🦴 Mealtime: Feeding Your Growing Pet

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🐢 Puppies

Feeding your puppy a high-quality diet specifically formulated for puppies is essential for healthy growth and development. A variety of diets and formulations are available, but your veterinarian should be your primary guide in choosing the best option for your pet.

βœ” How Often Should You Feed Your Puppy?

  • 6 to 12 weeks old: Feed three times daily.
  • 12 weeks to 6 months: Reduce to two meals a day.
  • Over 6 months: Feed once or twice a day, depending on your puppy’s needs.

Since portion sizes vary by food type and breed, only offer as much food as your puppy can finish within 5 to 10 minutes at each meal.

For large-breed dogs, your veterinarian may suggest several smaller meals instead of one large meal, even in adulthood. This approach can help prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or “bloat,” a life-threatening condition associated with consuming large meals too quickly.

🐱 Kittens

Your kitten should also be fed a high-quality diet specifically designed for kittens. Your veterinarian is the best source for selecting an appropriate diet based on your kitten’s breed, size, and health needs.

βœ” Choosing Between Dry & Canned Food

  • Dry food is often more economical and helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup on teeth due to its rough texture.
  • Canned food can be added as a supplement but should always be fed at set mealtimes to prevent spoilage.

βœ” How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?
Kittens can be fed free-choice or at scheduled mealtimes. However, many veterinarians recommend structured mealtimes to help monitor food intake.

βœ” Bowl Safety Matters

  • Stainless steel bowls are the safest option.
  • Avoid plastic and ceramic bowls, as they can develop scratches that trap bacteria. These bacteria are linked to feline acne and skin irritation.

Providing a nutritious, well-balanced diet at the right times will help ensure your pet grows into a healthy and happy companion! 🐾🍽

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