It might not be the best thing to do, but sometimes we all share our food with our pets.
What are the limits?
Is it okay if we give them crab meat, for example?
Actually, yes! Keep reading to find out more about the advantages of doing so.
Crab or crab meat?
In general, we are allowed to feed crab to our pets. However, we should be careful not to give them the entire crab, shell included, as it could get stuck in their teeth and give them severe issues such as choking and, in some cases, even death.
How could this happen? If they manage to swallow the shells, it is difficult for them to digest, causing blockages in their belly, slowly killing them.
The best thing to do is to feed them fresh crab meat only and avoid canned products.
Keep in mind that crab in cans has less nutritional value as it requires a lot of additives and preservatives.
What are the advantages of crab meat for dogs?
Giving crab to your pets is an excellent choice as an exotic and occasional treat as it has ideal quantities of minerals and vitamins, including B12.
Besides, it has these great benefits:
1. Crabmeat is high in protein
Like us, dogs need a fair amount of protein in their diet; this helps them have a healthy image, improves hair, skin, and nails, and benefits the inside thanks to the amino acids.
That means that your pets can restore their muscles, tendons, and ligaments quickly.
You can feed them protein in many ways, including crab meat now and then.
2. Crabmeat improves pancreatic insufficiencies
Some breeds are prone to develop a disease known as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, an illness where dogs cannot absorb the B12 vitamin present in meat sources.
If this is the case for your pet, including crab meat in the diet can counterbalance this inability.
How is it possible? Thanks to the high quantities of B12, the vitamin that enhances both brain and intestinal health.
3. Crabmeat is easy to digest
If your dog is experiencing circumstances as broken teeth, infections, infected gums, or similar, and he or she is not too excited to eat, crab meat can be the solution.
A new meal can increase their curiosity and open their appetite.
Besides, this meat is very soft and easy to swallow and digest if you never feed them shells.
Raw or cooked?
Since we are talking about seafood, there is a large possibility of bacteria, mostly when raw. That’s why we recommend you feed your pet only cooked crab meat.
Luckily, it is quite simple to cook, and you can serve your dog a baked, steamed, grilled, or even boiled meal.
What should I keep in mind?
1. Although it can be beneficial for your pet, we do not recommend you feed them crab meat every day. Instead, go for moderate quantities occasionally. This way, you can give them more nutrients and protein but avoid the risks of developing new diseases.
2. Some breeds might be allergic to iodine, which is found in large quantities in crab meat. That is why you should always keep your pets under supervision when offering them new meals. If you see any signs that something is wrong (diarrhea, watery nose, upset belly, lethargy) after 5 hours, go to your vet right away as it could mean your buddy is allergic.
3. Crabs can get worms and, with them, parasitic infections such as Paragonimiasis. If you give your pet a raw (or even under-cooked) meat, this can transfer to him or her. Always make sure to cook their crab first.
4. Crabmeat is high in sodium, which can increase your dog’s cholesterol. Over time, they could develop illnesses like hypernatremia, causing vomiting, seizures, and even heart diseases. Use crab meat only as a treat.
It is easier for us to take care of our pet’s look as it’s right in front of us. However, making sure they are also alright on the inside is a bit trickier.
The key is to create a balanced diet high in proteins and minerals.
Include crab meat occasionally as an exotic treat that can help you improve their health while keeping them excited and curious.
Of course, if you see weird behavior after consuming it, call your vet as soon as possible.
