Add fiber to improve your pet’s health

Fiber is a component that is readily found in every processed dog food. Yet adding a little extra fiber in their diet would definitely lead to a better colon health, fights obesity, prevents diarrhea and constipation as well as helps pets battling diabetes mellitus.

Let’s have a look at some of the fiber rich foods:

Bran:  It is the outer shell of the grain usually removed during processing. It could be rice bran, wheat bran or oat bran. It is used as a common remedy to prevent constipation. Make sure it is soaked in water before serving it to your pet as they digest better.

Apple:  An apple a day keeps the doctor away! It works for humans as well as their pets. They are rich in antioxidants, calcium, vitamin K and C and pectin but make sure you remove the core and the seeds as they contain cyanide which is toxic when consumed by pets.

Pumpkin: Pumpkins are a rich source of antioxidant, vitamin A and beta carotene, potassium and iron. Adding a portion of it to your pet’s daily diet would improve their urinary health and prevent diarrhea and constipation. It would also lessen the chances of your pet developing cancer.

Brown rice: Brown rice has three times more fiber than white rice. It plays a beneficial role in cleaning up the intestinal tract which would otherwise be the breeding place for tapeworms and roundworms in dogs. You can add a vegetable or meat broth to accompany the brown rice.

Vegetables: Vegetables are rich source of fiber. You can serve them boiled or raw or mixed with their broth. Always give them fresh vegetables and avoid the tinned ones as they are high in sodium which is harmful to pets.

A well balanced diet accompanied by regular exercise is essential for the well being of your pet.So before making any dietary change it is always good to consult your local vet.

article by Harshita