The Little-Known Benefits of Feeding Eggshell Membranes
Egg membranes are often overlooked as a potential source of nutrition for pets. However, they contain important nutrients that can benefit your dog’s or cat’s health.
The egg membrane is the thin layer that separates the eggshell from the egg white. It comprises two distinct layers: the outer and inner membranes. Both of these layers are edible and contain various nutrients.
Benefits of Feeding Egg Membranes to Pets
- Supports Joint Health: Egg membranes contain nutrients like collagen, elastin, and glucosamine that can support joint health and reduce the risk of arthritis in pets.
- Rich in Nutrients: Egg membranes contain various nutrients, including collagen, elastin, and glucosamine. These nutrients can help support joint health and may reduce the risk of arthritis in pets.
- Promote Digestive Health: The egg membrane’s outer layer contains chondroitin sulfate, which can promote healthy digestion in pets. Chondroitin sulfate has been shown to help reduce gut inflammation and promote beneficial bacteria growth.
- Improve Skin and Coat Health: The egg membrane is also rich in hyaluronic acid, a substance that can improve skin and coat health in pets. Hyaluronic acid is known to help improve skin hydration and it may have similar benefits for pets.
Risks of Feeding Egg Membranes to Pets
- Potential Choking Hazard: Egg membranes can be tough and stringy, making them a potential choking hazard for pets, especially small dogs or cats. It’s important to ensure the egg membrane is chopped or ground up into small pieces before feeding it to your pet.
- Risk of Bacterial Contamination: Like any other food, egg membranes can become contaminated with harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. It’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly after handling eggs and ensure the egg membrane is fresh and free of any cracks or damage.
How We Feed Our Pets Egg Membranes
If you decide to feed egg membranes to your pet, it’s important to do so in moderation.
You can feed your dog the membrane by giving him the whole eggshell. Or, you can remove the membrane and feed only that to your pet (a better option for cats).
To isolate the membrane, open the egg and put the yolk and white in a container. Hook your thumb under the membrane in the shell and pull it out.
You can then mix a small amount of chopped or ground-up egg membrane with your pet’s regular food or give it to them as a treat.
If you’re unsure whether egg membranes or egg membrane supplements are right for your dog or cat, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian and our team. We’re here to help you make the best nutritional choices for your pet’s overall health, wellness, and longevity.
*This article is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to provide medical advice or replace the advice of a qualified veterinarian.
