Spirulina is the perfect superfood for canines and felines. Due to its numerous health advantages for both people and animals, this algae has recently become one of the most well-liked supplements. If you’re thinking about taking supplements, spirulina has practically all of the vitamins and minerals you need.
Below, we’ll provide additional information about this superfood and explain why feeding it to your pets is highly advised. Remember that it is not a medicine, and we advise you to visit your veterinarian if your dog or cat has a specific medical issue.
What is spirulina?
Spirulina is a small, unicellular alga with a spiral structure that lends it its name. Its distinctive colour is a bluish green, with the blue coming from phycocyanin and the green from the high chlorophyll concentration.
It is a wonderful source of nourishment. It is rich in vitamins, particularly group B, minerals including iron, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and calcium as well as proteins and vital fatty acids.
To be more precise and to help you grasp the scope of its qualities, 50–70 percent of its dry weight is exceptionally high-quality protein that is prepared for absorption by the body, as opposed to 36 percent of soy, which is well recognised for its high protein content.
It is one of the finest sources of Gamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA) in terms of fatty acids. Since this fatty acid only makes up little more than 40 percent of spirulina, it is quite uncommon to find it in regular meals. GLA has a strong reputation as a dietary supplement since it is a precursor to chemical mediators of immunological and inflammatory responses. We advise incorporating a little amount of sardine oil into your diet to maintain a healthy balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6. And compared to carrots, it has ten times as much beta-carotene.
Spirulina benefits for dogs and cats
1.Strengthens the immune system
An immune system imbalance is a common cause of exhaustion or a lack of energy in dogs and cats. Metabolic energy is essential to the immune system’s health. Spirulina can assist in stabilising low levels and enhancing normal function, which releases more metabolic energy. This results in improved health, increased energy, and greater vitality.
2.Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Because of its high chlorophyll content, spirulina is a fantastic body cleaner. Toxins are something that our furry friends are constantly exposed to, thus the body has to get rid of them. Chlorophyll and Phycocyanin support the liver’s proper function and safeguard the kidneys, assisting your body in fending off the effects of free radicals.
Due to its ability to lessen discomfort and inflammation, phycocyanin is also ideal for dogs and cats dealing with inflammatory disorders. Highly advised for elderly cats and dogs.
3.Improves digestion
Numerous nutrients in spirulina are readily absorbed, minimising the need for the digestive system to break down meals and promoting intestinal transit. Additionally, it aids in maintaining the balance of the intestine’s bacteria. In situations of malnutrition, assistance.
4.Help against allergy problems
The immune system is strengthened by spirulina, as we have already explained. Allergies are immune system responses that become better when the system is functioning properly. That is, a powerful body will be better able to fight off allergens, fungi, and other diseases.
5.Prevents cancer and helps in its treatment
Cancer cell creation is inhibited by phytocyanin, which also increases the generation of T lymphocytes that target and eliminate cancer cells. Spirulina aids in the treatment of cancer because its constituents promote the repair of radiation-damaged tissue and promote the development of cancer-fighting cells.
How to administer spirulina?
Spirulina is often fed to dogs and cats as a dietary supplement when it is dried. Although it comes in a variety of forms, powder is our preferred choice.
Whether it’s a BARF diet, canned food, prepared food, or feed, spirulina may be given to any kind of food. It may be eaten every day, but because it is so nutrient-rich, eating more than the suggested quantity might result in diarrhoea and stomach discomfort.
The dosage for canines and felines is 1/8 of a teaspoon for every 5 kg of body weight, or 0.125g per day. If possible, try to find organic spirulina, which is as clean and free of contaminants as possible. Additionally, it’s crucial to understand where it came from and other particular information, such as its pH (which should be above 10), and whether or not it contains heavy metals.
Side effects and risks
While studies are still ongoing about potential spirulina benefits, some of the risks are already clear. Always research the manufacturer and where a company sources its spirulina. Some companies grow spirulina in natural waterways without proper quality control. Unsafe growing conditions can contaminate spirulina with heavy metals, liver toxins, or harmful bacteria.
It’s also crucial to stick to supplements made for dogs. No, you shouldn’t buy a bag of human-safe spirulina and plan to split it with your furry best friend. One study reports toxicity after dogs consumed an OTC blue-green algae dietary supplement.
If your pup has an autoimmune disorder or is on other medications, you should never give your dog spirulina without consulting your vet. Too much spirulina may cause nausea, vomiting, thirst, diarrhea, weakness, fatigue, or rapid heartbeat in dogs.
