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Hmmm… My Dog Ate Cat Food. Should I Be Concerned?
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Hmmm… My Dog Ate Cat Food. Should I Be Concerned?

perroEditorial
Mar 25, 2022
10 min

Can dogs eat cat food? Perhaps you have seen your dog eating your cat’s food on several occasions and wonder if there are any health complications to it. 

Why Dogs Should Not Eat Cat Food

It is not dangerous for dogs to eat cat food, but it is not safe either. Cat foods are not immediately harmful or toxic to dogs, but your canine friend cannot safely eat them for long. There is a considerable difference between the nutritional requirements of cats and dogs.

You might not notice any significant difference in the ingredient list of both dog and cat foods. However, there is a vital dissimilarity between these pets’ nutritional needs and eating habits. If a dog continues to eat cat food for some time, they might suffer from many health conditions. Some of the conditions dogs might experience if they eat cat food regularly include:

  • Pancreatitis: Cat foods contain a high quantity of fat that can contribute to the development of pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is a severe health condition in dogs that requires immediate medical attention.
  • Gastrointestinal Upset: Allowing your dog to feed on cat food regularly can also cause gastrointestinal upset. A complete change in diet not designed for dogs can cause diarrhea. The fat and oil in the cat food can cause loose stool in dogs.
  • Dental Issues: Cat kibbles are too small for dogs to chew, especially large and medium-breed dogs. The kibble gets stuck in their teeth, resulting in mild to severe dental issues.
  • Obesity: Because of the high-fat content in cat foods, your dog is more likely to be obese from eating it regularly. The protein and fat in cat food are too much for most dogs, making them gain weight quickly.
  • Vomiting: Cat food is not suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it can cause the dog to vomit. Normally, the vomiting can stop on its own, but you should seek medical help if it does not stop.

Nutritional Difference of Cats and Dogs

The nutritional needs of cats and dogs are different. Cats are obligate carnivores who can get all the nutrition they need from meat protein. On the other hand, dogs are omnivores who need a balanced blend of meat and veggies. Cats can survive solely on meat, while dogs need varied diets, which includes vegetables.

Furthermore, cats need eleven amino acids, while dogs need ten. The missing amino acid for canines is taurine, which is essential for heart function, a healthy immune system, digestion, and vision. Cat food contains more meat-based protein, fat, taurine, and calories than dog food to meet their dietary needs.

Dogs find it difficult to resist cat food because the higher protein and fat levels make them more tasty and fragrant. However, regardless of how your dog likes cat food, avoid giving it to them or allowing them to eat it for long.

Dry Dog Food Recommendations

Dogs need a rich and well-balanced diet to meet their nutritional requirements. As you may know, there are many dog foods on the market, but not all are made equal. Here is a quick overview of some of the best dry dog foods on the market today:

  • Absolute Holistic Beef and Venison Dry Dog Food: This dry dog food is made with all-natural ingredients. The formula contains 30 percent protein, 25 percent fat, 19 percent moisture, 7 percent fiber, and a caloric content of 4,353 kilocalories per kilogram. The top ingredients in the formula are venison, beef, beef liver, beef lung, and vegetable glycerin.
  • Nurture Pro Nourish Life Salmon Formula: This exceptional dry dog food is formulated for adult dogs. The food is loaded with wild and natural herbs, fruits, and vegetables to provide your pup with all the vitamins and minerals they need. It is 100 whole grains and rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
  • Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream: This is one of the best dog foods on the market today. The formula is free of grains and contains sweet potatoes and real smoked salmon. It enhances digestive health and digests quickly, making it an excellent option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
  • Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws: This dog food is formulated to boost your dog’s immunity for healthy and long life. It is free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. The formula also helps to enhance the coat and skin health of canines. It contains high-quality protein sources for developing and maintaining healthy lean muscles.
  • Heka Gain-Free Dry Dog Food: This formula consists of quality ingredients such as salmon, peas, and potatoes. It contains limited ingredients, which is great for pups with sensitivities.

Conclusion

It is usual for dogs to be attracted to cat food because of their high levels of protein and fat. However, you should be concerned that your dog is eating cat food, as it can trigger certain health conditions in the long run. Always stick to the best dog food, as they contain all the nutrients that your pup needs to live a healthy and happy life.

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