Introducing a new dog or cat into the home is always a special event, full of joy and emotions. However, behind these positive feelings there are also responsibilities that can be challenging for new caregivers. One of the most important aspects of caring for an animal is its proper nutrition. In this article, we will look at how to properly adjust the diet for new four-legged family members.
Health status, appearance and weight
The first step is to assess the health and figure of your new pet. It is important to check that the animal is not overweight or underweight and that its bowel movements are normal. Digestive problems, such as diarrhea or too dense poop, can be a sign of improper nutrition or illness. Parasites are often the cause of such problems, so it is worth doing a stool test after the animal arrives at its new home. Remember to perform the test in a certified laboratory – it is best to take it 3 times, but you should bring fresh water to the laboratory.
Also in the case of adopted animals, there is often a problem with the microbiota – then it is necessary to introduce an additional appropriate probiotic, and also provide the right amount of prebiotics in meals, which will support the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
Overweight or underweight
If your pet is underweight or overweight (watch the video on how to assess your dog’s figure – LINK), you should introduce a diet that will allow your dog to regain a healthy weight. You can use our calculators to calculate your energy requirements. In order for the dog to increase weight, you should gradually increase the supply of calories, increase its energy content (e.g. fat content – in the absence of health contraindications). To slim down the dog, reduce the amount of calories given and change the type of food (reduce the fat content). If you don’t know how, book a consultation with a specialist.
Age of the dog and cat
Another important element is to adjust the diet to the age and condition of the animal. Puppies and kittens grow very quickly, so their diet should be high in calories and nutrients. As the animal matures, the quantity and quality of food should be adapted to its needs. It is worth using the LINK energy demand calculator to calculate exactly how many calories our pet needs. In the case of older animals, it is worth adjusting the diet to the needs of such animals to improve their functioning, including the introduction of appropriate supplementation.
Keeping your dog hydrated
Hydration is an equally important aspect of caring for an animal. Your dog or cat should have constant access to fresh water. If you have problems with drinking, it is worth considering various methods to encourage more water, such as changing the type of bowl or adding flavored additives to the water. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, so it’s worth paying close attention to.
Oral hygiene
Regular oral hygiene should not be forgotten, especially if you feed your pet wet food or homemade meals. Toothpastes/gels for pets that do not require brushing can be very helpful. Regular oral hygiene prevents inflammation and pain, which can discourage your pet from eating. Inspect your dog’s mouth and seek medical attention if necessary. Sick teeth, inflammation of the oral cavity, in addition to pain, cause the dog to be selective in food.
Treats in your dog’s diet
Last but not least, the introduction of treats into the diet. Treats can be a great tool in training and rewarding your dog or cat, but it’s important to remember to introduce them gradually and choose those that are healthy and natural. Avoid products with preservatives and artificial additives that can negatively affect your pet’s health. Read our article about food additives LINK
Summary:
In conclusion, proper nutrition for a new dog or cat is the key to its health and well-being. If you think your dog/cat should change their diet, do it. It is best to start changing your diet after 2-3 weeks of staying in a new home, but there are situations when you need to do it right away. It is important to adapt the diet to the individual needs of the animal, regularly monitor its health and ensure proper hydration and oral hygiene. Thanks to this, our four-legged friend will be healthy and happy for many years.
Watch the training on dog/cat nutrition from adoption LINK