Introduction

The pet industry over the last few years has seen a huge growth in vegan dog treats and plant-based dog food in general. However according to new research, it isn’t only dogs that may be able to benefit from the many health benefits of vegan treats, but cats also.

 

Vegan Diets for Cats

There are many health benefits of vegan dog treats, our very own MaksPatch Vegan dog treats are light in protein, hypoallergenic, low in fat, gluten free, grain & wheat free and sugar. However, a recent study covered by the Guardian newspaper showed that the emerging trend and growing market of vegan dog treats and plant-based food might also extend to our feline companions. The study found that owners of cats fed vegan diets reported fewer visits to the vet, less medication use and said that their vet would be more likely to describe their cat as healthy. The findings provide reassurance to a growing number of owners who are considering alternative diets for their pets, the researchers said.

Challenging Pet Industry Beliefs

From our experience launching MaksPatch veggie dog treats back in 2017, although challenging at first, since launching our vegan dog treats we experienced consistent and large year on year growth. Despite this growth and success, it has never really crossed our mind at Miro & Makauri to develop a sister product for cats due to the long held and widespread acceptance that cat’s diet is almost entirely meat-based. However, Prof Andrew Knight, of the University of Winchester who led the research explained “Biologically, what cats need is not meat, but a specific set of nutrients and there’s no scientific reason why you can’t supply all the necessary nutrients through plant additives.”

Sustainability Benefits

While further research is needed to confirm these findings, the study has laid the groundwork for potential dietary shifts in the feline world. As previously mentioned, this shift has already occurred in the pet industry regarding plant-based dog food and vegan dog treats. This research hints at the same potential for cats and could have huge benefits for cat owners that are conscious of the negative implications of the traditional meat-based diet for their pet cats. 

Cats as Potential Beneficiaries of Vegan Diets

Historically, cats have been classified as obligate carnivores, leading to the belief that a diet predominantly consisting of meat is essential for their health. The study discussed by The Guardian challenges this notion, hinting at the possibility that cats could thrive on a vegan diet with careful planning and supplementation.

While the primary focus remains on the potential benefits of a vegan diet for cats, it's worth noting the growing popularity of vegan dog treats. These treats, often crafted from plant-based ingredients, aim to provide dogs with tasty and nutritious alternatives while promoting sustainability and ethical choices. As the market evolves, the notion of extending this trend to include cats highlights the demand for diverse and compassionate options in the pet food industry.

The Importance of Responsible Transition

For pet owners considering a transition to a vegan diet for their cats, consultation with a veterinarian is crucial. Ensuring that cats receive all the necessary nutrients, including taurine, vitamin B12, and essential amino acids, is essential for their overall health and well-being. Similarly, when exploring vegan dog treats for our canine companions, responsible choices that meet their nutritional needs are paramount.

Conclusion

As The Guardian's article sparks conversations about the potential health benefits of a vegan diet for cats, it also opens the door to exploring compassionate choices in pet nutrition. The emerging trend of vegan dog treats hints at a broader shift towards ethical and sustainable options in the pet food industry. Whether for dogs or potentially for cats, the pursuit of plant-based alternatives underscores a collective effort by pet owners to provide their beloved companions with nourishing treats while aligning with values of kindness and responsibility.