Is it better to feed my pet a variety of protein sources?Updated 5 months ago

According to our holistic vet, Dr. Kathy Cornack, yes it is better to feed your pet a variety of foods, including meats and protein sources. This is recommended unless your vet has advised there is a medical reason to do otherwise. There are several reasons why it's better.

Firstly, offering your dog variety in their diet can help prevent boredom. Just like humans, dogs can get tired of eating the same thing day after day. Introducing different flavours and textures can make mealtime more exciting for them.

Additionally, BARF principles emphasize the importance of variety in a dog's diet. This approach suggests that dogs, as natural omnivorous scavengers, benefit from a diet that mimics their ancestral eating habits, which include a diverse range of edibles.

Lastly, following BARF principles, eating variety achieves balance over time. The same principles apply to humans: we should eat as wide a range of foods as possible (i.e. variety within the major food groups) to ensure optimal health.

It is best to introduce a variety of foods early in life to acclimate their taste buds and their digestive systems. As sudden shifts in diet can lead to stomach upset in sensitive individuals, it's important to make changes in diet gradually if you are introducing a new food that your pet is not used to. Always consult with your vet for advice in your specific situation if your pet has digestive or other health issues.