“The egg is regarded as having the perfect
protein. It is the one against
which all other proteins are measured.”
(Billinghurst
1993) A raw egg including the egg
shell contains all necessary minerals, high levels of calcium (from yolk and
shell), vitamins (except for Vitamin C), fatty acids, lecithin and enzymes.
When
comparing different foods in regards to the highest number of amino acids, egg
whites are the most complete protein followed by muscle meat, organ meat, milk,
cheese and fish. Egg whites alone
contain iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, A, B, and E
vitamins. Diets that need to be
high in protein and low in fat should indeed contain regular sources of eggs,
yoghurt and cottage cheese. (Olson
2010)
When
looking at the nutritional composition of whole eggs, the minerals include iodine, manganese, selenium, sodium and
sulphur (Shultze 1999)
Author
of, ‘Whole Health for Happy Cats,’ recommends a simple recipe for cats which
contains whole eggs (including the shells for calcium).
Baked Salmon Cookies for Cats
225g
salmon or mackerel
55g
catnip or wheatgrass
1
ground egg shell
3
whole beaten eggs
55g
ground pumpkin or sesame seeds
562g
rice flour or quinoa or amaranth
After
combining, the dough should be cut into 5mm thick cookies and baked at 190 C
for 20 minutes.
Another
idea for a high protein dog snack is a freshly beaten egg with a heaped
tablespoon of plain yoghurt. (Brown 2006)
Whilst Billinghurst suggests combining vegetables with a raw egg and
some brewers yeast powder.
In
regards to the eggshell, one eggshell contains approximately 2000mg of calcium
and 80mg of phosphorus. Author of
‘Whole Health for Happy Cats,’ does however advise against feeding raw eggs due
to the ‘avidin’ the egg whites contain.
Avidin binds to the B vitamin ‘biotin,’ contained in the egg yolk. Once bound together these B vitamins
are rendered useless. If raw eggs
are fed occasionally it is no problem.
However, on a regular basis, raw egg yolk should be given with egg
whites cooked separately. (Arora 2006)
According
to Billinghurst, raw eggs are not a problem. Wild dogs have been raiding birds nests long before
commercial dog food was invented, with no biotin deficiencies. Raw whole eggs fed in a mixed, varied
diet are excellent nutrition. Like
Arora, Billinghurst suggests the egg whites can be cooked separately if there
is concern in regards to biotin deficiency. Additionally if a dog is sick, has an allergy to eggs, or is
very old with pancreatic problems, they may have problems digesting the egg
white due to an ‘enzyme inhibitor.’
(Billinghurst 1993) Biotin
is found in foods such as carrots, milk, yoghurt, berries, bananas and sweet
potato.
On a
more ethical note, eggs should always be free
range (Brown 2006). One egg
from a caged bird is produced from 30 hours of pain, stood on wired mesh and in
less space than an A4 sized piece of paper.
Whilst eggs remain high in priority when supplementing
a high quality protein into the diet, author of ‘Natural Nutrition for Cats and Dogs,’ reminds us that there
is one life nutrient which assists every biochemical activity in the body. This essential ingredient is ‘love.’ (Shultze 1999)
______________________________________________________________
References:
Arora, S 2006, ‘Whole Health for Happy Cats.’ Quarry Books USA
Billinghurst, I 1993, ‘Give your dog a bone,’ Warragul Publishing,
Australia.
Goldstein, R.S. V.M.D. & Goldstein, S.J. 2005, ‘The
Goldstein’s Wellness & Longevity Program Natural Care for Cats and Dogs.’
TFH Publications USA.
Brown, A 2006, ‘The Whole Pet Diet, Eight weeks to a Great Health
for Dogs and Cats. Celestial Arts, USA.
Coscia, J. A, 2005, ‘The Holistic Cat, A Complete Guide to Wellness for
a Healthier, Happier Cat. North Atlantic Books, USA.
Olson, L 2010, ‘Raw & Natural Nutrition for Dogs, The
definitive guide to homemade meals.’ North Atlantic Books, USA.
Puotinen, C.J. 1999, ‘Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats.’ Keats
Publishing, USA.
Schenck, P. 2010, ‘Home Prepared Dog and Cat Diets Second Edition.’
Blackwell Publishing, USA.
Schultze, K.R. 1998, ‘Natural Nutrition for Cats and Dogs, The Ultimate
Diet.’ Hay House, USA.
Internet website references:
Animals Australia, The Voice for Animals. Special Feature,
‘What you never knew about dairy.
Animals Australia, The Voice for Animals. Article on ‘Battery
Hens.’
Animals Liberation Website, Queensland, Australia. Article, ‘Dairy
Cattle.’ 2004.
ASPCA We Are Their Voice, Animal Rescue. Article on, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your
Pets.’
Mercola.com Take Control of your Health. Article, ‘Who knew
this cocktail of up to 20 Chemicals was in your glass of milk?’ 26 July 2011
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