Carnivorous Nature?
The Dogs They evolved from European wolves more than 18.000 years ago, and therefore belong to the group of carnivores. In the wild, dogs feed mainly on carrion or animals that they hunt themselves. They use everything raw from these animals, including the viscera, which contain everything that the animal was feeding on: fruits and vegetables. For this reason, it is important not only to include raw meat in the dog's diet, but also a portion of fruits and vegetables.
Other indications of the carnivorous nature of our Dogs and cats are:
- Saw-shaped teeth for tearing and breaking bones. Both herbivores and omnivores have flat molars for crushing plants, while dogs and cats have pointed molars.
- The jaw of carnivores (dogs and cats) can only perform hinge or pincer movements, biting and tearing off pieces of meat, while herbivores and omnivores perform rotary movements with their jaws to crush food.
- Herbivores and omnivores have digestive enzymes (amylase) in their saliva that help break down carbohydrates, while carnivores (such as dogs and cats) have antiseptic saliva to help dissolve proteins.
- Carnivores have a shorter digestive system and therefore a shorter digestion time, while herbivores and omnivores are up to 3 times longer.
- The stomach of carnivores has a pH of 1 (the most acidic possible) since part of their diet consists of carrion, bones, etc. so they can digest it without problems.
Furthermore, both in Dogs as in cats It is advisable to vary the source of protein, since this way their digestive and immune systems benefit from the different properties of each type of meat. Just as a varied diet is recommended for humans.
Bibliography:
- Biologist Gurguen Suvarián
- Pitcairn “The Complete Guide to Natural Care for Dogs and Cats”
- Martin Ann N. 1997. “Food pets die for: Shocking facts about pet food” United States: NewSages.
- “Biological food for dogs and cats: The biological food concept and the dietary needs of domestic dogs and cats.”
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