Vegetarian Pet Supplies
What can companion animals eat? You might think twice about feeding Fido or Tabby some brands of commercial pet foods, especially when you understand what those labels mean: meat by-products could be any part of an animal, from intestines to hooves and processed from any animal source—dead, diseased, or even an animal disabled before slaughter.
Few experts seem to agree on whether a vegetarian diet is really suitable for dogs and cats. Before you make the choice for your animal, discuss the options with your vet, and also check online at sites like the ASPCA and PETA.
Vegetarian Dogs
Dogs are carnivorous, right? Or, at least, omnivorous. But according to the results of one study solicited through People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) of dogs eating a no-meat/no-meat-product diet, the results were gratifying: the dogs studied seemed to thrive.
But if you are thinking of switching Fido to a vegetarian diet, you should ask your vet’s advice first, then buy commercially prepared vegetarian dog food products that are balanced for all the nutrients dogs require. Make sure that the product says that it is certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This means the food meets the standards for canine nutrition.
If you have put your dog on a vegetarian diet, you will know he is not doing well if he has diarrhea, vomiting, weight or energy loss, or other chronic health conditions with no other obvious reasons. If the dog’s food is all-vegan, you might consider adding such protein sources as yogurt or eggs to the diet. For more information, check out Vegetarian Dogs and the Vegetarian Society.
Fact
Whether or not you put your pet on a vegetarian diet, you can at least outfit your dog or cat with all-natural, environmentally friendly shampoos, flea therapy, dog treats and toys, and training aids. Check out Botanical Dog or Only Natural Pet Store.
Vegetarian Cats
Unlike dogs, cats are carnivores and require certain elements not found in an all-plant diet, including taurine (an amino acid) and arachidonic acid (an essential fatty acid), so not everyone agrees that an all-vegetarian diet is cat-safe. If you are considering putting your cat on such a diet, consult your veterinarian first. For more information about vegetarian cats, go to the Vegetarian Society.
