One of the more unique ingredients in Northwest Naturals complete and balanced pet foods is apple cider vinegar. Made from apples, this freshly pressed juice also contains trace amounts of pulp, skin, and stem for added nutrient cofactors. For centuries, ACV has been a folk remedy and homemade tonic used for a variety of conditions. With increasing public interest in natural health products, scientists have confirmed some of these valuable benefits. And although ACV is safe for cats and dogs, most pets do not like its smell or taste. Fortunately, the amount we include in our recipes, mixed with delectable meats, is undetectable to their palates.

Taken with meals, ACV aids digestion by increasing stomach acidity. It contains prebiotics and probiotics, making it very friendly to the gut’s microbiome. A well-functioning gut absorbs all of your pet’s food more efficiently. Remember, you are not what you eat; you are what you absorb. You may be feeding your cat or dog the healthiest diet ever designed, but if his or her busy little gut is clogged from an improper diet or having to deal with toxins, their absorption rate may be nil. Also, having healthy stomach acid levels helps guard against bloat, which is a critical problem in some dog breeds.

Apple cider vinegar also contains raw enzymes and minerals, which our pets need. It is especially high in potassium, the great muscle regulator. Potassium plays a key role in many bodily systems, but nerve and muscle functions in particular rely heavily on this mineral. It is important for heart health, smooth muscle contractions, and stimulates better reflexes.

Acetic acid is around 5% in ACV and has been proven to inhibit the growth of certain fungi and bacteria. These antimicrobial properties make it a cleansing factor for the total digestive system from the mouth to the tail. Being an anti-fungal, it helps protect against yeast infections, too. If using the whole product (actual ACV from a bottle), it should always be diluted. Some people use it as an external antibacterial treatment for minor skin rashes. Of course, no dilution is necessary for the ACV in NWN products, as our formulation factors that into our balanced diets.

Supporting the health of the pancreas is especially important for pets that may be diabetic or pre-diabetic. ACV has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate weight. Although the data is limited on weight loss, ACV does help with glycemic control. Some studies have shown that it helps prevent blood sugar spikes after eating high-carbohydrate foods and aids the body in using insulin more efficiently, thus reducing the strain on the pancreas.

With all these natural benefits, it would be a shame if our pets refused to consume ACV, which they would do if it were offered alone. Our complete and balanced recipes are eagerly consumed by dogs and cats who crave the abundant meat and are unaware of all the healthy extra ingredients we include. But we know and can rest assured that our pets are getting a tasty, full nutritional bowl of species-appropriate foods at every meal. So while apple cider vinegar may be sour its effects are sweetly healthy for our pets.