Peppermint is one of the 8 Superfoods found in Wishbone products. It relaxes the stomach after eating and reduces gas. These benefits are part of the reason why pet foods use it.
There are many myths and facts about Peppermint debating whether or not it’s safe for pets. Understanding its proper use and why this ingredient is still used in pet food is the first step to clearing misconceptions.
The health benefits of Peppermint for pets
Peppermint has many health benefits for pets. These include:
- Rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that can lead to cancer.
- Freshens breath, similar to why we chew breath mints, it can also help your dog or cat if they have bad breath.
- Rich in nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc. These can help promote healthy blood and bones by supplying the needed building blocks for repairing them. Peppermint also contains vitamin A and C, which help build immunity from diseases.
What are the precautions of Peppermint for pets?
While Peppermint itself can be used as a pet food ingredient, Peppermint Essential Oil is arguably the main reason why this herb is deemed unsafe because it’s toxic for dogs and cats.
For us, this is a highly concentrated essential oil extracted from Peppermint leaves and can be used to relieve muscle pain, headaches, and even an upset stomach. While it’s safe for humans, using it on your furbabies without a veterinarian’s direction can do more harm than good. Applying this oil on their skin will cause it to be absorbed into the body and damage the liver. This can lead to:
- Skin irritation
- Difficulty in breathing
- Liver disease
- Vomiting
In short, exposing your furbabies to Peppermint Oil can lead to serious health problems, especially when unsupervised. In the first place, your pets’ noses are sensitive to the oil’s scent, which means even being near it can overwhelm their sense of smell. It’s usually best to avoid giving them Peppermint in this form.
How can Peppermint be safe for your pets?
Peppermint leaves are the safest for feeding your dogs and cats. While these are non-toxic, it’s best to limit the amount to 1 to 2 leaves per day or as directed by your veterinarian. Giving them too much can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
If you want to try a meal that’s boosted with Peppermint, try Wishbone Pet, a homestyle food made with premium, free-range New Zealand proteins and aromatic herbs. Aside from Peppermint, it’s also enriched with 8 Superfoods like Mango, Papaya, and Cranberries to promote healthy digestion and provide an immune boost.
Get it today at a store near you!
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