PETS come in different shapes and sizes and this means that every pet’s dietary needs will be different.

Working out what they need to suit their size, age and exercise requirements is important for their health and wellbeing and it’s really important not to give them too much (or too little!).

Around this time of year, it’s not uncommon for us as owners to indulge a little more than we normally would. Colder weather may also make you wonder whether your pet is getting enough to eat, so we’re looking at how much you should feed your pet.

Sadly, there’s no magic number we can give you to tell you exactly how much food you should be giving your pet.

Every pet will be different, even within the same species (for example, a Chihuahua will have very different sized meals to a Great Dane). So if you’re unsure, we’d always recommend giving your vet or vet nurse a call and asking for their advice.

If you know your pet’s weight (ask your vet or vet nurse for the best way to weigh your pet), all pet food will have feeding guides on the packaging or the manufacturer’s website.

This guide will tell you how much of that particular food your pet needs for their weight, which you should feed in weighed out portions.

So, you’ll need to know the actual weight of your pet first, so you can decide whether they are underweight, overweight or the correct weight. You can then alter the amount you feed your pet based on whether they need to lose weight, gain weight, or stay as they are.

If after checking your pet’s body condition score you’re worried that your pet is very overweight, then you may need extra help from your veterinary team. Pets that are obese may need a specific diet food, close monitoring and support during their weight loss journey.

Your vet may even suggest some tests in case there is an underlying health condition. Most vet surgeries offer weight clinics, usually run by vet nurses who can offer you some great advice and ease the process of the weight loss. They’ll be open to a phone call too if you just need a little moral support.

We’d always recommend feeding your dog or cat a high quality, complete, commercially available pet food as this will make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need.