Advantages of Brewer's Yeast for Canine and Feline Nutrition
Increasingly, pet owners are turning to supplements to bolster their animals' health, with brewer's yeast being a popular choice. This nutritional supplement, rich in B vitamins and protein, has long been utilized by humans but is now being considered for cats and dogs. Let's delve into the benefits and potential advantages of brewer's yeast for our furry companions.
What is Brewer's Yeast?
Originating from the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as brewer's or baker's yeast, this form of yeast has been employed for millennia in the creation of fermented foods and beverages such as beer, wine, and bread (1). Brewer's yeast is a byproduct of the beer-making process, providing a nutritious supplement with protein and B vitamins (2). While it is not uncommon to find brewer's yeast in pet food and treat formulations, it can also be added to a pet's diet in supplemental form.
Though brewer's yeast shares a species with nutritional yeast, they are not comparable.
Benefits of Brewer's Yeast for Dogs and Cats
Offering a natural source of protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, selenium, and potassium, brewer's yeast presents several potential benefits for cats and dogs (3). These advantages may include:
- Enhancing appetite
- Improving nutritional deficiencies
- Bolstering the immune system
- Promoting digestive health
- Supporting skin and coat health
Dried brewer's yeast is often an ingredient in pet food, added to enhance flavor (4). Although studies indicate that dogs favor diets containing yeast compared to control diets, cats may find these diets less appealing (4).
Supplementing with brewer's yeast may not necessarily lead to a heightened appetite but could be worth considering for finicky eaters. When discussing supplementation beyond flavor, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian to explore more definitive diagnoses and treatment recommendations (4).
Safe Usage and Side Effects
Properly purchased and used brewer's yeast is generally safe for pets, formulated for intermittent or supplementary feeding. Available in powder and tablet forms, brewer's yeast is administered orally and often combined with food (5). If unsure about the correct dosage for your pet, consult your veterinarian.
Brewer's yeast supplements occasionally contain garlic, which can be toxic to pets in high doses. Exercise caution when purchasing supplements from an unknown manufacturer, as garlic can pose a threat to your pet's health. Furthermore, care should be taken if your pet has a pre-existing health condition, as brewer's yeast, high in certain B vitamins and purines, may not be suitable for breeds prone to urinary issues (6).
Where to Acquire Brewer's Yeast for Dogs and Cats
Brewer's yeast for pets can be purchased from various sources, including online retailers, pet specialty stores, pharmacies, health and wellness retailers, and big-box stores. When seeking out brewer's yeast, prioritize products that undergo third-party testing for safety, strength, purity, and quality (7).
Seek out companies adhering to Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations enforced by the FDA and displaying a quality seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), equivalent to the USP dietary supplement verification seal for human products. Such companies demonstrate a sustained commitment to quality, consistency, diligence, and continuous improvement (8).
In summary, brewer's yeast has the potential to provide several health benefits to cats and dogs, including enhanced immunity, digestive support, and skin and coat improvement. While supplementation should only be carried out under the guidance of a veterinarian, brewer's yeast is a nutritious and widely recognized source of essential nutrients and biologically active compounds for pets.
- Pet owners have started to explore supplements for their animals' health, with brewer's yeast being one popular choice due to its rich nutritional profile, which includes B vitamins, protein, and selenium.
- Science has shown that brewer's yeast can help dogs and cats improve their nutritional deficiencies, bolster their immune systems, promote digestive health, and enhance the beauty of their skin and coats.
- Lifestyle choices like pet nutrition, fitness-and-exercise, and health-and-wellness can be influenced by the selection of pet supplements such as brewer's yeast, which can help support overall pet health and wellbeing, contributing to their quality of life.
