Although most dogs can safely consume cat food on occasion, this practice should be avoided as it can lead to stomach upset, gas and diarrhea in both parties involved.
Instead, provide them with a diet consisting of an assortment of protein sources and whole ingredients. Also consider keeping their food out of reach.
Contents
Meat
Dogs eating cat food shouldn’t usually cause major issues as long as it doesn’t become a regular habit, though if your pup has sensitive stomach issues or health concerns such as pancreatitis they should refrain from feeding on cat food altogether.
Cat food contains high concentrations of proteins and fats that may contribute to digestive issues and weight gain in some dogs, and those allergic to an ingredient could experience serious allergic reactions from this food.
Dogs that feed themselves cat food regularly face additional risks. Their bodies cannot synthesize taurine like cats do; thus depriving themselves of essential nutrition that cats require in their diet for optimal health.
Fish
Dogs sometimes enjoy feasting on cat food, but doing so on a regular basis could be hazardous to their health. Cat food contains high protein levels with little fiber content that may aggravate digestive conditions in dogs over time and potentially damage organs. Furthermore, some fish used in cat food come from polluted waters containing high amounts of phosphorous that is toxic for them as well.
Due to these reasons, it is recommended that only fully cooked fish with no small or fragile bones is given to your dog. You can still provide a source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids by supplementing their diet with canned wild-caught seafood such as grilled, canned or canned wild-caught varieties.
Eggs
Eggs can provide your pup with essential protein. In order to prevent salmonella contamination, eggs must be cooked properly prior to giving them to your pup – hardboiled, scrambled, fried, poached – but refrain from adding salt, oil or spices that could upset his or her stomach.
Fish is another excellent source of protein; simply be sure it has been cooked thoroughly with all bones removed before serving it to your pup. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, cornmeal, brown rice or couscous also contain high levels of protein; however they may not provide adequate nourishment over the long run due to lacking essential essentials nutrients for proper development.
Vegetables
While some dogs enjoy the flavor of cat food, excessive intake may lead to upset stomachs, gas, or diarrhea if fed too much of it. Long-term consumption can also create nutritional imbalances which could contribute to obesity and pancreatitis in dogs.
Cucumbers are an easy, nutritious treat that are low in calories and contain plenty of water – perfect for many dogs with missing teeth or sensitive gums. Filled with vitamins C, K and folate as well as lots of water content, cucumbers offer many nutritional benefits when fed raw or cooked; their water-rich composition makes hydration even easier for most pups! They can be enjoyed raw or cooked; raw is best.
Do not feed your pup tomatoes and other nightshades as these contain solanine which can cause solanine toxicity in them, and also pose a choking hazard.
Cheese
Your dog eating cat food won’t usually harm him/her; however, you should watch for signs of intestinal discomfort in both cases.
If your pup has an intolerance to lactose-containing foods like cheese, it could lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Cheese also contains high amounts of fat which could contribute to weight gain as well as increase the risk of pancreatitis.
Mild cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella should be safe for most dogs. Brie, goat cheese and stringy varieties like ricotta can pose a higher risk of lactose and fat consumption and should also be avoided to prevent potential choking hazards for your canine companion.
Grains
Dogs are naturally curious creatures and may become drawn to cat food due to its aroma and similar appearance to what they eat themselves. If your household includes both cats and dogs who share living quarters, keeping their diets separate may prevent feline-canine conflict from arising.
An occasional bite of cat food shouldn’t cause problems for dogs, but regular exposure should be avoided as its nutritional needs and digestive system don’t match that of dogs. Furthermore, it could trigger allergies – Health Extension offers healthy dog foods without grains that could trigger such reactions.
