“According to a study by Gradus Research and Royal Canin, almost half (47%) of Ukrainian dog owners and a third (32%) of cat owners still rely on a self-prepared home diet for their four-legged friends. Another 25% simply share food “from the table” with animals. However, experts warn: what is tasty and useful for humans can pose a serious threat to health”, — write on: ua.news
According to a study by Gradus Research and Royal Canin, almost half (47%) of Ukrainian dog owners and a third (32%) of cat owners still rely on a self-prepared home diet for their four-legged friends. Another 25% simply share food “from the table” with animals. However, experts warn: what is tasty and useful for humans can pose a serious threat to the health of pets.
So, why is food “from the table” not the best solution for the health, longevity and well-being of your pet? The veterinarian answers:
Dangerous ingredients can harm the animal’s health
It would seem that what could be more natural than food from our table? Veterinarians and nutritionists warn: human meals may contain ingredients that harm the health of four-legged friends. Sugar, salt, spices and fats, which are usually present in our food, can disrupt the digestive and cardiovascular systems of the animal. In addition, uncontrolled consumption of such food often leads to obesity, a problem that is becoming more and more common among pets.
It is difficult to ensure the correct balance of nutrients
Is it possible to prepare a balanced diet for a pet yourself? Theoretically yes, but it requires in-depth knowledge of the animal’s needs and consultation with a nutritionist. Appropriate rations are made taking into account the pet’s age, breed, activity level and other physiological characteristics. It is much easier and safer to choose a quality complete feed that already contains all the necessary nutrients in the required amount and ratio. Consult with your veterinarian about food selection and portion sizes to ensure your pet is getting what it needs.
Formation of harmful behavioral habits
In addition to the direct threat to health, feeding “from the table” has a negative effect on the animal’s behavior. Even an innocent, at first glance, piece from the table can form unwanted habits. When you share your food with your pet, he begins to perceive your entire diet as his own, which can lead to dangerous consequences. For example, if chocolate, which is toxic to animals, falls on the floor, a pet accustomed to eating “from the table” will eat it without hesitation.
The risk of poisoning by products familiar to humans
And this is far from the only danger that awaits your pet in the kitchen. Products that are familiar to us – from morning coffee and tea to healthy avocados, raisins and onions – can cause serious poisoning. Even such seemingly safe things as chewing gum (due to the content of xylitol), yeast dough or fruit stones can seriously harm the health of a four-legged friend.
“You shouldn’t experiment with your pet’s health using table feeding.” This is not a manifestation of concern, but rather a health risk. Each species of animal has its own unique nutritional needs, and meeting these with regular human food without the proper knowledge or advice of a nutritionist can be a daunting task. Instead, professionally developed, balanced feeds, which are the result of many years of research and the work of animal nutrition experts, provide the animal with the necessary nutrients in sufficient quantities.
doctor of veterinary medicine, expert in scientific communication of Royal Canin