Give fruits and vegetables to animals

It is not wrong in some cases to ensure a supply of fruit and vegetables to dogs and cats , especially since these foods help to hydrate and invigorate the organism of these animals.

As veterinarians and nutritionists state, fruit and vegetables should not replace a meal , but can be given as alternative and healthy snacks, to vary a little from the industrial products marketed, or they can be introduced occasionally and in small quantities in the baby food . .

Obviously, before going to work and in the kitchen, make sure that your dog is in good health, free from particular allergies or pathologies, and always ask your veterinarian for advice first!

Benefits for dogs and cats

The intestine of these animals would be the first organ to benefit , as it would increase its functionality thanks to the fibers, eliminating irregularities, dysfunctions and constipation .

But be careful not to overeat: as explained by Animalpedia , the intake of fiber should not go beyond 35% of the dog’s diet, for example, because so many fibers could obstruct the digestive tract.

It must be said that the increase in precious minerals, vitamins and antioxidants would also contribute to maintaining the health of dogs and cats, ensuring their protection, vitality and gradual physical aging. Also, in the case of chubby dogs or cats, adding certain plant foods to the diet can do nothing but good.

Read also Natural health for dogs and cats >>

Vegetarian cats and dogs?

Dogs and cats are not vegetarians, of course. Therefore , eating habits should not be radically subverted or changed for adult or elderly animals, often reluctant to welcome new products into their daily diet. 

While small doses of plant-based foods can already be given to puppies; in this case, the recommended fruit includes apple, pear, banana (don’t overdo it!), apricots, but also watermelon (rich in fructose, don’t overdo it), melon or exotic fruits like mango and papaya.

Absolutely to be avoided are avocados, citrus fruits, dried fruit in general, raisins included, and Macadamia nuts, which can cause physical suffering for animals. The fruit is generally administered raw, well washed, peeled and de-cored or seeded.

The preferred vegetables , especially well cleaned, boiled or steamed, include courgettes, green beans, broccoli, peas, carrots, pumpkin. In some cases, and especially for cats, it is good to cut them into small pieces and mix them with the rest of the usual food or use them to prepare the broth.

Red light instead for “strong” vegetables such as garlic, onion, shallot or leeks; even tomatoes, peppers, aubergines, raw potatoes or mushrooms are not good, especially the latter can be very harmful to the liver.

Proper nutrition: new products for dogs and cats

Industrial products, home cooking or the Barf diet?

Apart from trends, in addition to fresh and seasonal fruit and vegetables, there are also dry and dehydrated or wet products that contain a certain percentage of fruit or vegetables.

Generally it is advisable not to give the dog or cat fruit or vegetables every day, but you can try to include them in the meal once a week , varying and alternating it, thus observing the specific reaction of the animal.

Simple and useful readings can be “Food and health for dogs and cats” by G. Biagi and C. Vecchiato; “The Complete Handbook on Dog and Cat Health” , which also contains a dissertation on the Barf diet, by Jutta Ziegler.