Have you ever wondered if you’re feeding your dog or cat the best food possible? You’re certainly not alone! This is a common question pet parents ask, but the fact is, the “best” diet depends on the individual animal. 

It’s important to seek guidance from an animal nutritionist, but it’s equally important for you to learn about pet nutrition, too. After all, you make multiple food choices for your pal every day, from meals to treats, to the table scraps you share (in moderation, of course!). 

It may seem like a lot to learn, but you don’t have to know it all — that’s what the pros are for! Still, learning some fundamentals about dog and cat food can help you improve your pal’s overall wellbeing. 

Kibble, Home Cooked, or Raw?

When it comes to filling your dog or cat’s food bowl, there are lots of decisions to make. One of the first is deciding whether kibble, home-cooked or raw meals are best for your companion and your lifestyle. There are lots of things to factor in, including your dog or cat’s overall health, your budget, and whether you have time to prepare meals from scratch or you need the convenience of kibble. No matter which feeding style you choose, there are quality options out there — if you know what to look for. 

If you decide to prepare your pup or kitty’s meals at home, it’s especially important to enlist the help of an animal nutritionist. The key to any healthy diet is balanced, and if your pal’s meals lack some nutrients — or include too much of others — it can lead to serious health issues down the road. 

However, if you don’t have time to make all your dog and cat’s meals, don’t worry; you can always add a nutritional boost by mixing healthy whole foods into his or her dish. After all, even the freshest, most natural diet won’t benefit anyone if it’s something you can’t stick to!

Ultimately, The Choice Is Yours

Our pets can't make health-based decisions for themselves, and they depend on us to give them proper care. From preparing their meals to making sure their emotional and physical needs are met, it's our job to keep them as happy and healthy as possible.

You don’t have to be an expert to be a wonderful pet parent. However, you do have to have a little background knowledge about how to care for your companion -- and that includes getting expert guidance from veterinarians and nutritionists you trust.

But while their help is crucial, at the end of the day, the decisions you make for four-legged friends are ultimately up to you. So, listen to the advice of trusted professionals, do some research, and use your best judgment. Remember: no one knows your pet quite as well as you!