Dogs And Cats Can Easily Go Vegan, Too (Surprising Fact!)

August 5, 2022
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It is actually one of the most frequently asked questions among people who are interested in going vegan or switching their pets over to the diet. While it's true that a pet generally needs animal-based protein and fat sources like fish, poultry, or eggs in order to complete its dietary requirements, as you'll learn in this article there are plenty of meatless foods out there made especially for them!

 

What is a Vegan Diet?

A vegan diet is one that abstains from all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. This type of diet is usually adopted for ethical reasons, as it seeks to avoid all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty. However, a vegan diet can also have health benefits, as it is typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than a diet that includes meat and dairy. Additionally, a vegan diet can help to reduce your carbon footprint, as the farming and production of animal products contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. If you're thinking about introducing a vegan diet to your beloved pet, or are simply curious about what a vegan diet entails, read on for more information. 

Foods for Dogs and Cats

We all know that dogs and cats are carnivores, but did you know that they can easily go vegan too? That's right, dogs and cats can enjoy a healthy, vegan diet without any problems. In fact, many vegans choose to feed their pets a vegan diet for ethical reasons. 

There are a few things to keep in mind if you're considering switching your pet to a vegan diet. First of all, make sure to do your research and talk to your veterinarian before making any decisions. You'll also want to make sure that your pet is getting all the nutrients they need by feeding them a balanced vegan diet. 

There are plenty of commercial vegan pet foods available on the market these days, so finding food for your vegan dog or cat is easy. You can also make homemade vegan pet food if you prefer. Whichever route you choose, just make sure that your furry friend is getting everything they need to stay happy and healthy. 

List of Vegan Pet Food Brands

  • Bramble Pets - Bramble is the first and only 100% vegan fresh dog food. This drool-worthy dog food has been formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists to provide all the protein and nutrients your pup needs. 
  • V-Dog - V-Dog produces a wide variety of vegan dog foods, including some that are kibble, biscuits, and even bones.
  • Ami - This company in Italy produces healthy grain- and vegetable-based foods.
  • Wild Earth Dog Food - The company makes nutritionally complete, high-protein kibble and treats without using any animal products.
  • Benevo - Based in the UK, this vegan company makes both canned and dry food for dogs as well as various treats.
  • Lord Jameson - The company creates organic, gluten-free, and tasty dog treats.
  • Hownd- Cruelty-Free and Vegan certified, their vegan dog foods are designed to unleash the health, well-being and happiness of dogs.
  • Petaluma - Petaluma is a dog nutrition company dedicated to making companion animal care better for dogs, the planet, farm workers, and farm animals of the future.
  • Pupums - Is your dog a picky eater? The perfect solution might just be Pupums! Plant-based, high-quality ingredients make up the brand's dog treats, which include Crispy Oatmeal Chip, Peanut Butter Crunch, and Sweet Potato Pie.

Pros and Cons of the Vegan Diet

One of the most surprising facts about veganism is that it is possible for dogs and cats to go vegan too. While there are some pros and cons to the vegan diet, overall, it can be a healthy option for both humans and animals.  

Some of the pros of a vegan diet include:  

  • It is generally a very healthy diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • It can help animals live longer, healthier lives free from chronic diseases like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more.
  • Vegan diets tend to be lower in calories and fat than diets that include meat and animal products, which can be beneficial for weight loss or maintenance.
  • Animals on a vegan diet typically have fewer behavioral problems due to the lack of hormones and other toxins that are found in meat and animal products.

Some of the cons of a vegan diet include: 

  • It can be more expensive than a traditional diet since you have to be more selective with your food choices.
  • You may need to supplement your diet with certain vitamins and minerals that are found in meat and animal products, such as vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids.

How much should you feed your pets on a vegan diet?

One surprising fact about veganism is that it is not just for humans – dogs and cats can easily go vegan too! Just like their human counterparts, dogs and cats can thrive on a plant-based diet. In fact, a vegan diet can be even more nutritious for them since it is free from cholesterol and unhealthy fats.  

When switching your pets to a vegan diet, the most important thing to consider is how much to feed them. Pets require different amounts of food depending on their size, age, and activity level. For example, a large breed dog will need more food than a small breed dog. Puppies and kittens need more food than adults since they are growing at a faster rate. And active pets will require more food than sedentary pets. 

The best way to determine how much to feed your pet is to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist. They will be able to give you specific recommendations based on your pet's individual needs. In general, you should aim to feed your pet a balanced diet that includes all the essential nutrients they need for good health. 

Ingredients to use in recipes for cats and dogs

If you're looking to make sure your cat or dog has a nutritious vegan meal, there are a few key ingredients you'll want to use. First, look for a good source of vegan protein, like beans, barley, oats, chickpeas, green peas, or buckwheat. You'll also want to include some healthy fats, like olive oil or coconut oil. And don't forget the veggies! Cats and dogs love crunchy fruits and vegetables like carrots and apples. Just be sure to chop them up into small pieces so they can easily digest them. Lastly, add a little bit of water to help everything come together and create a delicious meal your pet will love.