It’s National Cranberry Day on November 23rd, so let’s celebrate this tart little berry that’s good enough to take center stage at Christmas dinner. But can your furry friends join in on the cranberry craze? The answer is: yes! In moderation, cranberries can be a healthy addition to your dog’s or cat’s diet. Like with any treat, though, there’s a right and a wrong way to offer them.

Let’s dive into the juicy details about cranberries, their benefits, and how you can safely share them with your pets.

ARE CRANBERRIES SAFE FOR DOGS AND CATS?

Yes, cranberries are safe for both dogs and cats to eat, but they should always be given in moderation. Fresh cranberries, dried cranberries, and even cranberry powder may provide health benefits when served correctly. However, keep in mind that cranberry sauces (especially the ones dripping in sugar and other additives) are an absolute no-go for pets.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CRANBERRIES FOR PETS? 

Cranberries pack a punch in the nutrition department. Here are a few reasons they’re great for your pets:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. This supports healthy ageing and can even boost immune health.
• Supports Urinary Health: Cranberries are known for their urinary health benefits in humans, and they may do the same for pets. They can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Vitamin C Boost: While cats and dogs produce their own vitamin C, the additional nutrients in cranberries can help bolster overall health, supporting their skin, coat, and immune system.
• Low in Calories: Cranberries are a low-calorie snack, making them a guilt-free treat.

HOW TO SAFELY FEED CRANBERRIES TO DOGS AND CATS

1. Stick to Plain Cranberries: Always serve cranberries without added sugar, salt, or spices. Fresh cranberries are a great choice, but dried cranberries can work too if they’re unsweetened.
2. Chop Them Up: Cranberries can be quite tart and hard to chew, especially for smaller floofs. Chop them into small pieces or blend them into their food to make them easier to digest.
3. Don’t Overdo It: A little goes a long way. Too many cranberries can upset your pet’s stomach and cause diarrhoea. Stick to small portions as an occasional treat.
4. Avoid Cranberry Sauces and Juices: These often contain added sugar, artificial sweeteners like xylitol (toxic to dogs), or alcohol. Keep the cranberry sauce on your plate!

Alternatively, you can feed products containing cranberry, made specifically for cats and dogs.

We love cranberries so much that we’ve included them in some of our recipes! Packed with natural goodness, these products let your pets enjoy the benefits of cranberries without the hassle of chopping or prepping them yourself.

If you’re a cat owner, you may be wondering “Can cats eat cranberries?”

• Chicken Dry Cat Food: Perfect for maintaining your cat’s energy and health with added cranberries for a nutritional boost.
• Salmon Dry Cat Food: A delicious mix of salmon with some cranberries that can support a shiny coat and urinary health.
• Sensitive+ Dry Cat Food: Cranberries to add some essential antioxidants.
• Chicken Dry Kitten Food: Cranberries help support your growing kitten’s health and vitality.

If you’re a dog owner, you may be wondering “Can dogs eat cranberries?”

• Christmas Dog Treats: A festive way to treat your dog, with cranberries adding a touch of holiday magic.
• Grain-Free Turkey Wet Dog Food (150g): Cranberries are included to support your dog’s urinary health and overall wellbeing.
• Grain-Free Turkey Wet Dog Food: A balanced, delicious meal with all the benefits of cranberries baked in.

CRANBERRIES: THE DOS AND DON’TS

DO:

• Introduce cranberries gradually to see how your pet reacts.
• Keep portions small to avoid stomach upsets.
• Look for pet-friendly products like those from Scrumbles for safe cranberry enjoyment.

DON’T:

• Avoid feeding cranberry sauces, juices, or sweetened cranberries.
• Don't use cranberries as a substitute for proper veterinary care, especially for UTIs or other health concerns.

FUN FACTS ABOUT CRANBERRIES

• Did you know cranberries can float because they have tiny air pockets? Imagine a bobbing berry bath – though we don’t recommend sharing that with your pets!
• Cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America and have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties.
• They’re tart enough to make your cat’s whiskers curl – but mixed into food, they’re a hit!

THE FINAL BITE

Cranberries are a pet-friendly treat that, when served correctly, can support your pooch or kitties overall health. Whether it’s keeping their urinary tract in check, boosting their antioxidants, or simply being a tasty addition, this little berry has big benefits. 

Why not celebrate National Cranberry Day by treating your pet to a Scrumbles product packed with cranberries? From dry cat food to wet dog meals and festive treats, there’s something for every furry friend. So, grab a Scrumbles cranberry-infused product, and let your pet join in on the festivities – tails and whiskers will be wagging!

REFERENCES:

PetMD

AKC

WHILST YOU’RE HERE WHY NOT READ:

1. CAN DOGS EAT MELON?
2. CAN CATS EAT STRAWBERRIES?
3. PANCREATITIS IN DOGS & CATS: FEEDING HUMAN FOOD HOLIDAY LEFTOVERS