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For a healthy pet, whether it be your cat, dog, bird, fish or small animal, choosing a diet should include the right balance of the six major nutrient groups: proteins, fats and oils, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates and water.
There is a range of good quality manufactured pet foods available that will provide a good nutritional balance for your pet and give you peace of mind.
How do you decide on the right diet?
As a quick guide when deciding on a diet for your pet, ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the size of your pet? Small? Large? This will help you choose how much to buy and feed your pet.
- Is your pet an adult, senior or in a growth stage? There is a variety of foods that cater for all ages and the most important stages of development.
- How active is your pet? Will it be an indoor or an outdoor pet? For example, if your pet is relatively inactive, you might consider a special ‘light’ formula to avoid weight gain.
- Does your particular breed of pet require special nutrition? Or a special diet to treat a condition? Your breeder or vet will be able to offer you advice and guidance on the best diets available.
It’s especially important when considering a diet for your pet to remember that what’s healthy for us isn’t necessarily healthy for your pet.
What should you avoid?
To help ensure a proper diet for your pet with the right nutrients you should avoid diets that:
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are made from inferior ingredients
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use high heat for processing
- use human quality whole food ingredients
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leave your pet wanting the leftovers from the kitchen table.
Always seek your vet's advice if unsure.
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