It is important to feed your dog properly to keep them healthy. So, you should consider all the pros and cons of the food you will feed your dog.
If you are thinking of preparing a tasty treat for your dog this summer, then mango is the best choice among all fruits.
It is sweet, the flesh is delicate and delicious, and the dog can easily digest it.
But keep in mind that various research has shown that in tropical fruits like mangoes, the skin might also come loaded with polyphenols, carotenoids, dietary fibre, ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, and various plant compounds.
You need to be very cautious with your pet, as not all the parts of the mango are safe to eat.
Find out how to feed your dog mangoes in the following article.
Mango: what is it?
The mango is scientifically known as Mangifera indica.
This famous tropical fruit is known for its sweet flavour and rich nutrient content. There are also health benefits associated with mangoes.
Indians refer to this fruit as the “King of Fruits.” Several Asian countries cultivate it, with India being the largest.
Mangoes come in different shapes and sizes. There are nearly 1500 varieties of mangoes. This superfruit consists of three basic parts: the outer skin, the juicy flesh, and the inner part, the seed/pit.
When the fruit is raw or not completely ripe, the outer colour of the skin is green. According to the mango fruit’s type, its skin turns red, yellow, or orange when it matures.
Mango is an excellent fibre, vitamins, minerals, potassium, and copper source. Mango is completely cholesterol-free.
The skin is also packed with nutrients, just like the flesh.
The skin of the mango contains lupeol and steroids.
Furthermore, the skin contains a large amount of fibre (45-78), which contributes to the digestion of food.
There is so much goodness in a single fruit that can benefit your dog.
Nutritional content in a mango:
- Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and Vitamin B6: powerful vitamins to boost the immunity system of your dog when it gets ill or when they have an intense workout.
- Fiber is good for digestion.
- Potassium is essential for different body systems to work properly.
- Beta-carotene: This pigment contributes to mangoes’ yellow colour. This pigment strengthens your dog’s immune system.
- Magnesium: It helps keep your dog’s heart and brain healthy.
- Calcium: for healthy dog bones and teeth.
- Mango peel contains powerful antioxidants that are helpful in preventing cancer and diabetes.
Consequences of Mango Skin Consumption:
Mango skin consists of urushiol. This substance is also present in poison ivy, and it is toxic. It causes allergic reactions. Be aware that eating mango skin may result in an itchy rash and cause swelling in the dog’s skin.
Pesticidal Residue in mango skin
- Mango agriculture uses pesticides to prevent bacterial infections and insects from damaging the fruit.
Peeling off the mango skin decreases the risk of consuming these potentially harmful chemicals, as they are present mainly on the skin.
- Research shows that pesticides present in the skin of fruits and vegetables cause adverse effects, including reproductive issues and increased chances of developing cancer.
- The texture and taste of mango skin might seem unpleasant. It’s thick, hard to chew, and somewhat bitter. You might also lose interest in eating the fruit because of this.
Symptoms that might occur when dogs eat mango skin:
- Allergic Reactions
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
Mangoes are unsafe for dogs who have pancreatitis or diabetes.
Intake of a mango seed might lead to:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain
- Difficulty in Breathing
- Blockage in the intestines
- The seed contains cyanide, which might result in the dog’s death.
You must be concerned when your dog eats mango skin or seed in your absence.
Keep an eye out for indigestion and stomach-pain-related problems. If you notice any such problems, then act immediately and consult your veterinarian. They may advise you on different physical examinations, like X-rays.
Leaving it untreated can be fatal.
The correct way to add mango to the dog’s diet is:
- A) Wash the mango to remove chemicals and impurities.
- B) Peel the skin of the fruit.
- C) Remove the central pit as it causes choking and health hazards.
- D) Start by giving little pieces of mango.
- E) Mix it with their favourite fruit and then serve it to them.
Mangoes can be served to dogs in different forms.
- A) Fresh, ripe mango can be given to the dog as cubes, slices, or small chunks.
- B) Dehydrated mango is not a bad choice either, as the nutritional content is intact, which is very useful for your dog.
- C) Frozen mango mixed with refreshing seasonal fruits to give your dog a cool and chilled treat in this hot summer.
- D) Canned mango can be dangerous to your dog with added sugar and preservatives.
Note:
- When you are serving mangoes to your puppies or dogs, watch out for any symptoms of stomach upset. If you notice any such issues, then immediately stop the feed.
- Dogs with diabetes, obesity, and kidney-related diseases should not be given mangoes.
- Never feed your dog mangoes that are rotten (as they contain alcohol). Intoxication with alcohol causes nausea, convulsions, and trembling, which require urgent medical treatment.
Conclusion
Pet parents must provide their dogs with the best diet. If you wish to add any new kind of edible to your dog’s meal, you should always consult your veterinarian first.
Mangoes are completely safe for dogs when given in the ways mentioned in this article.
Always remember that some dogs are allergic to mangoes, so you should always start by feeding them a very small amount to confirm that there are no side effects.
Talk to your veterinary doctor about how many mangoes your dog should eat daily. This information is calculated based on their weight, size, and medical history and helps avoid obesity and gastrointestinal issues.
Important Tip: If you own a pet, then get pet insurance. A preventative measure is always better than a cure. Having insurance is a great way to prepare for the unexpected.
In case of any medical emergencies leading to treatment, you will be free from the tension of paying expensive medical bills.
Leave a Reply