What is Tripe? A Look at the Benefits of Feeding Tripe to Your Pet

What is Green Tripe?

Before diving into its benefits, let's first understand what green tripe is. Tripe refers to the stomach lining of ruminant animals such as cows, sheep, or deer. The “green” in green tripe refers to the pre-digested plant matter that remains in the stomach lining of these animals. Unlike the tripe sold in supermarkets for human consumption, green tripe is minimally washed and left unbleached, preserving its natural nutrients.

Green tripe is considered a highly nutritious superfood for pets due to its rich content of essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, and probiotics. It is typically fed raw, alongside meat, bones, and organs, as part of a balanced raw diet.

The Benefits of Green Tripe

One of the reasons green tripe is so beneficial is its nutrient profile. Not only does it provide vital fatty acids and vitamins, but it is also an excellent source of probiotics. These beneficial bacteria help support a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, regulate the immune system, and protect against harmful pathogens. By feeding your pet green tripe, you’re providing them with a natural way to promote their digestive and overall health.

In New Zealand, raw feeders are fortunate to have access to high-quality green tripe, so there’s no need to rely on vegetables for additional nutrients like raw feeders in the US need to. Green tripe contains all the essential elements your pet needs, including pre-digested plant matter, which acts as a natural source of fiber and nutrients.

Because green tripe is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, it helps stimulate stomach acidity, which aids in the safe digestion of raw bones. This is why we recommend feeding tripe alongside bones to ensure proper digestion. However, always consider other factors, such as the appropriate bone size and your dog’s age or life stage, to ensure a safe feeding experience.

Tripe for Dogs vs. Cats

While most dogs absolutely love green tripe, cats can be more selective. Unlike dogs, cats don’t typically need tripe to aid in digestion since they naturally consume small whole prey, including fermented stomach contents. That said, green tripe can still be beneficial for cats as a probiotic supplement. Just keep in mind that some cats may refuse it due to the strong smell.

If you’d like to introduce green tripe to your cat’s diet, start by mixing a small amount with their favorite food to see how they respond. Freeze-dried green tripe is often better received by cats, making it a great alternative for those who are hesitant about eating tripe.

Green tripe is a powerful addition to your pet’s diet, offering a range of health benefits, from improved digestion to enhanced skin and coat condition. Whether you’re feeding a dog or a cat, tripe can be a valuable source of nutrition when included appropriately in their diet. If you have any questions about how to incorporate tripe into your pet’s meals, or if you’re unsure about the right way to feed it, our expert team is here to help. Visit us in-store or reach out online for personalized advice on how to make the most of this nutrient-packed superfood for your pet.