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We all want the best for our pets. Be it the playful pup or the cuddly cat, the entertainment and companionship they offer us are just immeasurable. Much like humans, pets need good nutrition, so the right food is crucial for their health and happiness. From kibble to raw diets, the wide variety of pet food available today can really be overwhelming in deciding what is best for your pet. So many factors are at play: from age and breed to health conditions, even lifestyle plays a significant role in defining just the right diet. As pet ownership increases rapidly in India, so does the awareness of the simple basics that make all the difference in making the best possible decisions. What follows is a broad overview of the principal factors to consider in choosing the right kind of nutrition for your companion animal.
Nutritional Needs of Your Pet
Pets have individual needs, depending on their species, breed, age, and level of activity. Puppies and kittens need more protein and fat to support growth. Adult pets would do better on a balanced diet for weight maintenance and energy optimization. Old pets do better on reduced-calorie diets with added nutrients to promote joint health. Consultation with a veterinarian will bring out exactly what your pet requires.
Check the Ingredients List
The ingredients list on your packaging is your guide as to what they will eat. Be sure to look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb as your first ingredient, ensuring your food is rich in essential amino acids. Steer clear of too much in the way of fillers that add little in nutritional value, such as corn, soy, wheat, and other grains. Finally, there is particular concern about the use of unnecessary and harmful artificial preservatives, colours, and flavours over time.
Consider your pet's allergies and sensitivities
Much like humans, pets have food allergies or sensitivities. Some common allergens include beef, dairy, chicken, and grains. If your pet has been bothered with digestive issues, itching, or ear infections, it could be due to its diet. In these instances, hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets eliminate common allergens. You may even feed grain-free foods or use novel protein sources like duck or venison to help manage food sensitivities.
Evaluate the Nutritional Adequacy
Any type of pet food that is sold in India must meet the AAFCO nutritional standards or be from other similar regulatory bodies. These guarantee a balanced diet that has all the nutrients necessary for good health. Labels indicating that the food is "complete and balanced" for your pet's life stage contain this assurance because they prove that the food meets the minimum nutritional requirements.
Consider the Lifestyle and Weight of Your Pet
Working dogs or other active pets require more calories and energy compared to those pets which are not as active. Similarly, indoor cats or older dogs that have a sedentary lifestyle may require less calorie intake to avoid obesity. Feeding your pet based on his activity level will keep him at an ideal weight and avert potential health complications.
Checking for brand reputation
Although the market for pet food might seem big, not every company is created equal regarding its quality. It is brand history through customer reviews, practices in the production line, and recall history, gives you peace of mind. Stay away from companies that have a record of frequent recalls or very lousy quality control. Pick brands that practice transparent labelling, good-quality ingredients, and a very solid track record in the industry.
