Having a new puppy or a new kitten brings a lot of joy including, playing with the new, friendly furry being. Along with this, the new pet requires love, care, and, importantly, nutrition. Nutrition is one of the most important factors that needs to be taken care of. As per most of the new pet owners, feeding is taken lightly and hence the most common pet feeding and nutrition neglects are made.
If you are a new pet owner in Dubai, this is the guide for you to avoid the most common pet food and nutrition neglects and help your pet thrive.
1. Feeding Human Food Instead of Pet Food.
More often than not, owners find themselves in a situation where sharing a meal or two with the pet is inevitable. As many people say, who can say no to a few food begs, right? Unfortunately, human food can result in noticeable discomfort to your pet’s tummy and can for a long time health issues.
There are a number of foods that are considered to be pet poisons. Food that falls under the category of ‘human food that are good for pets’, most particularly include the likes of ‘chocolate, onions and, garlic, grapes, and salty snacks’. All of these foods are harmful to pets.
Stick to using specialized pet food for puppies and kittens that is classified under high quality. This is because the food is formulated for these pets and contains the right nutrients that are needed for their growth and development.
2. Omitting or Including Meals
Most people don’t understand how serious underfeeding or overfeeding a pet can be. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, diabetes, and even joint problems, while underfeeding a pet can result in immunodeficiency and suppressed growth.
From what and when to feed regardless of what your schedule is, your vet would be able to adjust feeding portions and schedule according to your pet’s age, breed, and energy. For further assistance, you can reach out to a vet clinic in Dubai.
3. Avoiding a Protein-Packed Meal
Low protein diets are detrimental to a puppy’s or kitten’s diet because they are in a critical stage of development. Alongside complete and balanced diets to develop and grow, they contain high protein and amino acid compositions. Low quality pet food or budget-friendly brands that contain fillers instead of actual meat should be avoided. These brands contain protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb, which are clearly stated on the label.
4. Snacks and Meals Overlap
Not only are snacks beneficial in training a pet, you can also use them in moderation to help maintain a healthy diet and maintain body weight. Out of your pet’s total daily calories, only about 10% should come from treats. This will also help your pet maintain a healthy and balanced diet, which is crucial for your pet’s well-being.
5. Ignoring Professional Advice
Every pet is different and what works for one pet may not work for their neighbor. Pets should be taken to their veterinarian at least once a year for an exam to ensure their diet, weight, and wellbeing is monitored.
Vet clinics abound in Dubai, and many will craft a diet plan to ensure your puppy or kitten is both healthy and thriving.
6. Forgetting About Hydration
Many pet owners do not pay adequate attention to to their pet’s need for water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, and more serious problems like urinary infections or even kidney issues. Pets should always have access to water, especially in Dubai where the temperatures can be quite elevated.
7. Not Maintaining Feeding Routines During Pet Sitting in Dubai
People who travel and set a pet sitter in Dubai, should clearly explain to the sitter the pet’s normal feeding hours and portion sizes. Pets get easily stressed due to a sudden change in any routine, as well as a change in what they eat. You should always have a plan, and your pet’s food should be easily available, along with detailed feeding instructions.
The Right Start Means a Healthier Future
Lifelong health starts with proper nutrition in the first few months. By choosing the right pet food, and regularly scheduled vet visits, the small decisions will add up for your puppy, and kitten in Dubai. While you’re gone, I hope your pet sitter knows how your pet eats and what it prefers. They need to follow your pet’s eating habits if they really care about your pet’s health and happiness.
Do you want to give your pet the best start in their life?
Then, visit our nearest vet, buy premium quality pet food, and use licensed pet care services in Dubai to watch your darling pet blossom.