Feeding Aids

​​Usually, animals are able to eat on their own and absorb vitamins and nutrients on their own. However, there are numerous exceptional cases, such as sick or orphaned animals, in which feeding assistance is required. In such cases, we speak of enteral or parenteral feeding and feeding aids are used. In enteral feeding, the food is fed with the aid of a tube or syringe. Parenteral feeding, on the other hand, is done through the use of drinkers, drencher or teats. Another reason for using feeding aids is to ensure the correct dosage of feed. This is especially important so that cases of under- or overfeeding can be avoided. Meddax24 has feeding aids of all kinds ready for your use.

Feeding Aids for Animals

In general, animals are capable of eating independently. However, if they are seriously ill or orphaned, they may require assistance with feeding. Various methods of feeding assistance are available. When feeding is carried out using a tube or syringe, it is referred to as enteral feeding. When feeding involves the use of bottles, drenchers, or nipples, it is referred to as parenteral feeding. At meddax24.de, you will find all the accessories required to assist with feeding dogs, cats, horses, rodents, reptiles, cows, lambs, and more. Complementary treatment and care and reliable examination equipment support safe feeding workflows.

Feed Quantity

To meet an animal’s nutritional needs, two factors must be considered: the amount of food and its nutritional content. For example, even if the feed has an adequate nutrient profile, underfeeding or overfeeding may occur if the quantity is too little or too much. It is therefore essential to ensure that the administered amount is appropriate and sufficient. Suitable dietary supplements can help maintain proper nutrition.

Types of Feeding Methods

Feeding can be divided into three main types:

• Ad libitum feeding
• Portion-controlled interval feeding
• Time-limited interval feeding

At meddax24.de, you’ll find nearly every accessory needed to support all types of feeding methods. With ad libitum feeding, animals are offered more food than they require and may eat as much and as often as they like. The only condition is that the feed must be kept fresh.

Illness Aggravated by Undernourishment

If an animal becomes ill and loses its appetite—also known as anorexia—forced feeding may become necessary. Since the animal no longer feels hunger, it refuses all food intake. If no action is taken, there is a risk of undernourishment in the medium term. According to veterinarians, for example, cats should not go without food for more than 24 hours. If they do, their liver may suffer irreversible damage. Even if a cat eats very little over several days, it may result in irreparable liver damage. The body is already weakened, and as the cat continues to lose weight due to insufficient nutrient intake, the organism becomes even more debilitated. This increases the animal’s vulnerability to disease, and recovery cannot begin effectively if undernourishment is present. Proper practice accessories and consistent cleaning support safe feeding.

Forced Feeding as a Last Resort

Although forced feeding is considered a last resort, it becomes essential if an animal completely refuses to eat. The food must first be liquefied. It can then be administered in controlled amounts using a syringe. We offer the appropriate syringes for this purpose. In addition, we provide accessories to support you in the feeding process.

If you have any questions about feeding aids or would like general advice, please feel free to contact our customer service team by phone or email.