Hello there Dr. Walt: I have a dog and cat that eat each other's food. No matter what I do, one always seems to be in the other's food. Can I just buy one type of food for my pets? I have heard that it is OK to feed dogs cat food -- is this true? Thanks for your time!
The simple answer is no -- it is inappropriate and unhealthy to feed dogs cat food and vice versa. The reason is quite straightforward and based on the distinct genetic makeup of dogs and cats that dictate their nutritional requirements. Dogs, like people, are omnivores, meaning they derive their nutritional needs from eating a diet balanced with both plant and meat-based food sources.
Cats are unique in that they are true carnivores, requiring a diet comprised predominantly of meat-based ingredients to meet their nutritional needs. In cats, this distinction is critical and if not adhered to, can quickly cause serious health problems including blindness, heart failure, and seizures.
For dogs, while they don't share the same dramatic health concerns, the higher energy content of cat foods can quickly lead to obesity, the high protein content can worsen some health concerns (e.g., underlying kidney or liver disease), and differences in vitamin/mineral content can lead to deficiencies over time. While I can understand that our pets often live life under the same pretense as people -- the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence (food bowl) -- it is essential to find a solution to your dilemma to avoid future health concerns.
Consider set meal times for your dog and find a location for your cat's food bowl that allows her access but not your dog. Hope this works out for you!
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