Because wet food can be an essential ally for your health

When it comes to pet nutrition, most owners focus on aspects such as protein, fat or vitamin content (read our article on The importance of protein in a dog’s diet). However, an essential element for the health of dogs and cats is often overlooked: hydration. And here a less obvious “hero” intervenes: wet food.

1. What is hidden hydration?

This hydration at a secondary level refers to the water intake that the animal obtains not directly from drinking water (or other liquids), but from food. Wet food, unlike dry food, contains a high percentage of water, usually between 70 and 85%. This feature transforms it into a discreet but effective ally for your pet’s health.

2. Benefits of hydration through wet food

a) Supports kidney and urinary tract health

Cats, for example, have a weak natural instinct to consume water, being descendants of felines from arid areas. Wet food helps prevent urinary problems and the formation of kidney stones. In dogs, increased water intake reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and supports kidney function.

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b) Check your weight

Wet food has a lower calorie density due to its high water content. Therefore, animals feel full with fewer calories, ideal for overweight or sedentary animals.

c) Stimulates appetite

Wet animals are often more receptive to wet food due to its texture, strong odor and more pronounced flavor. This type of food can be an excellent help for sick or elderly animals.

d) Better digestion

The extra hydration helps ease digestion and reduces the risk of constipation, an important benefit for more sedentary cats or dogs with digestive sensitivities.

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3. How to choose the right wet food?

• Read the label: Avoid products with artificial additives, colors or unhealthy preservatives.
• Prioritize quality ingredients: Real meat should be first on the list.
• Consult your vet: Especially if the pet has pre-existing health problems.

4. Wet food or dry food? The ideal combination

You don’t need to choose just one. Many owners opt for a mixed diet, combining dry food (for dental health) with wet food (for hydration). It is important to maintain a balance suited to your pet’s individual needs.

Find our offers on wet and dry dog ​​food here!

Good to know

How much food to give the cat

To find out how much food to give your cat, you need to divide the cat’s daily calorie requirement by the calorie content of the food (kcal/can or cup). This will tell how much to feed a cat. If you feed your cat three times a day, divide the daily amount of food by three and you will find out how much food to give a cat at each meal. For example: if your cat needs 400 kcal/day and the food package is 95 kcal/can, you can do this calculation: 400 ÷ 95 = 4.21 cans per day.

Measuring your cat’s food: it doesn’t work “by eye”

It is essential to give your cat measured meals to ensure that he is meeting his nutritional needs and that he is not eating too much or too little. If you’re feeding your cat a diet consisting only of dry food or canned rations, don’t just estimate the amount.

Use a digital scale

According to veterinary nutritionists, weighing food portions using a digital scale is the most effective approach for. In some pet food brands, manufacturers will include serving weights as part of the feeding guide on the labels. This will allow you to accurately weigh how much food your cat needs.

What is the best schedule to feed my cat?

Cats tend to be creatures of routine. Now that you know how much food to give your cat, it’s essential to know when to feed it: at least two meals a day, 12 hours apart. However, it is also possible to give your cat breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on your schedule. Make sure you don’t leave more than 12 hours between meals, as this could cause hyperacidity in the stomach, which can cause nausea in your cat. You can also purchase a dry food feeder that you can program to provide portions throughout the day.

Chickens can enjoy food up to 6 times a day. Adults, twice a day. Senior cats should follow the same schedule throughout their adult lives. Always look for age-specific cat food. But those who are pregnant? Adjust your cat’s feeding schedule to 4/6 hours a day. Are you breastfeeding? It is best to allow the cat to feed freely as this will allow him to eat whenever he gets the chance. Wet food is preferable for nursing cats as it is rich in protein. However, dry food can be left out longer without spoiling, so give it access to both.

5. When is hydration of food crucial?

• In older animals: Weakened kidney function requires increased water intake.
• In animals with urinary disorders: Cats with recurrent cystitis or dogs with kidney stones benefit greatly from additional hydration.
• During the summer: Excessive heat increases the risk of dehydration.

Understanding allergies and sensitivities in dogs

If your dog suffers from allergies or sensitivities, finding the right food can be a challenge. Many people wonder whether wet dog food is a suitable option for their beloved companions in these cases. In this article we will explore the topic of wet dog food and its supplementation for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

Dogs can develop allergies to certain ingredients, such as beef, poultry, grains, or even pollen. On the other hand, sensitivities are adverse reactions to certain ingredients that cannot necessarily be classified as allergies.

Benefits of Wet Food for Dogs with Allergies or Sensitivities:

• Limited ingredient diets: Wet dog food it often comes in limited ingredient options, which can be helpful for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. These formulas are generally made from a single protein source and carefully selected ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic reaction.

• Moisture Content: May be helpful for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. It helps hydrate your furry friend and can be especially helpful for dogs with dry or itchy skin, a common symptom associated with allergies.

• Good taste: Dogs with allergies or sensitivities may lose their appetite due to digestive upset or a bland diet. Wet dog food often has a stronger flavor, making it more appealing to picky eaters and encouraging them to consume an adequate amount of food.

Instead of a summary

Wet food is more than just a tasty choice for your pet. It is a discreet but powerful ally in maintaining long-term health. Whether introduced as part of the daily diet or as an occasional supplement, it can make the difference between a well-hydrated pet and one prone to various ailments.

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