Balanced Diets for Pets: Understanding Nutritional Needs

Ensuring your pet eats well is about more than just filling a bowl. A balanced diet for pets supports healthy development, energy, coat condition, immunity, and longevity. With so many pet food choices (and even more opinions) it can be difficult to know what’s right for your dog or cat. That’s where veterinary guidance matters.

At Cherrybrook Vet Practice, we help you make informed decisions based on your pet’s age, breed, health status and lifestyle — not just marketing buzzwords.

What is a balanced diet for pets?

A balanced diet for pets provides all the nutrients your pet needs, in the right proportions, to maintain optimal body condition, energy, and health. These nutrients include proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and water. The right balance varies between species, breeds, life stages, and medical needs.

Whether you’re choosing the best dog food Australia offers or the best cat food Australia has available, it’s important to know that not all pet foods are created equal. Check the label for “complete and balanced” and don’t hesitate to ask your vet for recommendations that match your pet’s needs.

Why are pet dietary requirements so specific?

Just like people, dogs and cats require different nutrients in different quantities. Factors such as:

  • Age (puppy/kitten, adult, senior)
  • Weight and body condition
  • Breed and size
  • Activity level
  • Reproductive status (entire or desexed)
  • Underlying health issues

… all influence what (and how much) your pet should eat.

For example, puppies need higher energy and calcium levels for bone development, while older pets may require joint-supporting nutrients or lower calorie intake. Cats are obligate carnivores and must get certain amino acids like taurine from animal protein, while dogs are omnivores and more adaptable, though their food still needs to meet AAFCO or PFIAA nutrient profiles.

Health screening and dietary needs

Sometimes, a pet’s food should be adjusted based on internal health markers. For example, pets with kidney or liver issues often require specialised diets with adjusted protein, phosphorus, or sodium levels.

If your vet suspects an underlying issue, they may recommend a blood test or pathology profile to inform the right dietary path. Cherrybrook’s pet pathology service can assist in identifying any hidden conditions that may benefit from a therapeutic or Hills Prescription Diet approach.

“Speak to us about your pet’s nutritional needs” – Dr Matt

“Every pet is different. That’s why I encourage clients to speak with one of our team to determine a diet that reflects your pet’s age, breed, weight and activity levels. A well-balanced diet is one of the best investments you can make in their long-term health.”
— Dr Matt, Cherrybrook Vet Practice

Our experienced team will help you decode food labels, understand when a hills science diet or vet recommended dog food is appropriate, and advise whether supplements or feeding changes could benefit your pet’s specific circumstances.

Wet food vs dry food: What’s the best option?

Both wet and dry pet foods can provide complete and balanced nutrition — but each has pros and cons.

Dry Food (Kibble)

Wet Food (Tins, Pouches, Rolls)

Pros

Convenient and easy to store.

Often more economical.

Can help reduce tartar when chewing.

Useful for puzzle feeders and slow bowls.

Cons

Must be paired with constant access to fresh water, especially for cats.

Can be energy-dense, so portion control is important.

Product can contain ‘fillers’ to enable economic production.

Shelf life should be checked once opened.

Pros

High moisture content helps support hydration.

Palatable for fussy eaters or pets with dental issues.

Easier to mix with medications.

Cons

Perishable once opened.

Can be more expensive and messier.

Incredient quality can vary. Check the ingredients list to see what you’re paying for.

Doesn’t help maintain dental health.

 

 

 

TIP: Ingredients are listed in order of weight. The first ingredient makes up the largest proportion of the food, so keep an eye on what’s listed first. Click HERE for the PFIAA guide to pet food labelling in Australia.

Many pets thrive on a mixed feeding approach, wet food for moisture and taste, dry food for dental health and convenience. Ask your vet what’s best for your pet.

Can I trust supermarket pet food?

Supermarket pet foods can be convenient and affordable, but they’re not all created equal. Some may not meet the full nutritional requirements of your pet, and not all are classified as a “complete diet.”

  • Always read the fine print. Look for the phrase “complete and balanced” on the label. This means the food has been formulated to provide all necessary nutrients in the correct ratios for your pet’s life stage.
  • Some lower-cost options may contain fillers, low-quality protein sources, or unbalanced mineral levels, which can impact long-term health. It’s not just about calories — it’s about what those calories are made of.

If in doubt, check with your vet. We’re here to help you decode the ingredients list and ensure your pet’s nutritional needs are being met, even when on a budget.

What do official vet bodies recommend?

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA) both recommend feeding pets commercially prepared pet foods that meet recognised nutritional standards. These foods should be labelled as “complete and balanced” and should ideally be backed by feeding trials or formulated to meet AAFCO or PFIAA nutrient profiles.

“When selecting a diet, pet owners should be guided by veterinarians or veterinary nutritionists. Look for products manufactured by companies with robust quality control and nutritional research.”
– PFIAA, Feeding Guidelines

Pet food myths: Busted

There’s no shortage of online advice and pet food marketing, but not all of it is trustworthy. Let’s clear up a few common myths.

Myth: “Grain-free is always better.”

Grain isn’t inherently bad for pets unless they have a diagnosed allergy (which is rare). In fact, some grain-free diets may be lower in important nutrients or higher in fats and calories.

Myth: “Raw feeding is more natural.”

While raw food diets can work in some cases, they carry risks, including bacterial contamination and unbalanced nutrition. If you’re considering a raw diet, speak to your vet first to ensure it’s safely and appropriately done.

Myth: “Human food is healthier for pets.”

Many human foods are unsafe for pets. Chocolate, onions, grapes, and cooked bones are just a few examples. Even safe foods can unbalance your pet’s diet or contribute to obesity.

Healthy additions: Treats and feeding enrichment

A good, balanced diet for pets doesn’t stop at the main meal. Think about how you offer food, not just what’s in it.

  • Use slow-feeders or puzzle toys to turn meals into mental stimulation.
  • Offer small quantities of vet-approved fresh treats like carrot sticks or cooked chicken.
  • Keep treats to under 10% of total daily calories to avoid disrupting your pet’s nutrient intake.

Final tips for feeding your pet well

  • Choose food appropriate for your pet’s life stage and breed.
  • Check for “complete and balanced” on labels.
  • Speak with your vet before changing diets or adding supplements.
  • Monitor your pet’s weight and body condition regularly.
  • Don’t forget fresh water — always available, especially with dry food.

If you’re unsure whether your current food is doing the job, we’re here to help.

Want support choosing the right pet food?

Let our team help you understand your options and choose the best diet for your pet’s needs.

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