Nourishing the Pet Within

One of the most common barometers that a pet owner will use to gauge how their pet is feeling, is the gusto with which it eats. Even if a pet is hungry, it may not eat if it feels stressed or frightened. This can be especially problematic if the pet is ill and needs to be hospitalized.

Even if a pet is hungry, it may not eat if it fells stressed or frightened.

Our pets are creatures of habit. They are accustomed to our schedules. We awaken at a certain time every day, feed them, play with them, go to bed and do it all over again the next day. Weekends and time changes can wreck havoc with their internal clocks and appetites.

If you find that your pet is not eating as well and it lasts for more than a few days, this is a good reason to bring your pet to your veterinarian. Be sure to let the doctor know if there have been any changes around the house. New diets, sometimes even a new flavor of the usual brand can put a pet off it’s feed. Houseguests, or a new addition, such as a new baby or pet can also disrupt mealtime patterns. If your veterinarian can find no physical reason for your pet’s lack of interest in food, you may need to literally sit down with your pet at dinnertime and be a dining companion. If the house has become a bit chaotic, let your pet sup in a quiet area away from the hubbub. Gradually changing from one food to another can add some interest to suppertime. Dogs often enjoy having a bit of garlic powder, not salt, added to their food.

Hospital food is notorious for being bad, even in veterinary hospitals. If your pet needs to be in the sickbay, inquire whether or not your pet is eating well. Sometimes bringing in its favorite goodies from home will tempt it to eat. If home cooking is not enough, you may need to physically be with the pet while it is being offered food. A good way to cajole a cat in to eating is by brushing and petting it while tasty, warmed food is made available.

Appetite is but one indicator of health and well-being.

Appetite is but one indicator of health and well-being. If you feel that your pet is not up to snuff, see your veterinarian because it is “Your Pet…Health Matters.”