Consuming bone broth is regarded by some as a way to promote hair growth and shine, strong bone development and healthy skin. And although those benefits are widely discussed for humans, it’s worth pivoting to consider the benefits of bone broth for cats. At the very least, adding the flavorful broth to your feline friend’s diet can provide essential nutrients while making food more appealing. Keep reading to learn more about the best bone broth for cats, important safety tips for feeding and which RAWZ recipes feature bone broth to save you the effort of making it yourself.
Health Benefits of Bone Broth For Cats
Bone broth is a liquid made from boiling animal bones and connective tissues in water. Those parts are naturally high in collagen, the substance that accounts for 30% of protein in the human body. The vitamins and minerals contained within bone broth can provide the following for cats:
Hydration
Cats have a naturally low thirst drive, making it important to take every opportunity to add moisture to their diet. Providing bone broth for cats is a great way to do just that while also enhancing flavor and providing essential nutrients.
Coat Growth
The amino acids, collagen and minerals in bone broth are known for supporting overall skin health, contributing to a shiny coat and possibly helping to reduce shedding. (Note: Keeping your cat sufficiently hydrated will also contribute in this area!)
Anti-Inflammation
It’s commonly believed that the gelatin layer in bone broth is a good source of amino acids, which helps reduce inflammation. Swelling in various parts of the body have been linked to cell and organ damage in cats.
Joint Health
In addition to both glucosamine and chondroitin, bone broth contains hyaluronic acid, another contributor to healthy joint function.
Immune Support
Supporting your cat’s immune system is an important part of ensuring they live an overall healthy life. The previously mentioned qualities of bone broth, especially hydration and anti-inflammation, can be a big help when your pet is fighting an illness.
Safety Tips for Cats Consuming Bone Broth
Bone broth is generally available in two forms — liquid and powder. It can be poured or sprinkled into your cat’s food or water, or given on its own. Be sure to speak with a veterinarian to determine if and how your cat will benefit from the addition of bone broth in their diet.
It’s important to note that pet food labeled as “complete” means the product contains all of the nutrients required for proper bodily function. “Balanced” means the nutrients are present in the correct ratios. By feeding a complete and balanced diet, your pet may not need bone broth or supplements added to their food.
If you do decide to make bone broth a part of your cat’s meal time, moderation is important. Overfeeding bone broth can lead to a buildup of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can affect the kidney and other important organs.
How To Provide Bone Broth at Home
The process of making bone broth is lengthy — with some recipes calling for a full 24 hours of simmering. That’s why we created a simpler and equally effective way to incorporate bone broth for cats. Check out these RAWZ recipes, featuring a nutrient-rich bone broth with only the best ingredients:
- Gravy Chicken and Chicken Liver Cat Food
- Gravy Salmon, Beef & Coconut Oil Cat Food
- Gravy Tuna & Mackerel Cat Food
- Gravy Tuna & Salmon Cat Food
- Gravy Whole Sardines & Pumpkin Cat Food
FAQ
Can cats have bone broth?
Yes! It is safe for your cat to consume bone broth. Keep in mind that some ingredients that are commonly found in bone broth for human consumption cannot be ingested by pets. Onion, garlic and chives, for example, are toxic to cats.
Is bone broth good for cats?
Bone broth is rich in certain vitamins, minerals, amino acids and collagen that are known to promote overall health. Your cat’s veterinarian will know best — and should always be consulted — about any potential benefits of adding bone broth to your pet’s food.
What is the best bone broth for cats?
This is a personal choice. There are many types of bone broth available on their own or as an ingredient in cat food. Consider any sensitivities, allergies or preferences that your cat may have when making your selection.
Is bone broth good for cats with urinary problems?
It depends on your cat’s unique health history, but bone broth can help provide essential hydration for cats with urinary and kidney problems.
Discover The Benefits of Feeding RAWZ
By taking the time to read this blog post, you’ve proven that you’re invested in your cat’s well-being. That’s something we have in common! At RAWZ, our focus on minimally processed pet food has spanned generations. You can explore our complete collection of recipes and locate one of our independent retail partners on our site.
