As families celebrate Christmas and New Year, it's tempting to share holiday meals with pets, but this can harm their health. Experts warn that overfeeding and routine disruptions may lead to weight gain and digestive issues. Here are tips to keep them fit and happy.
During the holiday season, many pet owners face the dilemma of sharing festive Filipino dishes like lechon kawali, adobo, and carbonara with their dogs or cats. However, Dr. Evelyn Austria, a veterinarian and Royal Canin's scientific communication manager, identifies overfeeding as a top mistake. "One of the most common mistakes that pet owners make is overfeeding," she says.
She explains that pets' energy needs vary by lifestyle, with indoor animals requiring fewer calories than active ones. Puppies and kittens, with their developing digestive systems, are especially vulnerable. "Puppies and kittens, when they are growing, [they still] have sensitive guts. They are still not [yet] fully developed," she adds.
Traditional holiday foods can cause serious issues like pancreatitis. "Be careful of what you’re feeding your pets during the holidays. We don’t recommend giving leftovers," Dr. Austria advises. Instead, opt for pet-formulated treats to include them safely in celebrations.
Exercise remains crucial amid busy schedules—daily walks and playtime support weight management and joint health. Regarding online homemade diets, a study of 200 recipes found only 5% nutritionally balanced, potentially leading to deficiencies. Commercial pet foods, developed by veterinary nutritionists, better meet needs across life stages and activity levels.
By following these guidelines, the holidays can be joyful for families and their pets alike, without health risks. – Based on Angel Baleña's Rappler article.