Make your New Year’s resolution to give your pet better nutrition. You can start by asking our veterinarians at Lakeville Animal Hospital for some advice. We provide quality veterinary care for pets in Lakeville and the Middleborough area. Let’s look at a few tips regarding pet nutrition that you can use to keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.
Hydrate, But Not Too Much
Pets need to replace the fluid from their bodies that they lose every day. Make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. Make it a habit to check that the water bowls or bottles are filled whenever you get a drink. However, if your pet is always drinking it could be a sign of a health problem like diabetes. Take your pet to the veterinarian’s office for a checkup.
Feed Smaller Treats
If your veterinarian told you that your pet needs to lose some weight, feed smaller portions of your pet’s favorite treats. This way, you can still reward good behavior and your pet can enjoy the treat without consuming too many calories.
Switching to Lower Calorie Food for Older Pets
Older pets cannot metabolize food the way that younger animals can. This means that the food you have been giving for years may now be too fattening. Talk to our veterinarians about the best senior foods for your pet. Any food switches should be made gradually, mixing the old food with the new, in order to avoid any gastrointestinal upsets.
Take Care of Your Pet’s Teeth
After eating more nutritious food and drinking enough water, you’re still not done. You need to brush your pet’s teeth. You can also give pet dental treats and toys to help clean teeth and massage the gums. If your pet has bad breath, he or she could have periodontal disease. Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth is the best preventative care tip for the new year. Many health issues in dogs and cats start as dental problems.
Contact Our Veterinarians in Lakeville, MA
If you have questions about your pet’s diet and live in the Lakeville or Middleborough area, contact Lakeville Animal Hospital to speak with one of our veterinarians. Call our team today at (508) 947-1309 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.