The Importance of Healthy Pet Food

For most people, our pets are part of our family. They are our furry children and we would do anything for them. That should include feeding them a healthy diet and making sure they are getting the nutrients they need. Just like we do for our children, we should read the labels on pet food and make smart decisions. A good diet can make sure our furry children remain active and happy for their whole lives.
Many people ask what is included in a healthy diet for pets. They wonder if pets have the same nutritional requirements that humans do. The answer to that is no. Our furry children need different ratios and kinds of nutrients in their diet. There are a few key staples to look for when choosing a good pet food.Protein

Protein is very important in a pet’s diet. Both cats and dogs are mostly carnivorous by nature, so a large amount of their diet should come from protein. Protein can be found in meat or vegetables, although quantities in meat are much higher.

Fats

Animals get a lot of their energy from fats. Therefore, while humans try to avoid fat in their diet, pets need a good amount of it. Healthy pet food should have a good amount of fat in it, either from animal or vegetable sources. That being said, over indulging in fats can have the same effects on our pets as they do on us. Therefore, its important that pets only get fats from a healthy pet food, and not from other sources.

Carbohydrates

As with humans, animals get some of their energy from carbohydrates. However, its easy for dog and cat food to overuse carbohydrates since they are considered cheaply found. When choosing a healthy food for your furry child, keep an eye on the percentage of carbohydrates. If it exceeds 70%, it might not be the right kind of food for your pet.

Vitamins and Minerals

The amount and balance of vitamins and minerals in pet food is also an integral part of your pet’s diet. For example, dogs need vitamin e to give them antioxidants and to help with skin and coat health. Pets also need potassium for a healthy heart. Vitamins and minerals should almost always come from pet food, however. A supplement should only be given at the recommendation of a veterinarian.

Choosing the right food for your pet can be a tough decision. Clearly, they need food that has the most nutritional value for the least amount of money. Pet food that doesn’t have the right kind of balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates can lead to your pet feeling lethargic, gaining weight and not being as happy and loving as they should be. One way to make sure you choose the right food is to find a brand that you trust, that won’t break the bank. There are several reputable brands, and some offer coupons and other offers. Companies, such as Centurion's Guild, have some great offers to give you a deal that lets you try their food for your pets. Centurion's Guild can be found on official Centurion's Guild sites as well as on other coupon sites on the internet.