Pet Nutrition Guide: Feeding Your Pet Right
What you feed your pet matters more than you think. Learn how to choose the right diet for your dog or cat.
Good nutrition is the foundation of your pet's health. The right diet supports their immune system, maintains healthy skin and coat, keeps joints strong, and can even extend their lifespan. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right food can be overwhelming.
- Dogs are omnivores; cats are obligate carnivores with different nutritional needs
- AAFCO-approved foods meet minimum nutritional standards
- Life stage matters — puppies, adults, and seniors have different needs
- Wet food provides more moisture; dry food is more convenient
- Human food can be toxic to pets (grapes, onions, chocolate, xylitol)
- Consult your vet before making major diet changes
Choosing the Right Food
Look for foods that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for your pet's life stage. For dogs, the first ingredient should be a named animal protein (chicken, beef, fish — not 'meat meal'). For cats, who are obligate carnivores, protein content should be even higher. Avoid foods with excessive fillers like corn and soy.
How Much and How Often
Follow the feeding guide on the package as a starting point, then adjust based on your pet's body condition. Adult dogs do well with 2 meals per day. Puppies need 3-4 meals until 6 months old. Cats prefer multiple small meals throughout the day. Always provide fresh water. Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
Foods to Avoid
Never feed your pet: grapes/raisins, chocolate, onions/garlic, xylitol (artificial sweetener), macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine, or cooked bones (which can splinter). Raw diets carry bacterial contamination risks and should only be fed under veterinary guidance. If your pet eats something they shouldn't, contact RVC immediately.
Special Diets
Some pets need prescription diets for medical conditions — kidney disease, diabetes, food allergies, urinary stones, or obesity. These diets are specially formulated and should only be used under veterinary supervision. Never put your pet on a 'fad' diet (grain-free, raw, vegan) without consulting your vet first.
- Sudden loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Vomiting or diarrhea after eating
- Your pet seems constantly hungry or thirsty
- Dull coat, flaky skin, or low energy
- You want to switch to a raw or homemade diet
RVC
RVC offers nutritional counseling to help you choose the best diet for your pet's age, breed, and health conditions. We carry prescription diets and can create customized feeding plans. Call +853 6677 6611.
+853 6677 6611