Nutrition for the Pregnant and Nursing dog
Proper nutrition, according to the UC ADVIS Veterinary Medicine School, is critical for improving pregnancy and milking outcomes.
- The normal diet should be followed during the first half of the pregnancy, ideally a high-quality AAFCO-approved dog/cat food.
- Until the second half of the pregnancy, no increase in calories or nutrients is required. When a pregnancy is confirmed at about 30 day's conception, the amount fed should be increased by about 25% each of the last four weeks of pregnancy.
- Following whelping, the queen may require feeding in her box, close to her pups/kittens. Many queens will not allow their puppies or kittens to eat normally.
- Late milking has a caloric requirement that is twice the normal requirement.
- Consult your veterinarian to see if your pet would benefit from an earlier transition to a diet appropriate for all life stages or the addition of essential fatty acids at the time of breeding.
A diet designed for all life stages, including puppies, contains enough minerals and vitamins for pregnancy and nursing and should not be supplemented further.
Before giving any supplements or medications to your queen during pregnancy, consult with your veterinarian.
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