Dogs are known for eating just about anything that they can get their paws on, whether it’s a piece of meat, something sweet, or even a vegetable. You may not think that a dog would actually want to eat something like cassava, but surprisingly, many dogs don’t mind this food! Whether you are planning to add it to your dog’s homemade diet, you see it in their commercial dog food’s ingredients list, or they snatched a piece of cassava off the kitchen counter, you may be wondering whether this is a good food to feed a canine.

The good news is that when prepared properly, cassava is safe for your furry family member to eat in moderation. There is more to the story, however, so we broke down all the information that you need to know here. This way, you can be confident when deciding whether to let your dog eat cassava.

What Exactly Is Cassava?

Also referred to as yucca in certain parts of the world, cassava is a woody shrub or tree that is native to South America. The starchy root (referred to as a vegetable) of the plant is what’s commonly harvested for consumption as a source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Cassava happens to be the third largest source of carbohydrates in tropical locations.

This is a hardy plant that tolerates drought well and can grow in little soil. They can be either bitter or sweet, depending on the variety being harvested. Cassava is extremely versatile and can be used in many cooking and baking applications. This root veggie is responsible for tapioca, as it’s the main ingredient.

The Nutritional Benefits of Cassava

Cassava is a great source of carbohydrates, which is why it’s a staple food for millions of people, especially in the tropics. However, carbs aren’t the only thing that this starchy vegetable has to offer. Here is a nutritional breakdown for reference:

Many nutrients in cassava are beneficial to a dog’s overall health. It’s also a great source of resistant starch, which bypasses the digestive system and feeds healthy gut bacteria, and this could help reduce overall inflammation. Other benefits include the following.

Enhances Energy Levels

The high-calorie content in cassava can help boost the energy levels in older dogs and those that are energetic.

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

The resistant starch in cassava could even help reduce the appetite of dogs that tend to overindulge at mealtime.

Maintains Health Skin and Hair

Due to all the vitamin C that it contains, cassava can help synthesize collagen, which results in soft, smooth skin and a healthy coat overall. The vitamin C is also reported to help strengthen hair follicles so your dog won’t lose as much as time goes on.

Since dogs are considered omnivores (though debates are rising about this), they can digest plant foods and break down plant nutrients. So, there is no worry about whether your dog can handle absorbing the nutrients made available to them when consuming cassava.

The Nutritional Concerns of Cassava

While there are many nutritional benefits of eating cassava in humans, a few concerns should be addressed before deciding whether to feed this food to your beloved canine companion. First, cassava should always be cooked before serving, as raw cassava can cause cyanide poisoning when consumed in large amounts. Even when eaten in small amounts regularly over time, it can cause unwanted long-term health effects.

Another thing to consider is that cassava is considerably higher in calories than most other types of root vegetables. Around 330 calories can be found in each cup of cassava. Therefore, it can contribute to weight gain if serving size is not taken into account at mealtimes.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Raw Cassava

If your dog gets a hold of cassava before it has been cooked and prepared, keep a close eye on them for indications of cyanide poisoning as you’re taking them to an emergency veterinary center.

Signs include:

Don’t wait until side effects start to arise before heading to the vet, as death can occur within mere hours of the poisoning taking place. If you do notice signs before getting to the vet, call them immediately to get expert guidance so they can help you determine what steps should be taken while you’re traveling to their clinic.

Conclusion

Cassava can be eaten by dogs if it is cooked and prepared properly. Raw cassava is toxic to dogs. Like any other food, cassava should be consumed in moderation and should not make up the bulk of your dog’s diet.

Related Reads:

• Can Dogs Eat Falafel? Vet Reviewed Facts
• Can Dogs Eat Taro? (Vet Approved Facts & FAQs)