What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are natural compounds that inhibit oxidation – a chemical reaction that damages cells and contributes to development of several chronic diseases in dogs, cats and humans. While some antioxidants (such as ‘antioxidant enzymes’) can be produced in the body, other types must be added in dietary form. These include vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene, lutein and selenium.
Why are they important?
Antioxidants are important because they fight and neutralize free radicals – highly reactive, unstable molecules that damage cell membranes, enzymes and even DNA. Activity of free radicals leads to cell mutation and causes new cells to grow erroneously. For this reason, these molecules play a role in development of several chronic illnesses and premature aging in dogs and cats.
A dog or cat's body can normally handle some free radicals. However, if the amount of free radicals becomes excessive or if sufficient antioxidants are not available to help, they could have detrimental effects on your companion animal’s health. For this reason, antioxidants are key in keeping your animal healthy.
Processed meats and animal fats that contain preservatives are particularly high in free radicals. Avoid feeding these products to your companion animal.
Antioxidants in plant-based dog and cat food
Antioxidants are readily available in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds. Add these foods to your dog and cat’s diet regularly, to help them fight diseases and live longer lives. Fresh ingredients should be preferred, as cooking removes as much as 50% of antioxidants.
Antioxidants in Vecado products
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Sunflower seeds, cranberries, potatoes, peas, vitamins C and E |
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Sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, soy meal, peas |
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Peas, linseed, non-GMO corn, vitamin E, selenium |
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Beans, carrots, lentils, potatoes, spinach, broccoli, parsley, seaweed |
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Organic soy, barley, oats, vitamins C and E |
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Lentils, carrots, peas, potatoes, linseed oil, vitamin E |
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| Cranberry Treats | Cranberries |
| Sweet Potato Treats | Sweet potatoes |
| Green Mush | Spirulina, chlorella, kelp, alfalfa, ginger, nettle, carob, burdock root, Co-enzyme Q10 |
Substitute animal ingredients with plant-based ones, for optimal health and long life of your companion animal.
I would love for my senior cat to go ‘vegetarian’ – even vegan. But I’m wondering whether cats generally take to a vegetarian diet?
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