Skin problems
Unfortunately, skin problems are common. A skin problem can be caused by a hypersensitivity to a food. This usually involves a hypersensitivity to a certain type of protein (for example, beef or chicken protein). These are proteins that are found in many foods. Contrary to what many people think, gluten intolerance or hypersensitivity to fragrances, colorants and flavorings is very rare in pets.
Your vet may advise you to try a different type of food for your pet. There are so-called 'elimination diets' where the entire diet is replaced for 4 to 6 weeks with a food that contains an unknown type of protein for your pet (for example duck or insect protein).
Overweight
No less than 35% of dogs and cats in the Netherlands are overweight. Overweight is therefore not only a disease of affluence in humans, but also affects our pets. Just like in humans, this also entails the necessary health risks in animals. Overweight dogs and cats have a greater chance of developing diabetes, joint problems, skin problems and have reduced immunity. Want to read more about overweight and tips to prevent overweight? Then take a look at the LICG website.
To support your pet in losing weight, we have special diet foods. These are foods that contain ingredients that stimulate fat burning. They also ensure that your dog/cat feels full more quickly and will therefore eat less. Do you want tips for your pet's overweight or do you need some guidance with a weight loss program? Feel free to drop by to weigh your pet and discuss this.
Bladder (gravel) problems
Bladder problems or problems with grit and/or stones can be a reason to adjust your animal's ration. The right food is an important way to solve problems but especially to prevent them. Complaints related to the bladder are diverse. Drinking and urinating a lot, pain or difficulty urinating, decreased appetite or licking the penis can be symptoms that something is wrong. Dietary foods aimed at bladder grit often contain less protein, magnesium and phosphate. In addition, they ensure that the pH (acidity) of the urine decreases. Do you think that your dog or cat has bladder problems or bladder grit? Then contact the practice.
Kidney problems
An increased risk of developing kidney dysfunction occurs in certain dog and cat breeds. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 3 cats will develop some form of kidney failure in their lifetime. The kidneys have an important filtering function and filter proteins from our blood to be removed via the urine. Animals with reduced kidney function can no longer do this properly. This causes the toxins that are normally removed via the urine to accumulate in the body. Common complaints include poor appetite, weight loss, excessive drinking and urination, vomiting and/or diarrhea, or bad breath. An important part of the treatment for kidney failure is to offer a diet with less protein and phosphate. This ensures that the kidneys do not have to work as hard and have a chance to recover.
Gastrointestinal problems
Gastrointestinal complaints in dogs and cats can be very diverse. Commonly observed symptoms include diarrhea, slimy stools, flatulence, abdominal pain, vomiting and/or weight loss. All of this may indicate that your dog/cat is suffering from a gastrointestinal problem. After an extensive examination and possibly additional examination, it may be appropriate to change your pet's diet. There are special diets (so-called easily digestible diets). These ensure that the intestines absorb almost all components. As a result, little indigestible material remains in the intestines, which can be a source for the wrong bacteria/parasites to cause problems. Sometimes it is necessary to give a hypoallergenic diet. These diets contain protein sources that are often unknown to your pet and can therefore reduce hypersensitivities.
