Tag: grainfreediet

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Is a Grain-Free Diet Good for Your Dog?

Dog Grain-Free Food

Grain-free dog food has become widely available in the market. Some believe that a grain-free diet is healthier than traditional dog food, while some state that it could cause potential harm than good. If you have ever wondered if a grain-free diet is for your dog, this blog post is for you.  

Many people are under the impression that dogs are carnivores. However, in fact, dogs are omnivores who need to consume a balanced diet of plants and meat to stay healthy. 

Advantages of Grain-free Dog Food

Easily Digestible

Dogs are unable to digest some grains, such as corn if they lack amylase enzymes. Amylase is crucial when it comes to breaking down starch and carbohydrates. Thus, they might suffer from gastrointestinal problems if they do not have adequate amylase enzymes. In this case, you might want to consider feeding your dog grain-free foods. 

It is Less Allergenic

Some dogs can be allergic to grains. Thus, a grain-free diet can prevent food allergies. Food allergies can cause intestinal problems to dogs. If your dog is known for food intolerance, you can try to start them on a grain-free diet. 

Beneficial for Dogs with Diabetes and Cancer

Carbohydrates lead to increased blood sugar levels. Among other things, this can lead to weight issues which can put their lives at risk. A grain-free diet which is lower in carbohydrates is ideal for dogs with diabetes and cancer.

It Supports a Healthy Coat and Skin

The natural oils that a dog’s skin produces are essential to keep their fur healthy. These oils spread from the skin up to the rest of the follicle. It protects the hair and strengthens it. Their skin needs aid to produce the best oils. Getting the right kinds of oils in their diet can help them produce the best oils. For instance, Omega-3 fatty acids are perfect. It is available in greater supply in grain-free food which usually contains more animal fats. 

When a Grain-Food Diet is Not for Your Dog

Not Ideal for Less Active Dogs

Grain-free dog food can help boost activity levels of a canine. If your dog is a senior, it is not recommended to put them on a grain-free diet because they do not require that kind of energy provided. Grain-free diets which contain significant amounts of proteins can make older or less active dogs overweight. Alternatively, you can select the healthy weight version or senior version of a grain-free diet. 

Challenging for Picky Eaters

Sometimes your dog may not like grain-free foods. Therefore, if your dog has been on a grain-based diet, they might take some time to get used to grain-free foods. Do take note that, if they keep avoiding it, then you should consider feeding them the foods they enjoy. 

Do you want to learn more about grain-free dog food? Watch this informative video by The Tattooed Dog Trainer to learn more!

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Is a Grain-Free Diet Good for Your Cat?

Cat Grain-Free Header

Grain-free diet is among the many options that cat owners have when it comes to selecting their pets’ meals. In recent times, the benefits of grain-free pet food has become prominent. What are the benefits of providing a grain-free diet to your pet?

To start off, cats are obligate carnivores. Thus, they must have meat in their diet as they need proteins. 

One of the main health benefits of a grain-free diet is the reliance on protein. Cats benefit from a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. In fact, high consumption of carbohydrates can be harmful to your feline’s health. 

It can be tricky when buying healthy grain-free pet food. Not all grain-free pet food meets the needs of our cat. A good grain-free food must check these factors. It should provide all the nutrition your feline needs such as:

  • High Protein Levels
  • Vitamins and Minerals
  • Absolutely no carb replacement added

Advantages of a Grain-Free Diet

Grain-free Diet is Closer to What They Eat in the Wild

In grain-free food for cats, the amount of protein is similar to foods like fish and meat. Some manufacturers substitute it with carbohydrates like potato and tapioca. This maintains the carbohydrate level in the food but removes harmful effects caused by grains. Generally, the formula is healthier for your feline.

Limit Allergies

Some cats can develop an allergy to grains. Thus, having a grain-free diet can eliminate sensitivity to those ingredients. 

Below symptoms in your feline may indicate an allergic reaction.

  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Excessive gas
  • Skin rash
  • Frequent infections
  • Vomiting

Shiny and Lustrous Looking Coat

A grain-free diet can help your cat produce better oils on their skin.  In grain-free foods, they are higher in fatty acids such as Omega-3. These fatty acids are crucial in producing oils to make their fur shiny and lustrous.

Settled and Easier Digestion

Cats are obligate carnivores which means that they are unable to digest vegetation. Their digestive enzymes are designed to break down meat. Thus, a grain-free diet will be easier for them to digest. 

When a Grain-free Diet is Not for Your Cat

When Your Cat is Overweight

Some grain-free foods are higher in fat and/or calories. Thus, they may not be suitable for a cat that is overweight. If you do want to have your cat on a grain-free diet, you have to make sure to feed them the appropriate portion size, and choose the indoor/healthy weight version if possible.

Grain-free Foods are More Expensive

As grain-free foods contain more protein, they are likely more expensive. However, you will likely be feeding your feline a smaller portion because of the high protein, so this might make up for the price difference. 

Do you want to learn more about grain-free pet food? Watch this informative video by  Rodney Habib to learn more!