The Role Of Pet Nutrition
Pet nutrition plays a large role in your pet’s overall health and well being. What we feed our pets can impact their brain function, gut health, energy levels and their appearance. At easyvet we understand that every dog and cat is different, and their needs can change at any point in time. On top of that, we recognize that all of the pet food options can be overwhelming. Our veterinarians can help you understand your pet’s nutritional requirements and provide diet and treat recommendations to help keep your pet healthy and happy.
Signs Your Pet May Need A New Diet
There are several signs that may indicate that your pet is not reacting well to something in their diet. Knowing what to look out for is essential to getting them on the right track. Here are some immediate signs that you can easily monitor at home:
- Consistently loose or mucousy stools
- Constant licking of paws
- Redness and/or inflammation in the skin
- Frequent belching or regurgitation after a meal
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden change in energy levels
- Dull coat or excessive shedding
What Can My Veterinarian Tell Me About My Pet's Diet?
There are several factors that could impact your pet’s gut health, such as:
- what they eat
- when they eat
- any medications they may be on
- existing health conditions
- size/weight
- age
- breed
While there are several steps you can take at home to find the right food for your pets, symptoms that continue to persist over time may warrant a visit with your veterinarian.
An examination of your pet can help determine what may be triggering your pet’s reaction to certain foods. Our veterinarians can provide recommendations to a diet that is more appropriate for your pet’s breed, size and any existing conditions your pet may have. Based on your pet’s needs, our veterinarians can recommend prescription diets or supplements to help your pet achieve optimal nutrition.
If you’ve tried an elimination diet but symptoms continue to persist, it’s important to see a veterinarian as these could be signs of an underlying health condition that requires treatment. Alternatively, if your pet is on medication, they could be having an adverse reaction and require a new treatment plan. This is why it is important to consult with a veterinarian.