Pet Nutrition in Jersey City

Because Your Pets Are What They Eat

Nutrition has a significant impact on your pet’s health. Because of this, we take your pet’s nutrition very seriously here at Animal Clinic & Hospital of Jersey City and want to give you the tools to keep your pet as healthy as possible, even when they aren’t at our clinic.

Weight management is especially important. Overweight pets are more likely to suffer from arthritis, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and skin conditions. Free feeding, the act of providing your pet unlimited access to food, is one of the most detrimental things a pet parent can do, yet it’s a common practice.

During a routine exam, we can discuss the amount of food to add or subtract from your pet’s diet based on breed, activity level, current weight, and more. Contact our clinic today if you’d like to speak with a nutrition professional at (201) 431-0057.

Types of Pet Foods

Most types of pet foods on the market are perfectly healthy for your animal.

The major pet food classifications are as follows:

• By-products
• Natural
• Organic

Pet food classification does not indicate superiority. By-products are typically no less healthy than organic or natural pet foods; some organic and natural foods actually lack vitamins and minerals that foods with by-products offer.

The main goal in choosing your pet’s food is to maintain a nutritious and balanced diet. Our Jersey City veterinarians are happy to provide you with recommendations if you have questions or concerns.

Should I Change What I Feed My Pet Based on Their Age?

Animals in different life stages have different nutritional needs, and therefore different diets. Puppies and kittens need more proteins and fats, whereas elderly pets require supplements in their diet. Neglecting to acknowledge your pet’s specific nutritional needs could result in negative side effects. We’re here to help. By scheduling a routine consultation or exam with us, we can determine your pet’s exact nutritional needs.

What Should I Do If My Pet Has a Food Allergy?

It was once believed corn was the number one cause for pet food allergies. However, current studies show pets are most susceptible to chicken, beef, dairy, and wheat allergies.

Most food allergies result in ear infections or skin problems, both of which can be difficult to detect. One indicator of an allergic reaction is excessive licking of the paws. If you witness this behavior, try changing their pet food to a different brand or change the flavor of food. Wait two to three weeks to see if your pet’s habits change. If you are still having issues and can’t find an appropriate food, our veterinarians might be able to recommend a medicated diet.

Prescription Diets

Medicated diets are created for pets dealing with illness or disease. Many manufacturers design pet food specifically for pets suffering from allergies, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, pancreatitis, and more. If you think a medicated diet would benefit your pet, contact our office today.

Raw & Homemade Pet Diets

While a raw diet can provide an abundance of protein, it lacks in other important nutrients and can be harmful to older pets. Also, raw meats can contain bacteria like E. Coli and Salmonella, so we do not recommend feeding your pet raw meat in any instance.

Many people think that because homemade meals are healthier for humans, they must also be healthier for pets. Unless prepared by a licensed pet nutritionist, this is likely not the case. We do not recommend preparing meals for your pet unless you have an extensive knowledge of pet nutrition at your disposal.

Supplements

As your pet ages, their need for certain vitamins and minerals decreases while their need for fiber increases. Dietary supplements can help meet your pet’s needs as they age. Please inform your veterinarian if you think dietary supplements would be helpful for your pet.

If you have any questions not listed here, or would like to discuss your pet’s nutritional health with a professional in person, contact us at (201) 431-0057 or online.