FAQs Archive

Q: How often should I feed my pet?

Nutritionists recommend feeding your pet twice a day, following feeding guidelines as directed for your pet’s age and weight. Your veterinarian can help you determine the optimal feeding schedule and frequency, depending on the health of your cat or dog.

Q: Is it ok to “free feed” my pet?

Lucy Pet recommends to follow the feeding guidelines, generally twice per day. The objective is to ensure your pet does not become obese, so if your pet tends to over eat, measured feeding times are the best option to keep your pet at optimal weight.

Q: Can I give my pet some table scraps?

We strongly discourage from feeding table scraps to your pet. Lucy Pet Formulas for Life ™ are complete and balanced with the correct levels of essential vitamins and minerals pets require. Feeding table scraps over time are dangerous because they would consume less of their complete and balanced diet in favor of highly seasoned table scraps. This may also interfere with healthy digestion and cause stomach upset.

Q: How can I determine if my pet is overweight or obese?

Generally for most pets you should be able to see a defined tucked abdomen and distinct waistline. You should be able to feel the ribs if you gently rub your hand over the ribcage. Obesity is the #1 health issue for dogs and cats, and most pet parents are in denial about their pet’s weight. Consult your veterinarian to check your pet’s weight. A diet of restricted calories, measured feeding, and regular exercise will usually make a big difference in keeping your pet at a healthy weight. If your pet is overweight, be sure to cut back on the treats, those add calories too!

Q: I thought cats were carnivores, so why are there carbohydrates in the cat diet?

It is true that cats are obligate carnivores, but carbohydrates perform an important function in the diet and digestive process. They provide a source of energy, and also a source of fiber. The fiber-rich, complex carbohydrates we use as part of our P.B.F. Prebiotic Balanced Fiber ™ offer significant benefit to a cat’s overall health and wellness. Carbohydrates also play an important role regarding texture and shape of the kibble. When the starch in carbohydrates is cooked with other ingredients, they help bind the mixture to produce kibble with a specific texture and shape that is appealing to dogs and cats. The texture and shape are also important to support healthy teeth and gums. Carbohydrates in pet food can come from many sources, such as chickpeas, peas, pea flour.

Q: My pet is pregnant/lactating. How should I feed them?

Congratulations on expecting a new litter. For pregnant and lactating dogs or cats, it is important they consume enough food for their own needs and to nourish their future offspring. The typical increase in consumption can range from 25% to 50% more than their usual level. Because their caloric requirements increase dramatically, you should consult the feeding guidelines for a pregnant/lactating pet. We recommend consulting your veterinarian for specific feeding guidelines for your pet.

Q: How much water do I need to give my pet?

Your pet should have full access to fresh water at all times. A healthy pet will usually drink the amount of water they need. Clean and sanitize your pet's water bowls often to minimize the growth of bacteria. In the first few weeks transitioning to our diets, you may observe your pet drinking more water. This is normal, as your pet's digestive system adjusts to the unique fiber blend in our food. Fiber is an important part of good digestive health. Some cats do not consume enough water due to accessibility or other factors. Since pets (cats especially) are often attracted to gentle “running water”, a pet water fountain may be a helpful option to encourage your pet to drink more water. Always monitor how much water your pet consumes. Water is an essential nutrient, so it is beneficial for them to consume as much water as they want. If your pet's water consumption declines, be sure to notify your vet. Drastic changes in water consumption may be critical to observe as a potential indication of other health issues. Your veterinarian can answer specific health-related questions if necessary.

Q: I’ve heard some people say not to feed dry kibble, or that its better to make my own pet food.

Lucy Pet Formulas for Life ™ are complete and balanced with the correct and guaranteed levels of essential vitamins & minerals pets require. Our formulas use only the highest quality ingredients. Most of our ingredients are procured from human food suppliers. We never use rejected or poor quality ingredients. Consumers are busy, home cooking is time-consuming and significantly more expensive that a quality kibble diet. Incorrect preparation and improper cooking may deplete certain nutrient requirements, and result in a deficient diet, which could be harmful to the pet. These imbalances may be visible until it is too late. Your pet should have full access to fresh water at all times. A healthy pet will usually drink the amount of water they need. Many cats to not consume enough water due to accessibility or other factors. Since pets (cats especially) are often attracted to gentle “running water”, a pet water fountain may be a convenient option to encourage your pet to drink more water. Always monitor how much water your pet consumes. Water is an essential nutrient, and changes in water consumption are critical to observe as a potential indication of other health issues.

Q: Does Lucy Pet perform any laboratory testing on animals?

No. Lucy Pet does not test any of its products on animals. We allow our own pets to use our products as we develop and perfect them.

Q: Who regulates the pet food industry?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible to regulate all pet food manufacturers. The USDA is responsible to inspect pet food plants and perform full audits annually.