Cat food is indeed an irresistible treat for dogs and no matter how much you stop them from eating cat food, they will be drawn towards it every now and then. But is cat food safe for dogs? The answer is obviously no!
In this blog, we’ll find out the difference between cat and dog food, whether cat food is safe for dogs and what to do if you find out that your dog had cat food?
Difference between dog and cat food
Dogs and cats are different animals and so are their nutritional requirements. Dogs are natural omnivores and so their diet includes both plant as well as animal based foods whereas cats are obligate carnivores that makes them rely on meat-based diets.
Therefore, dogs and cats need food that is specifically designed for them with the right blend of required nutrients.
Can dogs eat cat food?
No matter how much your canine companion is tempted to eat cat food, it is not safe for them as it lacks the nutrition that dogs require for a healthy body. Moreover, eating cat food may lead to stomach sensitivities, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues, etc. in dogs.
Also, dogs’ nutritional needs vary from cats. Cat foods are higher in fat content which may lead to obesity and digestive issues in dogs when consumed in excess quantity. The majority of the cat foods are protein-rich diets and dogs with liver or kidney issues find it hard to process. Therefore, you should avoid feeding cat foods to dogs.
What to do if your dog eats cat food?
When your dog accidentally eats cat food, follow the below mentioned steps and keep your furry companion safe and fit:
Keep Calm
Stay calm and don’t panic. Dogs have been eating a little cat food for ages. When this happens, monitor your dog’s behavior. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult the vet immediately.
Look out for digestive issues
Although a little cat food is not considered toxic for dogs but sometimes it may result in digestive issues, nausea and vomiting. Keep a close eye on such symptoms and speak to the vet if the symptoms persist.
Feed dogs and cats in separate areas
You can consider feeding your dog and cat in separate areas so that your canine doesn’t end up getting tempted and eating cat food. Use different rooms for feeding your cat and dog so that they do not reach out to each other’s food.
Use specific storage containers
To avoid confusion and keep your dog away from cat food, consider storing the food in specific containers with a lid or lock so that your dog cannot open it.
Final Words
Feeding a wholesome diet packed with all the necessary nutrients is essential for maintaining the overall health of your furballs. If you have a multi-pet household, make sure you feed them the food designed for them to keep their health in check. Equip yourself with the information provided in this blog and keep your pet safe and healthy.
