What Should You Feed Your Pet?
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The team at Roseway Veterinary Hospital suggests following these basic guidelines when it comes to determining the best diet for your pets:
Dogs are omnivores and do best with a meal plan that includes high-quality proteins, grains and vegetables. Cats are true, “obligate” carnivores and must have specific protein and nutrient contents in their diet to maintain health.
There are many superior quality, nutritionally sound foods to choose from, so avoid bottom-shelf or generic brands if possible.
Don’t worry about food being grain-free unless your pet has a known adverse food reaction or allergies to grains. Most pet food allergies are to a protein source, not grains.
Keep table scraps to a minimum and avoid processed foods and anything that may be toxic or irritating to a pet’s digestive tract such as grapes, raisins, onions and garlic.
Raw foods (RBMDs), even frozen ones, are best avoided, as these foods can be dangerous. In addition to the potential for nutritional deficiencies and metabolic issues, a large percentage contain pathogens that cannot be killed by freezing, such as e-coli and salmonella. Raw foods have been linked to serious illness and even fatalities in pets. Owners have also become ill after handling these foods. The American Association of Animal Hospitals has issued a statement discouraging pet owners from feeding RMBDs.
We understand that some of our clients feel their pets do better on raw food diets. We include this information to help owners make an informed decision regarding the health of all family members. Please follow tips from the CDC if you still prefer to feed your pet a raw diet.
It is ideal to discuss with Dr. Davis the best formula for your pet’s health condition and life stage. For questions or to schedule a nutritional consultation, make an appointment online or call us at 503-446-2450.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]