What’s the right pet food for my new dog or cat?

There are a wide range of options available when it comes to buying pet food and if you have only just bought your first cat or dog, it can be a little daunting knowing which way to go. Most of the products on the market will promise quality pet nutrition, but which is right for you and your new friend? When shopping for dog or cat food, try not to be swayed too much by the elaborate claims and marketing-heavy packaging. Regardless of whether the food is branded as premium or non-premium, there is a good chance it will have the ability to provide a complete, balanced pet diet. That said, there are some pet foods that are more suited to your dog or cat than others. Dry cat and dog food is an easy option that many pet owners like for many reasons. You can usually buy it in big bags that don’t need to be replaced for some time and it’s just a matter of scooping a bit into your animal’s bowl once or twice a day. Provided you keep a fresh bowl of water around too, this may be all you need to feed them. However, some dry foods are meant as a supplement – particularly when feeding puppies or kittens – so read the label carefully. Canned dog and cat food - often referred to as ‘wet food’ - contains more water than the dry option and is often lower in calories. With this in mind, it may only be a suitable option for cats and smaller dogs that have certain requirements. If, for example, you have a large and active dog, you may want to feed it a mixture of wet and dry to make sure their nutritional needs are fully met and their hunger is satiated. You may come across some of the various specialty foods that are on the market, which are sometimes referred to as premium or super premium. These are usually sold through pet shops or directly from your vet. They will cost you a little more, are incredibly rich and energy dense, and tend to be higher in calories per pound than most other options. Therefore, they may be a bit heavy (and a bit costly) to feed your cat or dog on a regular basis. In addition, you could see your animal put on weight very quickly if you serve them this every day. Remember, there is plenty of help available from your local vet when it comes to dog and cat nutrition, and you should never be afraid to ask. Also, don’t forget to compare what is available when in the store and if it isn’t working, buy something else. However, try not to switch to often, as your pet needs consistency to avoid digestion issues.