It is not recommended for dogs to eat vegan cheese because of the ingredients used to make them.
Vegan cheese is an alternative to cheese made from animal’s milk. It is created using a variety of processed vegetable proteins such as soy, nuts, and vegetable oils. Though the most common ingredients used for making vegan cheese are non-toxic for dogs (i.e. coconut oil and cashew nuts), vegan cheese is known for being high in salt. Too much sodium may cause your dog to exhibit any of the following symptoms: decreased appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, excessive thirst or urination, incoordination, tremors, seizures, and coma. Similarly, vegan cheese may contain ingredients such as macadamia, garlic, and onion that are hazardous for canine pets.
What to do if your dog accidentally eats vegan cheese: Check the nutrition facts label. If the vegan cheese includes ingredients poisonous to your dog, contact your veterinarian immediately. Observe your pooch in the next few days, and report any changes in his behaviour, intake, and excretion.
In summary: A small piece of vegan cheese may not cause health problems for your dog. It is a great source of protein, calcium, as well as vitamins A and B12. However, feeding him larger and more frequent amounts of vegan cheese may cause complications because of its high sodium and fat content. To be on the safe side, consult with your veterinarian before letting your dog try any type of vegan cheese.
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