Introduction
Dogs are often considered to be part of the family, so it’s no surprise that many people want to include their furry friends in their favorite activities and meals. But can dogs eat ricotta cheese?
The answer is yes, but there are some things to keep in mind. Read on to learn more about the benefits and risks of feeding ricotta cheese to your dog.
What Is Ricotta Cheese?
Ricotta cheese is an Italian whey cheese made from sheep, cow, goat, or Italian water buffalo milk whey leftover from the production of other cheeses.
Unlike traditional rennet-curdled cheeses, it is not pressed; instead, the whey is cooked until it curdles. The resulting mixture is drained several times to remove most of the liquid whey, leaving a soft creamy white ricotta.
Can Dogs Eat Ricotta Cheese?
Yes, dogs can eat ricotta cheese as long as it’s in moderation and doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients. Cheese can be a good source of protein and calcium for your dog. However, some dogs may be lactose intolerant and may experience digestive issues after eating cheese.
Ricotta cheese may be beneficial for some dogs and dangerous for others. If you’re unsure whether your dog can tolerate cheese, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian first.
Is Ricotta Cheese Safe for Dogs?
Yes, ricotta cheese is safe for dogs to eat in moderation as long as it doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients.
You can prepare ricotta cheese at home by avoiding the ingredients that are dangerous for your dogs. Read on to see the best home recipe of ricotta cheese for your dog.
What Are the Benefits of Ricotta Cheese for Dogs?
- Ricotta Cheese Is a Good Source of Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs, and ricotta cheese is a good source of protein. Ricotta cheese contains all the essential amino acids that your dog needs to build and maintain muscle tissue.
Dogs need protein for many different purposes, including growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues, enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.
Ricotta Cheese Is a Good Source of Calcium and selenium
Calcium is another essential nutrient for dogs and is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Ricotta cheese is a good source of calcium, providing about one-third of the daily recommended intake per serving.
Selenium is an important trace mineral that helps protect cells from damage. It also plays a role in thyroid function and reproduction.
Ricotta cheese contains about 14 micrograms of selenium per serving, which is 20% of the daily recommended intake for dogs.
Ricotta Cheese May Help Keep Your Dog’s Coat Shiny and Healthy.
Ricotta cheese also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 fatty acids can help keep your dog’s coat shiny and reduce shedding.
They may also help to relieve dryness, itching, and inflammation associated with allergies or other skin conditions.
What Are the Risks of Feeding Ricotta Cheese to Dogs
Ricotta Cheese Contains Lactose
Ricotta cheese contains high levels of lactose, which is a sugar that can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
If your dog is lactose intolerant, feeding them ricotta cheese can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating. If you’re unsure whether or not your dog is lactose intolerant, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian before feeding them this cheese.
Ricotta Cheese May Contain Harmful Bacteria
In addition to containing lactose, ricotta cheese may also contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
These bacteria can cause food poisoning in dogs, which can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy.
If you believe your dog has eaten ricotta cheese that contains harmful bacteria, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
How to prepare ricotta cheese?
Ricotta cheese is made from whey, the watery part of milk that’s left over after making other types of cheese. To make ricotta, the whey is heated and then mixed with an acid, which causes it to curdle. The curds are then strained out, and what’s left is ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
Making ricotta at home is easy, and only requires a few ingredients:
–1 gallon whole milk
-1 cup heavy cream
-1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
-Cheesecloth
To make the ricotta cheese:
1) Pour the milk and cream into a large pot and stir in the salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2) Add the lemon juice and continue cooking at a simmer for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
3) Line a colander with several layers of cheesecloth and set it over a bowl. Pour the mixture into the colander and let it drain for 20 minutes.
4) Gather up the corners of the cheesecloth and twist them together to form a bundle. Hang the bundle over a bowl or sink and let it drain for another 20 minutes (You can also put it in the refrigerator overnight to drain).
5) Once all of the liquid has drained out, transfer the ricotta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
How to feed ricotta cheese to your dog?
Ricotta cheese can be fed to dogs in a variety of ways. The most important thing is to start with small amounts and increase gradually.
Here are some ideas:
-Add a small amount of ricotta cheese to your dog’s regular food. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and increase gradually as your dog tolerates it.
-Mix ricotta cheese with some cooked, plain chicken or ground beef and offer it as a special treat.
–Spread ricotta cheese on top of a Kong toy or other type of puzzle toy. This will give your dog something to work for while also getting a tasty treat!
–Make mini “ricotta cheese pizzas” by spreading the cheese on top of thin slices of apple or pear. Top with a few pieces of cooked chicken or turkey bacon and bake at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes. Let cool before serving.
What Are Some Alternative Foods I Can Feed My Dog?
As an alternative to ricotta cheese, there are a number of other foods that you can feed your dog. Here are some examples:
- Cottage cheese:
Cottage cheese is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk. It is lower in lactose than other types of cheese, making it easier for dogs to digest. Cottage cheese is also a good source of protein and calcium.
- Yogurt:
Yogurt is another type of dairy product that is lower in lactose than other types of dairy products. It is also a good source of protein and calcium.
Like cottage cheese, it is important to choose yogurt that does not contain artificial sweeteners or flavors, as these can be harmful to dogs.
- Meat:
Meat is a good source of protein for dogs and can be fed cooked or raw. When feeding raw meat, it is important to choose lean cuts of meat and to avoid processed meats like hot dogs or lunch meats, as these can be high in fat and salt.
- Vegetables:
Vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber for dogs. They can be fed cooked or raw, although some vegetables like onions and garlic should be avoided due to their potential toxicity to dogs.
- Fruit:
Fruit is another healthy treat option for dogs. Fresh fruits like apples and bananas are rich in vitamins and minerals, while dried fruits like raisins and apricots are higher in sugar content and should be given in moderation.
Final verdict:
It’s safe to say that dogs can enjoy ricotta cheese as part of a healthy diet. While there are some risks to consider, the benefits of ricotta cheese for dogs make it worth including in your pet’s meal plan.
Just be sure to prepare the cheese properly and feed it in moderation. And, as always, consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.