Welcome to the Pet Parents Blog! šŸ¾

At Elegant Tails, we understand that pets are not just animals; they are cherished members of our families. Our blog is dedicated to all things pet-related, from expert feeding tips and grooming advice to fun activities and health insights. Whether you're a new pet owner or a seasoned pro, we aim to provide you with the knowledge and resources to give your furry friends the best life possible. Join us as we explore the joys and challenges of pet parenthood, share heartwarming stories, and celebrate the bond between pets and their humans. Your journey as a pet parent starts here!

Š et feedingšŸ¾

We asked a nutrition expert how to determine how much and how often our pets need to eat.

Here's a guide to help pet owners figure out the right portions for yours pets:

1. Understand Your Pet's Life Stage:

  • Kittens/Puppies: Growing pets need more calories per pound of body weight than adults. They should be fed more frequentlyā€”usually 3-4 small meals a day.
  • Adult Cats/Dogs: Most adult pets require a steady feeding schedule of 2 meals a day. The portion depends on their size and activity level.
  • Senior Pets: Older pets often need fewer calories due to reduced activity levels. They may benefit from specialized diets or smaller portions to prevent weight gain.

2. Monitor Your Pet's Weight:

  • Weigh Your Pet: Use a scale to track your pet's weight regularly. You can then compare it to breed-specific guidelines or speak to a vet about the healthy weight range for your pet.
  • Adjust Portions Based on Weight: If your pet is gaining weight, you may need to reduce portion sizes, and if theyā€™re underweight, youā€™ll likely need to increase their food intak

3. Check Food Labels:

  • Pet food manufacturers typically provide feeding recommendations based on weight. Itā€™s important to follow these guidelines, but adjust if needed based on your pet's activity level. Always read the feeding instructions for accurate portioning.

4. Activity Level:

  • Active Pets: Dogs and cats that spend a lot of time running, playing, or outdoors will need more calories to fuel their energy.
  • Sedentary Pets: Pets that are indoors most of the time, or those that don't get much exercise, should have smaller portions to avoid obesity.

5. Speak to a Veterinarian:

  • Custom Advice: If youā€™re unsure, itā€™s always best to consult a vet. They can provide tailored advice based on your petā€™s unique needsā€”whether your pet requires weight management, special diets, or has health conditions affecting their food intake.

6. Adjusting for Special Needs:

  • Weight Control: If your pet is overweight or underweight, your vet might recommend a special formula that helps with weight loss or gain.
  • Health Conditions: Pets with conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or allergies may need specific dietary requirements.

7. Use an Automatic Feeder to Control Portions:

  • An automatic feeder like the ElegantTailsā„¢ Automatic Pet Feeder helps you program portion-controlled meals to ensure your pet isnā€™t overeating. You can set up to 6 meals a day, which helps prevent binge eating and keeps their diet balanced.