Pets are some of the closest companions we can ever have as they love us unconditionally and are always there to give us good cheer and humor when we need it. All any pet could ask of you is the best care you can give to them.
One of the best ways to care for your pet and guarantee its wellness is to give it the best nutrition. While there are different sources of nutrients to incorporate in pet food, soy-based sources have become quite popular of late.
In this article, we consider the main benefits of soy in pet food. But first, let’s think about the main nutrients pets need in their food.
The Main Nutrients Pets Need In Their Food
Pets get all their nutrients from what they eat. That is why you should be careful about what you feed your pets. To ensure that your pet achieves all its nutritional needs, you must incorporate the following nutrients in the animal feed you serve them:
- Fats
- Protein
- Water
- Carbohydrates
- Minerals like calcium and potassium
- Vitamins
In What Form Is Soy Ideal For Pet Food?
While soy has all these nutrients in high content, some pets may have a bad experience taking unprocessed soy meals. That has caused soy to get a bad reputation in pet foods due to its taste and the likelihood of it causing flatulence in pets. Most vets recommend processing soy to remove the components that give it these characteristics. The residual soy concentrate produces an excellent meal for pets. You should always confirm whether the pet feed you offer your pet is pure soy concentrate to ensure it benefits your pet.
Nutritional Benefits Of Soy For Pets
Now that we have covered what form of soy can be good for your pets let’s see what your pet stands to gain from eating a meal rich in soy.
- Source Of Protein and Fat
The main nutritional value of soy pet food is its protein and fat content. Generally, soy-based pet feeds contain roughly 20 to 30% protein content in dry weight. On the other hand, the fat content in such feeds could be between 10 to 20% depending on the brand you get.
These high levels of protein and fat are very crucial for the dietary needs of a pet for various reasons, as follows:
- Protein provides amino acids that serve as the building block for pets’ organs, muscles, and tissues. Thus, a protein-rich diet will help the pet grow better.
- Proteins also help in muscle repair for very active pets. It also helps in bolstering the immune system of the pet.
- For pets requiring high energy, the fat and proteins in soy-based pet food can come in handy.
- Potassium Content In Diet
Generally, soy foods are rich in potassium. When in concentrated form, especially in pet food, soy provides enough potassium to meet the pet’s nutritional needs. Pets need an adequate supply of potassium to move the different electrical charges that power the body. This ensures the proper functioning of the pet’s heart, nerves, and muscles.
- Vitamin Supplements
Soy has a very high supply of a variety of vitamins. All these vitamins play a different role in the body of the pet, which makes soy such an essential food source for pets. Some of the vitamins present in soy-based pet food include:
- Vitamin C: While many dog species synthesize Vitamin C in their livers, supplementing it through food can help improve immunity and regulate oxidative processes.
- Vitamin D: Pets need Vitamin D in their food to enhance their bone development. This helps ensure that the pets have healthy bones for their regular activities. Vitamin D also keeps the heart healthy by preventing cardiac diseases.
- Vitamin E: Just like Vitamin C, Vitamin E has antioxidant properties. Thus, pets with an adequate supply of Vitamin E can avoid the damage their cells might endure due to free radicals. Vitamin E also helps improve heart health, nourish the blood circulatory system, and help the pet grow strong muscles.
- Vitamin K: Just as with humans, Vitamin K provides pets with blood-clotting capabilities. Pets often play around and get into activities that might cause a little scratching or extensive injuries. You can help your pet heal faster by providing a diet rich in Vitamin K, like soy.
- Source Of Calcium For Pets
Soy is an excellent source of calcium for pets. Pets need calcium to get strong bones and teeth. With a diet rich in soy, your pet can get enough calcium to nourish its bones and teeth. That will help your pet avoid bone and dental problems for enhanced well-being.
Final Thoughts
From the discussion above, it is apparent that soy is one of the best sources of pet food. Soy provides your pet with a wide range of nutrients for its well-being. With a soy-based diet, you won’t need to provide any additional foods for your pet’s nourishment.
However, you might need to consult your vet for the best recommendations for which brands of soy-based pet food will be good for your pet. Get your pet on a soy-based diet and watch it grow stronger, healthier, and better.