With plant-based diets on the rise, it’s natural to reconsider what’s going into pets’ food bowls. But some animals may not take to vegetables as readily as others
Veganism is on the rise for pets, just as it is for humans. One UK dog food brand, Butternut Box, has launched its first meat-free meal, Ready Steady Veggie, after a survey found that 71% of its customers were keen on a vegetable-based meal for their pets once a week.
It’s not surprising that many people are reviewing their pets’ diet: if you have made a principled decision to reduce or stop your own meat consumption, it seems odd to pile your pets’ dinner bowls full of animal products. However, it’s one thing to make a personal decision about your own diet; when deciding on behalf of another creature, you need to be certain that you are not compromising their health or welfare.
Dr Pete Wedderburn is a vet in County Wicklow, Ireland
