Food intake
Dogs and cats on a special diet often need some extra support, as their ailments usually demand quite a lot from their bodies. Even if it doesn't seem immediately necessary, that extra support can give a good boost to their health preventively.
One such need is to be able to make the best use of the nutrients present. Our food contributes to this by adding high-quality ingredients combined with essential nutrients.
Why proper nutrient absorption is so important:
- Optimal health
Dogs and cats need essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. These keep everything running smoothly: from a shiny coat to strong bones and a functioning immune system. If their intake is not good, deficiencies occur and they can become lethargic or develop health problems, for example. - Energy to get through the day
Think of their diet as an energy battery. Without proper nutrient intake, they tire faster, can play less and recover less well from exertion. Active dogs or kittens need this especially badly. - Strong resistance
Well-absorbed nutrients strengthen the immune system. This allows them to fight better against infections, diseases or other health ailments. No good absorption? Then their body's defences are weaker. - Healthy weight
Poorly absorbed food often provides either too little or the wrong energy. This can lead to being underweight (nutrient deficiencies) or overweight (due to too much undigested residue). Both situations are bad for their health.
How is good inclusion achieved?
It is all about quality of food and the intestinal health, because that is where the recording happens. Here are the key factors:
- High-quality ingredients
- Choose food with ingredients that are easily digestible, such as salmon or chicken. Animals naturally need a high-protein diet.
- Proteins must be easily digestible as they provide amino acids, the building blocks for muscles, skin, and nails.
- Good balance of nutrients
- The feed should contain all essential vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats.
- Healthy gut = better absorption
- Prebiotics and probiotics: These substances ensure healthy intestinal flora. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria, and probiotics add good bacteria. Together, they help absorb nutrients optimally.
- Fibres: Good fibre supports healthy digestion, which is important for absorption.