5 Signs Your Pet's Food Might Not Be Right for Them

Feeding your pet isn’t just about filling their bowl — it’s about giving them the right nutrition to live a happy, healthy life. But with so many options on the market, it’s easy to assume that what you’re feeding them is fine… until subtle signs start to show.

If your dog or cat is experiencing any of the following symptoms, their current food might not be the best fit for them. Here's what to look out for:

🐾 1. Digestive Upset (Loose Stools, Vomiting or Gas)

Digestive issues are one of the most obvious red flags. If your pet regularly has:

• Runny or inconsistent stools

• Excessive gas

• Occasional vomiting after meals

…it could be their food isn’t sitting well with them. It may be too rich, contain fillers they can't digest, or they might be sensitive to certain ingredients like corn, grains, or even specific proteins (e.g. chicken or beef).

Tip: Try a limited ingredient or easily digestible formula, and always transition food gradually over 5–7 days.

🐾 2. Itching, Scratching & Skin Irritations

Is your pet constantly scratching, biting at their paws, or developing red patches and dry skin?

This could be a sign of a food allergy or intolerance, commonly triggered by:

• Chicken

• Dairy

• Grains

• Artificial additives

Itching caused by food is often year-round, as opposed to seasonal allergens. You might also notice dull fur or excessive shedding.

Tip: Look for grain-free or single-protein diets (e.g. lamb, salmon) with no artificial colours or preservatives.

🐾 3. Lack of Energy or Enthusiasm

If your normally energetic pet seems more sluggish than usual, their food might not be delivering the right balance of nutrients.

Low energy levels can be a sign that your pet is:

• Not getting enough protein or calories

• Eating food with poor-quality ingredients or too many fillers

• Missing key vitamins and minerals

Tip: Choose foods with whole ingredients, named protein sources (like "salmon" instead of "fish meal"), and avoid excessive carbs.

🐾 4. Weight Gain or Loss Without Lifestyle Changes

Notice your pet gaining weight even though they’re not eating more — or suddenly losing weight with no change in activity? Their food may be:

• Too calorie-dense for their breed or age

• Not satisfying enough, causing overeating

• Missing the right nutritional balance

Tip: Match your pet’s food to their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) and activity level. Weight control formulas can also help.

🐾 5. Reluctance to Eat or Sudden Disinterest in Food

Pets are creatures of habit — and if they suddenly lose interest in their meals, it might be more than pickiness.

It could be due to:

• A formula change (common in cheaper brands)

• Unappetising ingredients

• A sensitivity that’s making them feel unwell

Tip: Always monitor if this is a one-time thing or ongoing. Try switching to a more palatable food or adding a topper for flavor, and consult your vet if it continues.

🧠 When to Consult a Vet

While switching food can solve many issues, it’s always wise to consult a vet if symptoms persist or worsen. They can help rule out other causes and guide you toward the best nutrition plan based on your pet’s age, size, breed, and health condition.

💡 Final Thought

Every pet is different — and just because a food is popular doesn't mean it’s right for yours. If you notice these signs, don’t ignore them. A simple change in diet could drastically improve your pet’s comfort, health, and happiness.

🛒 Looking to switch to something better?

Explore our vet-approved range of dog and cat food at Pet Care Online — carefully selected for quality, nutrition, and taste your pet will love.
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