There are a few ways in which your pet really knows how to communicate with you. Obviously, some dogs and cats are quite open and loud when it comes to displaying affection, but other than that they struggle to let you know even basic problems they may have. That is why it is up to you to ensure you are monitoring their behaviour so that if something is amiss you pick up on it straight away. Here are a few reasons why you should always monitor what your pet eats and when you should consider taking the information to a nearby vet.
How Much They Eat
If your pet is not eating their full, allotted amount that you have worked hard to ensure is appropriate for their size and activity levels, then you might want to make a note of it. If they finish this food during the rest of the day, then you may just be giving them a little too much and might need to reduce portion size at meal time. However, if they never finish their food and struggle to eat anymore, then that is more cause for concern, and if it continues on for a few days in a row you should seek help from a vet clinic.
What They Eat
Your pet should be eating a variety of foods, both wet and dry. Some pets can become fussy eaters and only eat their favourite type of food, but sometimes this choice isn't them being picky but them signalling to you they cannot eat the other type of food without pain. Perhaps they have an upset stomach and dry food is causing them more grief, or perhaps they are not able to process the wet food and their stool is quite runny. If your pet clearly has a preference for one food and it will not change, then an inspection at a vet clinic can help reveal their secrets.
Fake Eating
Sometimes pets may try to fake eating to avoid arousing suspicion in their owners. Pets are not stupid, and they know that if they avoid routine and don't eat that you will notice. Instead, sometimes pets will simply move around food with their nose and hands, or even hide it. If you notice your pet behaving strangely around food, they may be trying to conceal the fact that they are in pain and cannot eat easily, so you may want to see a vet about this strange behaviour to see what is causing it.
For more information, visit a vet clinic near you.