Edibles from the sea for cats and dogs are not limited to fish. Sea veggies are rich in minerals and are easily digestible for pets.
A sea veggie such as green algae contains iron and cesium which is capable of binding with carcinogenic substances and expelling them from your pet’s digestive tract. Blue-green algae are rich in vitamin B-12 and beta carotene. Small amounts of fresh seaweed added to your pet’s daily diet offers many health benefits.
Kelp has a long list of nutrients – protein, iodine, calcium, sulfur, magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorus, sodium, potassium and vitamins A, B, E and D. Kelp reduces cholesterol levels, flushes harmful bacteria from the bladder, keeps coats and skin healthy and reduces inflammation.
Palmaria palmata is also known as dulse, dillisk and sea lettuce flakes and is another type of seaweed. It’s color can vary from deep rose to reddish-purple. Dulse is high in protein and trace elements along with other vitamins and minerals. It can be eaten raw, sun-dried and ground into flakes or powder. Dulse helps keep the thyroid functioning normally.
Kombu is a seaweed popular in Japanase and Far East cuisine. It can be found fresh, dried, pickled and frozen. It is a source of glutamic acid and has a high iodine content. Kombu acts as a dietary fiber and flavor enhancer.
Nori is a seaweed that is usually roasted or dried. It is used as shushi wrappers. Nori is high in carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It aids digestion as well as supporting the gastrointestinal tract. Nori contains taurine, an important amino acid especially for cats since they cannot synthesize it. Taurine supports heart and retinal health.
Wakame is a brown seaweed with a subtle sweet flavor. It contains a compound called fucoxanthin that helps to burn fatty tissue. This compound has been found to have anti-cancer properties as well as anti-diabetes effects. Wakame is dried for use.
Chondrus Crispus or Irish Moss is an algae varying in color from yellow/green to red to purple and purple/brown. It contains carrageenan used to thicken milk products. Irish moss supports the organs of the body along with healthier lungs and bladder.
Sprinkling small amounts of sea veggies on your pet’s food can enhance your pet’s health. Before adding any product to your pet’s food, check with your veterinarian and an animal nutritionist to determine which sea edibles and how much to use for your particular pet.
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