Pet owners are extremely protective of their fur babies. They want to ensure that their pets get the best of care and, most importantly, food. Most often, one gets tempted to share the food from the plates with them. But, not all the food we consume is safe for our pet cats. This makes it important to stay informed on the food items that are safe or harmful for cats. Read on to learn more. Whole grain and whole grain foods You can also share whole grain products like brown side, oatmeal, and more with your cat in moderate quantities. Whole grains are nutritionally dense and contain iron, fiber, vitamins, and tons of minerals that can boost your cat’s health. The fiber content can help improve digestive health, while vitamins and minerals can help make their coat healthy and shiny. Cheese Cats across the globe share an intense love for all things dairy. Not only will they enjoy a bowl of fresh milk, but they also love other dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and even butter. When they are born, cats rely on their mother’s milk to survive for the first two to three months. But, as they grow, cats, much like many humans, tend to develop an intolerance for lactose, a protein that is found in milk and milk products.

Certain foods that are healthy for us may be beneficial for your cat. As a responsible cat parent, it is essential to be aware of the foods and their sources before slipping a morsel from your plate into your pet’s bowl. Ingestion of toxic foods can adversely affect the cat’s digestive system. Hence, it is advised to consult a vet for recommendations. Here is a list of human foods that are perfectly safe for cats: Meat Cats are carnivores by nature. Most of the commercial cat food in the market contains different meats, an excellent protein source. So, feeding them bits of cooked meats like beef, turkey, or chicken from your lunch plate is entirely alright. Make sure you limit the quantity of the meats. Overeating may cause digestive issues in cats. Salmon Cats love fish, and most vets recommend feeding them fish-based foods. They are a good source of omega-3 and other nutrients. Oily fish like tuna, salmon, or mackerel prove beneficial for their eyesight and joints. However, do not feed your feline straight from the can as they might lick it too aggressively, leading to cuts and bruises on their tongues. It’s best to feed them cooked fish without bones.

Many pet owners tend to share their own food with their pets. After all, it can be hard to say no to the puppy eyes watching you while you cook or eat. However, humans and dogs metabolize food differently, and so, what is safe and healthy for you can be dangerous for your four-legged companion. So, here are a few safe and delicious human foods that even dogs can enjoy: Peanut butter Not just us, even dogs can’t get enough of peanut butter. Fortunately, it is safe for dogs and contains nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins B and E, protein, and niacin. However, it is high in fat and calorie content, so overindulgence can lead to health issues. Also, plain peanut butter that does not contain added sugar, salt, or artificial sweeteners, should be offered to dogs. Chicken Cooked chicken, without bones and spices, can be a perfect meal for canines. It is one of the best sources of protein, making it one of the most common ingredients in dog foods. Cooked chicken bones should never be given to your pets as these bones can splinter and lead to choking. Carrots Carrots can be your go-to choice for veggies that can be shared with dogs.

When it comes to feeding pets, cat parents may need to exercise even more caution than dog parents. That is because cats require more proteins and minerals. Further, they are “true” or obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients found in animal flesh to survive and maintain optimal health. The best way to ensure your pet gets nutritious meals is to choose foods recommended by veterinarians. Here are a few popular options: Smalls Human-Grade Fresh cat food Smalls is a fresh cat food manufacturer that is known for its Human-Grade Fresh product line. Approved by vets, this product line features recipes made with human-grade ingredients and high-quality, fresh animal protein sources, and it comes in two textures, making it ideal for even the fussiest eaters. The brand lets you choose the protein source for your feline from options like Bird (Chicken), Other Bird (Turkey and Chicken Liver), and Cow. Regardless of the formula you pick, you can rest assured knowing that Smalls’ ingredients are USDA-certified, humanely harvested, and sustainably sourced with no bisphenol A (BPA), preservatives, fillers, or unknown ingredients. Blue Buffalo Basics grain-free cat food Looking for a formula with only a few ingredients for your sensitive feline? Check out skin and stomach care grain-free cat food—a limited-ingredient recipe from Blue Buffalo.

Pets require specially curated foods during their growing stage. Formula foods created for specific breeds target their growth hormones. They are induced with great nutritional value to provide pups with high energy levels. As puppies exert maximum strength in their growing years, they need enough calories to support their energy levels. The formulated pet foods are readily available online and at retail stores. Here is a list of top-rated foods that are ideal for growing puppies: Royal Canin This pet food brand is popular among pet parents and vets alike. The brand is known for creating tailored nutrition for cats and dogs. Royal Canin has strategically crafted its formulas among pets depending on their size, age, breed, and whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor pet. They offer an extensive range of foods for growing puppies that ensure they get the right nutrition to support their growth and development. Royal Canin categorizes its food for puppies in different size variants, including X-small, Mini, Medium, Maxi, and Giant. Natural Balance This brand works with limited ingredients to ensure the best selection and nutrient-rich recipes. Their selective range of nutrients includes one source of animal protein, plant-based proteins, and selected carbohydrates to provide the pets with essential nutrients and growth hormones.

Dogs are considered a man’s best friend. They hold a special place in people’s hearts because of the undeniable joy of companionship they offer, which is hard to find elsewhere. Besides this, a growing body of scientific research has revealed a multitude of benefits associated with dog ownership that make them much more than just pets. These science-backed advantages range from promoting physical and mental well-being to fostering social connections. 1. Enhanced physical health Owning a dog naturally encourages an active lifestyle. Daily walks, playtime in the park, and training exercises are incorporated into a routine, promoting regular physical activity. Studies have shown that dog guardians tend to walk more frequently, experience lower blood pressure, and even exhibit a reduced risk of heart disease. 2. Stress reduction and emotional well-being Interaction with dogs triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of love and bonding. Simply petting a dog can lower cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, resulting in feelings of relaxation and calmness. Dog ownership has also been linked to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety and depression and providing emotional support and comfort. 3. Improved immune system function Studies suggest that exposure to dog allergens early in life might strengthen a developing immune system.

Bringing a dog home can be a rewarding experience. One of the best ways to do that is by adopting one, as it can help give the dog a new life. But, one needs to be prepared to provide the dog with the right care if considering adoption. So, it is important to do some research before visiting a shelter. Knowing what to expect can make the process much easier. Mistakes to avoid Dogs need proper care, support, and training to thrive. To provide that care, one needs to spend significant time, effort, and money. So, before adopting a dog, one should plan ahead and assess if they have the time and resources to care for the dog and pay attention to its needs. Rushing the process can lead to the following mistakes: 1. Prioritizing the breed One of the most crucial mistakes to avoid when adopting a dog is basing the decision only on the breed of dog. For instance, one might have already cared for pets of specific breeds in the past, so when adopting another one, one may be tempted to look for the same breed. However, it is essential to go for adoption with an open mind, as each dog is different.