Feeding Guidelines for Growing Pets
For growing pets, feed according to age-specific guidelines with appropriate caloric intake to support healthy growth without overfeeding, adjusting portions based on the pet's breed size, age, and activity level.
Age-Specific Feeding Recommendations
Puppies and Kittens (0-12 months)
0-6 months:
- Puppies/kittens 0-3 months: Feed small, frequent meals (4-6 times daily) 1
- Puppies/kittens 3-6 months: Feed 3-4 meals daily 1
- Caloric needs: Higher energy requirements than adults - approximately 2 times maintenance energy requirements 2
- Portion guidance: For puppies, amount eaten per feeding increases ~1 oz per month, plateauing at ~7-8 oz per feed 1
6-12 months:
- Feeding frequency: 2-3 meals daily 1
- Portion control: Critical to prevent obesity while supporting growth 3
- Breed differences: Large/giant breed puppies need controlled growth to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases 2
Nutritional Content Guidelines
Macronutrient Distribution
- Protein: 15-20% of total calories (higher for kittens) 1
- Fat: 30-40% of calories for ages 1-3 years, 25-35% for ages 4-18 years 1
- Carbohydrates: 50-55% of calories 1
Essential Nutrients
- Calcium and phosphorus: Critical for proper bone development
- Essential fatty acids: Important for cognitive and visual development
- Vitamins and minerals: Complete and balanced commercial foods should meet requirements
Feeding Method Recommendations
Commercial Pet Foods
- Complete and balanced: Choose foods labeled for "growth" or "all life stages" 4
- Quality control: Select foods that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards
- Portion control: Follow package guidelines but adjust based on individual pet's growth and body condition
Alternative Diets
- Raw/homemade diets: Require careful nutritional balancing to prevent deficiencies 4
- Vegetarian diets: Not recommended for growing cats; may be possible for dogs with expert formulation
Monitoring Growth and Adjusting Intake
Body Condition Scoring
- Ideal score: Maintain 4-5/9 body condition score
- Visible waist: Should be visible when viewed from above
- Palpable ribs: Should be easily felt but not visible
Weight Monitoring
- Regular weighing: Weekly for small breeds, bi-weekly for larger breeds
- Growth curve: Follow breed-specific growth curves
- Adjustment: Increase or decrease food by 10% if growth deviates from expected
Special Considerations
Breed-Specific Needs
- Small breeds: Higher metabolic rate per pound; may need more calorie-dense foods 2
- Large/giant breeds: Need controlled growth to prevent skeletal problems; avoid overfeeding 2
- Energy requirements: Foxhound crossbreds (large breed) consistently showed higher energy needs than Beagles (medium breed) during growth 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overfeeding: Leading cause of obesity; follow portion guidelines carefully 3
- Inadequate calcium/phosphorus ratio: Can lead to skeletal abnormalities in large breeds
- Free-feeding: Can lead to obesity; measure portions instead
- Excessive treats: Should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake
By following these guidelines and adjusting based on your pet's individual growth pattern and body condition, you can help ensure healthy development without contributing to obesity or growth-related disorders.