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In recent years, freeze-dried food has emerged as a popular choice for pet owners seeking a convenient and nutritious option. This innovative method of preserving food has revolutionized the pet food industry, offering numerous benefits for our furry friends.
What is freeze-dried cat and dog treat and why is it popular?
Freeze-dried pet snacks, just like the name suggests, are pet food that undergoes a preservation process involving freezing and drying. This method removes moisture through sublimation, resulting in lightweight, dry treats with extended shelf life.
The freeze-drying process helps retain the treats' original flavours, textures, and nutritional value, making them highly appealing to pets. These treats have gained popularity among pet owners because they are so nutritious and convenient. Additionally, the ingredients are usually minimal with no preservatives making them suitable for pets with dietary sensitivities or allergies.
Which is healthier? Freeze-dried treats or dehydrated protein like chicken, salmon or beef?
Both freeze-dried treats and dehydrated pet food are healthy options for pets, but they have some differences.
Freeze-dried treats retain the original flavours and nutrients through a gentle freeze-drying process. Also, due to their convenience and long shelf life, they are ideal for when you are travelling.
Dehydrated meats are prepared by slowly removing moisture through low heat. They are often single-ingredient treats and provide a natural and protein-rich option for pets.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your pet's preferences and dietary needs, but both options offer nutritious and flavorful treats!
Advantages of freeze-fried treats
1. Long and Stable Shelf Life
One of the significant advantages of freeze-dried pet dog and cat food is its exceptional shelf life. Without water content, the growth of bacteria, mould, and other spoilage organisms is effectively inhibited. This means that freeze-dried food can be safely stored for extended periods without the risk of spoilage, making it a convenient option for pet owners who prefer to buy in bulk or have a backup supply. And most of the time, you get discounts for buying in bundles!
2. Convenient
Freeze-dried food is also very convenient. The lightweight nature of freeze-dried pet food makes it ideal for travel or outdoor activities. Whether you're embarking on a camping trip, hiking adventure, or simply visiting friends and family, freeze-dried food allows you to maintain your pet's regular diet without the need for refrigeration or compromising on nutrition.
Disadvantages of freeze-fried treats
1. But can be expensive
However, freeze-dried pet food is generally more expensive compared to traditional pet food options. The process of freeze-drying involves additional steps and equipment, which can increase the manufacturing cost. This cost is often passed on to the consumer, making freeze-dried pet food a pricier option.
2. Not suitable for all pets
Also, freeze-dried food has a significantly reduced moisture content, which may not be suitable for all pets. Some animals, such as cats, have a naturally low thirst drive and rely on their food for hydration. If your pet requires additional moisture in their diet, freeze-dried food alone may not provide sufficient hydration. In such cases, it's important to ensure your pet has access to fresh water at all times.
Is freeze-dried food safer than raw meat feeding?
Both freeze-dried pet food and raw meat feeding come with their own considerations regarding safety.
Freeze-dried pet food has a lower risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses associated with raw meat. Reputable manufacturers follow strict quality control measures, but proper handling and storage are still necessary.
Raw meat feeding carries a higher risk of bacterial pathogens, such as Salmonella or E. coli, and requires extra precautions and careful handling to minimize the risk of contamination.
Is freeze-dried still raw and is it food safe?
Freeze-dried pet food is not considered raw in the traditional sense. Before freezing, the food is typically cooked at low temperatures to ensure food safety. Freeze-dried pet food is generally considered safe for consumption when produced by reputable manufacturers following proper food safety standards.
However, it's important to handle and store freeze-dried pet food properly to maintain its safety. Follow any storage instructions provided by the manufacturer and check for signs of spoilage or damage before feeding it to your pet.
How to prepare freeze-dried treats?
Preparing freeze-dried treats for your pet can vary based on personal preference and the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. Here are a few common ways to enjoy freeze-dried treats:
- Standalone treat
Many pets enjoy freeze-dried treats as they are, straight from the package. These treats have a crunchy texture and concentrated flavours that make them appealing on their own.
Mixed with kibble
You can enhance your pet's mealtime by mixing freeze-dried treats with their regular kibble. This can add flavour and variety to their meal, making them more enticing.
Rehydrated with water:
Some freeze-dried treats can be rehydrated with water to create a softer and more palatable texture. This can be especially useful for pets with dental issues or those who prefer softer treats. Follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the correct amount of water and rehydration time.
Here are some Malaysian freeze-dried pet food that comes highly recommended.
1. Amelisa Pet & Co Freeze-dried Cod Fish Treat
- Suitable for: Overweight dogs and cats
- Protein source: Codfish
- Price: ~RM35
- Where to buy: Shopee / Lazada
2. Paw-cipes Freeze-dried Chicken Liver Treat
- Suitable for: Dogs and cats
- Protein source: 100% human-grade quality chicken liver
- Price: ~RM35
- Where to buy: Shopee / Lazada
3. Taffy Barkery Freeze-dried Shishamo Treat
- Suitable for: Dogs and cats
- Protein source: Smelt (also knowns as Japanese pregnant fish)
- Price: ~RM19.90
- Where to buy: Shopee / Website
4. PledgeCare Dog Air-Dried Food Picky Eaters Chicken
- Suitable for: Dogs with picky stomachs
- Protein source: Chicken
- Price: ~RM19.90
- Where to buy: Shopee / Website
5. PledgeCare Cat Air-Dried Food Skin & Coat Health Fish
6. Signature Market Two Tails Freeze-Dried Salmon & Krill Pies
- Suitable for: Dogs and cats
- Protein source: Salmon and krill
- Price: ~RM28
- Where to buy: Shopee / Lazada
7. Signature Market Two Tails Freeze-Dried Chicken & Beef Bites
- Suitable for: Dogs and cats
- Protein source: Chicken and Beef
- Price: ~RM32
- Where to buy: Shopee / Lazada
8. OzPro RawFeast Freeze Dried Quail
Find out more Oyen recommends: Pet Food
- Top 9 Dog Treats and Biscuits in Malaysia
- 13 Best Cat Food Brands in Malaysia (Dry, Wet & Premium Cat Food)
- 8 Jenama Makanan Kucing Untuk Gemuk
Find out more Oyen recommends: Pet Supplements
- Complete guide: All you need to know about Pet Vitamins & Supplements
- 2023 Guide: 10 Best Dog Supplements in Malaysia (recommended by vets)
- Salmon Oil For Cats (Top Benefits, Cost, Where To Buy & More)
Find out more Oyen tips: For fussy eater furkids
- What Can I Do If My Dog Refuses To Eat?
- Panduan Makanan Kucing: 5 Perkara Yang Anda Perlu Tahu
- Kucing Tak Nak Makan? Mengapa & Tips Mengatasinya
- What & When Should You Feed Your Cat? (And How Much To Feed)
[Click here to redeem discount promo codes for these shops]
Storing freeze-dried treat: refrigerated or room temperature?
Freeze-dried treats are generally best stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is typically not necessary for freeze-dried treats unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer.
Exposure to moisture can compromise the texture and quality of the treats, so it's important to keep them in an airtight container or resealable bag to maintain freshness.
How much freeze-fried food should I feed my cat or dog?
The amount of freeze-dried pet food to feed your cat or dog can vary depending on several factors, including their age, weight, activity level, and specific dietary needs. It's important to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer on the packaging of the freeze-dried food you have selected.
These guidelines typically suggest an appropriate serving size based on the weight of your pet. However, it's important to remember that these are general recommendations and may need to be adjusted to suit your individual pet's needs.
It's also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice on feeding your cat or dog. They can consider your pet's specific nutritional requirements, and any underlying health conditions, and help determine the ideal portion size and feeding frequency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, freeze-dried pet food offers a range of advantages, including convenience, nutritional value, and extended shelf life. While it may be costlier and have limited moisture content, many pet owners appreciate the benefits it provides.
Freeze-dried food is a great option for those seeking a wholesome, portable, and easy-to-store pet food choice. Nonetheless, to ensure the overall well-being of your furry companion, it's also crucial to consider pet insurance.
Oyen pet insurance offers comprehensive coverage for unexpected veterinary expenses, providing peace of mind and financial protection. Whether it's routine check-ups, accidents, or illnesses, having pet insurance can help mitigate the financial burden and allow you to provide the best possible care for your beloved pet. Check out Oyen now!
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