Unprocessed foods that are healthy for your cat or dog:
Chicken, Turkey
- High protein source that is low in fat.
- Contributes towards exceptional health in dogs.
- Cats are true carnivores, they must have a protein-based diet.
- Dogs are omnivores, they thrive on a diet that includes meat.
Lamb
- A good protein source.
Rabbit
- A good protein source.
Fish
- A good protein source.
- Fish has omega-3 fatty acids, which helps control arthritis, allergies, and high cholesterol.
Sweet Potato
- Sweet potato is a good source of energy, supplies important nutrients, and is a natural source of dietary fiber.
Green Beans
- Increases feelings of fullness thereby reducing overeating.
Spinach
- An excellent source of fiber and packed with nutrients.
Broccoli
- Very good for dogs and cats, but should not be more than 10% of their diet because it can be a potent gastrointestinal irritant.
Carrot
- A good source of fiber.
Kale
- A good source of fiber and packed with nutrients.
Raw bones (veal or lamb)
- Provides protein and a balance of essential minerals.
- Helps prevent periodontal disease and may actually reverse its effects
Note: Vegetables can be grated, mashed or blended in a food processor, however your pet prefers.
Unprocessed foods your cat or dog should avoid:
Chocolate
- Theobromine is the compound in chocolate that is harmful to dogs. Dark chocolate is worse than milk chocolate.
- Causes gastrointestinal problems, vomiting, excitement, increased urination, muscle tremors and rapid heart rate.
- Can be toxic, may cause death at doses of 100mg/kg or more.
Onion
- Can lead to hemolytic anemia (abnormal breakdown of red blood cells) in cats and dogs.
- May lead to a toxic build up, cats are more sensitive than dogs.
Garlic
- May lead to a toxic build up in both cats and dogs.
Fava Beans
- Toxic to pets.
Macadamia Nuts
- Contains an unknown toxin: can affect the digestive system, nervous system and muscles.
- Side effects may include: abdominal pain, vomiting, pale gums, stiffness, lameness, difficulty walking, tremors, weakness, and depression.
Grapes & Raisins
- Causes gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea, and could lead to kidney failure, and may cause death.
Eggplant
- Very poisonous to pets.
White Potato
- Potato skins can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, nervous system stimulation, depression, trembling, paralysis & cardiac arrest.
Tomatoes
- Tomatoes can cause tremors, heart arrhythmias, severe gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, drowsiness, CNS depression, confusion, behavioral change, weakness, and dilated pupils.
Wheat
- Hard to digest, pets are likely to be allergic.
Corn
- Can lead to vomiting, depression, drooling, lack of coordination, and weakness.
Beef
- Hard to digest.
- Large amounts of liver may cause Vitamin A toxicity, which affects muscles and bones.
Cooked Bones
- Cooked bones get brittle and splinter when cooked. This can lead to intestinal perforations.
Leave a Comment
