It’s officially soup season! Why not incorporate bone broth as part of your pet’s diet as a nourishing, easily digestible treat and perfect autumnal snack after those chilly walks. Our free-range chicken bone broth is extremely versatile, with an abundance of nutritional and health benefits which we will share with you in this blog.
Bone broth can be warmed and served as a revitalising drink, the perfect comfort food for this time of year to give your pet an extra boost! Alternatively, some owners may choose to add bone broth to their pet’s meals directly, whilst others may freeze it into cubes to be added to meals or given as a treat on a warmer day.
Joint Care
When raw bones are gently simmered, highly bioavailable forms of valuable minerals are released, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium which support skeletal health.
Collagen from connective tissues on bones supports joint health with the glucosamine and chondroitin supporting elasticity, which is particularly important in active and aging pets. Bone broth also has the potential to slow degenerative joint diseases such as arthritis.
Digestive Care
Bone broth provides digestive support, as it is packed with the amino acids’ glycine and proline, which are soothing and healing to the intestinal mucosa. Whilst this supports a healthy gut microbiome, it is also useful to restore optimal gut health following illness. As a result, bone broth is considered a natural anti-inflammatory. Additionally, glycine produces glutathione, a vital antioxidant which supports liver detoxification, the main organ responsible for removing toxins from the body.
Appetite Stimulation
Bone broth can be an excellent tool when dogs and cats have been unwell. It increases food palatability by providing an enticing aroma and flavour. When we are ill, we can sometimes lose our appetites, which is the same for our pets. Bone broth ensures your pet is receiving essential nutrients even if they are rejecting their usual meals. Additionally, following diarrhoea, bone broth provides electrolytes, rehydration and energy to recovering pets, allowing them to bounce back to their mischievous selves much quicker!
This added hydration also supports kidney function, which is especially important in cats due to their low thirst drive.
Immune Support
With up to 80% of immune cells existing within the gastrointestinal tract, the gut flora has an important role in regulating the immune system. Alongside a complete raw diet, bone broth can boost gut health, subsequently boosting immunity against seasonal allergies, infections, and illnesses.
Here at Cotswold RAW, our chicken bone broth also contains turmeric, which provides a myriad of health benefits. This includes antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting your pet’s natural defences.
Whilst bone broth is an excellent tool for the vast majority of dogs and cats, if your pet suffers from health issues, we advise speaking with your vet prior to incorporating new foods into their diet.
Lucy James, BSc (Hons) Bioveterinary Science