Vegan diets for Dogs and Cats… Really?
Veggies may be good for you and I, but not having ANY animal protein has me thinking maybe NOT, and now we somehow think this can be good for our dogs and cats?
This is a confusing topic, but there are some things I am clear about…
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Vegan Diets for Dogs: A New Perspective on Pet Health?
This recent study has me pondering—could I be wrong?
The Survey and Its Findings
A study published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on April 13, 2022, explored the potential health benefits of vegan diets for dogs. The research, led by Andrew Knight of the University of Winchester, U.K., involved surveying over 2,500 dog guardians. The study aimed to compare the health outcomes of dogs fed conventional meat, raw meat, or vegan diets.
The survey posed questions about various aspects of the dogs’ health, such as the frequency of veterinary visits, the use of medications, and the presence of specific health disorders. The statistical analysis revealed a surprising trend: dogs on conventional diets were generally less healthy than those on raw meat or vegan diets. Interestingly, dogs on raw meat diets appeared to be the healthiest among the groups.
A Closer Look at the Raw Meat Diet
While the study suggests that dogs on raw meat diets seem healthier, there are critical factors to consider. For one, the dogs on raw meat diets were significantly younger than those on vegan diets, which could partly explain their apparent better health. Additionally, dogs on raw meat diets were less likely to visit the veterinarian. While this might indicate better health, previous research suggests that guardians of dogs on raw meat diets are less inclined to seek veterinary advice.
The Case for Vegan Diets
Given these considerations, the researchers concluded that more extensive studies are necessary to determine whether a raw meat or vegan diet is genuinely better for dogs’ health. However, they noted that raw meat diets have been linked to an increased risk of pathogens and nutritional deficiencies in previous studies.
Taking into account both new and prior findings, the researchers propose that a nutritionally complete vegan diet might be the healthiest and least hazardous option for dogs.
The authors of the study stated: “We believe our study of 2,536 dogs is by far the largest study published to date, exploring health outcomes of dogs fed vegan and meat-based diets. It analyzed a range of objective data, as well as owner opinions and reported veterinary assessments of health. It revealed that the healthiest and least hazardous dietary choices for dogs are nutritionally sound vegan diets."
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My Thoughts as a Veterinarian
Before we all decide to ditch the meat, let’s take a step back and consider this: the study notes that “overall, dogs on conventional diets were less healthy than dogs on raw meat or vegan diets. Dogs on raw meat diets appeared to be healthier than those on vegan diets."
Yes, dogs on raw meat diets appeared to be healthier! If you can provide your dog with animal protein, raw or homemade, I believe this is the best option.
However, we must acknowledge the reality of rising food costs and the challenges some people face in feeding themselves, let alone their pets. In such cases, a vegan dog food diet may be a viable option—it may not be ideal, but it could be okay.
Our world is changing, and as I often say, we need to be open to doing things differently. This might extend to how we feed our dogs.
As for cats, they need animal protein to survive, so don’t show me any vegan cat food!
For now, I’ll stick with meat for my dog, Tula.
A Health Boost for Your Pet
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Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula is your go-to solution for supporting your cat’s health naturally. This powerful formula boosts digestive health, supports joint mobility, enhances skin and coat, and aids in healthy aging, helping your cat enjoy life to the fullest.
Crafted as a non-GMO, gluten-free powder, Ultimate Feline Health Formula is simple to mix into your cat’s meals. Trust in our natural, holistic approach to ensure your cat’s health and happiness.
Holistic Health for Your Cat with Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula
Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula
