With National Vegetarian Week now in full flow celebrating all things vegetarian, some have asked the question, what about pets and a vegetarian diet?
Is it ethical to impose a vegetarian diet on your pet? And if so, is it healthy? The health issue much more straightforward for dogs than cats as they are omnivores whereas cats are absolute carnivores, and get all nutrition from meat.
However, a study carried out in 2006 found that the 34 vegetarian cats it examined were healthy. One of the biggest risks for cats is the risk of taurine deficiency, which can lead to blindness. Whilst another essential nutrient for cats found in meat is arachidonic. Both these nutrients can be bought as supplements.
Even animal rights organisations are unsure whereas others would favour the move. Many would recommend lowering your pets meat intake by changing their diet to half vegetarian, half meat.
Many pet owners will be up in arms about this issue. You may hear,’ It’s not natural’ and ‘its unfair to the cat’. That being said, Pet food is not regulated in the same way human food is and “EC permitted additives” covers a multitude of sins including 4000 chemicals and artificial colours banned from human consumption.
If you do decide to give your cat a vegetarian diet, do your homework first and consult a vet if you have any concerns about your pets health.
Have you just got a pet kitten from a breeder? Make sure you insure your kitten within 48 hours of collection either via telephone or at www.cat-breeds.co.uk. You will also receive 12 weeks Free insurance.