What is the Best Way to Feed My Cat and Dog? – No Place Like Home

Puppies and Kittens are growing pets and should have plenty of access to food and should be fed a puppy OR kitten diet as it has higher proportions of fat, protein, and minerals such as calcium phosphorus, which is essential for their growing needs.  Cats and dogs over the age of 8 and giant breed dogs over the age of 5 should be fed a senior diet as it is easier for the liver and kidneys to process. It is best that your adult pet does not always have access to food. Not being free fed will allow you to monitor how much your pet is eating each day as well as allow you to control the portions. Cats and dogs really rely on their sense of smell and food that has sat out for extended periods of times will lose its smell and not be as appealing for them. It is best to feed your adult pet 2 times per day.  
For cats I recommend a mostly wet diet as it is a low carbohydrate food and decreases the chance of your pet being obese.  Unfortunately, many cats have kidney failure in their senior years and wet food is 60% water which helps keep them hydrated.  For dogs I recommend a combination of wet and dry food.  There are also brands that make home cooked diets which our most fussy eaters tend to love.
The best treats are single ingredient dehydrated liver, chicken, and salmon.  Green beans and carrots are also great healthy treats. It is best to limit human food, everything in moderation.  
It is ideal that your pet has plenty of access to water.  Water fountains and ice encourage your pet to drink water.   The water in Santa Clarita is hard water so filtered or spring water is most ideal. 
It is best to consult with your veterinarian about your pet’s weight.  It is most ideal that you can feel your pets’ ribs and can see some tummy tuck at the waist.  If your pet is overweight or underweight, it is best to consult with your veterinarian about blood work to evaluate your pet’s thyroid. Regularly monitor your pet’s weight and adjust their food intake as necessary to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a common health issue in pets and can lead to serious health problems. For more information on No Place Like Home call or text 818-400-1986 or email info@noplacelikehome.vet