A normally carnivorous companion animal or "pet" can be converted to a vegetarian or vegan diet. This type of diet can extend the lives of both cats and dogs and save millions of other animals each year.
Anai Rhoads
Question:
I read your article about dogs and diet. I have two cats. They eat regular cat food (dry and moist). Can a cat go vegan too?
Answer:
With recommended supplements, your cats will achieve success on a vegan diet. Most would consider this to be inhumane, but on the contrary. Both felines and canines live a longer life with less health ailments.
Supplements
Making the transition should be slow. Introducing the vegan foods in small amounts along with their regular food to start off with. Here is a starter recipe your cats might enjoy:
Vegan Cat Biscuits
9 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour
3 cups of water
1 cup Nutri-Yeast
1 1/2 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
Mix all of the ingredients together. Knead until you create a dough. Roll out to 1/8" thickness. You can use dog bone cookie cutters or any shape if you want. Bake for about 15 minutes in a preheated 350°F oven. Once they are ready, leave them either in the oven, or on a rack overnight to ensure they become dry and hard. If your local supermarket does not carry vegan feline formulas, you can order by phone. The following is a brief list of places you can order from. Ask for their catalogues:
As with any new food switch, watch for gastrointestinal problems. Any change can cause digestive issues, so take it slow. Allow your felines to adjust as much as possible before removing their store brand dry and moist food.
© 2002 Anai Rhoads. All Rights Reserved.
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