Feeding our pet is a simple task, but one that we must pay close attention to. However, many caregivers take the easy and fast route without considering other options or combinations of more nutritious and tasty foods.
There is a huge variety of options available in today’s pet food market , which allows us to provide our beloved friends with a very complete diet. But this is also why we often have more questions. Many pet owners wonder whether it is advisable to mix dry food with wet food. And the same goes for snacks. Are these three types of nutrition complementary? Can they be combined with each other? Read on and you will find out the answers.
Can wet food, dry food, and snacks be combined?
The truth is yes. And not only can they be mixed, but this combination known as Mix Feeding provides multiple benefits to our pets. On the one hand, they allow our little furry friends to enjoy a greater variety of textures, flavors and nutrients. And, on the other, they complement each other on a nutritional level and provide extra hydration indirectly, which is especially important in the warmer months.
In addition, it should be noted that this type of food is much more attractive to the palate of cats and dogs than if we only give them dry food. This way, we make them happier while at the same time giving us the peace of mind that we are looking after their health.
How does Mix Feeding work?
Mix Feeding can be offered by combining the three types of food or alternating wet food, dry food and snacks at different times of the day. The most important thing is to control the caloric load to prevent our pet from having problems with being overweight.
Generally speaking, we could say that a good ratio would be 80-20-10, that is, 80% dry food, 20% wet food and 10% snacks. In this way, we will maintain a good energy balance. Also, there is no reason to mix it every day, but we can do it 2 or 3 times a week.
However, in the case of sterilized animals or those with a tendency to be overweight, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian so that he or she can prescribe the appropriate proportion for your particular pet.
Why offer your pet Mix Feeding?
Dry food has a high concentration of nutrients, can be easily rationed throughout the day, and helps reduce dental plaque thanks to the tooth brushing effect. Wet food, on the other hand, improves urinary health, contributes to caloric dilution, has a satiating effect and is rich in protein. Therefore, by combining both foods, we will be providing them with the benefits of both. But, in addition, Mix Feeding has many other advantages that we list below:
- Complete and balanced diet: thanks to this, we ensure that our dog or cat receives all the necessary nutrients due to the easy absorption of wet food.
- Varied diet: pets will not get bored of the food and we will also be providing them with a greater variety of nutrients.
- Greater palatability: dogs and cats enjoy this type of food more and remain more interested in the food, avoiding episodes of loss of appetite.
- Mental health benefits: Dry food helps reduce tartar and plaque buildup. Plus, it’s easier for senior pets to eat, as they tend to have more gum and tooth problems.
- Help for animals with specific health problems that have a diet prescribed by the veterinarian: especially when we talk about kidney disease or gastrointestinal disorders, since their digestion is easier.
In short, mix feeding offers numerous benefits to our pets, both from a nutritional point of view and due to the wide variety of options it offers to create menus for your pet, who will really enjoy mealtime.
It is true that our pet’s diet must always be appropriate for its size, age and weight, but this should not be at odds with giving its palate something to enjoy and allowing it to try new textures and identify new smells.
