Is Cat Food Bad For Dogs?

Have you ever wondered why dog food and cat food is sold separately? Why not have one universal food that can be fed to both? Read on to find out more about why we create separate diets for dogs and cats.

 Understanding the Differences Between Cats and Dogs

When it comes to feeding, cats are obligate carnivores with specific dietary needs that can only be fulfilled from animal sources, whereas dogs are more omnivorous. Both cats and dogs require a balanced complete diet which includes proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals that are unique to their species as outlined by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF).

Cats cannot produce sufficient taurine on their own and must get this essential amino acid from their diet. A deficiency can lead to severe heart conditions and blindness. Cats also lack the enzyme to process beta carotene from plants into active Vitamin A and so must eat animal products to get it.

Is cat food bad for dogs?

 Cat food is generally higher in protein and fat to fulfil the dietary requirements of our feline companions. Feeding cat food to a dog long term can lead to digestive upset and obesity and even serious health issues like pancreatitis.

For optimal health, pets should be fed a high-quality, complete, and balanced diet appropriate for their species, age, and lifestyle.

Can I feed my dog cat treats?

Just like complete foods, this is best avoided. Cat treats are generally higher in fat and calories than dog treats, which can lead to weight gain or digestive issues. While a single cat treat is unlikely to cause harm, consistently feeding them to your dog can create nutritional imbalances.

What if my puppy has eaten some of my cat’s food?

Puppies love to explore the world with their mouths which can sometimes include tasting everything! Monitor your puppy for signs of digestive upset and ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water.

Prevent future access by separating their feeding areas and either ensuring you remove any left-over cat food promptly or if you prefer to free feed make sure your cat’s food is left in a spot that your puppy can’t get to.

As your puppy gets older you can also work on learning to ‘leave it’ which will allow you to call your puppy away from items they shouldn’t be investigating!

What if my cat eats my dog’s food?

Whilst ingredients for cat and dog foods may be similar, dog food lacks the specific nutrients cats need. These deficiencies can include insufficient levels of protein, taurine, arachidonic acid, and niacin, which can lead to vision loss, heart issues, muscle weakness, and other health declines. If your cat is regularly eating some of your dog’s food in addition to their own food, they may also have problems with weight gain and obesity along with the associated health implications.

It is best to supervise feeding times to ensure that each pet is only eating their own food and it is portioned correctly for their age, size and activity level.