietary changes.
Follow Your Vet’s Advice
Having worked with all types and breeds of animals, your vet knows your pet best, so when it comes to their diet, trust your vet’s guidance. They have the knowledge and expertise to steer you in the right direction, including recommendations for a specific type of food for health conditions and tips on portion sizes. Plus, regular check-ups allow us to monitor your pet’s weight, energy levels, and overall health, adjusting their nutrition as needed. It’s always better to consult an expert than to guess your way through pet nutrition.
The Don’ts of Pet Nutrition
Don’t Feed Them Table Scraps
Look, we get it—those puppy dog eyes are hard to resist when you're enjoying a meal, and who wouldn’t want to share a tasty bite with their furry friend? But before you toss that leftover chicken nugget or slice of pizza their way, think twice. Many human foods can be dangerous for pets, from toxic ingredients like garlic, onions, chocolate, and grapes to excessive fat and salt. Table scraps can also upset their stomachs, leading to digestive issues or even worse conditions, such as pancreatitis. We know this rule isn’t followed that often, but it’s still best to stick to pet-friendly foods and treats for your furry beggar and keep human food where it belongs: on your plate.
Don’t Overdo the Treats
Yes, treats are a great way to show your pet some love, but they’re not the main course. Overfeeding treats can quickly lead to an overweight pet, which can come with a long list of health problems. Remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake. Instead of offering treats all the time, consider using part of their regular meals as rewards during training or playtime. This way, they get to enjoy their food, and you won’t accidentally spoil them into a habit of unhealthy snacking.
Don’t Switch Foods Too Frequently
As much as we like to experiment with new types of food based on cost, ingredients, or convenience, pets don’t always have the stomach for it. Constantly switching between different foods can cause digestive problems, like upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. Stick to one high-quality food brand and only make changes if necessary, such as if your pet has a health issue or your vet suggests it. If you do switch their food, make the transition gradual to avoid upsetting their tummy. If your pet is having trouble adjusting to a new diet, contact your vet to get further guidance.
Don’t Skip Regular Vet Check-Ups
Is your current pet food really the best option for them? Regular vet check-ups can confirm this, and are essential to ensure your pet’s diet is meeting all their nutritional needs. Your pet’s age, breed, and activity level can all change over time, and so can their dietary needs. Regular visits to Coyote Ridge Veterinary Clinic can help us catch any issues early on, so your pet gets the tailored nutrition they deserve. Further, we’re always here to offer advice if you have concerns about their food.
Don’t Ignore Labels
Unfortunately, foods marketed as “premium” or “natural” aren’t always as advertised, so it’s a good idea to always read the ingredients on pet food labels. Watch out for long lists of fillers, by-products, and artificial additives that can negatively affect your pet’s health. High-quality food should list real meat as the first ingredient—not mystery meat or corn. If you’re unsure about what’s in the food you’re giving your pet, bring the label to us at your local vet clinic.
Coyote Veterinary Clinic: Northern Colorado’s Resource for Pet Care
Taking care of your pet’s nutrition is important in order to set them up for a long, happy, and healthy life—they appreciate how much you care, even if they can’t express it. If you live in Fort Collins or elsewhere in Northern Colorado and are unsure about your pet’s nutritional needs, reach out to Coyote Ridge Veterinary Clinic. We’re here to help all of our furry friends along the Front Range stay in peak shape.
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