Jessica
- updated: 24/04/2019 Eggs are tasty for us humans, but some owners also give eggs to their dog or cat. Are eggs actually healthy for your dog or cat? And how can you best serve an egg to your four-legged friend?
Eggs are healthy for dogs & cats
Eggs are full of nutrients such as vitamins A, B, D and E, proteins, minerals, antioxidants and fatty acids that keep your cat or dog's skin and fur healthy. The eggshell is also full of calcium. An egg can, therefore, be a good addition to the daily diet of your dog or cat.
Why feed raw egg?
Enzymes in the egg are still intact when raw - which makes it easier for your dog or cat to digest. Raw proteins are also easier to digest than solidified proteins. Plus, most dogs and cats really enjoy the occasional egg as a treat!
Feed the egg with the shell?
It is best to feed the egg with the shell, which contains calcium. If you don't include the shell, the egg can have a laxative effect on your pet. Just break the egg and crumble the shell and mix it with the egg white and yolk. Or - grind the shell in a food processor or blender. Many dogs and cats will find it initially a little unusual to eat the egg with the shell, but most of them will love it in the end.
Isn't raw egg dangerous?
Dogs and cats have a very different digestive system than us humans and, as such, can digest raw meat without a problem. Their stomachs are more acidic than ours, so harmful bacteria such as salmonella has no chance of survival. Dogs and cats that are used to raw food will digest raw eggs without any problems. If your dog is new to eating eggs, they may have to get used to it gradually. Always check your dog's stool afterwards, just to make sure the egg isn't upsetting their stomach :-)
Not all dogs and cats like to eat eggshell, but instead just slurp at the egg white and yolk and leave the shell - that's OK too!
Do you have an older dog or cat or a young puppy or kitten? A raw egg can cause digestive problems, so better be safe than sorry and avoid feeding them any egg. And if your dog or cat has dental problems, be careful with the sharp pieces of shell (and, to be super safe, don't feed them raw egg either).
How often do you feed an egg?
An egg is a supplementary food and not a main meal for your pet. Just consider it as an occasional treat! You can safely feed your pet about one egg a week.
Organic egg feeding
Better for the chickens, better for your dog or cat: choose free-range, organic eggs. For a start, you will know for sure that the shell has not been 'polished' with a toxic substance. In addition, organic eggs contain more vitamin D.
Important: inform your pet sitter
Does your dog or cat go to stay with a pet sitter from Pawshake? Always inform your pet sitter in detail about the routine diet of your dog or cat. Also leave a plentiful supply of your pet's regular food so that your cat or dog does not have to get used to another brand or style. And does your pet get an egg from time to time at your home? Feel free to ask your pet sitter to feed your pet a nice fresh, raw organic egg as a treat. Read more about what you should discuss with your pet sitter
