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Nutrition Counseling for Dogs and Cats in Point Grey, Vancouver
Nutrition counseling at University Vet in Point Grey, Vancouver helps ensure your dog or cat's diet supports optimal health at every stage of life. Our veterinary team provides evidence-based dietary guidance covering weight management, therapeutic diets, custom nutrition plans, and life-stage feeding strategies for puppies, kittens, adult pets, and seniors. The right nutrition at each stage of life can prevent or support management of a wide range of health conditions. Book a nutrition consultation at our Point Grey clinic by calling (604) 224-7743.
Services Under Nutrition Counseling
Weight Management for Dogs and Cats
Weight management is one of the most impactful things you can do for your dog or cat's long-term health. Excess body weight increases the risk of joint disease, diabetes, heart conditions, and reduced lifespan. Our veterinarians assess your pet's body condition score, calculate ideal caloric intake, and create a structured plan including diet selection, portion guidance, and exercise recommendations. We schedule regular follow-up visits to track progress and adjust the plan as needed. Even a modest reduction in body weight can significantly improve mobility and energy levels in overweight dogs and cats.
Therapeutic Diet Guidance for Pets
Therapeutic diets are formulated to support specific health conditions such as kidney concerns, urinary issues, gastrointestinal sensitivities, joint health, and weight management. These diets are recommended only when clinically appropriate and are not a substitute for veterinary assessment. Our team selects therapeutic diets based on your pet's full health history and monitors your pet's response through regular check-ins. Appropriate therapeutic diet selection can make a meaningful difference in managing chronic conditions in dogs and cats of all ages.
Custom Nutrition Plans for Dogs and Cats
Custom nutrition plans are developed for pets with specific health needs that require more than a standard diet. This includes pets recovering from surgery, those with multiple concurrent health conditions, animals with food sensitivities, and pets with chronic concerns affecting the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, or skin. Our team evaluates your pet's complete health history and current status to recommend a diet that provides targeted nutritional support alongside any other care they are receiving. A custom plan is reviewed and updated at each follow-up visit to reflect your pet's changing needs.
Life-Stage Feeding Plans from Puppies to Senior Pets
Life-stage feeding plans ensure your dog or cat receives the right nutritional balance throughout their life. Puppies need calorie-dense diets rich in protein and essential fatty acids to support bone and muscle development. Growth formulas for puppies should be continued until the age appropriate to their expected adult size, which varies between small and large breeds. Kittens require high-protein, nutrient-rich diets to support rapid early development and immune system maturation. Kitten-specific formulas are recommended until approximately 12 months of age. Adult dogs and cats benefit from balanced maintenance diets calibrated to their activity level and body condition score. Portion control and consistent feeding schedules help maintain an ideal weight throughout adulthood. Senior dogs and cats often require adjusted calorie levels, increased protein to maintain muscle mass, and added support for joints or kidney function depending on their individual health profile. Our Point Grey team will build a specific feeding plan for your senior pet based on their current health status and bloodwork results.
Explore More Services
Explore More Services
Wellness program plans with preventive nutrition guidance
Medical services for diet-related health conditions
Pet care services and wellness exams
FAQs
How do I know if my dog or cat is overweight?
A pet is likely overweight if you cannot easily feel their ribs with gentle pressure, or if there is no visible waist when viewed from above. Other signs include reluctance to exercise, labored breathing after minimal exertion, and difficulty grooming. Our team uses a standardized body condition scoring system during every wellness exam to assess weight accurately and recommend a plan if needed. Call (604) 224-7743 to book a weight assessment at University Vet in Point Grey.
Should I feed my dog a grain-free diet?
Grain-free diets are not necessary for most dogs and have been associated with a potential link to certain cardiac conditions in some breeds. Unless your dog has a confirmed grain allergy or sensitivity, a balanced diet that includes grains is generally appropriate and well-tolerated. Our team can evaluate your dog’s dietary needs during a nutrition consultation and recommend the most suitable approach. Call (604) 224-7743 to book an appointment at our Point Grey clinic.
What is a therapeutic diet for pets?
A therapeutic diet is a specially formulated food designed to support management of a specific health condition such as kidney disease, diabetes, urinary issues, or food sensitivities. These diets are recommended by our veterinary team only when clinically appropriate. They differ from standard commercial pet foods in their precise nutrient composition. Our team at University Vet in Point Grey will discuss whether a therapeutic diet is suitable for your pet based on their full health history.
At what age should I switch my puppy or kitten to adult food?
Small and medium-breed dogs and most cats can transition to an adult maintenance diet at approximately 12 months of age. Large and giant-breed dogs may benefit from continuing a growth formula until 12 to 18 months, depending on their expected adult size. Transitioning food too early can affect development, while waiting too long can contribute to excess weight gain in adult pets. Our Point Grey team will provide specific timing guidance based on your pet’s breed and current body condition.
Book a nutrition consultation for your dog or cat at University Vet in Point Grey. Open seven days a week. Call (604) 224-7743 or book online at universityvet.ca.