7 Tips For Feeding Your Pet
1 - Measure Those Meals
In general, feed twice a day using an exact measuring cup. Be honest with your servings and use level scoops of dry food, or an exact portion of the can. “Filling the bowl” is not a good option, because different bowls are different sizes.
2 - Do Not Free Feed
“Free feeding” is the term used when food is always available for your pet. Most pets do not have the self-control needed for free feeding, and so will eat more than necessary and become fat.
Puppies and kittens may be fine with free feeding, but when they are done growing, they are more likely to become overweight.
3 - Feed The Food That Best Matches Your Pet
Feed a commercial food designed for your pet. For example, large breed puppies should eat a large breed puppy formula, and cats with kidney issues should eat a prescription diet.
4 - Keep It Consistent
One of the wonderful things about dogs and cats is that, unlike people, they are happy eating the same meal again and again. Use this to your advantage and keep life simple. Choose a food and stick to it.
5 - Don’t Give Human Food
Feeding human food will increase chances of obesity and digestive issues. Also, animals that are used to eating human food may refuse pet food, which can be a problem if they need to eat a specific diet because of a medical condition later in life.
6 - Follow Instructions
Feed the recommended serving size for your pet as listed on the bag or can. Give the amount of food recommended for the weight your pet should be. For example, if your dog is 60 pounds, but should weigh 50 pounds, then feed the amount for a 50 pound dog.
If you are unsure how much your dog should weigh, then see tip number 7.
7 - See Your Vet
If you are concerned about your pet’s weight or would like help creating a diet plan, then make an appointment with your veterinarian. With the help of a doctor, you can create a specific diet plan to meet your pet’s needs, whether they have a specific medical condition or just need some help shedding a few extra pounds.
