- In order to be a responsible pet owner, one needs to pay careful attention to what they feed their pets.
- Like humans, dogs, cats, and other animals need specific nutrients to stay healthy.
- Being aware of your pet’s individual needs are can help you make better decisions about what to feed them.
- Knowing how to identify exaggerated marketing claims can make selecting nutritious and affordable food easier.
Without a doubt, one of the most important decisions a person can make for their pet is deciding what and how they’re going to feed them.
That’s because your pet’s diet can significantly affect both their short and long term health. Aside from keeping them in generally good shape, feeding your pet a nutritious, balanced diet can help them avoid getting sick and improve their overall quality of life.
Of course, this process is not as simple as buying the first bag of kibble or pellets you see at the store and mindlessly scooping it into a bowl a few times a day.
Both new and experienced pet owners alike know that deciding what and how to best feed their pups, kittens, reptiles, rodents, and birds can be a challenge. How do you know what’s best for your pet?
INSIDER reached out to Dr. Cailin Heinze, MS, VMD, DACVN and Associate Professor of Nutrition at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, for some expert insight on this important topic.
