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Your Pet’s Eating Habits

Some pets eat too much, some eat too little, and some eat—shall we say—inappropriately.

Generally, cats eat just enough to satisfy their energy requirements—though there are some cats that will overindulge. When dogs have free access to food at all times, obesity may result.

Dogs generally will eat everything that’s in their bowl, which means that you should measure what you give them so they don’t eat more than they should. Cats tend to eat slowly and to eat smaller quantities at a time.

Your individual pet’s nutritional needs are determined by its age, size, health, and level of activity. Your veterinarian can help you determine what is best.

It is normal for some cats to eat in cycles based on the varying requirements dictated by their metabolism. You should take this into consideration if you notice that your cat is not eating as much as usual. It does not necessarily indicate that they are dissatisfied with their food. Switching brands frequently can complicate the matter and create fussy eaters.

If you have both dogs and cats, they might raid each others’ bowls. The occasional sampling of cat food is generally all right for most dogs, though it may lead to obesity. It’s okay for cats to occasionally eat dog food, but you should not allow it to become a regular habit.

Don’t Eat That!

One day, you may be horrified to find your pet eating some non-food item. Things like clothing, rocks, and rubber bands are obviously dangerous, with the primary concern being the risk of intestinal blockages.

Some plants can be poisonous for pets to eat, but grass is generally nothing to be concerned about as long as it is free of pesticides and other dangerous chemicals.

For reasons only they understand, dogs may occasionally consume feces. You’ll likely want to discourage this, but in most cases it is not a cause for alarm. This situation can be reduced by using a high quality dog food that results in less waste. (PRO PAC Dog Food)

Loss of Appetite

Hot weather, lower activity levels or illness can cause a dog or cat to lose its appetite. In some cases, this can be cause for concern.

If your cat’s appetite loss results in weight loss or if it is accompanied by illness, see your veterinarian.

Small dogs and toy breeds are especially prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If a hypoglycemic dog does not eat consistently, it may experience seizures or even death.

There are several things you can do to help stimulate your pet’s appetite. Sometimes hand-feeding is all it takes. Simply petting or talking to your pet may also help. A little water mixed with dry food may enhance its appeal to the senses, especially if warmed just a little.

When all else fails, medication may be necessary for appetite stimulation, so don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Proper nutrition is paramount to your pet’s health.

Another Hairball?
A nice bonus that comes with cat ownership is that felines are notoriously fussy about keeping clean. It is their grooming process, however, that causes them to swallow a lot of hair. Generally, the hair moves through the digestive system and is excreted through the stool. However, if the hair fails to pass, it accumulates in the stomach until vomited. Use a hairball reduction cat food like Pro Pac

It is considered normal for cats to have an occasional hairball, but if your cat has them more than once a month, you should talk to your veterinarian.

What You Can Do

Routine brushing will help remove the hair that your cat would otherwise swallow while self-grooming. It’s a good idea to brush longhaired cats daily, and shorthaired cats at least twice a week. In the spring, when cats shed their winter coats, brushing is especially helpful.

The right cat food can help control hairballs. PRO PAC® Cat Hairball Reduction Formula uses a special natural vegetable fiber that helps hair pass safely and naturally through your cat’s system, reducing hairball formation.

If your cat is unable to eliminate a hairball, treatment will be needed. Special products and laxatives formulated especially for cats are available from your veterinarian or pet supply store.

A large hairball can cause a severe impaction or intestinal blockage. If your cat becomes unable to defecate, or develops diarrhea, appetite loss or swollen abdomen, see your veterinarian immediately. In such cases, surgery may be necessary to remove it.

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