Seaweed, macroalgae or sea vegetable refers to several algae species that are often red, green, purple, or brown in color which grows on rocky shorelines. Some of the common ones include Nori, Kombu, Wakame, sea grapes, Desima, Kelp, Carola, and so on.
Although they are an essential source of food to marine life, they are a delicacy in some countries especially Korea, China, and Japan where they are used in various dishes including in sushi rolls, salads, stews, and smoothies. They are also available as supplements.
Can my kitties eat seaweeds?
Yes. they can eat small amounts of seaweeds as an occasional treat. Furthermore, there are many cat foods that have them and they are available as supplements including dried seaweeds for cats.
Whereas they are quite beneficial. Do not go overboard even if they like them since these pets are strict carnivores whose diets are typically high in proteins, moderate in fats and low in carbohydrates.
Some of their benefits include:-
- They high in tyrosine and iodine which aid in thyroid function.
- These sea vegetables are a source of protein (with spirulina and chlorella having all the essential amino acids through in small amounts), carbs, fats including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and vitamins including riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B12 as well as small amounts of vitamins A, C, E, and K.
- Some of the minerals they have include copper, iron, manganese as well as small quantities of sodium, calcium, zinc, and magnesium
- Besides vitamin which have antioxidant properties such as vitamin C and E, they have other antioxidants such as carotenoids and flavonoids that neutralize the free radicals.
- They also “possess a range of medicinal characteristics, including anticancer and anti-inflammatory activity and can produce thicker, shinier coats, enhanced immunity and energy, as well as improved digestion”, notes Because Animals besides being used in deworming herbs.
Best seaweed for cats
From their benefits, I am certain you want to include them as part of your kitty’s diet. Before you do that, you need to know that not all seaweeds are edible, good or safe for your kitties.
Some of the good ones for your feline friends include the following:
- Kelp
- Dulse
- Kombu
- Nori
- Wakame
- Irish moss
- Sea lettuce
- Blue-green algae
However, before feeding any kind to your felines, avoid those grown in polluted waters as they may have heavy metals pesticides, PCBs, herbicides, pathogenic bacteria or fuel oils.
Also, ensure you properly wash them and store them in your refrigerator if they are fresh. On the other hand, store dried ones in dark glass jars and if you cook them, use glass, ceramic or stainless steelware.
Best seaweed cat supplements
Besides the above, there seaweed supplements commercially available for cats and dogs such as the following:
1. ProDen PlaqueOff Dental Powder
This is a natural supplement for cats and dogs made from a specific seaweed harvested from Scandinavia that promotes healthy gum, teeth and ensures your cat has fresh breath. It will also get rid of plaque and tartar.
2. Solid Gold SeaMeal Kelp-Based Supplement
Made from seaweed and flaxseed, it has trace minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and amino acids. This powder helps boost immunity, digestion, supports skin, coat health as well as help in reducing shot spots, excessive shedding.
Additionally, it will promote thyroid function (has iodine) among other functions.
3. Raw Paws Pet Organic Sea Kelp for Dogs & Cats
Made from Icelandic kelp, it is mineral-rich including being high in iodine and will boost your pet’s immunity. Also, it is good for dental health (dissolves tartar and plague) and it will help within the case of skin allergies, itching as well as promotes hair regrowth.
4. Garmon Corp. NaturVet Kelp Help Plus Omegas
The Garmon Corp. NaturVet Kelp Help plus omegas will It will help ensure a healthy immune system and a better coat quality. It is rich in omegas, minerals, and vitamins for a skin that is not only healthy but also glossy and shiny.
Others are:
- Wholistic Pet Organics Supplement – It is made from pure sea kelp and it supports normal shedding as well as thyroid glands.
- Reveal – Grain-Free, Wet Canned Cat Food– This is a cat food made from tuna that has some seaweed.
- Nature’s Best Seaweed Calcium for Pets – It is harvested from calcareous marine algae growing in Iceland.
- Animal Essentials Seaweed Calcium