FOOD, A PILLAR OF ANIMAL HEALTH

Nutrition is much more than just a meal for your dog or cat: it's the foundation of their health, energy, and longevity. Quality food contributes to:

• smooth and comfortable digestion
• a balanced weight,
• a shiny coat and healthy skin,
• a strengthened immune system
• a better quality of life on a daily basis.

Conversely, an ultra-processed industrial diet, too rich in cereals or additives, can in the long term promote overweight, digestive or skin disorders, or even certain chronic diseases.

WHAT IS NATURAL DIET FOR DOGS AND CATS?

We speak of natural food when it comes as close as possible to the biological needs of the animal, with quality ingredients, little or not processed.

Key features:

• Quality animal proteins : meats, fish, offal.
• Fresh and identifiable ingredients : vegetables, suitable fruits, oils rich in omega-3.
• Fewer additives : no artificial colors, flavors or chemical preservatives.
• Respect for specific needs : the cat is a strict carnivore, the dog an opportunistic carnivore.

WHY CONSIDER A CHANGE TO A NATURAL DIET?

1. To meet physiological needs

A growing puppy or kitten, an active adult, or a frail senior do not have the same nutritional needs. A natural diet allows you to adjust the intake of protein, fiber, fat, and micronutrients according to the animal's life stage.

2. Improve digestive health

Some animals suffer from chronic diarrhea, flatulence, or foul-smelling stools. A more digestible, natural diet can reduce these discomforts.

3. Limit allergies and intolerances

Commercial kibble often contains poorly tolerated protein sources or grains. A simpler diet, based on fresh ingredients, helps identify and avoid allergens.

4. Preventing overweight and chronic diseases

Obesity, diabetes, and kidney or liver disease are often aggravated by an unbalanced diet. Natural foods allow for better control of calorie intake and nutritional quality.

5. To offer more vitality and well-being

A well-fed dog or cat is more active, its coat is silkier, and its immune system is stronger.

HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY MAKE THE DIETARY TRANSITION?

Changing your dog's or cat's diet abruptly is a common mistake. Their digestive system needs time to adjust.

Typical transition plan

• Days 1 to 3 : 75% old food + 25% new natural food.
• Days 4 to 6 : 50% / 50%.
• Days 7 to 10 : 25% old + 75% new.
• Day 11 and following : 100% new food.

👉 In cats, which are more sensitive and selective, it is advisable to extend the transition over 2 to 3 weeks.

Practical advice

• Mix the two foods thoroughly.
• Introduce only one change at a time.
• Monitor bowel movements, appetite, and energy levels.
• Always offer fresh water.
• If your pet is fragile (senior, sick, sensitive digestive), seek the advice of your veterinarian.

WHAT FORMS OF NATURAL FOOD SHOULD WE CHOOSE?

1. The cooked household ration

Meats, vegetables, cooked starchy foods (brown rice, no pasta!) and DHA/EPA oil + expired yogurts, eggs, etc…

2. BARF (raw food diet)

Raw meat, meaty bones, offal, raw mixed vegetables (or cooked, at my house, raw vegetables don't go down well, just like with children!!).

3. Natural processed foods

CHECK THE LABELS CAREFULLY (see our article)

CONCLUSION: A LONG-TERM HEALTH CHOICE

Choosing a natural diet for your dog or cat means choosing nutrition that respects their body , is adapted to their biological needs, and is beneficial for their long-term health.

The key to success lies in a gradual transition , careful observation and, ideally, veterinary support specializing in nutrition .

👉 At Labo Solidago, we support each owner in this process, so that each animal finds the food best suited to its health and well-being.

The Holi-Detox kit is suggested during a dietary transition.

HoliDigest : Supports upper digestive health (stomach, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas) and kidney function. Also used as a metabolic toxin drainer.

HoliBiote : Helps maintain natural intestinal defenses and support the immune system during adaptations to changes in food type.

HoliMin : Allows for better absorption of vitamins, nutrients and minerals, essential for maintaining overall health.