Choosing the right food for your pet can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, labels, and opinions on the internet. At Charlotte Veterinary Hospital, we believe the best diet is one that supports your pet’s individual needs, not just the latest trend.
1. Start with your pet’s life stage and lifestyle
- Kittens and puppies need nutrient-dense diets to grow strong, while adults need maintenance formulas.
- Senior pets may benefit from lower-calorie, cognitive function or joint-supportive diets.
2. Look for complete and balanced nutrition
- Always choose food labeled “AAFCO complete and balanced.” This ensures it meets nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
- These foods should be formulated by a veterinary nutritionist.
3. Consider any medical conditions
- Pets with allergies, sensitive stomachs, or chronic diseases may need prescription or specialty diets as a part of their treatment plan.
4. Avoid fad diets
- Grain-free, raw, or boutique diets often sound appealing but aren’t always best for your pet. These diets are often not formulated by veterinary nutritionists and can do more harm to your pet over time.
5. Look at how many calories there are per serving of food
- Obesity prevalence is increasing in pets in many areas of the world. Having access to accurate pet food caloric content can help prevent unintended overfeeding. Calorie information is required to be on pet food-we recommend taking a picture and sending it to us if you are unsure how much to feed.
Bottom line: Every pet is different, and their nutrition should be too! Schedule a nutrition consultation at Charlotte Veterinary Hospital to find the perfect diet for your pet.