Diet

One of the biggest problems in pets is overfeeding, which can lead to obesity, other serious diseases (such as heart disease and arthritis), and a shortened life span. Only the proper amounts of a quality pet food, with few (if any) table scraps, should be fed. In any case, table food should never exceed 10% of your pet’s daily caloric requirements. Your veterinarian can provide an estimate of the proper type and amount of food for your pet to maintain your pet’s ideal weight. As a general rule, a pet is at proper weight when the ribs and spinal vertebrae (backbones) can be felt, with only a small amount of underlying fat and other body tissues.

Fresh, clean water should always be available to your pet. Never restrict access to water unless instructed by your veterinarian.

The Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health. Copyright© 2007 by Merck & Co., Inc.,
Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. All rights reserved.