Kiwifruit for Pets: Benefits, Risks & Safe Feeding Guide
Kiwifruit, also known as Chinese gooseberry, is a nutrient-dense, oval-shaped fruit safe for dogs and cats when properly prepared. Distinguishable from the New Zealand bird, kiwifruit offers a blend of sweet and acidic flavors with a texture similar to a ripe peach, containing edible green or yellow flesh and small black seeds.
The fruit boasts a rich pharmacological profile due to abundant phytochemicals like flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, providing antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Specific compounds include gallic acid, which boosts immune and antioxidant activities in stressed puppies, and caffeic and ferulic acids, which may prevent neurogenic diseases. Lutein, a carotenoid, accumulates in the eye's retina, potentially reducing age-related blindness and attenuating exercise-induced oxidative damage in animals. Catechins also offer protective properties against degenerative diseases.
One standout benefit is actinidin, a proteolytic enzyme similar to bromelain and papain, which helps break down proteins and improve digestion. This is particularly beneficial for senior pets, like cats over 14 years old, who may struggle with protein assimilation. Kiwifruit is also an excellent source of antioxidants, containing three times more vitamin C than oranges and strawberries, which reduces inflammation, scavenges free radicals, and slows cognitive aging. Vitamin E further supports heart, liver, muscle, and immune health, and may ease canine osteoarthritis.
When feeding kiwifruit to pets, always slice it into small pieces to prevent choking, especially for larger breeds. Due to its sugar content, it should only be given in small amounts as an occasional treat, making up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. It can be offered as training treats, in toys, mashed on lick mats, or as a food topper. Opting for organic, spray-free varieties is recommended to avoid pesticide exposure.
When incorporating kiwifruit into your pet's diet, consider using the best pet food dispensers kiwifruit portion control to ensure proper serving sizes.
When using an automatic pet feeder kiwifruit should be given fresh and removed promptly to prevent spoilage and potential digestive issues.
While kiwifruit can be a healthy treat, the best automatic cat feeders pets use should dispense species-appropriate foods rather than human fruits.
When using the best automatic pet feeders kiwifruit portions should be pre-measured and limited to prevent overfeeding this nutritious but sugary fruit.
(Source: https://www.barkandwhiskers.com/2023-05-18-can-you-feed-kiwifruit-to-your-pets/)
