Are lamb hearts good for dogs? Yes, lamb hearts are good for dogs and cats. Plus they make a healthy treat!
The health benefits of lamb heart for your pet are many. They are rich in vitamins and minerals and contain amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. Did you know lamb hearts contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein?
The nutritional health benefits of lamb hearts support healthy organs and brain function. They also aid metabolism, and improve immunity. Lamb hearts are high in protein, necessary for building muscle and making hormones and enzymes.
Freeze dried lamb hearts make a healthy alternative to ultra-processed commercial treats. |
Lamb hearts come in different forms including raw hearts, dehydrated or freeze-dried. You can source raw hearts whole or in smaller chunks. Freeze dried lamb hearts come chopped into smaller pieces and still retain all their nutrients. Either option provides your pet with all the health benefits lamb heart has to offer.
If your pet is on a raw food diet, it’s important to note lamb hearts shouldn’t be the only raw ingredient in their bowl. Total raw food intake for a dog and cat should be between 2 and 3 percent of their body weight including organs, bones, and muscles. Lamb heart shouldn't account for more than 10% of this total.
More benefits of lamb hearts:
Source of B Vitamins, including B12 which is essential to the health of your nervous system and red blood cells. Furthermore, research indicates vitamin B12 can aid in the prevention of a number of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and some types of cancer.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids in lamb hearts are so important. They improve cardiovascular health and lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to increase HDL cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.
Essential Amino Acids are also present in lamb heart. These nine essential amino acids are tryptophan, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, and valine.
Studies show essential amino acids are responsible for a range of health advantages, such as promoting immune system function, regulating metabolism, and helping muscles grow and develop.
Beneficial Minerals
- Selenium, phosphorus, and magnesium are abundant in lamb heart. They work to support bones, teeth, cell protection, thyroid and hormones.
- Copper for immune protection to fight off infections. Also used to make collagen for skin, bones, and cartilage.
- Iron, used to make energy, amino acids, collagen, hormones, and neurotransmitters. Iron from animal sources is easier to absorb than iron from plants
- Zinc for immunity, wound healing, and defence against free radicals
Considerations
Due to the richness of lamb hearts, they may cause gut issues if introduced too quickly. Introduce them slowly to your pet’s diet.
In summary
Given in the correct portions, lamb hearts are an excellent addition to your pet’s diet. Freeze dried lamb hearts make a healthy alternative to ultra-processed commercial treats. An alternative to lamb hearts are chicken hearts as they also offer great health benefits of organ meats.
The Science behind it
Don’t just take our word for it, here are some evidence-based studies for you to review.
B12 vitamins
B12 is associated with risk reduction for some chronic diseases
3 fatty acids and coronary heart disease
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Therapies
Amino acids: metabolism, functions, and nutrition
Phosphorus Study
Lamb nutrient chart
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Freeze-Dried Lamb Hearts are available from PetWell
