Puppy and kitten feeding

3 May 2022

At 3 months, dogs and kittens are still growing. Many factors influence this, which is why it is important to feed them food that is adapted to the proper functioning of their metabolism. The diet should take into account the characteristics of the species and breed in order to meet their needs.

Growth

Growth is the most important period. In order for it to go well, it is necessary that its diet meets its nutritional needs perfectly. It is usual to classify dogs into 4 groups, according to their weight and size once they are adults:

Small dogs from 1 to 10kg
Medium dogs from 11 to 25kg
Large dogs from 26 to 45kg
Very large dogs from 46 to 90kg

The growth of a small dog and a very large dog are very different, so it is important to take this into account. For example, the growth of a small dog lasts about 8 months, whereas for a very large dog it can last up to 24 months.

In cats, growth is most intense between 4 and 5 months. It is estimated that the kitten gains about 100g per week.

Also, the male cat grows more than the female cat, and it is between the 6th and 12th week that he becomes heavier. And as with the dog, the larger the breed, the longer the growth. This is particularly true for the Maine Coon.

There are other factors that influence a cat’s growth, such as its genes, but its environment also plays a role. For example, a stressful environment can affect the kitten’s sleep and have a negative impact on its growth (which takes place during sleep).

Adapting the diet

The younger the animal, the more sensitive it is because its metabolism is still forming, which is why it is important to provide it with a suitable diet to ensure it grows well.

Your pet’s diet may also depend on other criteria. In the case of neutering, for example, a specific diet will be recommended. Your veterinarian and his or her veterinary surgeon will be in the best position to advise you on the diet of your new pet.

During your visit to the vet, you will probably discuss the subject of feeding transition. Your vet will be able to judge whether his diet should be changed. This transition should then be done gradually over 7 days: 1 third of the new food with 2 thirds of the old food for 3 days, then half and half for 3 days, then 2 thirds of the new and 1 third of the old food for 3 days. It is important that this transition is made gently so as not to upset his digestive system too much and to give him time to get used to his new food.

Access to food

Cats need constant access to their food. Cats eat between 12 and 14 meals a day. There are different systems for distributing small amounts of food throughout the day. For the puppy, 3 to 4 meals a day are necessary. As your puppy grows, it is recommended that he be given 2 meals a day, especially for larger breeds. Remember that your new four-legged friend should always have access to clean, fresh water.

There are various feeding containers on the market: the classic is the bowl, but you can also use a puzzle feeder for example, or a pipolino for the cat. These devices are very interesting for animals that eat too quickly. It also helps to stimulate them intellectually.

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The importance of diet for skin and coat quality in dogs and cats

The skin is the body's largest organ, representing between 12% and 24% of the animal's weight, and its surface area in a dog weighing around thirty kilograms is close to one square meter. It's hardly surprising, then, that the quality and quantity of the dog's diet can have an impact on this organ, and in the event of a deficiency can lead to problems that go far beyond a simple visual appearance.

Key nutrients for healthy skin and coat

Among the macro-nutrients, proteins play a crucial role. They provide amino acids, including sulphur amino acids, which are essential for the structure of the skin and coat. These are the main components of collagen, which gives the skin its suppleness and resistance, and of keratin, which plays a part in the effectiveness of the skin barrier. Lipids are also important; they make up the bulk of cell membranes and, in the skin, contribute significantly to the effectiveness of the cutaneous barrier. Among lipids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help maintain healthy skin, modulate inflammatory mechanisms and promote a shiny, soft coat. Vitamins and minerals are also involved. Vitamin A is necessary for cell renewal, as is vitamin D, which also plays a part in the skin's natural defences. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, while B vitamins and biotin are essential co-factors in the synthesis of various skin elements such as ceramides, keratin and collagen. Among the minerals, zinc is involved in synthesis, protection against free radicals and immune defence mechanisms.

Disorders linked to inadequate nutrition

Inadequate or poor-quality food can lead to skin problems in our pets. A deficiency in essential fatty acids leads to dry, flaky skin, a dull coat and brittle hair. When it's the vitamins and minerals that are in short supply, synthesis is affected, the skin barrier can be less effective and the breeding ground for infections and inflammations that can lead to itching. On the other hand, these nutritional benefits can be used to compensate for individual sensitivities and improve the quality of the skin and coat in the event of dermatological disorders or diseases.

Conclusion

The quality of a dog's skin and the beauty of its coat are directly influenced by the quality of its diet. However, some dogs and cats have increased needs, and it is therefore necessary to provide them with greater quantities of useful nutrients. This is particularly true in the case of certain dermatological disorders, to help compensate for imbalances and accompany the medical treatments prescribed by your vet.