If you have been a dog owner for at least 15 minutes, you are likely aware that your furry friend has the tendency to consume almost anything. Canines have exhibited behavior of consuming items such as corn cobs, socks, tampons, and even cannabis, among various other things.
It is not a shock that dogs frequently consume cat food when considering the bigger picture. Nonetheless, this should not be a cause for concern as a small amount of cat food will not have a significant impact on your dog’s health. While it’s not advisable to promote this behavior, you don’t need to immediately address it as an urgent matter.
In the following discussion, we will address the motives behind keeping your dog from consuming the cat’s food and provide some useful strategies for achieving this goal.
- Dogs often find cat food utterly delicious. You shouldn’t encourage your dog to eat feline food, but a bit of cat food won’t cause your dog any serious problems.
- Cat food does differ in a few key ways from dog food, including the nutritional profile, its fat content, and some of the supplements (such as taurine) that are added to the recipe. This means long-term consumption of cat food may very well cause problems for your canine.
- Ideally, you’ll want to prevent your dog from eating cat food by doing things like feeding your cat in a dog-proof location or using an automated feeder that prevents your pooch from accessing the food.
Your Dog Just Raided the Cat’s Food Bowl: What Should You Expect?
Most of the time, dogs will not experience any significant issues from consuming a dish of cat food.
A few individuals might have minor to moderate gastrointestinal problems and those who have delicate stomachs may even vomit, but that is the extent of it.
If a dog is allergic to any of the components of a cat’s food, it may experience itchy skin. However, it is improbable unless the dog consumes a significant amount of cat food. Ceasing the dog’s habit of snatching food from its feline companion should resolve the itching promptly.
However, every dog is unique and may respond in various ways to various types of nourishment. The occurrence of negative reactions, specifically allergic reactions, cannot be entirely ruled out.
In the event that your dog experiences severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, excessive scratching, swelling in the face, or persistent diarrhea, it is important to seek the counsel of your veterinarian.
Is Cat Food Bad For Dogs?
The above variations pose no immediate harm to cats or dogs. It is improbable that either pet will require veterinary attention as a result of stealing some of the other’s food.
But while you needn’t worry about your dog sneaking the odd mouthful of cat food from time to time, you want to take all necessary steps to prevent the practice. Cat food may not be acutely dangerous for dogs, but it can cause problems over the long-term .
There are several major issues that are probable consequences of dogs consuming cat food.
Weight Gain
Cat food is not only rich in fat and protein than most dog foods, it is also frequently more calorific. Consequently, dogs that consume cat food frequently are at risk of gaining excess weight.
Although a small increase in weight is unlikely to harm your dog, dogs that become seriously overweight or obese often have shorter, less healthy lifespans.
Long-Term Nutritional Deficiencies
Although dogs do not require taurine or arachidonic acid supplements like cats, they still need a well-balanced diet that contains the correct combination of minerals, vitamins, and calories.
Dogs may experience nutritional deficiencies if they regularly consume cat food, which is not formulated to fulfill their dietary requirements.
Pancreatitis
Consumption of cat food with high fat content may lead to pancreatitis in certain dogs, which can be potentially lethal. It should be noted that the risk of developing pancreatitis is not exclusive to cat food and any high-fat foods can pose a threat to dogs.
Furthermore, even though it’s not a direct health concern, being particular about food could become an issue if you give your dog access to cat food. This could result in your dog rejecting their own food and demanding the same high-protein and high-fat goodness that the cat is consuming.
Keeping Your Canine Out of the Cat’s Food
If you own several pets, you’re aware of how difficult it can be to make them consume their individual meals.
If you have an overweight retriever, he might be trying to steal the new puppy’s food instead of eating his own low-calorie kibble. However, the puppy doesn’t seem to be bothered by this as he is too busy eating the cat’s food. The cat, in turn, is not paying attention to the puppy stealing his food as he is preoccupied with devouring your parakeet.
You will need to find a solution to prevent your cat from bothering your pet bird, while we will present some advice on keeping your dog from consuming the cat’s food.
Give Your Cat an Elevated Feeding Perch
To prevent your dog from eating your cat’s food, the simplest solution is to feed your cat at a higher level. Your cat can effortlessly jump onto the kitchen counter or climb a tower, whereas your dog will most likely not be able to access those areas.
Use an Automated Feeder
There are several ways in which automated cat feeders can be useful. One way is by choosing a feeder with programmable settings, which allows you to ensure that your cat has access to food even if you are occupied with taking your dog to the park.
You may also opt for an automatic feeder that dispenses food solely upon activation by a unique tag which you can attach to your cat’s collar.
Feed Your Cat in a Different Room
To ensure your dog stays away from your cat’s food, a straightforward solution is to give the feline its meals in an enclosed area that your canine cannot access.
It is possible to utilize any room for these activities, although bathrooms, laundry rooms, pantries, and garages are particularly suitable. In addition, baby gates can be employed to section off a portion of a room. Certain home canine gates have a narrow gap that enables cats to pass through while keeping dogs away.
Construct a Feeding Chamber for Your Cat
For those who prefer to do things themselves, constructing a safe dining area for their feline friend could be an option. This area would enable the cat to have a calm meal and safeguard its food from any attempts by the dog to snatch it away.
There are various ways to create a feeding chamber, but the most uncomplicated method is to buy a sizable plastic storage box and carve out a doorway on one side that is adequate for your cat, but insufficient for your dog. Place the meal into the box and presto! Your cat can eat without any interference from your canine companion.
BONUS: Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Recipe
As the information regarding commercial dog food and recalls frequently changes, an increasing number of dog owners are choosing to make their own dog food at home. While dogs enjoy homemade meals, it is not equivalent to preparing food for oneself or human family members. Complying with vital regulations is essential to maintain good health for your furry companion.
Should You Feed a Homemade Diet?
There is a rise in the popularity of homemade diets mainly due to the possibility of controlling the ingredients used and avoiding dog food recalls. Additionally, several individuals are opting for healthier food options and desire the same for their pets. Some people prefer homemade diets as they contain whole foods that are deemed healthier than processed dog food.
Before switching your dog to a homemade diet, it is important to consider certain factors as home cooking dog food may not be suitable for everyone.
- Be sure to find a dog food recipe that is complete and balanced. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to feed an incomplete or imbalanced diet to your dog.
- It takes time to measure ingredients and prepare the food correctly. Be sure you have a schedule that allows enough time to properly make your dog’s food on a regular basis.
- Make sure you can afford the ingredients to make your own dog food. Homemade food is typically less expensive than commercially prepared fresh or raw dog food, but it usually costs a little more than kibble.
- If you have a picky dog, you may need to source multiple recipes so you can change the diet periodically and keep your dog interested.
Proper Nutrition for Dogs
Like humans, dogs have nutritional needs that must be met in order for them to thrive. Dogs’ nutritional needs differ from our own, so you can’t exactly start sharing your own dinner with your dog. Feeding an incomplete or imbalanced diet can lead to vitamin and nutrient deficiencies in dogs.
To fulfill their energy needs, dogs require an adequate amount of calories that vary based on their level of activity and life stage. Consulting with your veterinarian can assist you in determining your dog’s daily caloric requirement.
For a well-rounded homemade dog diet, it’s crucial to include adequate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and fat. It’s important to supplement the food with vitamins and minerals to guarantee its completeness and balance.
- At least 10% protein , such as chicken, turkey, fish, lean beef
- Up to 50% carbohydrates, such as rice, pasta , and potatoes (also provides some fiber)
- About 2.5-4.5% fiber , which can come from vegetables like peas, green beans, and carrots
- At least 5.5% fat , usually in the form of vegetable oil
- Vitamin and mineral supplements (dog-specific; can be purchased from a reputable company like BalanceIT.com )
Before you embark on cooking for your canine, it is important to consult with your veterinarian as the initial step. Your vet may be able to provide you with recipe ideas or recommend a veterinary nutritionist or a specialist in canine nutrition.
How to Prepare Homemade Food for Dogs
To ensure your dog’s diet is properly balanced, it’s critical to use a complete recipe when cooking for them at home. After selecting an appropriate recipe with the guidance of a veterinarian, it’s time to begin the preparation process.
- Before you begin, it’s best if you have ready a food scale, food processor, pots and pans, and containers or bags for portioning the food.
- Purchase fresh, high-quality ingredients that are not canned, seasoned, or heavily processed.
- Set yourself up in a clean area of the kitchen that is free of foods that may be harmful to your dog .
- Measure out the ingredients. Use a food scale if possible for accuracy.
- Cook ingredients as directed on the recipe
- Mix food and supplements together well (ideally, use a food processor to blend ingredients).
- Place food in containers and store in the refrigerator or freezer.
- In general, refrigerated food will stay fresh for three to four days. Frozen dog food is best within about two months. Avoid feeding homemade dog food that has been in the freezer for more than six months.
To save time and money, several pet owners opt for the idea of cooking food in large quantities and storing them in pre-portioned containers in the refrigerator or freezer. However, if you’re new to the diet, it’s advisable to start with smaller amounts to assess how your dog responds to it.
Sample Dog Food Recipes
Northwest Holistic Pet Care: Cooked Meal for a 20 lb. Dog
IMPORTANT: Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, please consult with your holistic veterinarian to ensure the changes are compatible with your dog’s current health status. Weigh your dog before making diet changes. Having a baseline; tracking their weight will help you in adjusting quantities should they lose or gain too much. The amount of food a dog requires will vary based on activity level, age, and overall health status.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces ground organic turkey thigh (boneless)
- 2 tbsp ground organic turkey organ meat (liver, gizzards, hearts)
- ¼ c finely grated organic veggies
- 1 tsp ground raw sunflower seeds
- ½ tsp organic coconut oil
- ½ tsp salmon oil
- 500 mg Calcium Citrate (*must include this!)
It is important to adapt the measurements of ingredients to your dog’s weight and level of physical activity. The suggested quantities above are intended for a sedentary dog weighing 20 lbs. If your dog engages in strenuous exercise, their caloric needs can increase up to four times. Therefore, it is crucial to keep an eye on your dog’s weight and adjust their food portions accordingly in order to meet their caloric requirements.
- 40 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 2
- 60 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 3
- 80 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 4
Directions:
Boil the vegetables and keep them aside. Slowly cook the ground turkey thigh and offal over medium-low heat. Take it off the heat when most of the meat has become white, but a small part remains somewhat pinkish. Put the blanched vegetables in a food processor or an empty coffee grinder and blend until they appear finely grated. Combine all the components and check that the blend has cooled before serving it.
When cooking food for pets, it’s important to note that high temperatures reduce its vitality. However, a milder cooking process can help preserve more of the food’s nutrients while also making it more digestible for some pets than raw meals. Vegetables can be blanched and finely grated to improve digestion and increase nutrient uptake.
