The secret to a longer, healthier life for your beloved pet could be hiding in plain sight – right in your kitchen cupboards! With food prices having soared by 30.6% between May 2021 and May 2024, British households are still feeling the pinch of rising living costs. As a result, pet owners are finding creative ways to care for their furry friends without breaking the bank.
TrustedHousesitters, the leading pet-sitting platform, is spilling the beans on the human foods giving our four-legged friends a new lease of life. Its 2024 survey finds that almost a quarter (23%) of pet owners feed their pets human food as a treat every day, seeing it as a budget-friendly way to spoil their beloved companions with a taste of the good life.
To help ensure pet parents treat their furry friends with nutritious choices, TrustedHousesitters has teamed up with a top vet to unveil the human foods that can enhance your pet’s longevity and overall well-being.
“Better nutrition has had a big impact on the health and lifespan of our pets,” says Dr Rebecca MacMillan (BVetMed, BSAVA, PGCertSAM, MRCVS). “The shift from giving our pets leftovers and table scraps to feeding them appropriate diets has made a big difference.”
Here are three vet-recommended human foods that can seriously boost your pet’s health:
Cooked eggs
According to MacMillan, cooked eggs are an excellent addition to the diets of both cats and dogs. They’re a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining strong muscles, healthy skin, and a shiny coat in pets.
Plus, eggs are packed with important vitamins and minerals, including nutrients that play a crucial role in supporting immune function, bone health, and cell regeneration.
Cooked eggs, as opposed to raw eggs, are safe for consumption, easy for pets to digest, and allow for better absorption of nutrients. They’re an ideal option for pets with sensitive tummies or those on the mend from illness.
Blueberries
While some might think blueberries are off-limits for pets, MacMillan says these small, nutrient-packed berries are actually incredibly beneficial for both cats and dogs.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress. This can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases in pets. The vitamins, minerals, and fibre also help support brain function, promote a healthy heart, aid digestion, and keep bowel movements regular.
Blueberries are among the safest and healthiest fruits you can offer your pets. Their low-calorie content makes them ideal treats for both cats and dogs, especially for those who need to watch their waistlines.
Salmon
“The human food that is the most beneficial to cats and dogs is probably salmon,” reveals MacMillan.
High in essential fatty acids (EFAs), salmon promotes a shiny coat, supports brain and joint health, and can reduce inflammation. This can be especially helpful for animals with skin issues or joint problems like arthritis. Salmon also contains vitamins B12, vitamin D, and selenium, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune and nervous system.
Fancy incorporating salmon into your pet’s diet? Check out TrustedHousesitters’ recipe for slobber-worthy salmon fish cakes that both pets and pet owners can enjoy.
Incorporating these human foods into a pet’s diet can be a delicious and health-boosting addition they’ll love. As with any treat, remember moderation is key!
A full range of human and pooch-friendly recipes can be found in the TrustedHousesitters online cookbook. Before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet, it’s always best to chat with your vet to clarify individual dietary requirements.
