Everyone knows that nutrition is important for any animal companion. When your pet receives the right combination of vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and water on a daily basis, they stay healthy—it’s that simple. But what specifically does good nutrition do for our pets? How does it benefit them? Let’s take a closer look at some of the important benefits of nutrition for your pet.

Skin and Fur Health

Did you know that a pet with a smooth, shiny coat of fur is probably in good health? A pet’s coat is one of the best indicators of their nutrition! Fatty acids play a big role here, specifically omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. When a pet receives these nutrients in the right amounts through their food, the skin stays healthy and moisturized. Fatty acids also provide anti-inflammatory properties, which can help your pet be less itchy. That leads to a coat with a smooth, healthy sheen and minimal shedding.

Disease Prevention

Another reason that nutrition is so important for your animal friend is because it helps prevent dangerous diseases. Vitamins and minerals, in particular, are the nutrients that keep your pet from coming down with diseases like distemper, parvovirus, leukemia, and many more. Vitamins reduce damage to the body’s cells, while minerals keep cells functioning normally. It’s important that your pet’s food supplies him or her with the proper vitamins and minerals.

Keep in mind that vaccination is also essential for helping your pet to avoid disease. Talk to your veterinarian right away if your pet needs vaccines or booster shots.

Body Condition

Your pet’s general body condition is another thing that’s affected heavily by nutrition. If a pet doesn’t receive enough protein, they won’t be able to build or maintain strong, healthy muscles. Protein is also essential for repairing damaged cells, making new cells, and building hair, skin, and other body tissues. That’s why your pet’s food should always include a good protein source, like chicken or beef.

Digestive Health

None of the nutrients listed above would do any good if your pet’s body wasn’t able to digest and absorb them. That’s where carbohydrates come in—they provide fiber that helps with digestion and elimination. They’re essential for allowing your dog’s body to use the nutrients received through food and eliminate the waste that’s left behind.

To learn more about your pet’s nutrition, call your vet’s office. We’re here for you!