Organ Meats in Pet Food: Nature’s Multivitamin
When you hear the words “organ meat,” your first thought might not be delicious and nutritious—especially from a human perspective. But for pets, these parts are far from scraps. In fact, organ meats are one of the most nutrient-dense ingredients nature has to offer.
A Misunderstood Superfood
Organ meats like liver, heart, kidney, and lung often carry hesitation from pet parents. Some may assume they’re low-quality or used only as filler. Others may project human food preferences-where organs are less common-onto their pets.
But here's the truth: for cats and dogs, organ meats are more than acceptable-they're biologically appropriate. In the wild, carnivores instinctively consume organs first, drawn to their rich supply of essential vitamins and minerals. When thoughtfully sourced and properly prepared, organ meats are among the most nourishing foods your pet can eat.
Why Organs Matter
Organ meats are often called nature’s multivitamin—and for good reason. They offer:
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High-Quality Protein – Essential for maintaining lean muscle and energy levels.
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Natural Vitamins & Minerals – Including B-vitamins (like B12 and riboflavin), iron, zinc, and selenium.
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Fatty Acids & Amino Acids – Heart health, brain development, and joint support all benefit.
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Highly Digestible Nutrition – Easily absorbed and utilized by your pet’s body.
The liver, in particular, is a powerhouse—rich in vitamin A, iron, and CoQ10. Kidneys provide essential selenium and vitamin D. These are nutrients often added synthetically to pet food, but organ meats deliver them in their most natural, bioavailable form.
ZEAL’s Approach to Organ Meats
At ZEAL, we take pride in the ingredients we choose-and that includes organs. Our air-dried recipes from Canada include up to 96% meat and organs, while our wet food recipes from New Zealand feature 94% meat, organs, and fish. These thoughtfully balanced inclusions mimic a more natural, carnivore-appropriate diet.
We don’t use organ meats as a way to cut corners. We use them because they make sense—for your pet’s health, digestion, and vitality.
Overcoming the "Human Bias"
If organ meats sound unusual to us, that’s okay. But our pets don’t carry the same cultural baggage. What matters is quality, digestibility, and biological relevance. And organ meats check every box.
Once you shift the lens from “what would I eat?” to “what helps my pet thrive?” the benefits become crystal clear.
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