5 Food Ingredients Essential for Your Cat

 

Reading the ingredient label on a bag or can of cat food can be almost as intimidating as trying to buy healthy foods for the human members of your household. As a general rule, remember that the percentages of ingredients that the food contains are nearly as important as the actual components.  The ingredients that are listed first are the ones that are the heaviest.

First, look for the source of protein, which may be the first item on the ingredient label. Do not settle for a food that merely lists “meat” as the protein source. You need a food that goes into greater specifics. It’s far better to choose a food that features a named protein source, such as chicken, beef or salmon. Cats must have protein to thrive, because they are carnivorous. Unlike humans, they do not require carbohydrates for survival.

Fats are essential cat food ingredients because they help your cat get crucial fatty acids. Although fats are important for helping your feline have healthy fur and skin, fatty acids are necessary for helping your pet's brain and spinal cord work properly.

Look for sources of fiber, too. Fruits and vegetable ingredients will help your cat get the fiber it needs, so you may notice beet or apple pulp on the label of your cat food. Cats need adequate fiber for good digestive health and to help them have stools that are the right consistency. The latter benefit should certainly be helpful when cleaning your cat's litter box. Furthermore, a type of fiber called cellulose is sometimes added to cat foods as a hairball preventative. If you have a long-haired cat, or otherwise notice that the cat seems to frequently get hairballs, it's worthwhile to specifically look for that source of fiber.

Check to see if your feline’s food contains taurine, too. Taurine is an amino acid that cats must get from the things they eat. Unlike other animals such as dogs that can synthesize taurine from other amino acids, cats have to get it from their diets. If cats do not get enough taurine, they may suffer eye and heart damage. Visit this website to learn more about pet vet service in San Jose.

A Peaceable Kingdom

 

The rumors are true! Dogs and cats can be the best of friends. Whether they’re playing with toys or snuggling up for a nap, they’ll warm your heart with their own warm friendship.

Three Popular Dog Care Myths

 

There are quite a few myths about dogs that are widely accepted as true. Pup parents should be open to debunking these fabrications in order to better care for their pets.

1. You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

One of the most widely spread dog myths is that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. It has become a popular saying that is even used in contexts unrelated to canines. However, it is frankly untrue. Dogs do enjoy consistency and routine, however it is not impossible to add some variety to those routines and alter they way a dog behaves. There is no age limit to training a dog.

2. Alpha Dog

Dogs are pack animals and they need a strong leader. However, being the “alpha” is a myth. Even in the wild, wolf packs have more than one leader. Dog relationships are like human relationships; complicated. A dog only needs an owner that is consistent and caring, not necessarily dominating.

3. Training through Fear

Many owners use fear and punishment to instill habits, but professional dog trainers support positive reinforcement instead. Offer extensive praise when your pooch does something good. They will respond much better and training will be easier on everyone.

Visit this website to find out more dog myths and talk to a veterinarian for dog in San Jose.

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Four Important Factors Impacting your Dog’s Weight

Is there such a thing as too much love? Obesity is a common problem for household pets and can cause dangerous health issues such as joint pain, diabetes and liver problems. Knowing what causes your dog’s weight issue is the first step towards making positive changes.

1. Overfeeding

Dogs have evolved to convince humans to feed them. It can be difficult to refrain from giving in to your begging pooch. Unfortunately, you could be doing more harm than good by constantly giving fido table scraps and treats.

2. Lack of Exercise

Many dogs suffer from a lack of exercise. They need to be taken out for daily walks and would benefit even more from running and swimming. Not only will exercise keep your pet physically healthy, but it will also increase their mental health.

3. Breed Tendencies

It is true that some breeds are more genetically inclined toward obesity than others. For example:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Beagles
• Rottweilers
• Chihuahuas
• Put Bulls

A Dog Is A Boy’s Best Friend

A dog makes a great addition to any family, but especially one with a young boy or girl ready to form a long, rich and lasting relationship with their canine friend.

How to Prevent Your Cat from Getting Hairballs

Avoid a Hairy Situation

Hairballs can accumulate in a cat’s stomach due to grooming. Normally, the hair passes through their digestive system and doesn’t cause an issue. When it collects in their stomach or small intestine, the cat will eventually vomit. Sometimes, they’ll expel the matted wad of hair. If they can’t get rid of it, the hair can cause serious complications for your cat. You can do a few things to keep your cat from getting or keeping hairballs.

• Frequently brush your cat, especially if they have long hair. This will get rid of the excess and cut down on what gets swallowed.Wipe them down with a microfiber cloth when you’re done brushing. This removes any stray hair that brushing didn’t catch.
• Try to find cat food that’s formulated to reduce hairball buildup. Geared toward improving your cat’s skin and coat, this fiber-rich food also helps them pass the hair they ingest. Your Veterinarian can give you recommendations based upon their experience.
• Purchase a hairball remedy at a pet supply store. Follow the package directions to get the best results.