Dogs
- Dogs need a careful balance of calcium/phosphorus and sufficient vitamin D for strong bones and healthy teeth.
- Fats and oils are a source of energy which is important for active and large dogs.
- Protein is required to maintain the body muscles.
Cats
- A cat needs almost twice as much protein as a dog.
- Vitamin A is necessary but within very precise limits. Too much liver (rich in vitamin A) can be harmful.
- The wrong balance in essential fatty acids will take the shine out of a cat's coat.
- Taurine - a vitamin-like substance - is essential to prevent eye and heart disease.
Small mammals
- Contrary to widespread belief, each type of rodent or small mammal has its own specific nutritional requirements.
- For example, a hamster needs high levels of protein (meat), whereas a dwarf rabbit is strictly herbivore.
- The guinea pig has an imperative need of vitamin C as it cannot synthesize it. It is therefore either systematically present in prepared foods or offered in the form of vitamin supplements.