Every year, thousands of pets are rushed to the emergency vet because their owners unknowingly shared a toxic food with them. Pet toxicity is one of the leading causes of illness and allergic reactions among otherwise healthy pets. Fortunately, such tragedies can be avoided by educating owners on which foods are safe to share with their furry friends. Here are five safe and healthy human foods that you can feel good about sharing with your pets:
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1. Skinless chicken
Chicken is a wonderful source of protein for both cats and dogs. This healthy option is packed full of omega-3 fatty acids and is great for brain health. However, be mindful not to give your pets chicken with the skin on, as the skin offers very little nutritional content and is high in saturated fat, which could put them at a greater risk for heart disease and obesity. Boiling the chicken for at least fifteen minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked, is the best way to prepare this protein-packed treat for your pets.
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2. Eggs
This breakfast staple is a wonderful food choice for both cats and dogs alike. Eggs are high in protein and nourishing vitamins, and they make for a very filling addition to your pet’s weekly diet plan. However, try not to feed your pets too many yolks, as yolks are higher in cholesterol and should be enjoyed in moderation. On the other hand, adding an egg white scramble to your pet’s meals as an occasional snack is perfect for pets who need more protein and iron in their diet, specifically older cats and dogs who may be suffering from age-related mobility issues.
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3. Fish
While fish is an excellent addition to any cat or dog’s meal, it’s important to make sure to choose types of fish that have lower mercury levels, as too much mercury can cause significant neurological problems, including difficulty walking and severe brain damage, as well as kidney issues. Salmon is an excellent option that is not only low in mercury, but can also boost your pets’ immune systems and improve their neurological health and brain functions.
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4. Cucumber
Many cats and dogs suffer from obesity and obesity-related diseases. Because of this, many pet owners find themselves looking for the perfect snack for their furry friends that is satisfying, but lower in calories than traditional pet snacks. Cucumbers are excellent treats for cats and dogs of any size, as they are low in calories, hydrating, and feature a crunchy and satisfying texture. While cucumbers may seem like the perfect light snack to pile into your pet’s food dish, try not to give more than a few slices of this treat per day; they add very little nutritional value to a pet’s diet, and may cause digestive issues in larger quantities.
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5. Broccoli
Another great snack option for obese pets is broccoli. This veggie is full of vitamins and antioxidants that combat inflammation and boost the immune system. In order to prevent a choking hazard, it is important to only offer broccoli that has been chopped into small pieces and, preferably, cooked until soft. Pet owners should also avoid seasoning the broccoli and refrain from cooking it in butter. Steaming it is also a perfectly suitable way to serve broccoli. While this vegetable is a safe food for cats and dogs, it is not intended to be a meal substitute, so only serve it as a healthy snack option a few times a week.
