The veterinarian explains the advantages of these options and explains the necessary care
The health and well-being of pets depends significantly on an adequate and balanced diet. However, an alarming reality comes to light: many owners are unaware of the importance of this care.
According to a recent survey conducted by Mars Petcare and published by the Regional Council of Veterinary Medicine, around 40% of owners are not sure whether their dog or cat is at the ideal weight and almost 25% admit to offering inappropriate foods.
Furthermore, many of these owners are not even able to communicate, during the veterinary visit, the name of the food they provide to the animals. This lack of awareness can have serious health consequences petsmaking it essential to understand the care necessary to ensure a healthy and balanced diet for our animal friends.
Take care of the animals’ nutrition
Neglecting nutrition-related care is a health risk. The alarm comes from veterinarian Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha, teacher of the Veterinary Medicine course at UniCuritiba – Ânima Educação institution.
“Many of the foods we eat are unsuitable for pets. Others are toxic and should not be offered under any circumstances. To avoid problems, we must offer a balanced and safe diet in the quantities recommended for each individual”, teaches the professional.
Some examples of contraindicated foods are: chocolate, onion, grapes, bread, pasta, fried foods, cheese and sugar. Cooked or roasted chicken bones, while not toxic, also pose a risk, as they can break into sharp splinters and cause serious accidents.
Whenever you suspect food poisoning or ingestion of inappropriate bones, the advice is to contact your vet immediately so that treatment can be instituted in time.
Feed or natural food
Opinions are divided between food and natural food, but with proper care it is possible to use both. According to veterinarian Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha, whatever the option, factors such as the dog’s age, size, weight and lifestyle must be taken into account. pet.
Another detail concerns the daily quantity of food, which must be dosed correctly, always with professional guidance. “This is important to prevent the pet become malnourished or overweight, conditions that can lead to the development of numerous other diseases”, teaches the UniCuritiba professor.
Regarding the choice between food or natural food, Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha comments: “It would be strange for me, as a health professional, to say that processed foods are the best option in all cases. Food is a processed food with a wide variety of options on the market. In general, it is expected to contain all the nutrients contained in the pet needs and its provision is usually more practical for tutors.”
Heal with natural nutrition
Although it brings benefits to the animal’s health, natural feeding also requires care. “At the slightest sign of hypersensitivity to this type of food, I recommend informing your veterinarian. Animals with skin allergies, repeated ear infections, itching, loose stools, gas and frequent vomiting need to be subjected to a different evaluation in relation to nutrition, as well as patients with autoimmune diseases or a history of neoplasia”, explains the professor.
Natural nutrition requires more planning, both financial and operational. “As the name suggests, it is more natural, healthy and very tasty. As long as it is planned and monitored by a professional specialized in nutrition,” he says.
Choose the best option
Decide between feed or natural food It depends on some factors. The best food, underlines the veterinarian, is the one that satisfies the physiological needs of the animal and, at the same time, is vital for the owner.
“Invest in specialized professionals who have a real interest in remembering the knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and feeding behavior of each species, since this difference will be decisive in guaranteeing the health and longevity of your pet“, advises the UniCuritiba professor.
By Marlise Groth
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
