How Long Should You Try A New Dog Food

Half-dozen Signs it'south Fourth dimension to Change Your Pet'southward Food

Change Tin can Be Good

By Jessica Vogelsang, DVM

Information technology's a long-held myth that pets should be on the aforementioned pet food their entire lives. The truth is, nosotros at present know our pet's dietary needs can and practise change over time due to factors similar their life stage, their overall health, and their activity level. Practise you lot recall information technology might exist time for a change? Check out our top half dozen signs yous may want to become a make new bag of pet nutrient.

i. Slow, Flaky Coat

Diets rich in essential fatty acids are a fundamental component in keeping a pet'south skin good for you, and therefore his or her glaze, in tip top shape. Many pet foods are designed with skin and glaze improvement in mind. Await for a diet containing both Omega-iii and Omega-half dozen fatty acids to make your pet'south glaze shiny and brilliant in no time.

2. Lethargy/Weakness

If your pet had recently undergone a stressful event, illness, or surgery, he may understandably exist a little worn out. Diets with high levels of antioxidants can assist boost the allowed response to accelerate your pet's recovery and get them dorsum on their feet in no time. Remember: a pet who is all of a sudden acting lethargic and weak should be evaluated by a veterinarian before making dietary changes.

3. 'Senioritis'

Depending on the size of the animal, pets are considered middle-aged to senior around 5-7 years. And as our pets age, their nutrient requirements change too. Senior diets, for example, are more often than not lower in calories but higher in fiber, and often have supplements specific to this lifestage such as joint support and antioxidants. AAFCO does non take requirements for senior pets, all the same, then look for a food labeled for "adult maintenance." This is because an "all life stage" nutrient is formulated with kittens and puppies in mind. It volition also evangelize too much fat and nutrients your senior pet does not require. In fact, the pet food could even be harmful to a senior pet.

4. Hefty Midsection

It doesn't take much for a pet to air current up with some actress weight on their frame — and this is particularly noticeable with small pets. If your pet needs to lose a few inches, a diet specifically designated for weight loss will ensure that they yet accept the proper amount of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals while ingesting fewer calories. These diets take advantage of the latest research in pet weight direction to ensure your pet is on their way to a healthier weight in no time! If your pet is extremely overweight or obese, withal, it's all-time that you consult with your veterinarian for a therapeutic nutritional solution.

five. GI Disturbances

Chronic flatulence, loose stool, or rumbly stomachs can be the result of food intolerance or the low quality of food that you lot're feeding your pet. Some pets but don't tolerate certain diets or ingredients too as other ones. GI upset is an inconvenience to owners as well every bit beingness uncomfortable for your pet. If this is an ongoing trouble for you, inquire your health care professional to diagnose the problem. The solution may exist every bit easy as switching to premium food or a sensitive breadbasket diet that'south correct for your pet.

6. An Itch that Won't Quit

Allergies are common in pets, and food is just ane of several possible causes. Regardless of the cause, though, allergic pets may do good from a low-allergen diet that reduces the corporeality of potential allergens they are exposed to. Your veterinarian can recommend either a prescription diet or an over the counter sensitive pare nutrition, depending on your pet's particular needs.

Plan for Success

Choosing the proper diet is one of the most of import ways owners can ensure their pet's long term health, simply information technology's no substitute for medical intendance. If you suspect your pet may have a medical status that would do good from a new diet, exist certain to have a checkup with your vet to make sure you're on the right path before making any changes! Expert food and good choices atomic number 82 to a long, healthy, happy life.

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