Four signs it’s time to change your pet food

Sometimes a pet shows signs of poor health that are not necessarily related to an illness or disease. When this happens, changing your pets’ food can be a good way to make sure they are getting the right nutrients. Here are common indicators that it may be time for a change.

Flaky or dull coat

Just like fatty acids keep human skin healthy and hydrated, if a pet’s food lacks adequate fatty acids, it can result in a dull or scaly coat. If a cat or dog typically boasts a healthy-looking, silky coat but gradually becomes less vibrant or more knotty over time, it may be an indication that their diet is lacking in these fatty acids. If this indicator appears, keeping an eye out for a brand that includes high levels of Omega-3 or Omega-6 fatty acids can help restore shine to a pet’s coat.

Fatigue or lethargy

It is normal for animals to go through a lethargy during certain stages of their lives, such as when they are pregnant or aging. However, if a young and otherwise healthy cat or dog begins to show signs of excessive sleep and a lack of interest in play or other activities, it could be a bad sign. This can be the result of an underlying disease. To combat this, finding a pet food with high levels of antioxidants can help the animal’s immune system and speed up its recovery time. However, it is a good idea to contact a veterinarian before making such changes to ensure that lethargy is not a sign of something more serious.

age

Although the diet of humans generally remains the same in all stages of their lives, the same does not happen with animals. Fortunately, pet food comes stocked with the right nutrients for all stages of a cat or dog’s life. Puppy or kitten food is fortified with vitamins and nutrients necessary for higher levels of activity, as well as healthy growth. But the same happens with animals of more advanced ages. When a pet is considered “older”, which is around 5-7 years depending on the size of the animal, it is a good idea to find a food that allows it to age comfortably. Older animals do not need the high levels of fat and nutrients in “all age” foods, and too much of these can be harmful.

Excessive itching

If a cat or dog is excessively itchy, most of the time it is an indicator that fleas or other pests have settled on their fur. However, like humans, some animals are born with natural allergies. These allergies can manifest as an upset stomach, but they can also cause an itch that doesn’t go away. In this case, it is a good idea to take the pet to a veterinarian to determine if there is an allergy and to find a low allergen food that can reduce its irritation.

Knowing which food is the right one can be difficult and may take several tries to get it right. But the result will be a healthier and happier family member!