Diet & Nutrition

Any recommendations suggested at Upper Village Veterinary Hospital account for factors that can make certain foods or formulations most appropriate for your pet at any given time. These factors include your pet's age, breed, risk factors, and overall health. Throughout your pet's life, preventive veterinary services - such as guidance on nutrition - can serve as "protective factors," which help to minimize your pet's risks for developing conditions like diabetes and joint problems. And certain pets may be at greater risk of developing conditions based on characteristics like their breed; for instance, smaller dogs may be at higher risk of low blood sugar. They may require calorie-dense foods as they are growing. Likewise, larger dogs may be at risk of excessive growth and orthopedic problems. In turn, they may need foods formulated with reduced calcium, phosphorus, and fats.

Getting your pet's weight under control is the number one thing you can do to add quality years to their lives. We may recommend and/or prescribe diets high in fibre and lower in calories. The fibre-rich diets help to slow absorption and support stable blood sugar levels among these overweight pets, who are also at increased risk of developing severe diabetes.

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association reports that food allergies in dogs are thought to account for around 5% of all skin-related cases and approximately 15% of all allergic skin diseases. Both dogs and cats may be sensitive to the ingredients found in common pet foods. These ingredients include proteins like beef and dairy, eggs, corn, and carbs (wheat). We can advise on brands or proteins that are appropriate for your dog and may even prescribe foods to break the allergy cycle and food intolerances.

As your pet ages, they may be at an increased risk of developing certain diseases and acquiring conditions that call for an evolving approach to their diets. For instance, it may be necessary to incorporate foods with less protein and phosphorus. By avoiding certain ingredients, it can help to slow common degenerative conditions like chronic kidney disease. Furthermore, some products are beneficial in promoting joint health as your pet matures. As previously mentioned in this article, your puppy or kitten has unique needs as they grow due to how a kitten's weight, for example, doubles or triples in the first few weeks of life; it is generally advised to include foods with around 30% protein, which helps to promote healthy muscle development.

At every step in this journey, Upper Village Veterinary Hospital is here for you and your pets in midtown Toronto. We can review your pet's diet, body condition, health history, and life stage during a routine wellness visit and discuss nutritious options that fit their individual needs. Contact us at (647) 560-9276 to schedule an appointment.