Chances are that if you follow a vegan lifestyle and have pets, you’re forced to have a moral and ethical debate regarding what to feed them. Vegans aim to minimize animal suffering and reduce environmental impact, and prioritize the welfare of all living beings, which is why we may seek to extend this philosophy to the diets of our furry companions. 

For some, providing a plant-based diet for their pets is seen as an extension of their commitment to compassion and sustainability. By choosing plant-based foods, the aim is to reduce the demand for animal products, thereby decreasing the suffering and exploitation of farmed animals, as well as the environmental degradation associated with animal agriculture.

However, the welfare of the pets themselves is also an ethical concern. While dogs, as omnivores, can potentially thrive on a well-planned vegan diet, cats are obligate carnivores, and their nutritional requirements are more challenging to meet with a plant-based diet. So, without much further ado, here’s a quick breakdown:

Dogs - YES

As it turns out, our canine companions can thrive on a well-balanced vegan diet. Dogs are classified as omnivores, which means they can obtain nutrients from both plant and animal sources. Research has shown that dogs can maintain good health on a plant-based diet as long as it meets their nutritional needs, including protein, vitamins, and minerals. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes.

Cats - NO

Cats, on the other hand, are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies require certain nutrients found exclusively in animal sources. Taurine, an essential amino acid for cats, is found only in animal tissue. While there are vegan cat foods that attempt to supplement these nutrients, the long-term health effects of a plant-based diet on cats are not well understood. It's best to provide a diet that aligns with their natural needs.

Moreover, there are physical variations between dogs and cats that influence their dietary requirements. For example, cats have shorter digestive tracts compared to dogs, which is more suited to metabolizing animal proteins and fats. Dogs, with a longer digestive tract, are better equipped to handle plant-based diets.

Vegan Food Brands for Animals:

• Botanical bones - plant-based treats using a mix of superfoods and adaptogens

• V-dog - Vegan dog food and treats made from wholesome ingredients

• Wild Earth - High-protein, sustainable dog food made from plant-based sources

• Benevo - Vegan pet food for dogs and cats, along with treats and supplements

• Amì Pet Food - Vegan options for both dogs and cats, formulated with natural ingredients

Some of these brands are difficult to find around the world, so here are three tasty vegan recipes for dogs that you can make at home:

Peanut Butter & Banana Pupcakes

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/4 cup rolled oats

• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed banana, applesauce, and peanut butter.

3. Mix in whole wheat flour and rolled oats.

4. Spoon the mixture into a greased mini muffin tin.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Allow cooling before serving your pup.

Sweet Potato & Quinoa Doggie Dinner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed

• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach

• 1/2 cup cooked peas

• 1/2 cup cooked lentils

• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mashed sweet potato, chopped kale or spinach, peas, and lentils.

2. Stir in the ground flaxseed and olive oil, mixing well.

3. Serve the mixture to your dog in appropriate portions, based on their size and dietary needs. Consult your veterinarian if you're unsure about portion sizes.

Carrot & Chickpea Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups chickpea flour

• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed carrots

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour and ground flaxseed.

3. Mix in the mashed carrots and applesauce.

4. Gradually add water, stirring until a dough forms.

5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and use a cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.

6. Place the biscuits on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.

7. Allow the biscuits to cool completely before treating your furry friend.

Remember: not all pets can thrive on a vegan diet, but for those who can, there are plenty of nutritious and delicious plant-based options. Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your pet's diet, and remember that a balanced diet is key to ensuring their long-term health and happiness. Happy plant-based feeding to you and your furry companions!