Providing your pet with a nutritious diet is important for their health and well-being, but misinformation can lead you to make poor dietary choices for your pet, which can harm their health. Our Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics specialist Dr. David Dycus understands how difficult separating fact from fiction can be when faced with so much information, and our team explains the truth behind prevalent pet nutrition myths to help you make an informed decision about your pet’s diet.

Pet nutrition myth 1: Human food is safe for pets

Truth: Many people routinely slip their pet tasty morsels from their plates, but this practice can harm your pet. Certain foods, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and foods containing xylitol, are toxic to pets and can result in significant health issues. In addition, fatty foods can lead to gastrointestinal (GI) upset or trigger pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Even foods that are safe for pets, such as vegetables and lean meats, should be given sparingly to prevent nutritional imbalances and obesity.

Pet nutrition myth 2: Pets need supplements

 Truth: Most commercial pet foods are formulated to meet pets’ complete nutritional needs. Adding supplements without veterinary guidance can lead to excesses of certain nutrients, which can be harmful. For instance, too much calcium can cause skeletal problems in growing puppies, and excessive vitamin A can lead to toxicity in cats. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving your pet any supplements.

Pet nutrition myth 3: Grain-free diets are better for pets

Truth: Grain-free diets have become popular in recent years, and many pet owners believe they are healthier for their four-legged friend and less likely to trigger a food allergy. However, grains are a valuable source of essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. When a pet has a food allergy, the most common culprit is the protein source, not grains. In addition, recent findings have reported a potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian before switching your pet to a grain-free diet.

Pet nutrition myth 4: Raw diets are the most natural and healthy option for pets

Truth: Raw diet proponents argue that they are more natural and closer to what pets would eat in the wild. However, raw diets pose significant health risks, such as bacterial contamination (e.g., Salmonella and E.coli) and an imbalanced nutritional profile. Improperly balanced raw diets can lead to deficiencies or excesses in vital nutrients. If you’re considering a raw diet for your pet, you must work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet’s safety and nutritional adequacy.

Pet nutrition myth 5: Feeding your pet once a day is sufficient

Truth: Most pets benefit from being fed multiple times a day to help regulate their blood sugar levels and keep their energy stable throughout the day. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can also help prevent issues, such as bloat, in dogs and can make managing portion control easier, preventing obesity.

Pet nutrition myth 6: Cats can be vegetarian or vegan

Truth: Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require nutrients, such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, found only in animal products. A vegetarian or vegan diet can lead to severe health issues such as heart disease and blindness. Dogs, while omnivorous, still thrive best on a diet that includes animal proteins. Ensure your pet receives a diet appropriate for their species’ nutritional requirements.

Pet nutrition myth 7: Bones are safe for pets to chew

Truth: While giving your pet bones may seem natural, bones, especially cooked chicken or rib bones, pose significant health risks for your four-legged friend. Cooked bones easily shatter, injuring your pet’s face or mouth. In addition, chewing on hard bones can break or crack your pet’s teeth, resulting in the need for costly veterinary dental procedures. Bones can also cause an intestinal blockage or a GI perforation.

Navigating the pet nutrition world can be challenging, but learning the truth behind common myths is a crucial step toward ensuring your pet’s health and well-being. If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s nutrition, contact our Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics team so Dr. David Dycus can provide personalized nutritional advice based on your pet’s unique dietary needs.