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Pets
Going Green
January
28, 2008
Natural food products are readily available for our furry canine and feline friends. With hopes of achieving the healthiest possible lifestyle, more people are incorporating natural foods into their own diets and they are doing the same for their pets. According to data from the American Pet Product Manufactures Association, the pet food market is a $14.5-billion industry with organic pet food representing $2.9 million of products sold in 2005. And, the market is growing rapidly.1 According to a report by Packaged Facts, sales of natural pet health products are expected to grow from the $45-million industry it was in 2004 to a $112-million industry in 2009, a 149% increase. Similarly, retail sales of organic and natural pet foods are said to surpass the $ 1 -billion mark by 2009.2
Why
Organic and Natural?
Individuals are motivated to purchase organic and natural pet foods
because of the purity and freshness associated with organic products.
According to veterinarian Jean Hofve, "Feed your animals
a variety of fresh, wet and whole foods as much as possible...If possible,
go for organic—it translates to better quality".3 Most
pre-packaged natural pet foods contain high-quality meat, whole grains
and vegetables to give pets the most nutritious diet possible.
On the flip side, many veterinarians find that some of the health problems experienced by pets are a direct result of poor food quality in traditional foods. According to pet authority Martin Zucker, "Longterm feeding of inferior ingredients that are typically used in pet foods render animals toxic and disease-prone".4 Part of the reason, according to Zucker, is that "the enzymes and other natural factors that are alive in whole raw foods have been killed in commercially prepared foods".5
By feeding pets natural foods with enzymes, omega-3 fatty acids, and a host of antioxidants, one may alleviate certain ailments or possibly remove the need for surgery or powerful drugs.6
Enzymes
and Probiotics
Digestive enzymes and probiotics are essential to any pet's diet. A
wide variety of digestive enzymes such as protease, lipase, amylase,
lactase and cellulase promote healthy absorption and digestion.6
These enzymes partner well with fresh grains, legumes, pureed
vegetables, organic juices and raw meats to help with detoxification
and digestive system support.7
Probiotics that contain "live"
acidophilus and beneficial bacteria are particularly vital for animals
with digestive issues as well as those who many have been adversely
affected by antibiotics.8 In addition to acidophilus,
lactobacillus and certain strains of bifidobacteria, enterococcus, and
streptococcus are helpful probiotics that can be found over the counter.
Animals that experience vomiting, constipation, constant hairballs
and diarrhea can benefit from probiotics because they support helpful
bacteria found in the digestive system.9
Essential
Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are beneficial in supporting a
pet's skin, joints, heart, eyes and coat. According to Veterinarian
Jean Hofve, omega-3s "have anti-arthritic, antioxidant and anti-ulcer
properties".8 Unfortunately, though, many pets don't
get enough omega-3s, according to veterinarians Dean R. Bader and Stephen
Holt. "Deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids in pets' diets has been
described as an important often missing, health link in nutrition,"
they say.6 Some recommend that a pet receive a daily
high-quality fish oil supplement (capsule or liquid form), many of which
contain natural vitamins E, A and D. According to Zucker, flaxseed oil
also "is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids" (5).
In addition to the outward physical benefits of adding essential
fatty acids to your pet's diet, your pet will experience the internal
benefits of high energy, heart and cellular health.10
Antioxidants
Antioxidant-rich foods and food products also should be a necessary
part of a pet's diet. Foods such as egg yolks, broccoli, zucchini
and carrots provide much nutritional support for pets when prepared
and apportioned properly.4
Antioxidant supplements found in capsule and oil form are important in the neutralization of the metabolism's by-product, "oxygen free radicals." Free radicals in moderation aid in the immune system's ability to fight off viruses and bacteria, but excessive amounts formed from radiation and high-fat diets can cause cellular damage and cancer.8 According to Zucker, "Dismutase scavenges free radicals ... [and] helps reduce inflammation and the destruction of cartilage".4 Like dismutase, vitamins C and D have significant antioxidant activity and support bodily functions. Vitamin A/beta-carotene is present in cod liver oil but must be taken in moderation since an overdose can be toxic for a pet.8
Since diet is an input-output system, a nutritious diet transfers to a prosperous life for your pet and promotes wellness in any pet loving household. WF
1. R. Hawn, "Is Organic Food the Best Way to Keep Pets Healthy?" Denver Post,Feb.l6,2006.
2. W.A. Roberts, "Heavy Petting," Prepared Foods, May 2006.
3. M. Zucker, "A Buyers Guide to Pet Products: With Expert Guidance from Holistic Vets," Better Nutrition, May 2007.
4. M. Zucker, Veterinarians' Guide to Natural Remedies/or Cats (Three Rivers Press, 2000).
5. M. Zucker, Veterinarians' Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs (Three Rivers Press, 2000).
6. S. Holt and D.R. Bader, Nature's Benefits for Pets (Wellness Publishing, 2001).
7. C.J. Puotinen, The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care (Keats Publishing 1998).
8. J. Hofve, "Nutritional Supplements for Cats and Dogs," www.littlebigcat.com
9. J. Hofve, "Probiotics: A Dietary Powerhouse for Your Cat,"www.littlebigcat.com
10. "Support Your Pets Health with Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oils from Norway," Nordic Naturals, Watsonville, CA.
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