Spirulina is a dark green powder that is often added to smoothies as a health supplement. But what exactly is it and how can it help our pets? Spirulina is in fact a microscopic blue-green algae found in fresh and saltwater lakes, that grows in a spiral shape as its name suggests. As well as being marketed as a 'superfood' for humans, it is also a supplementary feed in the poultry and aquarium industries. This is because spirulina is such a rich source of nutrients. It is packed full of vitamins and minerals, anti-oxidants, and contains all the essential amino acids (the building blocks of protein) that a body needs. In the wild, animals naturally ingest algae in local drinking water sources such as ponds and streams.
Spirulina can be offered to domestic animals as a nutritional powder, including dogs and cats. My cat Sam loves lapping up a bowl full. Spirulina is nutrient-rich and supports the immune system, so can be particularly beneficial for senior or run-down animals, those with allergies or joint problems, and can aid detoxification.
Although some pet owners add it to food, this is not advised, as your pet may not want or need it. It is best offered separately, so that your pet can ingest as much or little as he wants (or none at all and that's fine, never force it on them).
To offer spirulina to your pet, just put a small teaspoon-full of spirulina powder in a bowl, add a splash of water to just dampen half of the powder, leaving the other half dry. Then place the bowl on the floor and see if your pet licks it. You may want to put some newspaper or a cloth underneath to protect the floor in case of splashes.
The idea is to offer the powder as a choice of dry or wet to see which way your pet likes it. If they lick it all up, then add some more until they have their fill and walk away. Ensure you purchase spirulina from reputable suppliers to ensure purity. Then both you and your animal friends can enjoy it together (I'll have mine in fruit juice please).
One word of caution: avoid giving spirulina to dalmatians as they cannot tolerate it as well as other breeds. If you have any questions, do feel free to contact us for more information.
