Bone broth for dogs or cats? You heard that right. Many of us have started drinking bone broth due to how rich it is in collagen and gelatine, so why shouldn’t those benefits extend to your pet? Dogs and cats can drink bone broth too, as long as you prepare it to be pet friendly.
Below, we look at the benefits of bone broth for pets plus give you a recipe to try this winter. It’s perfect for their health and to warm them in those cold winter days.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
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The benefit of bone broth for dogs and cats
So why would you give Bella or Luna bone broth? Well, it can help them in a number of ways including supporting their joints and mobility, keeping them hydrated, helping their digestion and keeping their skin and coats healthy.
It’s especially good for older pets, sensitive stomachs, and pets eating dry food. Pets recovering from an illness or after surgery also find it easier to start off with bone broth when regaining their appetite.
Remember, pets only need a a few spoons to a quarter cup of bone broth at a time (see below), and it shouldn’t replace their regular balanced meals. It’s best used as a supplement or topper rather than a full meal on its own.
Pet-friendly bone broth recipe
The important part of making bone broth for your dog or cat is not to include any unsafe ingredients. This means no onions, garlic, added salt or cooked bone pieces. You should also keep the fat content minimal, especially for pets prone to pancreatitis.
If you’re wonder can dogs eat bones and what can cats eat.
You can buy bone broth for pets, but the homemade version is not only cheaper, but will contain less additives.
Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients
- 1–2 kg beef, chicken, lamb, or turkey bones
- Water
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Method
- Place bones in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Cover completely with water.
- Add apple cider vinegar.
- Simmer (12–24 hours for chicken bone and 24–48 hours for beef/lamb bones).
- Let cool slightly.
- Strain thoroughly and discard all bones.
- Chill and remove excess fat from the top.
You can serve the bone broth as is, or pour it over their food, freeze it into cubed for treats (excellent foe the summer), or serve them a few spoonfuls daily.
FAQ
Yes, as it contains collagen, gelatin, and amino acids that may help support their joints and mobility. The extra bit of hydration can also benefit their overall health. It’s not a cure, but it can be a soothing addition to your dog’s diet.
The general guideline is:
Small dogs: 1–2 tablespoons per day
Medium dogs: 2–4 tablespoons per day
Large dogs: ¼–½ cup per day
Start with a small amount of bone broth to make sure it agrees with their stomach, especially if they’re trying it for the first time.
Most cats only need about 1–2 tablespoons per day. Because cats are smaller and more sensitive to dietary changes, it’s best to start with a teaspoon or two first.
Pet insurance by pet people
Bone broth for dogs and cats can help keen them strong and healthy, but unfortunately accidents and illnesses can still happen to our beloved pets. And when they do, vet bills can run into thousands of dollars.
Pet insurance is there to soften the blow and help you pay for your pet’s bills in their hour of need. PD is an award-winning brand* that offers hassle-free pet insurance. The sooner you invest in a pet plan, the broader the range of cover they get – especially when they’re still young. PLUS you get 1 month free when you sign up.
Why not get a quote today?
*PD Insurance is winner of the 2024 Reader’s Digest Silver Pet Insurance, 2023 MoneyHub Favourite Pet Insurer and Canstar’s 2022 Most Satisfied Customers – Pet Insurance awards.