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Can dogs eat Water spinach?

can dogs eat water spinachCaution

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Caution. Water spinach also known as Ong Choy, Chinese spinach, or Kangkong, is nutritious and offers immune-boosting benefits, but it can pose health risks to dogs when eaten raw. Because it often grows in polluted water, water spinach may carry parasites and heavy metals that could be harmful to your dog.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Water spinach is low in calories and fats. The leaves are packed with vitamin A, minerals, and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system.
  • Water spinach is a rich source of magnesium and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
  • Water spinach is also high in iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood. It prevents anemia.
  • The sodium and potassium in water spinach act as electrolytes, which help to balance the fluids in the body and keep the muscles and nerves working properly.

Risks

health-risks
  • Water spinach typically grows in polluted water where the plant is exposed to bacteria and parasites, which can make dogs sick when ingested.
  • Since water spinach grows in contaminated water, there is an accumulation of heavy metals in the plant.
  • Raw or undercooked water spinach may harbor a parasitic intestinal fluke called Fasciolopsis buski. When ingested, the larval cysts can latch onto the intestines. This can cause stomach pain and digestive issues. It may even lead to death if left untreated.
  • Water spinach that grows in water that is easily accessed by snails and slugs is likely to have parasites and cause infections.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • Wash the water spinach to get rid of dirt and debris. Cut the leaves, stalks, and stems into bite-sized pieces. Cook the water spinach thoroughly.
  • Give water spinach to dogs occasionally in small amounts.

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