HEALTHY HOME COOKED DIETS

Home cooked diets for pets can be a great option for owners who want more control over their pet’s nutrition or have pets with specific dietary needs. However, it is crucial to ensure that these diets are well-balanced and meet all your pet’s nutritional requirements. Here are some general guidelines for preparing home-cooked diets for pets:

1.        Consult with a Veterinarian: Before starting a home cooked diet for your pet, consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. Dr Seina has completed her Certification in Veterinary Natural Nutrition and can provide guidance on your pet’s specific nutritional needs based on factors like age, breed, weight, and any existing health conditions.

2.        Balanced Diets: Ensure that the home-cooked diet provides a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This balance is essential for your pet’s overall health and wellbeing.

3.        Protein: Protein is crucial for pets, especially for dogs and cats as it provides essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions. Good sources of protein for pets include lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef), fish, eggs, and dairy products (in moderation).

4.        Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates can provide energy for pets. Healthy sources of carbohydrates include grains (e.g. rice, oats, barley), legumes (e.g. lentils, beans), and certain vegetables (e.g. sweet potatoes, carrots).

5.        Fats: Fats are important for providing energy and supporting various bodily functions. Including healthy fats in your pet’s diet such as those found in fish oils, flaxseed oil, olive oil and animal fats.

6.        Vegetables and fruits: Incorporate a variety of vegetables and fruits into y0our pet’s diet to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, some fruits and vegetables can be harmful to pets so make sure to research which ones are safe for your pet species.

7.        Supplements: Depending on your pet’s specific needs, your veterinarian may recommend adding certain supplements to their diet such as psyllium husk, vitamins, or omega-3 fatty acids.

8.        Food safety: Practice proper food safety when preparing and storing homemade pet food to minimise the risk of foodborne illness. Cook meat thoroughly, handle raw ingredients safely and store leftovers appropriately.

9.        Monitor your Pet: Once you transition your pet to a home-cooked diet monitor their health, weight, and overall wellbeing closely. Adjust the diet as needed based on your pet’s response and any recommendations from your veterinarian.

10.   Be prepared for adjustments: It may take some trial and error to find the right balance of ingredients for your pet’s homemade diet. In addition, taste and texture might need to be adjusted as well to ensure your pet happily consumes the diet. Be patient and willing to adjust as needed to ensure that your pet is getting all the nutrients they need.

Remember that while home-cooked diets can be beneficial for some pets, they might not be suitable for every pet. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet’s diet and seek their guidance throughout the process.