Choosing the right diet for your pets can be overwhelming, especially with the myriad of options available in stores and online. Whether you’re considering raw food, home-cooked meals, or commercial dry food, this guide will help you find the best diet for your furry friends. It’s important to note that dogs and cats have different dietary needs—cats are obligate carnivores and require a meat-rich diet.

Raw Feeding

Raw diets are popular among some pet owners, but whether they are suitable depends on your pet’s specific needs. Advocates claim that raw feeding can improve digestion and energy levels. Here are some key points to consider:

• Puppies and Raw Diets: Avoid feeding puppies a raw diet exclusively, as they have higher calcium and energy requirements during their growth phase (up to 18 months). Raw diets can be integrated with controlled puppy food to ensure complete nutrition, provided proper handling and freezing (for at least 7 days) are followed.
• Raw Chicken Warning: We recommend against raw chicken for pets of all ages due to the risk of salmonella. This includes chicken necks and wings. If you choose to feed raw chicken, ensure it is properly frozen and thawed in the refrigerator before serving. Adding daily probiotics can also help maintain gut health.
• True Raw Diet Components: A balanced raw diet should include beef, lamb, kangaroo, organs, raw bones (other than chicken), and fruits/vegetables for fiber and antioxidants. Consider supplements like multivitamins and probiotics for a well-rounded diet. More information is available at Petz Park.

Cooked Meal Alternatives

Home-cooked meals can be a nutritious option for pets, but it’s crucial to get the proportions right. Here are some ideas:

• Cooking Stews: Create stews using meats like beef, chicken, lamb, kangaroo, or salmon, mixed with vegetables and rice. Don’t forget to include calcium supplements, especially for adult dogs and cats. Be cautious with puppies, as their dietary needs differ until they are 18 months old.
• Packaged Options: Brands like LYKA and PRIME 100 SPD Cooked Rolls are excellent for busy pet owners. Many clients report fewer gastrointestinal and skin issues after switching to these brands, which also offer puppy-specific options.
• Supplementation: Just like with raw diets, consider adding supplements to home-cooked meals. More options can be found at Petz Park.

Dry Food Options

High-quality dry food is widely available. We recommend consulting local stores like Pet-O or PetStock for premium brands. Notable options include:

• Recommended Brands: Ivory Coat, Advance, Royal Canin, Hills Science Diet, and Blackhawk are all excellent choices.
• Online Shopping: For potentially lower prices, check out online retailers like Pet Circle.

Contact Us

For personalized advice, contact us at admin@kingsvet.com.au or call us at (02) 9789-6648. You can also book a consult at Kings Vet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a vegan diet suitable for my pet?

• For Cats: Vegan diets are not recommended for cats due to their obligate carnivore status. They need high levels of meat in their diet to thrive.
• For Dogs: While dogs can eat a vegan diet, it must be carefully formulated to meet their specific needs based on age, breed, and size.

Choosing the right diet is crucial for your pet’s health and happiness. Whether you opt for raw, cooked, or dry food, ensure it meets their nutritional requirements. Always consult with a veterinarian for tailored advice.