Optimal nutrition is fundamental to companion animal welfare. Evidence-based dietary choices prevent disease and support quality of life across the lifespan.
Companion animal nutrition welfare encompasses both preventing deficiency diseases and avoiding excess conditions including obesity. The pet food market is saturated with marketing claims that do not always reflect nutritional science. Evidence-based feeding requires understanding species-specific nutrient requirements, life-stage needs, and the risks associated with unconventional dietary approaches. Veterinary nutritional advice provides the most reliable guidance, particularly for animals with health conditions. The relationship between nutrition and welfare is direct: well-nourished animals at healthy body weight have better immune function, mobility, and quality of life across their entire lifespan.