Here at Petz, we love talking about the vital importance of good pet nutrition. Today, we’ll be taking a look at just how beneficial animal-based protein is for pets. We’ll also delve into the different protein options when it comes to pet food, from chicken to beef and everything in between.
How important is animal-based protein really?
To put it simply: it’s absolutely vital. Dogs have consumed meat for thousands of years, so their digestive systems have evolved to use all the amino acids and minerals found in animal-based protein. The amino acids are used as building blocks for muscle, organ and skeletal health and development. The nutrients nourish their bodies and help repair cell damage. It’s also their main source of energy.
While there’s a lot of debate on the pros and cons of animal-based protein vs the plant-based option, we believe that plants just aren’t as nourishing for pets. Dogs can follow a vegetarian diet, but animal-based protein contains higher levels of amino acids.
Cats, on the other hand, are obligate carnivores, so they HAVE to consume meat to thrive. Their digestive systems simply aren’t suited to plant-based diets. Plants do not contain enough Taurine, but animal protein has more than enough of this amino acid.
What are the best kinds of animal-based protein?
You really want to ensure you’re giving your pet high-quality protein, so when choosing your pet food, it’s ideal to have the protein source listed as the first ingredient. Free-range protein (and the kind fit for human consumption) provides the best nutritional value. Here’s a quick look at your options:
Chicken
This is probably the most popular pet food option and might also be the most affordable. Chicken offers a high ratio of unsaturated to saturated fats, so it’s a very digestible energy source. This lean meat option is also a source of Chondroitin, a joint health nutrient for pets.
Beef
Beef is also common in pet foods and contains a lot of nutrients like vitamin B, iron and zinc. If you have a pet suffering from renal problems, beef might not be the most ideal choice. All in all, beef is loved among pets for its great taste.
Lamb
Free-range lamb is rich in Omega 3 and 6 and contains a lot of vitamin B. it’s also a source of selenium and zinc. Thanks to lamb’s fat content, it’s often recommended for dogs that need to gain a little weight and those that need more energy.
Ostrich and venison
Just like lamb, ostrich and venison animal-based protein are lean choices and offer high-quality nutrition. These are “novel” proteins, so they’re awesome for pets prone to food allergies or intolerances.
Fish
Fish is, as you might have guessed, great for all pets, but cats love it fiercely. The protein source is low in fat and rich in vitamins minerals and omegas, making it a great option for pets that are predisposed to allergies.
