Animal Care & Welfare: Carnivores & Omnivores
Rex’s favorite treat is munching on a carrot. While he may need to get beta-carotene from his diet, his cat, The Texan, can actually convert vitamin A to beta-carotene. What are some differences in the needs of our cats, as carnivores, and our dogs, as omnivores?
Our kitties are obligate carnivores. A cat’s natural diet is high in protein (requiring about twice as much protein as dogs), and low in carbohydrates. Historically, cats were able to get moisture in their diet from their prey. Cats have a lower stimulus for thirst than dogs. This decreased water intake causes cats to form more concentrated urine, which can make them more likely to develop crystals in their urine, and thus urinary tract infections, or even blockage. Many of our older kitties develop renal (kidney) disease- a low moisture diet can make it harder for cats to excrete phosphorous, urea and other metabolic waste by-products. Feeding canned cat food can provide more moisture in your cat’s diet. Another possible effect of cats (especially seniors) not ingesting enough water is constipation. Providing fiber by adding psyllium or canned pumpkin can help regulate your kitty’s GI tract. Fiber can also help kitties who have trouble with hairballs. One very important requirement of cats is taurine, an essential amino acid. Dogs are able to make the taurine they need, but cats need to get taurine from a meat source in their diet.
Our dogs are omnivores. Dogs need to meet their amino acid requirements- more protein isn’t necessarily better for dogs. Ancestors of our canines would kill an herbivore and eat the intestinal contents, along with the organs and flesh. Like us, dogs get their nutrients from meats, grains and vegetables. If provided a balanced diet, dogs can be vegetarians, but not cats. Supplementing your dog’s diet with colorful vegetables can help provide carotenoids that act as provitamins and antioxidants. Some fruits that can be added to your dog’s diet include apples, blueberries, cantaloupe and watermelon. Do not feed them cherries, grapes, raisins and citrus fruits. Some veggies your dog might like are carrots, green beans, peas, zucchini and sweet potato. Pumpkin (canned or baked) is also good for your dog’s GI system. Dangerous to give to your dog are onions, garlic, rhubarb, wild mushrooms, and (some say) avocado. Corn is not usually recommended to feed dogs as it is a common allergen. When it comes to water intake, dogs usually self-regulate based on physiological need.
Ask your veterinarian and educate yourself on the particular nutritional needs of your pet.Pictured:
(Picture: Rex, the Omnivore.).
