Four Signs It’s Time to Change Pet Food

Sometimes a pet shows signs of poor health that are not necessarily related to disease or illness. When this happens, changing your pet’s food can be a good way to ensure that they are getting the proper nutrients. Here are common indicators that it may be time for a change.

Scaly golden dull coat

Just like fatty acids keep human skin healthy and hydrated, if a pet’s food is lacking in the proper fatty acids, it can result in a dull or flaky coat. If a cat or dog usually has a healthy, silky coat, but it gradually becomes less vibrant or more knotty over time, it may be an indication that their diet is lacking in said fatty acids. If this indicator appears, keeping an eye out for a brand that includes high levels of Omega-3 or Omega-6 fatty acids can help restore the shine to a pet’s coat.

Fatigue or Lethargy

It is normal for animals to go through torpor during certain stages of their lives, such as when they are pregnant or when they are getting older. However, if a healthy young cat or dog begins to show signs of excessive sleepiness and a lack of interest in play or other activities, it could be a bad sign. This may be the result of an underlying disease. To combat this, finding a pet food with high levels of antioxidants can help the animal’s immune system and speed up its recovery time. However, it’s a good idea to contact a vet before making any such changes to make sure the lethargy isn’t a sign of something more serious.

age

Although human diets generally stay the same at all stages of their lives, the same is not true for animals. Fortunately, pet food comes equipped with the right nutrients for all stages of a cat’s or dog’s life. Puppy or kitten food is fortified with the vitamins and nutrients necessary for higher activity levels as well as healthy growth. But the same is true for animals of older ages. When a pet is considered “senior”, which is around 5-7 years depending on the size of the animal, it is a good idea to find a food that will allow it to age comfortably. Older animals don’t need the high levels of fat and nutrients in “all-ages” foods, and too much of these can be harmful.

excessive itching

If a cat or dog is excessively itchy, it is most often an indicator that fleas or other pests have taken up residence in their fur. However, just like humans, some animals are born with natural allergies. These allergies can manifest as upset stomachs, but they can also cause itchiness that won’t go away. In this case, it’s a good idea to take the pet to a vet to determine if there is an allergy and to find a low allergen food that can reduce their irritation.

Knowing which food is the right one can be difficult, and it may take a few tries to get it right. But the result will be a healthier and happier member of the family!