Pet Mealtimes and Routine Advice from a Veterinarian Near You at Our Animal Hospital in West Des Moines, IA

Not sure how often you should feed your pet? With pet obesity being a common problem, avoiding overfeeding dogs and cats is a must! But is your pet eating enough?

Look no further if you are looking for pet nutritional counseling. Let’s walk you through some tips on establishing feeding routines and how often your pet should be eating!

When Should I Feed My Pet?

Have you been free feeding? Or have you been offering food at certain times? Free feeding means you leave food down and let pets eat when they want. But this may not be ideal for your pet.

So, how often should your pet eat? Follow these tips:

•           Feed pets twice a day — in the morning and evening

•           Feed pets smaller amounts more frequently throughout the day

Giving pets food more often may be a good idea for smaller or younger pets or for pets who have trouble eating from dental issues or other problems.

How Much Should My Pet Be Eating?

Overall, smaller pets need smaller amounts of food. But even with larger pets, you should avoid giving them too much at once. Our vet can provide you with guidance on the right amount to feed dogs and cats based on how old they are, how big they are, and how much energy they have.

Why Is Pet Nutrition Important?

Our veterinary services include nutritional counseling for a good reason! Pet obesity is a widespread issue that affects pets’ well-being. Being obese can put pets at a higher risk of having all kinds of health issues — from joint pain to diabetes.

How Can I Set Up Mealtime Routines?

To get your pet used to following a routine:

•           Offer food at designated times

•           Remove food bowls when your pet is done eating during mealtimes

•           Limit treats in between meals

Get Veterinary Care for Your Dogs and Cats from a Veterinarian Near You at Our Animal Hospital

Do you need some nutritional counseling for your pet? A veterinarian near you can help! At Ashworth Animal Hospital, we’re here to provide help for residents of West Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Clive,  Urbandale, and the surrounding areas. Call us at (515) 225-1807 for veterinary care for your dogs and cats from our animal hospital.