When we are interested in berries for our dogs, we must be careful, not all are good to give, some are even very toxic.
The blueberry, has many virtues and is very interesting to add to the meals of our animals or in treats. Be careful, like everything, excess is not good.
Its advantages
Blueberry is rich in many nutrients, vitamins and minerals and is very low in calories, only 46 Kcal per 100g of blueberries.
Its benefits
Blueberries contain flavonoids and anthocyanins, compounds known for their powerful antioxidant powers. It's the anthocyanins that also give to blueberries their blue-purplish color.
- Cancer prevention: this berry can be given as a preventive measure to prevent or fight against the formation of tumors, hemangiosarcomas in particular, due to the powerful antioxidant power of the flavonoids it contains.
- Prevention of vision disorders / vision support: the high anthocyanin content of blueberries provides significant support to retinal cells.
- Prevention of urinary tract infections and cystitis: thanks to its "non-stick" properties, blueberry would limit the adhesion and development of E. Coli bacteria in the urinary tract, thus limiting and preventing the risk of urinary tract infection .
- Support for the cardiovascular system: The content of flavonoids would limit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and the adhesion of bad cholesterol plaques in the arteries, limiting the risk of heart disease, infarction or stroke.
- Support the digestive system: blueberries are rich in prebiotics, essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system and the immune system which is closely linked to it.
- Anti-aging effect: the high content of polyphenols, helps prevent cell damage and also helps to fix calcium, limiting the loss of bone mass in older dogs and cats.
What dosage?
There is no risk of toxicity when feeding blueberries to your animals, on the contrary, however, like everything else, you should not give them in excess.
DOGS: To simplify, generally you can give one blueberry per kg of dog (eg: 20 kg dog, 20 blueberries maximum).
It is best to always start with smaller amounts, in order to gradually get your dog used to it and its digestive system. If your dog is a little sensitive this may cause him to have softer stools at first. In which case, decrease the quantity.
CATS: 2 or 3 blueberries per day maximum. If in doubt seek advice from your holistic veterinarian.