Cat and Dog Food Might Have Hidden Effects on the Environment

A recent research found that pet food might be quite dangerous for the environment. Results showed that consumption of typical cat and dog food might could lead to greenhouse gas emissions. Fortunately, this is not irreversible, and we only need a few changes to adjust their diet for a healthy environment.

Is cat and dog food bad for the environment?

We already know that human food production affects the environment. Both the use of agricultural land and of pesticides, as well as the entire process of production can have serious consequences for nature. However, when we assess the risks we put to the environment, most of the time we overlook the influence of pets.

United States is placed at the top of the list regarding cat and dog populations. However, this comes at a cost, as these big populations contribute greatly to the increase of carbon emissions. Now you might wonder how cats and dogs influence these emissions, and the answer lies in their food.

Pets increase greenhouse gas emissions

Researchers analyzed data collected by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Census Bureau, and put up a study, published in the journal PLOS One. Results showed how 163 million pets fed with typical cat and dog food made up of animal products then produce feces which add 64 million tons of greenhouse gases.

In other words, Americans hurt the environment just by owning so many pets. This does not apply to every single animal in the country but, if they eat meat, they automatically contribute to this great increase of greenhouse gas emissions.

Now, this doesn’t mean you should stop giving your pets cat and dog food with no source of animal protein whatsoever. Instead, you should pay more attention to the quality of the food you choose for your pet, and the amount of food it receives daily. This won’t only help the environment, but your furry friends’ own health.
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