The Hokuō® Journal

En Ny Retning for Toppings til Hund og Kat

Skrevet af: Ann-Kristin Meyer / HundeFoderNørden on jul. 31 2025
Når hunden eller katten nægter at spise Der er næsten ikke noget værre end en hund eller kat, som ikke vil spise sit foder. Både for hunden eller katten, men i særdeleshed også for ejeren. Nogle hunde, og også rigtig mange katte, har en forkærlighed for det foder, de kender, og er opvokset med. Både hvad angår smag, duft og konsistens. Alt, hvad dyret ikke kender, efterlades konsekvent i foderskålen. Og nogle gange er det hele eller store dele af foderrationen. Et velment foderskifte til et næringsmæssigt bedre foder, kan hurtigt ende ud i en stor frustration, når hunden eller katten ikke deler begejstringen over det nye, sundere og mere næringsrige foder. Og hvad gør ejeren så? Hun ”gemmer” foderet i en stor klat leverpostej eller en af de meget smagfulde tubepastaer – for disse plejer oftest at virke selv for de mest stædige kostforagtere. Problemet med denne strategi er dog, at et næringsmæssigt overlegent foder på den måde bliver til et mindre sundt foder. For med den gode smag følger typisk også en masse tilsætningsstoffer, som ikke bør lande i hundens eller kattens foderskål på daglig basis – i hvert fald ikke, hvis man ønsker at sikre sit dyr et langt, sundt og godt liv. Problemet med leverpostej og tubepasta Størstedelen af leverpostej og diverse tubepastaer, som findes på markedet, kan klassificeres som stærkt forarbejdet foder. Både fra human- og hundestudier ved vi, at stærkt forarbejdet mad og foder har en negativ effekt på organismens sundhed. Særligt tarmsundheden og de mikroorganismer, som lever i menneskernes og hundenes (og kattenes) tarme, og som egentlig skal bidrage til organismens trivsel og sundhed, påvirkes af stærkt forarbejdet mad og foder, som bl.a. indeholder diverse syntetiske tilsætningsstoffer. A-vitamin: En skjult risiko Ud over det indeholder leverpostej store mængder A vitamin. A vitamin er et fedtopløseligt vitamin, som lagres i kroppen og derfor kan overdoseres. Mange ejere af selektivt spisende hunde og katte bruger tørret lever som godbidder, da det oftest er det eneste, som har værdi for dyret og derfor kan fungere som en reel forstærker. Når man så også pepper foderet op med leverpostej, er der ikke så langt vej igen til en A vitamin overforsyning, som bl.a. kan føre til led- og hudproblemer. Derfor udviklede vi en ny topping Men hvad gør man så, når man har en hund eller kat, som absolut kun vil spise sit foder, hvis det har fået et upgrade med leverpostej eller tubepasta? Dette spørgsmål var grundlaget for Hokuō®s sauce topper. Christian ville gerne udvikle en meget smagfuld, men også sundhedsfremmende topper, som kunne bruges på daglig basis, uden at der var fare for en næringsstoffejlforsyning af hunden eller katten. Tværtimod skulle den have potentiale til at fremme dyrets sundhed og trivsel. Derfor tog Christian fat i mig og sendte mig et udkast på en allerede meget velformuleret sauce med ønsket om at justere opskriften, og ikke mindst fremstillingsmetoden således, at den kunne inkluderes i dyrets foderplan som et dagligt tilskud, og samtidigt bidrage positivt til næringsstofforsyningen. Næringsstoffer med funktion: Kollagen, fibre og indmad Resultatet er en topper, som har forskellige næringsmæssige fordele for hunden eller katten, som får lov til at nyde den. Saucen indeholder kollagen fra brusk, som delvist består af aminosyrer, der har en plejende effekt på tarmslimhinden, og dermed forebygger forskellige tarmsygdomme og følgevirkninger fra en irriteret tarmslimhinde. Fibrene fra forskellige grøntsager nærer de sundhedsfremmende mikroorganismer i tarmene og bidrager derfor – ligesom kollagen – til en øget tarmsundhed, og derigennem til en generelt bedre trivsel og sundhed. For at give saucen endnu mere smag og næring, er der inkluderet små mængder af lever og hjerte. Nok til at give dyret en god smagsoplevelse og forsyne det med ekstra næringsstoffer, men tilstrækkeligt lidt for at kunne udelukke en evt. overforsyning med bl.a. A vitamin. Fordele ved Hokuō® Rensdyr & And Topping Resultatet er en topping med en række ernæringsmæssige fordele for de hunde og katte, der får lov at nyde den: Kollagen fra bruskStøtter tarmslimhinden og kan være med til at forebygge fordøjelsesproblemer. GrøntsagsfibreNærer de gavnlige tarmbakterier og bidrager til en bedre fordøjelse og generel trivsel. Små mængder lever og hjerteNok til at give en rig smag og tilføre næringsstoffer – uden at risikere overforsyning af A-vitamin. Explore Now   "Særligt det sidstnævnte tiltag viser, hvor langt Christian går for at få det meste ud af sine produkter – og det har jeg som ernæringsekspert stor respekt for!" - Ann-Kristin Meyer // HundeFoderNørden Skånsom fremstilling med fokus på fordøjelighed Fordi saucen er et forarbejdet produkt var det vigtigt at planlægge forarbejdningsprocessen således, at et maksimum af næringsstofferne bliver bevaret efter tilberedningen, samtidigt med at der ikke er behov for at inkludere syntetiske tilsætningsstoffer. Dette bliver opnået bl.a. ved en lav forarbejdningstemperatur og en hurtig nedkøling efter forarbejdningen. Men vigtigst af alt: De animalske og vegetabilske ingredienser tilberedes hver for sig. Dette er vigtigt, fordi grøntsagerne, som er inkluderet i saucen, ikke kun indeholder fibre, men også stivelse og sukker. Når proteinrige ingredienser, som f.eks. lever, hjerte og brusk, opvarmes sammen med stivelses- og/eller sukkerrige ingredienser, sættes en såkaldte Maillard-reaktion i gang, som fører til, at hunden eller katten får sværere ved at nedbryde proteinerne i produktet. Sagt på en anden måde: Proteinfordøjeligheden mindskes og dyret får mindre ud af den næring, der egentlig er i produktet. Denne reaktion mindskes under fremstillingen af saucen ved at de animalske og vegetabilske ingredienser først blandes sammen, efter de er blevet tilberedt hver for sig. Særligt det sidstnævnte tiltag viser, hvor langt Christian går for at få det meste ud af sine produkter – og det har jeg som ernæringsekspert stor respekt for! Skrevet af: Ann-Kristin Meyer cand.scient. i Animal Science fraKøbenhavns Universitet med speciale i hundeernæring, Indehaver af  HundeFoderNørden Why Omega-3 Fatty Acids Matter for Your Dog’s Health Read more 3 Easy Summer Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs Read more Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated? Read more

Omega-3 til hunde: Derfor er EPA og DHA vigtige kilder

Skrevet af: Ann-Kristin Meyer / HundeFoderNørden on jul. 22 2025
Hvorfor al den snak om omega-3-fedtsyrer? Hvis du ejer en hund, så har du sikkert mere end én gang været indblandet i en snak om hundefoder. Og chancerne er store for, at denne snak om hundefoder har udviklet sig til en snak om et helt specifikt næringsstof, nemlig omega-3-fedtsyrer. Men hvorfor er omega-3-fedtsyrer så hypede i hundefoder, hvad kan omega-3-fedtsyrer, som andre næringsstoffer ikke kan, og hvad skal man være opmærksom på, når man vælger omega-3-fedtsyrer til sin hund? Dette og meget mere skal du lære om i det følgende. Indholdsfortegnelse Hvad er omega-3-fedtsyrer? Hvilke omega-3-fedtsyrer findes der? EPA og DHA’s vigtige fysiologiske funktioner Det stopper ikke her Værd at vide, når du skal vælge, og opbevare et omega-3-tilskud til din hund Afslutning Hvad er omega-3-fedtsyrer? Omega-3-fedtsyrer er flerumættede fedtsyrer, som er nødvendige for en lang række fysiologiske processer. De tilhører gruppen af langkædede fedtsyrer og er derfor særligt reaktive og biologisk aktive. Denne information er vigtig at have i baghovedet, da den har betydning for, hvilke omega-3-tilskud du eventuelt skal vælge, og hvordan disse skal opbevares. Da hunde ikke kan danne omega-3-fedtsyrer i tilstrækkelige mængder selv, skal de tilføres gennem kosten. Derfor hører omega-3-fedtsyrerne til de essentielle næringsstoffer. See Product Hvilke omega-3-fedtsyrer findes der? De mest omtalte omega-3-fedtsyrer i hundeernæringssammenhæng er α-linolensyre (ALA), eikosapentaensyre (EPA) og dokosahexaensyre (DHA). Selvom alle tre fedtsyrer er omega-3-fedtsyrer, er det ikke lige meget, om man vælger den ene frem for den anden i hundens foder. ALA forekommer i mange vegetabilske olier, f.eks. i hørfrøolie, hampefrøolie og chiaolie, og kan i kroppen omdannes til de to andre omega-3-fedtsyrer EPA og DHA. Dog er hunde ikke særligt effektive til at omdanne ALA til EPA og DHA – kun ca. 5 til 10 % af ALA omdannes til EPA og mindre end 1 % til DHA. Derfor kan vegetabilske olier – på nær én – ikke erstatte olier eller andre ingredienser, som er rige på EPA og DHA. Og hermed kommer vi til de marine kilder til omega-3-fedtsyrer – det er nemlig dem, som indeholder EPA og DHA i betydelige mængder. EPA og DHA forekommer både i fisk, musling, krill og alger samt olier af selvsamme. Den eneste vegetabilske olie, som er rig på EPA og DHA er dermed algeolie. Men hvorfor er det så vigtigt, at hunden forsynes med omega-3-fedtsyrerne EPA og DHA? Hvorfor er det ikke nok med en god planteolie, som er rig på ALA? Det er oftest både nemmere og billigere. Svaret ligger i den brede vifte af fysiologiske effekter, som EPA og DHA har på kroppen, men som ALA ikke har. Selvom ALA er en essentiel fedtsyre på papiret, skyldes dens fysiologiske betydning primært, at den er forstadiet til EPA og DHA. Som allerede nævnt, kan hundens krop dog kun omdanne en minimal procentdel af ALA til EPA og endnu mindre til DHA. ALA er biokemisk set essentielt for hunde, fordi de ikke selv kan danne fedtsyren ud fra andre stoffer. Fysiologisk og klinisk set er den dog utilstrækkelig, og kan ikke dække hundens reelle omega-3-fedtsyrebehov, f.eks. ved betændelsestilstande i kroppen, under drægtighed og diegivning, til støtte for hjernens udvikling hos hvalpe og ved hud- og pelsproblemer. Dette har desværre en lidt uheldig konsekvens. Hvis du er en af dem, som af gode grunde (som jeg kommer ind på længere nede i teksten) går efter et lavt omega-6-til-omega-3-forhold, kan du ikke udelukkende stole på de tal, som foderproducenten oplyser om. Et forhold som 4:1 eller 3:1 (3 gange så meget omega-6-fedtsyrer som omega-3-fedtsyrer) virker umiddelbart rigtig godt. Problemet ligger dog i, at forbrugeren ud fra disse tal ikke kan vide, hvor meget af omega-3-fedtsyrerne der er ALA og hvor meget der er EPA og DHA. Hvis foderet udelukkende eller hovedsageligt indeholder ALA som omega-3-fedtsyrer, vil det ikke have den ønskede effekt på hunden, som forbrugeren baserer sin købsbeslutning på. På den positive side betyder det, at du faktisk ikke behøver at bekymre dig om, hvor din hund får ALA fra. Du kan derfor fuldt ud koncentrere dig om de to andre omega-3-fedtsyrer: EPA og DHA. Wild-caught Baltic Sprat Graphic © Hokuō® New Zealand Green-lipped mussel Graphic © Hokuō® EPA og DHA’s vigtige fysiologiske funktioner Betændelseshæmmende effekt Den første gode grund er EPA’s betændelseshæmmende effekt. Og her kommer det førnævnte omega-6-til-omega-3-forhold ind i billedet. Arakidonsyre (AA), som er en omega-6-fedtsyre, og EPA omsættes i kroppen via de samme enzymatiske ruter, nemlig cyclooxygenase (COX) og lipoxygenase (LOX). Disse enzymer omdanner fedtsyrerne til eikosanoider, som er hormonlignende signalstoffer, der bl.a. har en betændelsesregulerende effekt. Når AA omdannes af de to førnævnte enzymer, dannes der hovedsageligt eikosanoider, som fremmer betændelse, smerte, feber og tiltrækker hvide blodlegemer. Denne proces er nødvendig ved en akut infektion, men for meget AA-aktivitet kan føre til en kronisk betændelsestilstand. EPA derimod omdannes af de samme enzymer til eikosanoider, som kan modvirke betændelsestilstande i kroppen. Og fordi AA og EPA konkurrerer om de samme enzymer for at blive omdannet til eikosanoider, vil en højere koncentration af EPA i blodet have en positiv effekt på hundens betændelsesstatus. EPA og DHA er også forstadier til forskellige signalstoffer, som bl.a. aktivt afslutter betændelsestilstande, og fremmer vævsreparationen. Denne betændelseshæmmende effekt af EPA og DHA er også årsagen til, at omega-3-fedtsyrer spiller så stor en rolle i behandlingen af slidgigt. Slidgigt er en lavgradig, kronisk inflammation i ledkapslen og -brusken. EPA og DHA’s betændelseshæmmende egenskaber fører til mindre hævelse, smerte og stivhed i leddene. Derudover har flere studier vist, at hunde med slidgigt, som fik tilskud af marine omega-3-fedtsyrer, gik bedre og længere, viste reduceret smerteadfærd, og havde mindre behov for ikke-steroide antiinflammatoriske lægemidler (NSAID). Derudover kan EPA og DHA potentielt forsinke udviklingen af slidgigten pga. deres reducerende effekt på brusknedbrydelsen. Neurologisk udvikling og kognitiv funktion De marine omega-3-fedtsyrer har ikke kun en betændelseshæmmende effekt – de spiller også en vigtig rolle, når det gælder hundenes hjernesundhed. Særligt DHA er afgørende for udviklingen af nervesystemet hos hvalpe samt for at vedligeholde den kognitive funktion hos ældre hunde. Dette undrer ikke, fordi DHA er et af hovedstrukturelementerne, og den mest forekomne fedtsyre i hundens hjerne. Forskellige videnskabelige studier indikerer, at hvalpe, som har fået et DHA-tilskud i deres foder efter fravænning, lærer hurtigere, har en forbedret kognition og en bedre hukommelse, sammenlignet med hvalpe, som ikke har fået et DHA-tilskud. Det samme gør sig gældende for hvalpe, hvis mødre fik et DHA-tilskud. Disse hvalpe klarede sig nemlig signifikant bedre i adfærds- og kognitionstests end hvalpe, hvis mødre ikke havde fået DHA i deres foder. Det stopper ikke her Og nej, de positive effekter stopper ikke her. EPA og DHA har også en støttende effekt på hudbarrieren og kan på den måde forbedre hundens hud- og pelssundhed. Hjertekarsystemet drager også nytte af de marine omega-3-fedtsyrer, og hos hvalpe forbedres ikke kun den kognitive funktion, når DHA inkluderes i foderplanen. Også synsudviklingen påvirkes positivt af denne vigtige omega-3-fedtsyre. Et nyere observationsstudie tyder på, at en inklusion af marine omega-3-fedtsyrer i hvalpes foder kan reducere risikoen for epilepsi signifikant. Værd at vide, når du skal vælge, og opbevare et omega-3-tilskud til din hund Vælg fiskeolier eller andre omega-3-tilskud, som stammer fra bæredygtige kilder, og testes og renses for forurenende stoffer som tungmetaller og PCB. Omega-3-fedtsyrer er meget følsomme over for oxidation (apropos særligt reaktive og biologisk aktive fedtsyrer). Oxiderede fedtsyrer er ikke blot ineffektive, men de kan faktisk også gør skade på hundens kropsvæv, når der dannes såkaldte frie radikaler. Totox-værdien (totox står for total oxidation) er et mål på oliens oxidationsgrad. Jo lavere denne værdi, des lavere er oliens oxidationsgrad. Vælg gerne et tilskud med en totox-værdi under 5. Desværre er det langt fra altid, at producenten oplyser om produktets totox-værdi. Opbevar dine omega-3-tilskud således, at de er beskyttede mod lys, varme og ilt. Opbevar dem i køleskabet og brug dem indenfor få uger. Hundens omega-3-fedtsyrebehov kan også dækkes ved f.eks. at inkludere fede fisk i hundens foderplan. Alt efter mængden af fede fisk, vil det således ikke være nødvendigt at give et omega-3-tilskud. Ligeledes indeholder fuldfoder ofte marine omega-3-fedtsyrer. Disse er dog, ligesom omega-3-fedtsyrer i tilskudsprodukter, følsomme overfor oxidation, og det er derfor ikke sikkert, om de på fodringstidspunktet stadigvæk har den ønskede effekt. Dette vil afhænge af mange faktorer, herunder kvaliteten af omega-3-fedtsyrekilden i foderet, indpakning af foderet, lagring hos producenten, forhandleren og hundeejeren samt pakkestørrelsen og dermed tiden, som foderet er udsat for miljøpåvirkninger og evt. oxidation. See Product See Product Afslutning Næste gang, når du er i hundeskoven og snakken falder på hundefoder og omega-3-fedtsyrer, er chancerne store for, at du ved mere om omega-3-fedtsyrer end de andre diskussionsdeltagere, og kan komme med et godt råd eller to. Kilder: Antonelli, C. et al. (2023). Effects of docosahexaenoic acid dietary supplementation on cognitive learning and memory in healthy puppies. Animals, 13(20), 3261. Bauer, J. E. (2011). Enhancing canine cognition with omega-3 fatty acids. Nestlé Purina Nutrition Forum. Bauer, J. E. (2006). Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(11), 1761–1764. Bauer, J. E. et al. (2018). Evaluation of enrichment of diets with omega-3 fatty acids and effects on plasma fatty acid profiles in dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 252(12), 1470–1478. Calder, P. C. (2017). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man. Biochemical Society Transactions, 45(5), 1105–1115. Carlisle C. et al. (2024). The Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on the Omega-3 Index and Quality of Life and Pain Scores in Dogs. Animals, 14(21):3108. Freeman, L. M. et al. (2010). The role of nutritional supplements in cardiac disease. Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 12(3), 149–155. Fritsche, K. L. et al. (2010). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and immune regulation. British Journal of Nutrition, 104(Suppl 2), S1–S9. Heinemann, K. M. et al. (2005). Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation during pregnancy and lactation affects visual, cognitive, and behavioral development in dogs. Journal of Nutrition, 135(8), 1960S–1964S. Hemida M. et al. (2023). Assessing the association between supplemented puppyhood dietary fat sources and owner-reported epilepsy in adulthood, among Finnish companion dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10:1227437. Lenox, C. E. & Bauer, J. E. (2013). Potential adverse effects of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 27(2), 217–226. Logas, D. & Kunkle, G. A. (1994). Clinical response of canine pruritus to dietary supplementation with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Veterinary Dermatology, 5(3), 99–104. Packer, R. M. A. et al. (2023). Fish-based fat sources in puppyhood are associated with reduced risk of idiopathic epilepsy in adult dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10, 1202192. Roush, J. K. et al. (2010). Evaluation of the effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis. JAVMA, 236(1), 67–73. Shahidi, F. & Zhong, Y. (2010). Lipid oxidation and improving the oxidative stability. Chemical Society Reviews, 39(11), 4067–4079. Zicker, S. C. et al. (2012). Cognitive and behavioral effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil in senior dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 192(3), 426–431. Zicker, S. C. et al. (2012). Evaluation of cognitive function in puppies fed dietary docosahexaenoic acid. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 240(8), 935–941. Skrevet af: Ann-Kristin Meyer cand.scient. i Animal Science fraKøbenhavns Universitet med speciale i hundeernæring, Indehaver af HundeFoderNørden 3 Easy Summer Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs Read more Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated? Read more How Are Freeze Dried Treats for Cats and Dogs Made? Read more
homemade lickmat recipes

3 Easy Summer Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs

Skrevet af: Christian Adamsen on maj 19 2025
As the nights grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s important to find gentle, nourishing ways to keep our pets engaged and cool. We’ve created three simple summer lickmat recipes to try — made with wholesome ingredients and cooling textures that offer hydration, lightness, and calm Summer Lickmat Recipes Made for Slow Days These three lickmat recipes were created with that rhythm in mind: light, refreshing, and full of natural goodness. Perfect for cats and dogs to enjoy during those slow, sun-filled afternoons. Developed in collaboration with a certified pet nutritionist, each recipe uses safe, nourishing ingredients that support digestion and calm. Think of them as summer in every lick — cool, grounding, and made with care. Explore the Recipes Berry Broth Breeze (Cats & Dogs) Dandelion Dream Cream (Cats & Dogs) Strawberry Mint Cooler (Dogs Only) Berry Broth Breeze (Cats & Dogs) What You'll Need 75 ml Bone Broth of your choice A handful of freeze-dried berries If you’ve ever enjoyed a scoop of berry sorbet on a warm evening, you’ll understand this one.A simple mix of bone broth and berries, created to capture that summer pause — gentle and cooling for both cats and dogs. How to Make It Pour the bone broth gently over the lickmat, covering the surface evenly. Sprinkle freeze-dried berries over the top, letting them settle into the liquid. Place in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once frozen, serve for a refreshing, light treat. Did you know: The berry mix includes blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries — all full of antioxidants and fiber. Combined with elk bone broth , rich in natural nutrients, it’s a hydrating, nourishing boost for both cats and dogs. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Dandelion Dream Cream (Cats & Dogs) What You'll Need 75 ml plain, unsweetened kefir Your pets dosage of Hokuō® Dandelion Extract Powder A small handful of freeze-dried berries Optional: a few fresh dandelion leaves for colour The first sign of summer? A dandelion in bloom.This recipe honours that quiet beauty with creamy kefir, sweet berries, and the soft power of dandelion — grounding and nourishing in every lick. How to Make It Mix the kefir and dandelion powder in a small bowl until smooth and blended. Spread the mixture gently across the lickmat. Crush the dried berries slightly and scatter them over the top. Add a few fresh dandelion leaves if desired. Freeze the mat for at least 2 hours. Serve cool and creamy — a nourishing moment of calm for your pet. Did you know: Dandelion isn’t just a cheerful sign of summer — it also supports liver function and digestion in both cats and dogs. Paired with probiotic-rich kefir and antioxidant-packed berries, this creamy frozen treat is soothing, nourishing, and made for warm, slow afternoons. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Strawberry Mint Cooler (Dogs Only) What You'll Need 6 ripe strawberries 6 fresh mint leaves 75 ml Hokuō® Elk Bone Broth A pinch of freeze-dried strawberries There’s something nostalgic about a strawberry daiquiri on a sunlit afternoon — cool, sweet, and easy. We created this dog-friendly version with that feeling in mind: refreshing, light, and made for slow summer days. How to Make It Wash the strawberries and mint leaves. Mash the strawberries until soft and chop the mint finely. Combine both in a small bowl and mix gently. Spread the mixture across the lickmat, smoothing it into the grooves. Slowly pour the elk bone broth over the top. Lightly crush a few dried strawberries and sprinkle them across the surface. Freeze for at least 2 hours. Serve straight from the freezer on a warm day. Did you know: Mint can support digestion in dogs, and strawberries offer vitamin C and natural antioxidants. When paired with elk bone broth — slow-simmered for collagen and minerals — this becomes a refreshing, belly-friendly treat on warm days. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Why Summer Lickmat Recipes Matter Summer invites us to slow down — and our pets feel it too. These summer lickmat recipes offer more than just cooling treats. They provide hydration, gentle nutrition, and a mindful pause in your pet’s day. Whether it’s the fruity freshness of berries, the calming benefits of dandelion, or the comfort of bone broth, each recipe is crafted to nourish both body and mood. Make these summer lickmat recipes a part of your warm-weather routine — and create soft, joyful moments your pet will look forward to all season long. Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated? Read more How Are Freeze Dried Treats for Cats and Dogs Made? Read more 4 Homemade Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs: Japandi-Inspired, Simple & Healthy Read more
Bone Broth For Pets

Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated?

Skrevet af: Christian Adamsen on maj 13 2025
Bone broth has been passed down through generations for a reason. When made properly, it's not just a warm liquid with flavour — it's an extraction. A careful process of low-simmering bones and connective tissue over time, to draw out the nutrients the body can absorb and use. For pets, it can be a powerful addition to their diet. But as with anything: not all bone broths are made equally. Bone Broth For Dogs and Cats - Real Bone Broth vs Flavoured Water True bone broth takes time. It’s simmered slowly, often over 12 to 24 hours, to allow for a deep release of amino acids, collagen, and minerals from the bones. The difference between this and a quick-cooked stock is more than just taste. Shorter cooking times extract some flavour, but not the nutrients your pet’s body needs. These fast versions are closer to flavoured water than real bone broth. If it’s done too fast, with the wrong bones, or without proper preparation — it may smell nice, but it won't carry the benefits. Table Of Content Real Bone Broth vs Flavoured Water The Role of Bone Type and Cuts Why Animal Lifestyle Matters Why Human-Grade Matters Dehydrated Bone Broth vs Liquid Bone Broth Nutritional Benefits: A Deeper Dive Real bone broth is made with care, not shortcuts. The Role of Bone Type and Cuts Many people associate a good bone broth with how gelatinous it becomes after cooling. While gelatin is a sign of natural collagen being extracted, it’s not the only marker of a well-made bone broth. The amount of gelatin depends on the type and part of the bone: Chicken feet and beef knuckles are especially rich in collagen, which gives the bone broth that "jelly" texture when cooled. Chicken carcasses or meaty rib bones might yield a thinner bone broth, but still full of amino acids and minerals. Long bones (like elk femurs or reindeer legs) offer a complex mineral profile, even if they result in a lighter gelatin structure. Some bones are rich in collagen, others in amino acids or key minerals. That’s why we use a blend of different bones — it creates a more balanced and nutritionally complete bone broth for dogs and cats. What matters most is how the bones are treated — not just in the pot, but how the animals lived. Why Animal Lifestyle Matters We choose wild and free-range animals because you can taste and see the difference in the bones. Wild reindeer roam the Norwegian mountains, eating lichen, moss, and forest plants. Their bones are denser, and their tissues are richer in micronutrients. Elk, also wild, forage a natural diet and move freely across vast areas. This strengthens their skeleton and connective tissue — ideal for bone broth. Free-range chickens and turkeys move naturally and eat: insects, herbs, and roots. This gives better marrow and richer nutrients. Grass-fed beef bones come from animals raised the way they should be — grazing on pasture, not confined. That difference is reflected in the mineral content of their bones. Irish lamb graze freely on open pastures, just as nature intended. Their bones are clean, mineral-rich, and ideal for creating a gentle, mild-flavoured bone broth. A bone broth is only as good as what it comes from. And we only use bones from animals that lived the life they were meant to. Why Human-Grade Matters We don’t use off-cuts, by-products, or category 3 materials. Only bones and ingredients that are fully human-grade — from sourcing and transport to processing. This gives us full control over quality and transparency, and gives your pet a product you can feel confident about. Dehydrated Bone Broth vs Liquid Bone Broth With more dehydrated bone broths for dogs and cats appearing on the market, it’s easy to wonder: which is better? Dehydrated bone broth is typically made by heat-drying already-cooked bone broth or by extracting nutrients using high temperatures and spray-drying. These methods make it convenient and shelf-stable — but not without trade-offs. Heat-sensitive compounds like collagen, amino acids, and minerals can degrade during the drying process. These include nutrients that play an important role in gut health and digestion — one of the core reasons we give bone broth in the first place. The flavour and scent are often milder or altered due to processing. Mixing with water doesn’t fully recreate the texture and depth of a true liquid bone broth. In contrast, liquid bone broth is slow-simmered from the start.To keep it safe without preservatives, we use a short steam-based method called autoclaving. It gently steam pressure to remove bacteria — making the bone broth shelf-stable, without compromising its natural flavour or nutrients.For pets, that means: Better digestibility Stronger scent and flavour (which picky eaters love) More preserved nutrients like glycine, glucosamine, proline, and key minerals Nutritional Benefits: A Deeper Dive Want to understand what bone broth actually does for your pet? Read our in-depth guide written in collaboration with a certified pet nutritionist here . From gut support and joint health to immune function and hydration, real bone broth supports it all. Benefits of Bone Broth for Your Pet's Health Read Now The Convenience Dehydrated bone broth is often praised for convenience — but it’s not the only option. Our bone broths are available in both 400ml and 100ml pouches. The 100ml size is perfect for travel, enrichment, or freezing — so you can bring real bone broth with you anywhere. Real bone broth is made with care, not shortcuts. At Hokuō®, we honour the process — and your pet. Every batch is made with traceable, human-grade ingredients, sourced within Europe, and slow-simmered in small batches. Because better bone broth starts with better bones. See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product Want to read more? The First Reindeer Bone Broth on the Market – And It's Wild! Read more Why Alaria Esculenta is a Powerhouse of a Seaweed Read more Dandelion Extract Benefits for Cats & Dogs Read more
Freeze dried treats for cats and dogs

How Are Freeze Dried Treats for Cats and Dogs Made?

Skrevet af: Marleen Meindersma on maj 10 2025
They’re light. Crisp. Smell like fresh ingredients. No fridge required. No additives needed. Just clean, raw food and gently preserved. You might have seen freeze dried treats for cats and dogs before. Maybe even used them as a high-value training reward or a daily snack. But have you ever wondered how they’re actually made? In this blog we’ll take you down this process… Read along! It’s easy to imagine a machine doing all the work. You load the ingredients, press a button and walk away. But the truth? It’s not that simple. Freeze drying is a slow, careful process. And when done right, it’s more than just preservation. It’s protection. Of nutrients. Of texture. Of what makes the food worth feeding in the first place. At Hokuō® we believe that what stays in matters just as much as what’s taken out. And behind every one of our freeze dried treats for cats and dogs is a quiet kind of expertise. The kind you only build through years of doing things the hard way, on purpose. Let’s take you inside that process. But before we step inside the process, there’s something else worth understanding... Overview Freeze drying = the closest thing to raw What is freeze drying? Why does heat matter so much? How are our freeze dried treats for dogs and cats made? A decade of quiet refinement Why freeze dried treats for cats and dog matter In the end? Freeze drying = the closest thing to raw Freeze drying is not simply a way to preserve food. It’s more than that. It’s the closest and cleanest alternative to a raw food diet - offering fresh, almost untouched ingredients, with nothing lost but moisture. And even if you only use freeze dried as a topper or snack, they still add value to your pet’s diet. While most pet foods go through heat and processing to ensure safety and shelf life, freeze dried food and treats stay true to their original form. No reshaping, no extra steps. Just raw ingredients, gently preserved. The infographic shows where freeze dried sits on the scale of processing - a simple way to see the difference. This difference is worth understanding. Because while raw food nourishes by nature, ultra-processed products (even when labeled ‘healthy’) can quietly undermine your pet’s well-being over time. Source: The Forever Dog | Intergraph: Martin Fredskov for Hokuō® And that’s why we’ve chosen it. To preserve what matters , and to make it easy to bring species-appropriate treats into your pet’s life - in a way that fits yours. Want to explore a little further?Small steps toward fresher food can bring a lot of meaningful benefits. Whether it’s a full raw diet or simply adding freeze dried toppers and treats... Every bit of real, unprocessed nutrition helps. There’s no need for all-or-nothing thinking. We wrote more about this idea, for anyone curious about finding balance and doing what’s possible. Click here to read blog What is freeze drying? So, what is freeze drying, really? In simple terms, freeze drying (or lyophilization if you want the scientific term) is a preservation method that removes moisture from food… without ever heating it. Originally developed by NASA to preserve food for astronauts, the goal was clear: keep the food shelf-stable, lightweight and nutritionally intact - even in space. Turns out, those same goals apply beautifully to pets here on Earth. Here’s how it works: The ingredients are frozen, locking everything in place. They’re placed into a vacuum, where the ice gently vaporizes. We’re skipping the liquid stage! What’s left is the dry version of the original. Same shape. Same smell. Same nutrients. Why does heat matter so much? You might wonder why heat matters so much. The answer is simple but important. Heat doesn’t just remove moisture. It also changes the food itself. When proteins, fats and sugars are exposed to heat, chemical reactions begin - a process known as  glycation . These reactions can create compounds that the body struggles to break down. Over time, they may quietly build up, contributing to inflammation, joint issues, digestive troubles and even chronic conditions like diabetes, early aging or certain types of cancer. That’s what makes freeze dried treats for cats and dogs so different. No cooking. No shrinkage. No shortcuts. They’re not processed - just preserved. How are our freeze dried treats for dogs and cats made? Let’s take you with us - this is what the process looks like at Hokuō®... We start with raw ingredients. Fresh duck hearts. Reindeer liver. Rabbit ears. Always sourced from trusted European suppliers - mainly in Norway, Finland, and Estonia. Places where transparency, animal welfare, and quality control still mean something. And always of human-grade quality. The same standard you’d expect from food meant for your own plate. Because when the base is good, the outcome can be excellent. A decade of quiet refinement Then, we work with our European factory, which has spent over a decade refining the art of freeze-drying. They know - from years of experience - how to handle every part: muscle meat, organs, bones, even the furry parts . Each has its own moisture profile, structure, and drying needs. How to dry venison without losing its scent. How to preserve the delicate shape of a rabbit ear. How to keep nutrients intact, batch after batch. Each product is handled differently - depending on its moisture, structure, and size. Because not everything should be treated the same. Once the process is complete, the treats are shelf-stable, lightweight and dry to the touch. However it is still biologically raw . No preservatives needed. No fridge required. And because the structure of the meat is preserved, the flavor and scent remain incredibly appealing to pets. The result is a treat that’s as close to nature as possible. Just with the moisture taken out! Why freeze dried treats for cats and dog matter We’re not here to chase trends. We’re here to offer something that respects an animal’s natural diet - and does it with care. Our freeze dried treats for cats and dogs offer: Pure ingredients, nothing unnecessary. Simple storage - no fridge, no fuss. Honest nutrition, preserved without heat. Biological safety - thanks to the quality of both the ingredients and the process. But none of it matters without good ingredients. Even the best technique can’t fix what wasn’t right to begin with. That’s why we always start with sourcing. Everything else follows. In the end? Freeze drying isn’t just about removing moisture. It’s about keeping what matters - and letting go of what doesn’t. At Hokuō®, every treat we make begins with respect . For the animal it came from. For the pet it’s meant for. And for the process that makes it possible. Simple, good food. Handled with care. That’s all it ever needed to be. View product View product View product Explore all our freeze-dried products The Author: Marleen Meindersma Freelance blog writer for Hokuō®
homemade lickmat recipes

4 Homemade Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs: Japandi-Inspired, Simple & Healthy

Skrevet af: Christian Adamsen on maj 01 2025
Imagine stepping into a Japanese garden — a place so still and beautiful that your body just decides to relax. That was the feeling I had the first time I visited a Karesansui garden in Japan. Complete calm. A sense of peace that stays with you. When I began designing the first Hokuō® lickmat, I explored many ideas. But none felt truly right. I wanted to create something original — something that reflected my love for Japanese culture, and at the same time, honoured my Scandinavian roots. A Memory That Became a Moment One Saturday night, I woke up with that garden memory fresh in my mind. I knew that was it. That was the feeling I wanted to recreate. I called my graphic designer, and together we worked through the night. By morning, the Hokuō® Karesansui Lickmat was born.The depth: the lines, the texture — it’s all created to help your pet calm down. To gently activate the nervous system through licking. Because as the tongue follows the soft ridges of the Karesansui, something shifts. Calm begins to settle in. Just like the feeling I had walking through those quiet gardens in Japan. A Ritual Rooted in Care If you know the brand, you know nothing is left to chance. I had a clear vision: a product that didn’t just look beautiful, but felt purposeful. Designed with texture and depth to gently stimulate your pet’s nervous system — a tool for calm and enrichment. And I knew this launch had to go deeper. It had to include my passion for pet nutrition. So I reached out to a Dutch pet nutritionist and shared my idea. I asked if she’d like to collaborate and bring it to life — and here we are. A Journey in Four Recipes So I’m very proud to introduce you to four homemade lickmat recipes, Japandi inspired: The calm of green tea, the comfort of ramen, the new life of cherry blossom and the warmth of shiitake. Each one is created for both cats and dogs, using whole ingredients that nourish gently — and beautifully. Experience the texture and the flavours of each recipe to find calm — just like I did the first time I walked through a Japanese garden. This space is yours to be present, to nourish your cat or dog in a calming and intentional way. No rush. No pressure. Just the joy of sharing a peaceful, beautiful moment together.Ready to create something meaningful? Let’s dive into the 4 original homemade lickmat recipes we created just for you and your pet! Explore the Four Recipes The Calm of Green Tea The Comfort of Ramen The New Life of Cherry Blossom The Warmth of Shiitake What You'll Need 1/4 leaf green cabbage 30g frozen peas 50ml water 1 tsp Hokuō® Nagomi 1 tsp Hokuō® Organic Alaria Esulenta (seaweed) Inspired by the calm of a Japanese tea moment.I wanted this recipe to reflect some of the tea experiences I’ve had in Japan — quiet, grounding, and full of intention. Using green cabbage and peas for gentle digestion, the Hokuō® Nagomi blend for calm, and Hokuō® Organic Alaria Esculenta for its natural minerals and antioxidants, it’s a simple way to help your pet slow down — and feel good doing it. How to Make It Boil the cabbage (set aside two pieces for decoration) and the frozen peas (save a few for topping) in gently boiling water until soft. Blend the cabbage and peas with 30 ml of the water until smooth. Mix 1 tsp of Nagomi with the remaining 20 ml of water . Place everything onto the lickmat — just like in the photo, or in your own way. Did you know: Green cabbage is a source of vitamin C. Peas contain fiber, iron, zinc, vitamin E, and vitamin C. Nagomi is made from chamomile, passion flower, lemon balm, and valerian root. Alaria Esculenta is a freeze-dried seaweed full of minerals, fiber, and vitamins. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now What You'll Need 75ml Hokuō® Elk Bone Broth 1/4 leaf green cabbage 2 pieces Hokuō® Red Deer Heart 2 quail eggs (or 1 chicken egg) A sprinkle of Hokuō® Organic Alaria Esulenta (seaweed) Inspired by one of Japan’s beloved comfort foods.Ramen is often one of the first things you truly feel when arriving in Japan — warm, deep, and full of care. I wanted to capture that same feeling here, especially with cats in mind , using nutrient-rich Hokuō® Red Deer Heart. This recipe is a nod to that unforgettable moment when you taste the best ramen of your life — comforting, satisfying, and made to be remembered. How to Make It Boil the green cabbage in gently boiling water for about 10 minutes. In the same pan, boil 2 quail eggs for 4 minutes (make a small hole at each end to prevent cracking). Rinse the eggs with cold water and peel carefully . Slice them in half, lengthwise. Cut the cabbage into small strips. Slice the red deer heart into bite-sized pieces. Pour the elk bone broth evenly across the lickmat. Sprinkle the red deer heart over the upper half of the mat. Place the cabbage and eggs as shown in the photo. Finish with a sprinkle of seaweed over half of the eggs. Did you know: Elk broth is made from slow-simmered elk bones and is full of natural collagen and nutrients. Green cabbage is rich in vitamin C. Red deer heart contains iron, vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3s. Quail eggs are packed with protein, vitamin B, iron, and potassium. Alaria Esculenta is a freeze-dried seaweed with minerals, fiber, and vitamins. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now What You'll Need 50ml kefir 40g raspberries 40g shrimp 1 Hokuō® Duck & Raspberry 1 tsp dried flower petals Inspired by the cherry blossom season — a time of new life.Every spring, Japan turns pink. The cherry blossom bloom is one of the biggest events of the year, and if you’ve been there, you know why. For me, it’s always felt like a fresh start — soft, light, and full of new energy. That’s the feeling I wanted to bring into this recipe. With ingredients like Hokuō® Duck & Raspberry, shrimp , and edible flowers, it’s light, nourishing, and perfect for the change of seasons. How to Make It Boil the shrimp in gently boiling water for about 10 minutes. (Never feed raw shrimp!) Blend the kefir and 3 raspberries until smooth. Chop the cooked shrimp and the remaining raspberries into small pieces. Pour the kefir and raspberry mixture evenly over the lickmat. Sprinkle the shrimp and raspberries across the mat. Crumble one duck/raspberry cookie over the top. Finish with a light scattering of edible flower petals. Did you know: Kefir is packed with probiotics and supports digestion. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and compounds that support heart health. Shrimp are a good source of protein, omega-3s, and antioxidants. Duck & Raspberry combine high-quality duck meat with freeze-dried raspberries. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now What You'll Need 2 small to medium sized potatoes 1 tbsp Hokuō® Organic Shiitake Powder 20ml water 30ml Hokuō® Reindeer Bone Broth 40g shimeji mushrooms 2 Hokuō® Taste Sprats & Beetroot Where shiitake meets childhood comfort.Japanese food culture is really my thing — simple ingredients that somehow create deep, unforgettable flavour. I knew shiitake had to be part of this journey. And being Danish, mashed potatoes were a regular at the dinner table, especially at my grandma’s. So this recipe is a mix of my two food worlds: my love for Japanese mushrooms, and the comfort of something I grew up with. How to Make It Boil the potatoes in gently boiling water for about 15 minutes, until soft. Boil the shimeji mushrooms in a separate pan for about 15 minutes. (Never feed raw mushrooms!) Mash the potatoes with shiitake powder and water until smooth and combined. Chop the cooked shimeji into small pieces. Spread the potato mash over the bottom half of the lickmat. Place the shimeji mushrooms in the texture circles, and pour the broth over the top half. Finish with the sprats placed gently in the middle. Did you know: Potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium. Shiitake powder is full of antioxidants and amino acids. Reindeer bone broth is slow-simmered and packed with natural collagen and nutrients. Shimeji mushrooms contain vitamin B, iron, and powerful antioxidants. Sprats with beetroot are loaded with omega-3s, vitamin D, and B12. Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Make It Your Ritual I truly hope this inspires you to explore new ways to nourish your pet — or even to create your own version of these nutritionist-developed recipes. Every ritual is different. Share yours with us on social media.Tag @hokuo.pet on social media and use #KaresansuiMoments to join the journey towards homemade lickmat recipes. The First Reindeer Bone Broth on the Market – And It's Wild! Read more Why Alaria Esculenta is a Powerhouse of a Seaweed Read more Dandelion Extract Benefits for Cats & Dogs Read more
Reindeer bone broth for pets

The First Reindeer Bone Broth on the Market – And It's Wild!

Skrevet af: Marleen Meindersma on mar. 20 2025
Imagine a place where nature runs free… Snow-covered landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see, crisp air and herds of reindeer moving gracefully through the Norwegian wilderness. This is where the story of Hokuō®’s reindeer bone broth for pets begins. Sourced from wild Norwegian reindeer, this bone broth isn’t just another pet supplement. It’s a reflection of the pure, untamed nature it comes from.For the first time ever, reindeer bone broth is available for cats and dogs. And trust us, it’s unlike anything else. Overview The Norwegian reindeer: a symbol of the wild Why reindeer bone broth from Norway? Why bone broth for dogs and cats is so great How to add reindeer bone broth to your pet’s diet Ready to try something truly special? The Norwegian reindeer: a symbol of the wild Deep in the Arctic wilderness, Norwegian reindeer roam freely, living as they have for centuries. These incredible animals thrive in one of the most untouched landscapes on earth. Feeding on nutrient-rich mosses, herbs, ferns and wild grasses. They are never confined, never fed artificial diets and never exposed to unnecessary antibiotics.  They are nature at its finest… strong, resilient and perfectly adapted to their surroundings. This wild, natural lifestyle makes their bones incredibly nutrient-rich. Packed with collagen, essential minerals and amino acids, they hold the very essence of Arctic nutrition, making them the perfect foundation for our reindeer bone broth for pets. Why reindeer bone broth from Norway? So, why did we choose reindeer bones from Norway? Well, Norway has this really strong commitment to doing things right. And that goes for everything from how the reindeer are treated to how the bones are collected. They hold themselves to super high standards, and honestly, we wouldn’t settle for anything less. Every ingredient in this reindeer bone broth is actually human-grade, which means it’s safe, pure and packed with the kind of nutrition you’d want for yourself. Norway’s strict rules and deep respect for nature ensure that every batch of bone broth is clean.  That means: no contaminants, no artificial additives and definitely no hormones. By choosing Norwegian reindeer bones, we’re not just going for quality. We’re also supporting sustainability and ethical sourcing. "We want the very best for your pet, and with Norwegian reindeer, we’re giving them exactly that." Something wild, clean and natural. Just like nature intended. See Reindeer Bone Broth in the shop Why bone broth for cats and dogs is so great So, why should you add this wild Norwegian reindeer bone broth to your pet’s diet? Well, as explained before, it's packed with natural benefits your pet will love. Honestly, any type of bone broth is one of those natural superfoods that pets can’t get enough of. And for good reason! Whether it's joint support, digestive health, or hydration, bone broth does it all. It’s packed with nutrients that really make a difference for your pet’s health. Making it a great addition to their diet. Let’s go through some of the benefits: Keeps joints strong Pets of all ages need joint support. And bone broth helps keep them strong and flexible. With collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin, it’s perfect for senior pets or active dogs and cats who need a little extra care to stay mobile and comfortable. Supports a happy, healthy gut A healthy pet starts with a healthy gut! Bone broth is rich in gelatin, which helps maintain the gut lining and supports smooth digestion. It’s especially helpful for pets with sensitive tummies or digestion issues. Boosts the immune system Bone broth is full of essential amino acids and minerals that help support your pet’s immune system, keeping them strong and ready to stay healthy throughout the year. Encourages hydration and appetite Not all pets drink enough water, and some can be picky eaters. Bone broth adds extra flavor to their meals and helps with hydration, making it an easy and delicious way to get nutrients in while keeping them happy. Want to learn more about the benefits of bone broth?  Check out our other blog, where we dive deeper into how bone broth is an amazing, all-natural supplement for your pet. How to add reindeer bone broth to your pet’s diet Getting this reindeer bone broth into your pet’s routine is as simple as it gets. Here are a few fun ways to try it out: Mix it into meals: just a splash of broth, and you’ve turned any meal into a tasty, nutrient-packed feast. Serve it warm: it’s perfect for encouraging hydration, especially on chilly days when they need a little extra comfort. Freeze into treats: pour the broth into an ice cube tray for a cool, healthy treat your pet will love on those hot days. Every drop is packed with natural goodness, and your pet will go crazy for the rich flavor. It’s a simple way to give them a nutritional boost while keeping mealtime exciting! Ready to try something truly special? This isn’t just another pet supplement. It’s the real deal! Wild, natural and packed with everything your pet needs to feel their best, this reindeer bone broth is a game-changer. Whether it's supporting their joints, promoting gut health or giving their immune system a little extra boost… It’s the kind of nourishment your pet truly deserves.Give it a try and watch your pet fall in love with it! Shop your Reindeer Bone Broth here! The Author: Marleen Meindersma Freelance blog writer for Hokuō®
Alaria Esculenta seaweed for pets

Why Alaria Esculenta is a Powerhouse of a Seaweed

Skrevet af: Marleen Meindersma on mar. 17 2025
When it comes to pet nutrition, seaweed may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Alaria Esculenta , an incredible organic seaweed for pets , is about to change that. This seaweed, harvested from the clean, cold waters of Norway, is a natural powerhouse that’s packed with nutrients your pet needs for overall health. Let’s dive into the Norwegian seaweed benefits and see why Alaria Esculenta should deserve a place in their bowl!  Overview Why seaweed for dogs and cats is gaining popularity Why Iodine is so important for dogs and cats Moderation is key when it comes to Iodine! Key benefits of Alaria Esculenta Why Choose this organic Norwegian seaweed? How to use Alaria Esculenta for your pet Ready to boost your pet’s health? Why seaweed for dogs and cats is gaining popularity Seaweed is becoming a go-to natural pet supplement. And for good reason! Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, it offers a nutrient-dense boost that supports overall wellness. Many pet owners are turning to seaweed for dogs and cats as a way to fill in the nutritional gaps that can sometimes be missing from regular pet food.A standout feature of seaweed is its high iodine content. This vital mineral plays a crucial role in maintaining thyroid function and metabolism, making it a valuable addition to your pet’s diet. Why Iodine is so important for dogs and cats Iodine is essential for your pet’s thyroid and metabolism. Without enough iodine, dogs can develop hypothyroidism, which can cause symptoms like weight gain, low energy and skin issues. "Unlike humans, dogs are not efficient at storing iodine in their bodies, meaning their dietary iodine needs are higher than you might realize." Cats, on the other hand, are better at storing iodine, but they still benefit from proper supplementation.Alaria Esculenta is a fantastic natural way to supplement iodine in your pet’s diet.  Not only is it rich in iodine, but it also contains prebiotic fibers, amino acids and phytonutrients that promote overall health. See Alaria Esculenta in shop Moderation is key when it comes to Iodine! While iodine is vital for thyroid health, it’s important not to overdo it. Too much iodine can lead to thyroid imbalances like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.  So, always be sure to stick to the recommended dosage of Alaria Esculenta to ensure your pet gets the right amount. Key benefits of Alaria Esculenta Beyond its iodine content, Alaria Esculenta offers a range of other health benefits that can make a big difference for your pet. Here’s how it helps: Boosts immunity and vitalityPacked with vitamins A, B1, B3, B9, B12, and E, Alaria Esculenta strengthens your pet’s immune system. It also contains minerals like calcium, potassium and iron to promote vitality. The high protein and fiber content (16.6% and 52.7%) helps keep your pet healthy and energized. Plus, antioxidants in this seaweed help fight free radicals, supporting long-term health. Supports a healthy skin, coat & jointsOmega-3 fatty acids in Alaria Esculenta help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. This makes it perfect for pets with dry, flaky skin or dull fur. It also supports joint health, reduces inflammation and promotes mobility. Aids digestion & gut healthThis natural pet supplement has prebiotic properties, which help promote healthy digestion by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. A balanced gut microbiome supports better digestion and nutrient absorption. Sustainably sourced & 100% naturalAlaria Esculenta is harvested from the cold, clean waters of Norway. Certified organic and free from pollutants, it’s a natural, eco-friendly way to support your pet’s health without harming the planet. Why Choose this organic Norwegian seaweed? Hokuō®’s organic Alaria Esculenta comes from the clean, cold waters of Norway, ensuring it’s pure and natural. Packed with essential nutrients, it’s a simple way to support your pet’s overall health. It’s also super easy to add to their daily meals! Shop Alaria Esculenta here! How to use Alaria Esculenta for your pet Using Alaria Esculenta is simple. Just sprinkle a small amount over your pet’s food - wet or dry. It’s an easy addition to their diet. And as long as you follow the recommended dosage, you’ll be providing them with the right balance of iodine and other nutrients! Ready to boost your pet’s health? Adding this amazing Norwegian seaweed to your pet’s diet is a simple way to support their health naturally. Give it a try and see how this nutrient-packed seaweed can make a difference for your dog or cat! Check out our product page to learn more. Shop Alaria Esculenta for your pet!