At Odyssey Pets, our mission is to holistically improve the lives of pets. Nutrition plays a huge role in the overall health of dogs and cats. Other than feeding a fresh, species appropriate diet, we advocate rotational feeding (which should be done whether you feed raw or not). You wouldn’t want to eat the same plate of food every day for the rest of your life, would you? Rotational feeding involves changing your pet's diet regularly. The days of picking one food and sticking with it is a mindset of the past! Here’s why:

  1. Improved Nutritional Balance

Different types of pet food offer different nutrients, and by rotating your pet's diet, you can provide a more diverse range of nutrients. Each food has a unique combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and by rotating different types of food, you can ensure your pet gets a balanced diet. This variety can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and promote overall health.

  1. Reduced Food Intolerance

Just like humans, pets can develop food sensitivities and allergies. Rotational feeding helps reduce the risk of developing intolerances and allergies as you're not feeding the same food repeatedly. If your pet is allergic to a particular ingredient, feeding them the same food for an extended period can make their symptoms worse. By changing their diet, you can prevent this from happening.

  1. Increased Palatability

Pets can get bored and become “finicky” with the same food, just like humans. Rotational feeding can make mealtime more exciting for them by introducing new flavors and textures. When you rotate food, you may notice that your pet becomes more enthusiastic about eating, which can also help picky eaters to get more interested in their food.

  1. Better Digestion

Different types of food have varying levels of fiber, which can affect your pet's digestion. Rotational feeding introduces a range of fiber levels. This variety can promote good gut health, improve stool quality, and reduce digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation. The microbiome is responsible for 70-80% of the immune system. The more diverse the diet, the more diverse the microbiome and the more adaptable it will be.

Other ways to “mix” things up at meal time:

  • Add goat milk, bone broth, or veggie mixes like Green Juju
  • Rotate supplements
  • Add eggs (boiled or raw)

In conclusion, rotational feeding offers a range of benefits for your pet's health and well-being. Rotating between types of food, brands of foods, proteins, supplements, and toppers will all be beneficial in the long run.