When a healthy adult cat or dog is largely due to the fact that its growth stage (from the neonatal period to 10 months of age in felines, from 1 year of age in canines, after the transition period) allowed them to develop their entire system optimally. What happens when this stage is compromised?

Problems during the development stage can occur more frequently in adopted pets or those with nursing difficulties, as mother's milk provides passive immunity and the necessary nutrients.

Among the main problems faced by newborn animals without access to maternal milk are:

• Malnutrition and dehydration. Mother's milk contains essential nutrients for development, as well as providing hydration.
• Compromised immunity. Mother's milk acts as a source of passive immunity for offspring.
• Low body temperature. Both mother's milk and contact with the mother are sources of warmth to which they do not have access.

This can result in inadequate development of systems such as the immune system, muscular... but also the hepatic, renal, and other vital functions. Inadequate development of certain organs can lead, in adulthood, to structural problems impossible to resolve.

During the development of the puppy or kitten, around 7 to 9 weeks of age, new milk teeth can hurt the mother, making access to maternal milk difficult. In these cases, the mother chews food to feed her offspring in puree form. This is known as the weaning stage.

The weaning phase coincides with the socialization period of a puppy's life (which can extend up to 16 weeks of age) and with the end of this period and the beginning of the juvenile phase in cats.

When there is no contact with the mother, it is necessary to simulate this process:

1. Moisten dry food with warm water or use moist food instead.
2. If they play with the food, there is no problem. They will gradually become interested in this food.
3. In the end, weaning should be 100% complete (during the period, they may continue to use maternal milks or, in the presence of the mother, some food may be her milk).
4. It is not recommended to use milk from other animals during the development of the puppy or kitten (from birth), as it can cause problems such as diarrhea or vomiting.

One of the main goals in the first months of life of animals is to complete the vaccination schedule and veterinary check-ups. When they have completed their vaccinations, they will be able to go out for walks and play on the street.

Healthy eating, a cozy environment without extreme temperatures, and the gradual introduction of exercise are other guidelines that should be implemented.

The veterinarian is the one who will monitor the development of cats and dogs, establishing changes in diet and dietary supplements if necessary.

Complementary feed that contribute to the proper development of dogs, cats, and other pets are known as enriched instant milk substitutes. These contain components, minerals, and vitamins that help in the healthy development of the pet. These nutrients contribute to the development of all tissues, support the immune system, provide energy, thermal maintenance...

Among the nutrients that help in the proper growth of pets with a few weeks of life are:

• Colostrum. It is a high source of proteins and other nutrients with a fundamental role in the development of the puppy's immune system.
• Vitamins.  Water-soluble and fat-soluble. Vitamin A and B-group vitamins: niacin (vitamin B3), thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), choline (choline chloride), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folic acid, and cyanocobalamin (B12), vitamin C, vitamin D3, vitamin E, vitamin K. Among many functions, they contribute to the immune system, proper growth of bones, joints, muscles, and cell regeneration.
• Taurine. Known to be an essential amino acid, especially in cats, it can contribute to the correct functioning of the animal's metabolic system.
• Linoleic acid (omega 6), linolenic acid (omega 3), EPA + DHA omega 3. Contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system and proper development of different body organs.

Pharmadiet Veterinary reminds that the veterinarian should be the main point of contact to monitor the ideal development of dogs and cats. This specialist will establish personalized treatment and care.