Healthy animalsnormally eat sufficient food to satisfy their energy requirements. It is oneof the jobs of the nutritionist to ensure that all other nutrient needs havebeen met when animals stop eating because they have met their energy needs.While dogs and cats are members of the biological order Carnivora, scientificobservation and research support that differences in their metabolism and nutritionalrequirements exist. However, the goal in feeding both species is the same; tooptimize the health and well-being of the individual. This approach resultsin dietary recommendations that will vary from individual animal to animal,based on a variety of factors that include the animal's signalment, occupationand environment. Feeding approaches vary between the two species and withinthe same species during different physiological life stages. However, the practiceof feeding to maintain a lean body condition is a common goal. The maintenanceof a lean body condition has been proven to increase both the quantity and qualityof life in dogs. Currently, similar data does not exist in cats but is suspectedto hold true. Each dog and cat's feeding program should be assessed routinelyand adjustments made as indicated based on the animal's body condition, lifestage and general health.
