Experts are increasingly raising the issue of the need to reduce meat consumption due to the carbon footprint left by its production. But what about pets? Can they be fed vegetarian food if the production of their food also harms the environment?
Research by Professor of Veterinary Medicine Andrew Knight from the University of Winchester in the UK shows that the health of cats and dogs does not deteriorate when using a plant-based diet. However, the professor emphasizes that such feeds must be carefully balanced with the addition of necessary synthetic nutrients.
Knight conducted his research after UK authorities warned pet owners that plant-based diets could violate the Animal Welfare Act. If an owner is unable to provide their pet with a complete diet that meets its needs, they could face a fine of £20,000 or 51 weeks in prison.
The issue is that a vegetarian diet can disrupt the balance of nutrients, increasing the risk of weight loss and various diseases.
What Do Studies Say?
The main concern regarding vegetarian diets pertains to cats. These animals have specific needs that cannot be fully met by plant-based food. Cats are unable to synthesize certain proteins, such as taurine, and obtain it exclusively from food sources like beef, chicken, and fish. This is due to their predatory nature, as cats are strict carnivores in the wild.
Dogs, on the other hand, are less demanding. They were domesticated thousands of years ago and have adapted to a diet that includes leftovers from human food. Dogs have adapted to a diet with lower protein content and higher amounts of plant starch.
Nevertheless, most pet cats and dogs receive food in the form of kibble or wet food. Knight's research findings indicate that plant-based feeds can be just as nutritious as meat products.
Essentially, dogs, cats, and other species of animals require certain nutrients rather than specific products like meat. If manufacturers add the necessary substances to plant-based feeds, animals can remain healthy and active.
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