Cover Photo: Krista Mangulsone / Unsplash
Photo: Krista Mangulsone / Unsplash
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Nose out the ideal mix of flavour and value from Royal Canin’s specially-crafted formulas for every pet
High energy levels, a shiny coat, and an eagerness for mealtime are some of the telltale signs of a happy and healthy pet. Just as different diets affect our bodies in varying ways, it’s no secret that a tailor-fitted recipe can work wonders for your fur pal’s well-being. Ultimately, it also gives them a more enriching life ahead.
See also: Creature Comforts: Pet Toys and Accessories to Pamper Your Pooch
The only challenge, it seems, lies in the elaborate pursuit of finding that one perfect blend, which is never quite a one-size-fits-all scenario. As we strive to provide only the best-fitting care for our four-legged friends, here are five vital things to consider:
1. Age
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
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It goes without saying that growing puppies and kittens require a different set of nutrients than those of their adult counterparts. As they mature over time, their appetites and caloric needs will evolve alongside them, and it is our job as devoted pet parents to keep on top of every necessary change.
Younger fur babies will benefit from a diet with a higher energy density to support their well-rounded development, while senior dogs and cats might have more to reap from recipes with added supplements like glucosamine to safeguard their bones and joints. When transitioning from one formula to the next, it is also important to do it gradually, like incorporating progressively larger amounts of the new food into the old one over a period of seven days.
2. Breed
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
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Because of every pet’s distinct genetic composition, one perennial truth is that some breeds are more prone to health conditions than others. While there is, of course, no guarantee that your furry friend will develop such illnesses, being aware of their individual sensitivities can help you prevent them early on.
See also: Corgis, Bengals, Spaniels and More: Get to Know the Unique Needs of Your Favourite Pet Breeds
Taking pride in its adapted formulas for a wide range of cats and dogs, Royal Canin customises each product with a precise balance of nutrients to target those very needs. Nourishing multiple areas from your pet’s teeth and bones to its soft fur and skin, the brand’s plentiful offerings are additionally designed with a specific shape, size, and texture, so that each animal’s jaw structures and biting patterns are taken into account.
3. Energy level
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
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A quick study into your fluffy companion’s breed also reveals their definitive lifestyle, whether they are more likely to spend all day exploring the outdoors, lounging by your bed, or an even mix of the two. In ways, their activity levels can also be dependent on you—or specifically how often you walk, run, or play together.
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If you find your pet to be extremely active, then it is wise to invest in tailored formulations with higher protein content and a healthy sum of natural vitamins. That’s not to say fur pals who prefer to rest indoors don’t require a balanced diet. You can opt to provide your couch potato buddy with a low-calorie, nutrient-rich recipe that will allow them to eat the same amount of food as their necessary intake, just at the suitable levels their bodies can process.
4. Frequency
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
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Dogs and cats are creatures of habit. Because they are used to having similar schedules every day, setting a consistent time, place, and food bowl will help your pet look forward to their mealtimes. Not only does this ensure that they feel a strong sense of security and affinity with you, but it also allows you to watch their nutritional intake every day.
It is moreover pertinent to keep their meals within an established routine. While the sporadic treat might do them no harm, over-feeding or under-feeding them can only lead to major health concerns. One general rule of thumb for feeding young pets is providing them with smaller but recurrent meals throughout the day. This caters to their still-meagre appetites and avoids any pressure on their sensitive digestion.
See also: 7 Things You May Not Know About Raising Young Kittens and Puppies
5. Learned traits
Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
Photo: Courtesy of Royal Canin
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Caring for your four-legged friends means learning and loving everything that makes them unique. While there are cues to take from researching their breed and lifestyle, every dog and cat will have habits and preferences of their own to help you refine your choice among the many available food products in the market today.
Tailored solutions are certainly a good place to start. Over time, as you identify your pet’s rapport with specific tastes, textures, and blends, Royal Canin only further invites you to explore its diverse range. Finding the perfect match may well be a winding journey of trial and error, but it is also one where each joyful discovery lets you take care of your pets in the best way possible.
For more information on tailored nutrition and pet care, check out Royal Canin.
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Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
