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Deciding what type of food to feed your pet can be overwhelming at first. As you walk down the isle at your local pet store, a thousand questions are probably flying through your head. By boning up on some nutritional tips you can make informative decisions on what is most beneficial to your pet.

It's important to keep mind, as your pet ages their dietary needs change. Each stage of your pet's life requires a modified diet to meet their
nutritional needs.

YOUNGINS'
For the most part puppies need an energy-rich diet of high protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus to ensure their optimal development. It is also a good idea to feed your puppy multiple times per day and on a regular schedule.

A kitten's needs differ from a puppy. It is recommended that their diet consist of easily digestible animal protein, fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, and taurine, an amino acid found in chicken and fish sources. You may also consider keeping food available at all times for your kitten as they may not be able to consume very much per meal.

ADULTS
A very common question is when a dog should be switched from puppy to adult food. Depending on the size of your dog, this is generally considered to be between 1-2 years of age. The chart on the right provides an idea of when most dogs are considered an adult and can be switched over.

All dogs typically need the same basic foundation of nutrients.
These nutrients include:
• High-quality, animal-based protein for muscle maintenance
(recommended to be the 1st ingredient)
• Fiber for a healthy digestive tract
• Essential vitamins and minerals for the immune system
• Vitamin-rich fish oils for a healthy coat and skin
• Healthy grains for energy

Cats are considered adults around the age of one. However, cats tend to put on weight soon after they are spayed or neutered. Because of this, it is suggested to start them on adult food around nine months. It's important to gradually mix in the adult formula to ease the switch. Also, to avoid obesity, start your cat on a feeding schedule soon after switching to adult formula.

As carnivores, a cat's diet should contain high levels of easily digestible protein and fat. Some key ingredients of a well balanced feline diet include:
• Vitamin and niacin for healthy growth
• Essential fatty acids for healthy skin and fur
• Taurine for healthy eyes and heart muscle

SENIORS
Although your pet is still full of energy and spunk, he/she is considered a senior during the last third of their life. The chart above also provides an estimate of when your pet becomes a senior. Luckily, due to the best veterinarian care and high-quality nutrition, our pets are living longer, healthier lives!

Senior dogs typically need a diet lower in calories, protein and fat, and one higher in fiber, as most are not as active as they were. Senior cats may not need fewer calories because, in general, they maintain their energy throughout adulthood. Cats still need a high amount of protein and a more digestible fat to keep the same energy level.

COMMON PROBLEMS/AILMENTS
As you know, your puppy or kitten won't stay small forever. As they age, health issues can arise. It's important for pet owners to know the signs and understand
the problems they potentially face.

COMMON PROBLEMS
All pets age differently. How well a pet ages depends on breed, size, activity level, and heredity. Recognizing the signs of common ailments can help ease the pain your pet may feel.

These include:
• Joint and bone problems
• Difficulty with eyes and ears
• Liver and kidney dysfunctions
• Skin and coat troubles
• Problems with teeth and gums
• Becoming obese and sedentary

JOINT & BONE
As pets get older they tend to slow down. They take longer to lay down, stand up, and move in general. The most common cause of this is arthritis and hip dysplasia. Both cause an inflammation of the joints resulting in severe pain, discomfort and potential lameness. Both are mildly treatable with anti-inflammatory medication from your veterinarian. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight and keeping them active can reduce chances of developing these problems.

OBESITY
Obesity is one of the biggest health concerns. Heart problems, skin problems, joint problems, urinary problems, etc. all stem from being overweight. Keeping your pet active can be as beneficial for us as for them. Since obesity seems to be the root of many evils, stop it now by feeding your pet the right nutritional foods and giving them proper daily exercise!

DENTAL
Unfortunately, animals can't get dentures. Therefore, it's our duty as owners to keep our pet's teeth in the best condition possible. They need to have their teeth brushed, starting at a young age, at least once a week. An annual (or more frequent) professional teeth cleaning will also help reduce plaque and tarter build up. Some toys also provide a great way to keep teeth clean.

EYES & EARS
Many older dogs develop cataracts or even glaucoma. Cataracts tend to be fairly obvious as they create a cloudy appearance and reflect light. Glaucoma, however, is an increased amount of pressure on the eye. If left untreated both diseases can cause blindness.
Loss of hearing is also a common dilemma facing older pets. Consider teaching your pet hand signals to help maintain
communication through the years.

Disclaimer: All material in Health and Nutrition is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate veterinarian professionals on any matter relating to their pets health and well-being.