Introduction
One of the most common queries that many people have is, can dogs eat cat food? So, the answer for the same is that, yes dogs can eat cat foods, but little bit or in a pinch. And, one of the best things which you can do is to avert making it a routine part of your dog’s food habits or eating habits. Learn here more on, can you feed dogs cat food & broaden your horizons on the same. Another thing, which you ought to know is that, dogs and cats are different and have distinct nutritional needs or requirements. So, feeding your dog on a regular and long-term basis with the cat food is not so good for dog’s health. But dogs can eat cats’ food, be it dry or other or an occasional snack or in case of some emergency, but if you feed your dog with a long-term cat food, then it can create some health problems for your dog.
Pet Foods and Nutritional Needs
Besides all of that, one of the most important things which you should know is that, dogs and cats have distinct kind of nutritional needs and the pet foods focuses on those key areas or sui generis dietary needs of the dogs and cats. It is also possible that vets suggests that you feed the underweight pet dogs with cat foods to promote weight gain. Also, a pet care specialist will help you to know whether your pet dog requires a added protein in the diet and if cat food can act as the best source for the same. There are also certain major health concerns as to why cat food is bad for dogs’ health. So, continue reading to know more.
3 Major Health Concerns on Feeding Cat Food to Dog
One of the most important things that you should know is that cats need more protein than dogs. So, the cat food that you get in the market is the one that has high protein content. If dogs are eating only cat food, then they are at a high risk for high protein health concerns like pancreatitis, obesity, liver damage, and kidney problems. Besides all of that, cat food can also cause digestive issues for dogs who have sensitive stomach, which includes gastrointestinal problems, flatulence, and also diarrhoea. The second thing is that, dog needs a variety of food, and cats can also have a non-meat food but dogs are omnivores, which mean they need a balanced diet of vegetables and meat including carbohydrates. Cat food comprises of simply meat, but dog food has vegetables, meat and carbs. Plus, the third thing, cat food includes nutrients only for cats’ requirements. Cats need a distinct amount of minerals and vitamins compared to dogs. Also, the cats need more niacin and compounds that dogs do not require – which also includes amino acids like arginine, and taurine.