In order to provide our pets with a complete and balanced diet, we need to feed them with varied food ingredients. All the needed nutrients for optimum performance are available in their whole form in the different ingredients.

Many pet owners are concerned about switching to real food; Mainly because they don’t know what to feed and how to create a balanced diet. Its true that its much easier to feed commercial food which is supposed to be complete and balanced; But before deciding, please read what’s really in processed pet food.

My goal is for you pet owners, if not to switch to real food, to add whole nutritious ingredients to your pets diet. So, to make it easier, here is a list of all the necessary nutrients, their role in the body and their sources.

Comment – this is just a partial list of sources and its best to adjust the diet to your pet’s specific needs. You are welcome to contact me for a nutritional consultation and of course I’m happy to answer any question.

Amino acids

These are a group of molecules that provide the building blocks for proteins. They are necessary for a wide range of biological processes that occur in the body. Such as growth, tissue repair, neurotransmitter’s movement and more.
There are 10 necessary amino acids that the dogs body cannot produce, and so must be supplied through the food. There are 11 for cats.
Sources: fish, beef, chicken, turkey, duck, pork, eggs. There are also plant sources such as chickpea, lentils, soy beans, beans and peas.

Anti-oxidants

Organic materials that deactivates free radicals and prevent them from damaging the cells. These molecules prevent the oxidation of other molecules which causes the formation of free radicals. Free radicals can cause chain reactions in cells. Which cause damage or death to the cells. Anti-oxidants prevent these chain reactions by removing the free radicals and prevention of other oxidative responses.
There are many supplements that contain anti-oxidants and they occur naturally in many food ingredients.
Sources: blueberries, raspberries, apples, strawberries, kale, spinach, broccoli, ginger, carrots, papaya, pumpkin, pork, internal organs.

Beta Carotene

This is the precursor for vitamin A. most mammals, dogs included, has the ability to convert beta carotene to vitamin A. Cats cannot. So, vegetables are an important part of a dog’s diet and cats will receive their vitamin A from animal sources.
Sources: sweet potato, green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, cantaloupe, red and orange bell peppers, peas, broccoli, radish, summer squash, lettuce.

 

Bioflavonoids

There are over 4000 know bioflavonoids. These are a group of plant pigments found in fruits and veggies which give them their color. These nutrients provide several unique health benefits. They change our pet’s immune reaction to compounds such as allergens, carcinogens and viruses. Also, they are a potent anti-oxidant which helps the body fight free radicals and prevents oxidation of cholesterol. They may assist in diabetes, heart problems, arthritis, cancer and allergies.
Sources: red bell pepper, strawberries, broccoli, spinach, parsley, green tea.

Biotin

A water-soluble vitamin from the B family and a coenzyme in the synthesis of fat and amino acids. Also, it is essential in regulating glucose levels in the blood and cellular growth. Mammals cannot produce Biotin themselves and need to receive it from food. Plant based Biotin is more available to use by the body.
Sources: chicken, liver, raspberry, eggs, sun flower seeds, lentils, banana, oats.

Boron

A mineral which purpose is to assist in bone and muscle formation, regulating testosterone, brain activity and muscle coordination.
Sources: apples, broccoli, peanut butter, pears, banana, carrot, celery, peaches, lentils.

 

Calcium

A vital mineral for life. Assist in building bones and teeth, muscle contraction, releasing neurotransmitters and electrical activity of the heart. Lack of calcium may cause a range of health problems. The main source for calcium is bones.
Sources: bones, muscle meat, bock choy, kale, broccoli, egg shells, white bean, sardines.

 

Choline

A water soluble vital nutrient. Usually found together with the B vitamin family and it is important for Insulin functioning, liver functioning, muscle activity and cells membrane structure. Also, important for proper developments of the neural system of fetuses.
Sources: beef, turkey, chicken, lamb, eggs, asparagus, bock choy.

 

Chromium

A vital mineral for fat and carbohydrate metabolism. In addition, encourages cholesterol and fatty acids synthesis which is important for proper brain and body functioning. Assists in Insulin metabolism.
Sources: beef, liver, eggs, chicken, apples, banana, spinach, broccoli.

 

Cobalt

A vital mineral and part of the B12 vitamin which is necessary for red blood cell formation, iron absorption and effective mobilization of glucose from the blood to the cells.
Sources: beef, lamb, apricot, kelp, green leafy vegetables.

Coenzyme Q10

A water-soluble vitamin like substance found in eukaryotic cells (cells which contains a nucleus). An important component in cellular aerobic breathing which forms the energy needed for the body (ATP). Found in the largest concentrations in liver because it has the largest demand for it. Vital for heart and blood cells activity and is considered an anti-oxidant.
Sources: chicken liver, heart, muscle meat, spinach, parsley, broccoli, sweet potato, carrot.

 

Copper

A vital mineral for growth, maintenance and formation of bones, connective tissue brain, heart and other internal organs. Involved in red blood cells formation and lack of it will lead to anemia. In addition, copper helps cells use iron and in cholesterol and glucose metabolism. It is a main compound in encouraging the immune system to heal, fight inflammation and infections, repair of damaged tissue and counteracting the effects of free radicals. Copper is also involved in producing and releasing proteins and enzymes which regulates neural transmission, blood clotting and mobilization of oxygen in the body.
Sources: liver, sesame seeds, beef, spinach, garbanzo beans, kale, summer squash, sweet potato, raspberry.

 

Essential fatty acids

These are components of fats and oils. Essential fatty acids are considered essential because they cannot be synthesized by the body. They are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and are a part of two groups: ‘omega-3-fatty acids ‘and ‘omega-6-fatty acids’.
The parent fatty acid of the omega-3 series is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and the parent fatty acid of the omega-6 series is linoleic acid (LA).
Fatty acids have an influence on inflammatory processes in the body and many other cellular functioning. Omega 3 can be used to lower inflammatory processes in different situations such as irritable bowl disease, skin disorders, Insulin tolerance, obesity, asthma and heart disease.
Sources: oils (flax seed, hemp, maceral, salmon, sardines), fish – herring, anchovies, sardines, chia seeds

 

Nutritional fiber

Arrive in two forms – soluble and non-soluble. Soluble fiber dissolve in water and slow down the passage of food through the intestine. Non-soluble fiber doesn’t dissolve and act as a thickener (provide volume) which eases feces removal. Nutritional fiber is important to changing the nature of the content of the digestive system and the way nutrients are absorbed.
Sources: fruits, green veggies, sweet potato, pumpkin, lentils, whole grains.

 

Folic acid

Also known as vitamin B9 and is essential for many bodily functions. It is needed for maintenance and repair of DNA and for the natural rapid division of cells during pregnancy and growth.
Sources: liver, heart, green leafy vegetables as spinach and kale, asparagus, raspberry, strawberry, peas, papaya, blueberries, broccoli, lentils, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, carrot, pumpkin.

 

Iodine

A vital element in thyroid hormones T4 and T3 which are responsible for proper endocrine functioning. Also considered as improving the functioning of the immune system.
Sources: sea weed, eggs, apples, banana, strawberry, cranberries.

 

Iron

An essential mineral for the synthesis of red blood cells and mobilization of oxygen to the cells of the body. Also, has an important role of forming ATP (energy source for the body). A vital nutrient against anemia.
Sources: liver, lamb, chicken, turkey, duck, kale, spinach, eggs, garbanzo beans, pumpkin seeds, lentil.

 

Magnesium

More than 300 enzymes in the body need the presence of magnesium in order to function. Including the enzymes needed for the synthesis of ATP, DNA and RNA. Shortages are linked to diabetes, asthma and osteoporosis.
Sources: spinach, banana, pumpkin seeds.

 

Manganese

Like magnesium, this is an element that is vital for life and is a cofactor for hundreds of metabolic processes in the body. Helps the body produce connective tissues, bones, clotting agents and sex hormones. It also plays a role in carbohydrates and fat metabolism, blood sugar levels regulation, calcium absorption and proper functioning of the brain and nervous cells.
Sources: spinach, raspberry, blueberries, strawberries, pumpkin seeds, whole rice.

 

Molybdenum

A vital nutrient that plays a role in a number of biological processes including waste processing by the kidneys, development of the nervous system and energy production.
Sources: lamb, beef, liver, green leafy vegetables, lentils, garbanzo beans, oat.

 

Phosphorus

A mineral that is found in every cell in the body. Mainly needed for teeth and bones formation. But also involved in the usage of carbohydrates and fats, ATP formation and synthesis of proteins. In addition, it works together with B group vitamins for proper kidney functioning, heart rate regulation, neural transmission and muscle coordination.
Sources: beef, internal organs, turkey, chicken, eggs, seaweed, pumpkin seeds.

 

Phytochemicals

Non-essential nutrients from plants. They hold protective properties which can preform several actions. Such as, bind to cells and prevent pathogens from binding, hormonal regulation, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, disturbance of cancer formation and enzyme production.
Sources: apples, berries, broccoli, carrot, sweet potato, cantaloupe, spinach, celery, lettuce, liver, fish oil, kale, beet, summer squash, apricot.

 

Selenium

A vital micro nutrient which plays a key role for the formation of a number of anti-oxidant enzymes and in the performance of the thyroid gland and immune system.
Sources: beef, beef liver, chicken, turkey, tuna, sardines, eggs, spinach.

 

Silica

A nutrient that is used to improve the density of bones and the health of the skin, nails, fur, teeth and gums. Helps the body maintain collagen and connective tissues.
Sources: celery, red bell pepper, spinach, asparagus, beet, carrot, banana, sunflower seeds.

 

Sodium

Regulates blood volume, blood pressure and acidity levels.
Sources: chicken, turkey, beef, beet, peppers, potato, tomato, spinach, banana.

 

Sulphur

Necessary for the health of all the cells. Present in connective tissues, nervous cells, skin, fur and nails. Assists in metabolic processes including glucose metabolism.
Sources: beef, chicken, turkey, broccoli, bones, kale, bock choy, cabbage, eggs.

 

Zinc

A vital mineral involved in many metabolic processes, enzymes, protein and DNA formation. In addition, it is vital for bone health, kidney functioning, neurological and reproductive systems.
Sources: lamb, turkey, liver, pumpkin seeds, beef, garbanzo beans, spinach.

 

Vitamin A

Crucial for the functioning of the nervous system, growth, eye sight, skin health and metabolic processes. It is fat soluble and so toxicity may occur if there are imbalances over time. Cod liver oil contains high levels of this vitamin and so you shouldn’t use it as a supplement for long periods of time. Cats cannot transform Retinol to vitamin A and so must eat liver in their diet in order to provide the natural form of the vitamin.
Sources: liver, heart, carrot, broccoli, sweet potato, kale, spinach, cantaloupe, papaya, eggs, mango.

 

Vitamin B1 – Thiamin

Important for many cellular functions such as sugar and amino acid catabolism; as well as neurotransmitter biosynthesis. Necessary for the transformation of fats and carbohydrates and formation of hydrochloride acid needed for digestion.
Sources: liver, heart, kale, eggs, fish, sunflower seeds, peas, summer squash, asparagus, white beans.

 

Vitamin B2 – Riboflavin

Involved in metabolism of energy, fats, ketone bodies, carbohydrates and proteins. Necessary for proper skin, fur, eyes and liver, works as an anti-oxidant and also needed for the formation of red blood cells. In addition, assist the body to change B6 and folic acid into usable forms.
Sources: lamb, heart, beef liver, banana, spinach, salmon, eggs.

 

Vitamin B3 – Niacin

Involves in almost all process of decreasing oxidation processes in the cells, catabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins and DNA repair. An important factor of fatty acids and cholesterol synthesis. Dogs can transform the amino acid tryptophan to Niacin but not cats. So, they must receive Niacin from food sources.
Sources: turkey, chicken breast, liver, tuna, peas, sunflower seeds, cantaloupe, mango, peach, lettuce, summer squash, broccoli.

 

Vitamin B5 – Pantothenic acid

Important for amino acid metabolism and enzyme reactions in charge of releasing glucose from glycogen. Plays a role in metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. In addition, this vitamin is involved in the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters, hemoglobin formation and immune response.
Sources: turkey, chicken liver, salmon, broccoli, banana, summer squash, cabbage, spinach, sunflower seeds.

 

Vitamin B12

Necessary for the formation of red blood cells and neurological activity. Must arrive from food sources. Involved in the metabolism of each body cell, including synthesis of DNA, fatty acids and energy.
Sources: lamb, beef, turkey, heart, beef liver, eggs, sardines, maceral.

 

Vitamin C

A necessary nutrient for countless metabolic reactions in the body. Plays a major role in the health of the immune system. Considered a natural anti-oxidant and anti-histamine. Helps produce proteins.
Sources: liver, cantaloupe, mango, papaya, berries, broccoli, summer squash, pears, apples, peach, carrot, banana, red bell pepper.

 

Vitamin D

In charge of calcium and phosphorus absorption. The body can produce small dosages of this vitamin from sun light. Necessary for the health of bones, heart activity, immune and nervous systems.
Sources: heart, liver, eggs, sardines, salmon, maceral, tuna.

 

Vitamin E

A natural anti-oxidant, enzyme regulator, protect fatty acids against oxidation and plays a role in neurological activity.
Sources: liver, heart, spinach, mango, broccoli, papaya, eggs, sweet potato, sunflower seeds, summer squash.

 

In conclusion, all the nutrients your pets need are present in real nutritious food ingredients. If you choose the right ingredients and in the needed quantities, you can provide your pet with a balanced and complete diet. One that will support its body systems and provide energy and health.

You are welcome to contact me with any question. I will be happy guiding you in choosing the right diet for your pet.

There is a lot of discussion regarding the safety of feeding processed pet food. I’ve heard many claims about the fact that there aren’t many clinical studies conducted connecting pet food with health issues of dogs and cats. Some argue that if you can’t see the “smoking gun” conclusive connection, then it’s fair to say that the foods are safe for feeding.

Personally, I don’t believe in this type of thinking. And for me, the connection between consumption of processed food and health ailments is clear.

I’m not writing this in order to intimidate you; Because you anyway hear everyday how some food ingredients are not healthy. Rather, I’m here to provide you with information which will enable you to make educated nutritional choices for your four-legged family members.

You are free to think for yourself and find what you believe in and what is right for you and your pet.

Let’s examine the available data in a logical way

Known information –

1. Pet food (canned and dry) is processed using extreme heat temperatures.
2. Pet food contains proteins and sugars (from carbohydrates).
3. Heat processing of proteins and sugars produces cancer causing compounds.

Logical conclusion –

1. Heat treatment of proteins and sugars in pet food produce cancer causing compounds.
2. Therefore, pet food contains toxic cancer-causing compounds.

Now, allow me to elaborate and explain in detail about each point.

Pet food (canned and dry) is processed using extreme heat temperatures

The most common pet food is dry kibble which underwent extrusion. The extrusion process leads to the formation of a dense food pallet, almost completely dry (mostly with under 10% moisture) and with a long shelf life.

The extrusion process includes mixing the wet and dry ingredients together in a heated food blender until the formation of a dough. You can think of the extruder as a giant heated meat grinder (a few meters long).

The dough travels using pressure and under intense heat of between 120-160 degrees Celsius. At the end of the machine, the dough passes through cutters which gives him the desired shape. Finally, the kibble is quickly chilled and sometimes sprayed with fat combined with flavors and a nutrient premix.

The second most common pet food is canned or pouched food. First, the base is made by boiling liquid stock with nutrient premix, oils and different synthetic additives. While mixing and cooking, the meat and vegetables are added. The mixture is then moved and the cans and pouches are filled, sealed and undergoes cooking and sterilization which is called retort. Retort is cooking under pressure at temperatures ranging from 121-250 degrees Celsius for up to an hour.

As you can see, the most common manufacturing processes of pet foods involves using extreme temperatures.

Pet food contains proteins and sugars (from carbohydrates)

All dog and cat foods contain proteins and carbohydrates. Proteins can be from animal origin, such as chicken, fish or beef; Or from plant origin such as peas and soy.

In addition, in order for the kibble to keep their form and the ingredients to bind together, manufacturers have to use starches. Hence, pet food contains carbohydrates such as rice, corn and potatoes.

As opposed to kibble, in most cases, canned pet food won’t contain carbohydrates. And if it will, they will be in very small percentages. Canned food is almost completely based on proteins with little vegetables.

The digestive system of cats and dogs break the proteins into their building blocks, amino acids; And carbohydrates into theirs, sugars.

Heat processing of proteins and sugars produces cancer causing compounds.

According to the NCI (national cancer institute), using high cooking temperatures creates chemical reactions among amino acids, creatines, and sugars. These reactions produce dangerous carcinogens and mutagens that may damage DNA (human and pet alike).

Some of the compounds include:

Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) –

created when creatine and amino acids (both found in meat) react together with heat at temperatures over 212 degrees F (100 C). Basically, the hotter and longer meat is cooked, the more HCAs and PAHs are created. Raw foods or food cooked at low temperatures, don’t contain HCAs or PAHs.

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) –

formed by what is known as the Maillard reaction, which occurs when sugars and proteins in the food react together to heat. Diets with more raw foods typically contain minimal AGEs.

2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) –

a heterocyclic aromatic amine (HAA) that is formed by the reaction of creatine and phenylalanine during high temperature cooking of meat, poultry, and fish.

Acrylamide –

A compound also resulting from the Maillard reaction, Formed when asparagine reacts with naturally occurring sugars. This compound usually forms in high carbohydrate/low protein foods subject to high cooking temperatures over 248 degrees F (120 degrees C).

Why should we worry about these compounds?

HCAs are on the official list of cancer-causing agents published by the NIH. Studies have shown that exposure to HCAs, PAHs and PhIP can cause cancer in animal models. In many experiments, rodents fed a diet supplemented with these compounds developed tumors of the breast, leukemia, colon, liver, skin, prostate, gastrointestinal tract and lungs.

Once consumed, AGEs were found to contribute to a number of ailments. These include inflammation, atherosclerosis, kidney damage, neurodegenerative disease, muscle loss, cancer cell metastasis, insulin resistance and alterations in cell receptors.

In addition, current research indicates that acrylamide may be genotoxic, carcinogenic, neurotoxic and creates reproductive problems. It’s currently classified as “probably carcinogenic”.

Of course, it is needed that an animal consumes these compounds on a regular basis in order for them to accumulate in the body and potentially cause harm. Even still, many pets will show no sign of ailment even after been fed kibble for their entire lives.

It is important to look at the entire picture and understand that these compounds are present in pet food and the possibility that they may lead to future harm.

Connection to pets

A study conducted by the NYS Department of Health and the University of Minnesota had identified PhIP in the fur of 14 out of 16 healthy dogs consuming different brands of commercial pet food. The levels of PhIP in canine fur were comparable to the levels of PhIP present in human hair (of meat eaters). However, high density fur containing PhIP covers a very high proportion of dogs body surface area, whereas high density terminal hair only covers a small portion of the human body. These findings signify that the exposure and bioavailability of PhIP are high in canines. The researchers agreed that there is a potential role for PhIP in the etiology of canine cancer.

Another study published in the journal Mutation Research, analyzed 25 commercial pet foods for mutagenic activity. All but one gave a positive mutagenic response. Fourteen of these samples were analyzed for mutagens/carcinogens and all but one contained MeIQx and 10 contained PhIP. From these findings the researchers agreed that there is a connection between dietary carcinogens cancer in animals consuming these foods.

What we can do?

For humans, currently, there are no guidelines addressing the consumption of foods containing these compounds. There is only a recommendation to limit consumption of processed meats.

As concerned loving pet owners, it’s our responsibility to be well informed and we can choose to reduce their exposure to these compounds. This we can do by feeding our pets different foods which have been manufactured using lower or no heat treatment methods. Such as boiling, stewing, dehydrating, freeze drying or steaming.

By adding fresh and steamed vegetables to our pet’s diet, we can help remove HCAs and PAHs from the body. Also, decreasing the extent of DNA damage and oxidation of the cells via detoxification of the liver.

In conclusion, I’m not saying that every pet eating processed pet food will get cancer or other ailments. But, there are pets with predisposition which may be at risk. Or pets with a weak immune system, and adding to it these compounds will just stress it even more.

And, in general, like we are told that a daily consumption of processed foods isn’t good for us, the same goes for our pets.

 

 

References:

All About Cooking & Carcinogens

http://toxicology.usu.edu/endnote/HeterocyclicAminesReviewSugimura2004.pdf

https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/cooked-meats-fact-sheet

http://mercola.fileburst.com/PDF/HealthyPets/Turesky-Article.pdf

http://mercola.fileburst.com/PDF/HealthyPets/Knize-Article.pdf

As much as real food is healthy and nutritious for dogs; Still, some ingredients can be toxic for them. Here is a list of toxic foods for dogs and the symptoms for food poisoning.

Remember, each dog is unique and the needed dosage to evoke a negative response may change.

As a pet owner, is important to know which foods may cause poisoning and what will be the symptoms. If symptoms do appear, you need to contact your veterinarian immediately.

If you recognize the symptoms, you will be able to act quickly if the time arrives.

 

Raisins and grapes

The fruit contains an in known poison. Even 4-5 grapes can lead to food poisoning for a 9 kg dog. Poisoning symptoms may occur in the 24 hours after consumption. Symptoms include: vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, stomach pain, less urine production and general weakness.

 

Avocado

includes a compound called Persin which may cause vomiting and diarrhea, difficulty breathing and fluids accumulation in the chest, abdomen and heart. At this stage there isn’t a conclusive decision whether its the fruit or oil which is considered toxic. But, when it doubt, it best to be safe and avoid both. There are treats and foods that contain Avocado. Symptoms include: difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea and stuffy nose.

 

Garlic, onion and chive

May cause destruction of red blood cells and lead to a condition called Heinz body anemia. There are supplements which contain garlic which have been clinically tested for toxicity and have been found to be safe. This is due to their extraction technique. Symptoms include: pale gums, rapid heart beat, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea and bloody urine.

Tomatoes

Contain tomatine, an alkaloid related to atropine. As the fruit ripens, the tomatine metabolizes and becomes less dangerous. So, you may give only ripe tomatoes. The tomato bush itself, however, is extremely poisonous to dogs. Green tomatoes are not safe. Symptoms include: shaking, dilated pupils, drooling, difficulty breathing, colitis, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, paralysis, nervous system disturbances (muscle weakness, seizures), heart erythema and even coma.

 

Potatoes

Green or greenish potatoes may be toxic due to the alkaloid solanum which may cause solanine poisoning. Raw potatoes (even white) contain oxalates which may trigger disturbances in the nervous system, digestion and kidneys. Fully cooked ripe tomatoes are perfectly safe to feed. Symptoms include: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, head aches, dizziness, tremors and heart erythema. Oxalates bond to calcium and may lead to urinary crystal formation.

 

Rhubarb

Like raw tomatoes and potatoes, it contains oxalates which may cause disturbances in the nervous system, kidneys and digestion. Symptoms include: tremors, heart erythema.

Fruit pits and seeds

Seeds and pits contain cyanide which is toxic for dogs. In addition, they may cause intestinal blockage. Symptoms for blockage include: anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite, swollen abdomen, fever, dehydration and shock. Without proper treatment to remove the blockage, death may occur in 3-4 days. Symptoms for cyanide poisoning: dilated pupils, hyper ventilation, shock, vomiting, heart erythema, skin irritation and coma.

 

Pecans, Pistachios, Walnuts and Brazil nuts

These can sometimes be infected with low levels of a toxin named aflatoxin which arrives from mold. Although safe for humans in low dosages; Dogs are extremely sensitive to  it and even extremely low dosages may be toxic and cause inflammation in the stomach and intestinal tract.

Also, nuts contain high dosages of phosphorus which may lead to urinary tract crystals. Unsweetened peanut butter is safe to feed.

Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning: loss of appetite, vomiting, hepatitis and orange colored urine, liver failure, bloody or black stool. Also, symptoms for inflammation: prolonged vomiting sometimes accompanied by bile, dehydration and watery stool, loss of appetite, apathy. And, symptoms for crystals: difficulty when urinating, urine dripping, bloody urine.

 

Macadamia nuts

Although not toxic, but may cause illness. The toxic substance isn’t known but even a small amount had been found to cause negative outcome. Symptoms include: vomiting, general weakness, depression, lack of energy, drunken walk, joint or muscle pain, tremors and abdominal pain.

 

Fatty meats

Although fat isn’t toxic for dogs; Fatty foods may be dangerous and cause pancreatitis. Chronic inflammation develops over time as a result of prolonged exposure to large quantities of saturated fats. But, acute inflammation may develop even after a single meal. Pancreatitis is a painful illness and may be life threatening. Usually older dogs are at risk to develop this condition; As too breeds such as miniature poodle, cocker spaniel and miniature schnauzer. Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dehydration, general sever weakness, shock, fever, restlessness, heavy breathing, shaking.

 

Live fish

Fish swimming up stream, such as salmon, may contain a parasite (Neorickettsia helminthoeca) which is infected by an organism (Nanophyetus salmincola). This organism is extremely poisonous to dogs. In order to prevent infection, the fish needs to be cooked. Symptoms include: vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite, dehydration, fever and swollen lymph nodes.

 

Xylitol

A sweetener found in candy and sugar free foods. It is toxic for dogs because it induces the pancreas to produce large doses of insulin. This may lead to hypoglycemia (low sugar levels in the blood) and liver failure. Even consuming 2 gums may lead to hypoglycemia in a 9 kg dog. A pack of gums may lead to liver failure. Symptoms may be seen in 30-60 minutes and include: vomiting, coma, general weakness, drunken gaze and seizures.

 

Chestnuts

May cause damage to the central nervous system. Although specific amounts are unknown , the assumption is that large quantities are needed to cause harm. Remember, there are dogs which are more sensitive than others. Symptoms include: tremors, muscle cramps and seizures.

 

Yeast and uncooked dough

Yeast cause the formation of ethanol in the digestive tract. Symptoms include: depression, coma, weakness, drunken gaze and hypothermia.

 

Chocolate and Cacao

Contains a toxic chemical called theobromide which affects the heart, lungs, kidneys and central nervous system. Bitter chocolate is the most toxic. A 9 kg dog may experience symptoms after eating just 56 grams of bitter chocolate or 500 grams of milk chocolate. Remember that some dogs are more sensitive and show symptoms at lower dosages. Symptoms include: hyperactivity, excitement, tremors, seizures, rapid heart rate, drunken walk, hypothermia and coma.

 

Caffeine (coffee, tea and energy drinks)

Like the toxic chemical in chocolate, caffeine also affects the heart, lungs, kidneys and central nervous system. A toxic amount is considered 150 mg to every kg of body weight. For comparison, in an instant coffee tsp there is over 60 mg of caffeine. Symptoms include: hyperactivity, excitement, restlessness, vomiting, heavy breathing weakness, rapid heart rate, drunken walk, muscle spasm.

 

Alcohol

Contains ethanol; A highly toxic chemical for dogs which damages the central nervous system and respiratory system. Even miniature amounts may cause poisoning. Symptoms include: depression, coma, general weakness, drunken gaze and hypothermia.

 

Hops and beer

Hops is extremely toxic to dogs; Especially Labradors. Even miniature amounts may cause poisoning. Symptoms include: hypothermia, high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, extremely high fever, heavy breathing and rapid heart rate.

 

Remember, if you recognize these symptoms on your pet, contact your vet immediately.

 

 

The first commercial cat food arrived about 70 years ago. It offered cat owners two important advantages. First, convenience of use and second, the belief that they were proving their cat with a complete diet. The second point is especially important because cat owners don’t instinctively know what is the right nutrition for cats. So, its easy for them to believe that dry food or canned is the answer.

The health issues seen in cats

The differences between biological cats needs and the commercial food format, lead to substantial affects on cat’s health. There is increasing amount of data revealing that commercial foods don’t support optimal cat health. A survey conducted by a pet insurance company in the U.S found that the most common ailments amongst cat between the ages 7-10 are: lymph node cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, excessive thyroid hormone, bladder disease, vomiting and upset stomach, tooth infection and skin allergies.

The Banfield pet hospital published a state of pet health 2013 report, which was conducted amongst 460,000 cats. The report found a few concerning things. First, 58% of cats are overweight or obese. This indicates an increase 0f 90% in only 5 years. The situation is referred to as an epidemic. Second, 67% of cats suffer from arthritis. Third, diabetes cases doubled since the last survey 5 years ago. And lastly, contrary to the claims that kibble is good for cats teeth, 85% of cats over 3 years suffer from tooth and gum problems.

Its true that you cannot blame just the commercial nutrition for all the problems mentioned. But, there is place to think and ask how healthy would we be if we ate just processed food that didn’t fit our biological needs?

The things you need to now about dry food and nutrition for cats

Although cats and human have been close for the past thousands of year, cats still maintain their anatomical, physiological, metabolic and unique behavior structures. This means, cats, were and are still predators. Meaning, their genetic structure mandates they eat almost purely meat in order to thrive.

The need to consume protein from animal source influences all the cats nutritional aspects. A cat fed a diet consisting of fresh meat will receive a highly digestible protein, the needed nutrients in proper ratios, moisture and food compatible with its digestive system.

Contrary to this, when we feed cats kibble, we see a great difference. First, Kibble holds almost no moisture. This is in contrast to cats natural needs. Because cats have little self drinking instinct, they are believed to be in constant dehydration state. With less liquids to wash the urinary tract and kidneys, cats are more at risk to suffer from crystal formation and kidney disease.

Kibble has a large percentage of grains and carbohydrates. Even low carb foods contain around 20-40% carbohydrates. Cats aren’t physiologically built to digest carbs. So, overloading them with carbs may lead to diabetes and pancreas ailments.

Kibble in many cases contains in part vegetable protein. Vegetable protein doesn’t supply the needed amounts of necessary amino acids. Also, because its less digestible than meat protein, it leads to more waist production which may put a lot of stress on the kidneys.

As I’ve written in another article, processed foods contain many synthetic ingredients. These accumulate in the body and burdens different organs, such as the liver and may lead to digestive tract diseases.

Food digestibility and Biological value

Digestibility indicates how much of the food gets absorbed in the gut and blood stream. This is the difference between how much a cat eats and how much is secreted in the feces. For example, your cat eats a can of food weighing 156 grams per day. And he secretes 22 grams of feces. This means your cat digested 134 grams of food. Meaning, the food has a digestibility of 85%.

Biological value indicates the percentage of nutrients absorbed which are carried to destination tissues and are available to be used by the body. Because food with high digestibility provides a higher percentage of nutrients to be absorbed, digestibility is an important way to measure nutritional value and quality of different foods. In general, the more quality ingredients are in the food, so rises the availability of nutrients to the body.

What affects digestibility and why its important?

Food digestibility is affected by factors like protein source (animal or plant), protein quality, macro nutrient content of the food, fiber presence of absence, synthetic material in the food, processing method, cooking temperature and of course the age and health status of the cat.

Raw and cooked food as the highest digestibility, followed by commercial raw, canned food and lastly dry kibble. Meaning is, a cat eating kibble will receive less available nutrients for its body than a cat eating real food.

 

In conclusion, you cannot underestimate the importance of food for your cats wellbeing and health. Your cat needs quality food that suits his  biological and metabolic requirements. As the food will be more fitted to the cats natural nutrition, it will get digested better, provide maximum nutrition and support the cats health.

Proper nutrition for cats should be:

• Made from fresh protein and fats from animal sources in human grade quality. Cats need to eat raw or cooked in low temperatures foods. Remember that even grain free kibble may contain plant based protein such as peas or soy.
• Contain moisture. Feeding low moisture foods may contribute to oral disease and kidney/urinary tract ailments.
• Minimally processed. Processing forces manufacturers to add synthetic substances and we know that its best to consume nutrients in their natural form. Also, heat treatment damages the molecular structure of the ingredients and causes formation of carcinogenic compounds.
• Low in carbohydrates. In order to reduce production costs, manufacturers add large quantities of carbohydrates. This puts your cat in danger of developing obesity, diabetes, and different digestive tract illnesses.
• Low in fiber. Unless your cat currently have intestinal damage, cats don’t require almost any fiber in their diet. Cats have one of the shortest digestive tracts in the animal world; Which, unlike humans, don’t need to ferment fiber and their natural nutrition almost don’t include any plant based materials.
• Almost without any fruits and vegetables. Should only be around 5-10% of the diet. And their only purpose is to provide antioxidants.
• Without thickeners and binders. Its almost impossible to find a canned food without some kind of thickener or binder. These are the ingredients which provide the food with its shape. Some are Tapioca, Corn starch, Guar gum, Locust bean gum, Ager ager, Xanthan gum, Carrageenan and many more. These substances are linked to the development of IBD.

 

hhttps://phz8.petinsurance.com/pet-health/health-conditions/common-ailments-in-senior-cats
http://www.banfield.com/Banfield/media/PDF/Downloads/soph/Banfield-State-of-Pet-Health-Report_2013.pdf

I hear many pet owner say that the dog ancestors were wolves and so he should eat like one. But is that really true?

I did some reading and digging; And this is my answer.

Domestication of the dog

The history of the domestication of dogs is actually the history of the partnership between dogs and humans. This partnership is based on the needs of the humans and those of the dogs. Humans needed help protecting their herds, assistance in hunting, a smart alarm system and waste disposal. Dogs on the other hand, searched for companionship, shelter and a regular food source.

You can call this partnership a win – win situation.

When did this partnership started? On this there is still some debate. DNA studies suggest that there was a split between dogs and wolves into two different species about 100,000 years ago. There isn’t any proof that this is due to human intervention.

Research conducted in 2013 lead to an agreement in the field that the main domestication process started about 30,000 years ago in the Paleolithic era.

Mapping the dog genome

In 2013 a complete mapping of the prehistoric dog genome was conducted. This genome was compared to that of wolves and modern dogs. The result had shown that the origin of the modern dog is in the European wolf.

If the ancestors of the dog are truly wolves, does this mean he needs to be fed like them?

In fact, the domestication process has lead dogs to develop a better ability then their ancestors to digest starches. Some believe that this is one of the main factors which made dogs become humans best friends. Researched identified that this ability to digest starch and the difference between dogs and wolves are the same also between humans living from farming to those living from hunting.

The DNA of domestication

Comparison between the genetic structure of wolves and dogs shows a difference in 36 areas. 19 areas include gene critical to brain development, within these 8 to the development of the nervous system. This change probably occurred from the need of dogs to adjust their behavior and become more sociable in the presence of humans.

And, another 10 areas include genes in charge of nutrition, specifically to the digestion if starches.

Dogs high ability to digest starches and to thrive on a diet rich in carbohydrates is due to multiple copies of the gene AMY2B. This gene is in charge of forming amylase by the pancreas. Amylase is the first stage in breaking starch into glucose. And it is 28 times more active than with wolves.

In addition, they also found genetic changes enabling better transformation of maltose to glucose; A necessary stage of starch digestion. And, genetic change in the genes which allow the dogs body to make better use of the glucose.

 

In conclusion, Domesticated dogs are not wolves. And so, their diet should be different and meet the nutritional requirements of the dog and not the wolf.

Dogs, after domestication, have developed, not just a better ability to digest starch, but also the ability to utilize it better than their ancestors.

The difference in nutrition needs also to relate to the different life style between modern dog and wolves. First, dogs don’t live in extreme conditions as wolves. Wolves depend on hunting and surviving long periods when food is scarce. They live in the cold, traveling for miles to find food.

Dogs on the other hand, live in a warm apartment, lying on the couch, with food available almost at all times. So, dogs don’t need large amounts of fat in their diets to provide energy for hunt, or large amount of protein to form muscles for long walks.

On the other hand, dogs are exposed to larger quantities of pollutants. If it from their processed food, smoke, pesticides, cleaning materials and more. This means, they do need more antioxidants to counteract their affect.

Dogs are dogs. And as such, they need to eat like dogs.

For more information and for any question, feel free to contact me.