Nutrition Counselling for Pets

At any age your cat or dog should have a professional examine their diet. With all the different food options it can be difficult choosing the right one. Food sustains your cherished companion and can be used to maintain/manage their health. Here at Rimbey Veterinary Clinic we offer yearly nutrition consults to keep pet owners informed about their feline or canine dietary health.

What happens during nutrition counselling?

A nutrition consult is to ensure that pet owners can make more informed decisions about their cat or dog’s diet. During the appointment the veterinarian will ask questions about the patient’s eating habits and diet. Based on your loyal companion’s growth and overall health we will recommend nutritional foods or supplements that would work best for them. Having this consultation gives you the opportunity to ask questions about foods that you want to introduce to your cat or dog. By the end of the appointment, you will have more information about decoding food labels, allergies that your dog/cat has, appropriate feeding schedules, weight management and medical diets to manage health conditions.

Is dry or wet food better for my cat or dog?

In terms of digestion and nutrition, dry and wet foods are very similar. When it comes to cost, wet foods are usually more expensive. Your cat or dog may have specific dietary requirements that are met by either. If your companion needs to consume more water, canned foods are a better choice as it helps with urinary health, constipation and even weight management. Dry foods can be formulated as dental diets to remove plaque. Before you go shopping, ask your veterinarian for their recommendation which will be based on your feline or canine’s lifestyle, health and preference.

Do you recommend home-cooked diets?

This is a great alternative to commercial foods. Homemade foods can be a source of good nutrition if the meals are nutritionally balanced. When making meals/recipes for your cat or dog, be sure to avoid ingredients that are harmful to them. Your loyal companion should not consume onions/garlic/shallots, raw dough, grapes, avocado, sugar-free products, alcohol, chocolate or macadamia nuts.