Can Dogs Eat Bitter Gourd?

Can Dogs Eat Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourds are the least favorite vegetable for some of us, except the vegans.

 

Its strong and bitter flavor is no secret.

 

But there is no denying that it comes with many health benefits.

 

In this article, we attempt to answer the question- can dogs eat bitter gourd?

 

Read on to find out more.

 

A Background on Bitter Gourd

Bitter Gourd For Dogs

 

Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is a family of cucumber and zucchini.

 

It grows in vines and is a staple for meals in Asian countries.

 

Each serving of bitter gourd gives the consumer the following health advantages:

  • Lowers cholesterol
  • Reduces blood sugar
  • Fights cancer
  • Helps in weight loss
  • Prevents liver disease

 

Because of these benefits, we sometimes think that maybe our dogs can benefit from eating bitter gourd as well.

 

Although the taste is not really the best, the nutrients will suffice.

 

Can Dogs Eat Bitter Gourd?

Yes. Both the gourd and the seeds are safe for dogs to eat, in the case of edible gourds.

 

You can dry the seeds and let your pooch eat it raw or seasoned.

 

But watch out for the amount you give your canines. Give it in moderation.

 

There are types of gourds that are edible, and some are not, like the apple gourd and the gooseneck gourds.

 

These are the ones you must avoid.

 

Adverse Effects

When dogs consume bitter gourds, there is no side effect in general, but when consumed in excessive amounts.

 

These side effects often occur:

  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting
  • Hypoglycemia

 

Hypoglycemia in dogs can cause concern because this may lead to a life-threatening emergency.

The signs that this occurs in canines include but are not limited to:

  • Altered mental activity
  • Change in behavior
  • Seizures
  • Twitching of dog’s muscles
  • Rigorous panting with just minimal activity
  • Collapse
  • Losing vision

 

The degree of effect of hypoglycemia on dogs varies, depending on its causes.

The five most common causes are:

  • These are cell tumors found in the pancreas.
  • Liver dysfunction.
  • Hypoadrenocorticism
  • Sepsis. Be careful with bacterial infections. If they become severe, they may cause hypoglycemia from sepsis.
  • Extra pancreatic neoplasia.

 

 

Learn More:

Can Dogs Eat Nutri Grain Bars

 

 

Take Immediate Action

Call the vet. Studies proved that dogs who suffered from chronic hypoglycemia might seem fine.

 

Some symptoms are not visible to the naked eye, so they would need a prompt and thorough check-up by a veterinarian.

 

So, if you notice some changes to your dog, even if you are not sure, you must refer to professionals for help.

 

Give glucose. This is if the dog is at home.

 

To treat the symptoms, the most common is glucose.

 

You can rub honey, 50 % dextrose, or corn syrup in the mouth.

 

Or, if the dog patient can swallow, give them fill with glucose.

 

Conclusion

Bitter gourds may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but it has benefits.

 

Your dog can eat it and its seeds if prepared properly and when given in moderation.

 

Too much consumption may have consequences on your dog’s health, like hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening.

 

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Russel

A pet owner who loves to share useful facts and information about a variety of animals.