Pet Nutrition

Just like us, dogs and cats need a balanced diet to stay happy and healthy. With so many pet food options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming! At Hickory Ridge Animal Hospital, we're always here to provide veterinary nutrition advice for your dog, cat, puppy, or kitten.

Why Dog and Cat Nutrition Matters

Overall Health and Longevity

A well-balanced diet helps support your pet’s immune system, muscles, bones, and organs. This means they’re more likely to live longer, healthier lives!

Disease Prevention

Good nutrition plays a key role in preventing diseases like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. Feeding your pet a balanced diet can help lower the risk of these chronic conditions.

Energy and Vitality

Pets that get the nutrients they need tend to have more energy and sharper minds! This is especially important for growing puppies, kittens, and active adult pets!

Skin and Coat Health

Your pet's diet has a big impact on their skin and coat. High-quality dog and cat food has essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that keep your pet's coat and skin healthy.

Digestive Health

A balanced diet supports healthy digestion, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, or food intolerances. High-quality pet foods contain easily digestible ingredients and the right amount of fiber to promote good digestion.

Different Types of Dog and Cat Food

There are many different types of pet food available. Understanding their benefits can help you pick the right one for your pet’s unique needs.

Dry Pet Food

• Convenience: Easy to serve and store
• Dental Health: Can help reduce tartar buildup on teeth
• Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable and lasts longer than wet food
• Balanced Nutrition: Many dry foods offer complete and balanced nutrition

Wet Pet Food

• Appetizing: Often more appealing to those picky eaters
• Hydrating: Higher moisture content keeps your pet hydrated
• Easy to Chew: Great for pets with dental issues or older pets with weaker teeth
• Higher Protein Content: Usually contains more protein and fewer carbs than dry food (kibble)

Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Pet Food

• Convenient: Easy to prepare and store
• Nutrient Dense: Retains most of the original nutrients through the freeze-drying process
• Less Processed: Contains fewer additives and preservatives than kibble
• Lightweight: Ideal for travel and outdoor activities

Prescription Diet Pet Food

• Personalized Nutrition: This food addresses specific pet health diseases or issues like allergies or weight management. There are a variety of pet wellness diets out there depending on your dog or cat's stage of life: dog wellness diet, cat wellness diet, puppy wellness diet, or kitten wellness diet.
• Veterinarian-Recommended: Often prescribed for dogs and cats with specific dietary needs
• High-Quality Ingredients: Made with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients

Pet Supplements

Supplements can help meet your pet’s nutritional needs, especially if they have specific health conditions. Common supplements include:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports skin, coat, and joint health
• Probiotics: Helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome and digestion.
• Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Supports joints and mobility
• Multivitamins: Ensures your pet receives all essential vitamins and minerals they need

Always check with your veterinarians before changing your dog or cat’s food or adding supplements to their routine. Our team will help you find the most nutritious, best-fit options for your pet’s needs.

Personalized Pet Nutrition Advice Near You

We offer personalized cat and dog nutrition advice based on your pet's age, breed, health status, and lifestyle. Whether you're looking for pet food tips or want to discuss a wellness diet with one of our veterinarians, we're here to guide you. Call us at (410) 730-7434 or book an appointment online below!

Need to re-order your pet’s food? Visit our online pharmacy!