Marieke Post
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Differences between vegetables
When formulating a diet for an animal, it is important that vegetables are used that meet the needs of the animal. The definition of vegetables is: 'all edible parts of plants that are not fruits or seeds'. This broad definition ensures that vegetables have very diverse nutritional values. Vegetables can be divided into four categories: leafy vegetables, root vegetables, fruit vegetables and other vegetables. The last two categories are occasionally also grouped together as watery vegetables. Table 1 shows examples of the four categories with associated vegetables. The nutritional differences per category are explained below, supported by various bar charts from table 2. Table 1. Different vegetables divided over four categories Leafy vegetables Leaves are the parts of plants where most photosynthesis takes place. As a result, these are the parts of the plant that often contain the most nutrients. For example, leafy vegetables are often rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, leafy vegetables are one of the few natural sources of folic acid (vitamin B11), which is important for the production of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nerves. Leafy greens are low in available carbohydrates but relatively high in protein, fat and fibre. Table 2 shows the nutritional values of some leafy vegetables. Root vegetables Based on their properties, root vegetables can be divided into true roots or modified stems. Sweet potato, carrots and cassava are examples of true roots. While potatoes, radishes and beets are examples of modified stems. Root vegetables mainly grow below soil and function as a storage space for starch. As a result, they often also contain a high content of fibre and available carbohydrates, which mainly consist of starches instead of sugars. On the other hand, the amount of water is also on the lower side. Table 2 shows the nutritional values of some root vegetables. Fruit vegetables Fruit vegetables include tomatoes, bell peppers and cucumbers. These are all characterized by having a fleshy and seed-rich texture. Fruit vegetables are relatively low in protein, fat, fibre, available carbohydrates and minerals. However, they contain a relatively high amount of water and vitamins. The available carbohydrates in fruit vegetables mainly consist of sugars and hardly any starch, which means that the total amount of sugar is also relatively high. Table 2 shows the nutritional values of some fruit vegetables. Other vegetables As the name suggests, the other vegetables category is suitable for vegetables that are more difficult to place in one of the other three categories. Because this category is quite diverse, it is more difficult to make general statements. A remarkable feature of many of these vegetables is that they mainly consist of a stem. These vegetables also often contain a higher content of proteins, fibers and vitamins. On the other hand, the amount of available carbohydrates is often lower. Table 2 shows the nutritional values of some vegetables within this category. *Graphs are based on the average values of the different categories in table 2* Table 2. Nutritional composition of different vegetables divided over four categories Source: Food composition and nutrition tables, Souci, Fachmann and Kraut, 7th revised and completed editionEn savoir plusHygiene guidelines for raw feeding
Raw meat and prey animals contain natural bacteria. For healthy animals these bacteria are harmless. For people, especially young children, elderly and people with a weakened immune system, the bacteria can cause problems. Therefore it is important that raw food products are handled in the right way. Store the sealed product in a freezer at -18°C. When the product comes in contact with air, the product can slowly dry out which reduces its nutritive value.Thaw it in an air tight container in the refrigerator so it will not be in contact with your own food and dehydration will be prevented.Do not store the meat product longer than two days in the refrigerator. When a package is too big to feed in two days, you can make portions when the product is still frozen and put it back in the freezer.Prevent cross-contamination by cleaning everything which has been in contact with the meat product, or the packaging of the meat product, with warm water and detergent or a disinfectant.The higher the temperature, the faster the bacteria will multiply. Make sure you feed your pet in a cool space, out of the sun.When the raw food has not been eaten within an hour, remove it and throw it away.Make sure flies can’t get close to the raw food. Flies can spread bacteria.Make sure small children can’t get close to the raw food either.En savoir plusVariation, very important for a balanced diet
Most people know that variation in an animal’s diet is important. But what does variation mean and why is it so important? The right variation With Kiezebrink’s BARF products and their minced meat mixtures variation is necessary to form a balanced diet. This is because these products on its own are not considered to be a complete diet. This means they must be varied to form a balanced diet. There are four categories of meat: white meat, red meat, game meat and fish. During the week when at least one sort of each meat category is fed, then it can be assumed that a balanced diet is fed. In the following overview the sorts of meat in each category is illustrated. Red meat BeefLambHorseDuck White meat ChickenTurkeyQuailRabbit Game HarePheasantPigeon Fish SalmonFat fish Why variation? Dogs and cats are in need of all kinds of nutrients. When only one sort of meat is fed, it’s likely that certain nutrients will be lacking in their diet. This is because different categories of meat have differing nutritional values. Fish for example contains a high percentage of omega 3 fatty acids and selenium. Red meat contains high levels of vitamin B12, while white meat contains more vitamins B3 and B6. Also, the structures of the protein in meat (the amino acids) vary by the type of meat. Therefore it’s important to feed all the different categories of meat, to make sure the dog or cat receives a wide range of nutrients. If, for example due to an allergy, it is not possible to provide sufficient variety, it is advisable to add a supplement. Kiezebrink offers two supplements in its range to complement a raw meat diet: Raw meat supplement (no calcium), suitable for complementing a diet containing meat bones, muscle meat and, where appropriate, organs.Raw meat supplement + calcium, suitable for complementing a diet that does not contain meat bones but does contain muscle meat and possibly organ meat. This supplement contains calcium, which ensures that no problems arise with the animal’s bone development when meat bones are not fed. Raw meat supplement (no calcium), suitable for supplementing a diet containing meat bones, muscle meat and, where appropriate, offal. Raw meat supplement + calcium, suitable for supplementing a diet that does not contain meat bones but does contain muscle meat and possibly organ meat. This supplement contains calcium, which ensures that no problems arise with the animal’s bone development when meat bones are not fed. Both supplements contain all the recommended vitamins and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and cats. As well as adding vitamins and minerals, it may also be beneficial to include extra omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and game are the main sources of these. If a diet does not contain these components (or contains insufficient amounts), we recommend adding salmon oil as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. BARF diet? When feeding the BARF products from Kiezebrink it is not only important to vary with different types of meat but to also include muscle meats, organs and meaty bones. Hygiene Raw foods and whole prey naturally contain various bacteria. These bacteria do not cause illness in healthy animals. However, for humans – particularly young children, the elderly and those with a weakened immune system – these bacteria may potentially cause problems. It is therefore important that raw meat products are handled correctly.En savoir plusExtra feeding advice game meat
Kiezebrink specializes in raw food for dogs and cats, we have a very wide range available. For these products, animal raw materials from various categories are used, such as white meat, red meat, fish and game. By feeding products from all these categories, a varied and balanced menu can be put together. Game The game category includes products such as deer, pheasant, hare and pigeon. These animals were shot in the wild, unlike any other species we sell that are bred in captivity and killed with CO2 or some other method. Because these animals have lived in the wild, the composition of the meat is also different, game meat contains more omega 3 fatty acids and is a very good addition to the menu of the dog or cat. However, there are also disadvantages to game meat, because the animals may have been in contact with contaminated soil and in some countries shooting with lead shot is still allowed. As a result, the meat and organs from wild animals may contain more heavy metals than from animals raised in captivity. Unfortunately, little information is known about the precise absorption of these heavy metals. Because feeding game also has many advantages, we do recommend these products, but no more than once a week. Gerofke et al. (2019), Heavy metals in game meat, Food safety assurance and veterinary public health no. 7. https://www.wageningenacademic.com/doi/epdf/10.3920/978-90-8686-877-3_24 Kral et al. (2015), Evaluation of mercury contamination in dogs using hair analysis, Neuroendocrinology Letters, vol. 36(1). https://www.nel.edu/userfiles/articlesnew/NEL360915A11.pdf Brand et al. (2019), Kennisoverzicht vraagstukken diffuus lood in de bodem, RIVM Rapport 2019-0006. https://www.rivm.nl/bibliotheek/rapporten/2019-0006.pdf Wani et al. (2015), Lead toxicity: a review, Interdisciplinary toxicology, vol. 8(2), https://content.sciendo.com/view/journals/intox/8/2/article-p55.xml Dżugan et al. (2012), Evaluation of heavy metals environmental contamination based on their concentrations in tissues of wild pheasant, Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Vol. 2 (1), https://www.jmbfs.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/jmbfs-Dzugan-B.pdf Valencak (2015), Healthy n-6/n-3 fatty acid composition from five European game meat species remains after cooking, BMC Research Notes vol. 8, (273). https://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13104-015-1254-1En savoir plusResearch shows: Feeding mice positive effect on intestinal flora cats
It has long been known that feeding whole prey animals to felines has a positive effect on gastrointestinal health. A study was recently conducted to find out more about what causes this. For this, a group of cats were fed two different diets: ground mice or whole mice. For the study, the cats were given extruded kibble. To measure different things, urine and faeces were collected. It did not matter in the results whether ground or whole mice were fed. Both diets had a positive effect on intestinal flora. The ratio in fatty acids produced by the gut bacteria was better, and fewer harmful fermentation products were produced. So this study showed a clear positive effect on gut health by feeding both ground and unground mice. Unfortunately, current legislation does not allow feeding mice to domestic cats as it does not fall under category 3a or 3b of animal by-products. Nevertheless, it is likely that this effect also applies to feeding raw food, similar effects have also been seen in other studies. D'Hooghe SM-TJ, Bosch G, Sun M, et al. How important is food structure when cats eat mice? British Journal of Nutrition. 2024;131(3):369-383. doi:10.1017/S0007114523002039En savoir plusThe BARF method
The BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) method involves comprising a diet of differing raw product components, which are: Meaty bones On average, 50% of the diet should comprise of meaty bones. This is an important source of calcium and phosphorus in the diet. Meaty bones can be used from many kinds of animals. However, it’s important to pay attention to the hardness of the bones. Below is an overview of the hardness of the meaty bone products sold by Kiezebrink. One and two bones means soft bone, which is suitable for beginner raw eating dogs and cats. Products with three and four bones are suitable for dogs with experience with BARF. Five bones means very hard bone structure which is for experienced raw eating dogs which is too hard to digest (and therefore only suitable for chewing). Not all meaty bones contain the same ratio of meat to bone; the ideal ratio would be 1:1. This ratio is important because bone is an important source of calcium and meat is a source of phosphorus. Calcium and phosphorus should be available in the diet at a certain ratio (1:1 – 1:2) to be absorbable. When a bone contains little meat, it must be complemented with extra meat. Another factor is the structure of the bone; hard bone contains more calcium than soft bone. It’s therefore important to pay attention to the faeces of your dog or cat. When the faeces are hard, this usually means that there is too much bone in the diet or the bone structure is too hard. Organ meat A balanced diet contains on average 15% organ meat. It’s important to vary the diet with differing organs such as; heart, tripe/rumen, kidneys, lung and liver. These organs vary in amino acid profiles and vitamin and mineral contents. Liver for example is a very important source of vitamin A, which is why we advise to feed liver but no more than 5%. Vitamin A (and D, E and K) are fat soluble and can therefore be overdosed in a diet. Furthermore, liver can have a laxative effect on animals if fed in too high a volume. When a dog or cat has too loose a stools this may be an indication of too high a proportion of organ meat in their diet. Muscle meat Muscle meat is an important source of amino acids, zinc and vitamin B12. We advise to feed on average 30% muscle meat. This part is very dependent on the amount of meat on the meaty bones that are fed. Others Finally the diet can be completed with seeds, vegetables, fruit, eggs and oils. These additions can supply extra vitamins, minerals, fibres and fatty acids. When for example fish is not fed every week, this can be compensated by adding fish oil. & Types of meat It’s not only necessary to vary with muscle meat, bones, organs and additional products but also to vary the types of meat. NRV Method Another feeding method is the NRV method (Natural Raw Food). When feeding according to this method typically whole prey items are fed. Prey species which are usually used are: fish (sprat, herring, sardine etc.), day old chicks, mice, quails, pigeons, guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens. Also remember when feeding according to this method variation is still very important Supplements If, for whatever reason, a particular nutrient is missing from the diet, it is advisable to add a supplement. Kiezebrink offers two supplements in its range to complement a raw meat diet: Raw meat supplement (calcium-free), suitable for complementing a diet containing meat bones, muscle meat and, where appropriate, organs.Raw meat supplement + calcium, suitable for complementing a diet that does not contain meat bones but does include muscle meat and, where applicable, organs. This supplement contains calcium, which ensures that the animal’s bone development is not compromised when meat bones are not included in the diet. Both supplements contain all the recommended vitamins and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and cats. As well as adding vitamins and minerals, it may also be beneficial to add extra omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and game meat are the main sources of these. If a diet does not contain these components (in sufficient quantities), we recommend adding salmon oil as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. Hygiene Raw foods and whole prey naturally contain various bacteria. These bacteria do not cause illness in healthy animals. However, for humans – particularly young children, the elderly and those with a weakened immune system – these bacteria may potentially cause problems. It is therefore important that raw meat products are handled correctly.En savoir plusSafety of our prey animals
We sell prey animals bred in 3 different ways: 1. SPF farmed prey animals 2. Commercially farmed prey animals 3. Commercially farmed prey animals that have been irradiated Spf farmed prey animals SPF prey animals are animals specifically bred and kept under conditions free of specific pathogens (disease agents). They are farms that maintain optimum breeding standards, such as using sterile breeding rooms, providing sterile food and not using medication. The word ‘SPF’ stands for Specific Pathogen-Free , meaning that these animals are free from certain micro-organisms that can cause diseases. Our SPF mice, rats and hamsters are tested for: Viruses: - Mice: Murine hepatitis virus (MHV), Mouse parvovirus (MPV), Sendai virus, Ectromelia (mousepox), Mouse norovirus (MNV). - Rats: Rat coronavirus (RCV), Kilham rat virus (KRV), Hantavirus, Rat theilovirus (RTV). Bacteria: - Mice and rats: Helicobacter spp, Mycoplasma pulmonis, Salmonella spp, Clostridium piliforme (Tyzzer's disease). Parasites: - Mice and rats: Syphacia spp (pinworms), Myobia musculi (fur mites), Giardia spp. SPF prey animals are often used in scientific research, such as biomedical research. For these studies, it is important to obtain results that are not affected by diseases. The ‘overproduction’ of these SPF bred prey animals are ideally suited for feeding zoo animals, birds of prey and reptiles. Because this type of prey animal does not carry any specific pathogens, the risk of any disease contamination by a prey animal in humans or animals is practically impossible. Our SPF prey animals are bred in Germany, France, the Netherlands and China. Commercially farmed prey animals Our commercially farmed prey animals are bred in farms in and outside the EU. They have less strict rules than an SPF farm applies, but of course the legally required safety standards apply here too. These farms are visited annually by a veterinarian and their animals are tested quarterly for the presence of Salmonella. Irradiated commercially farmed prey animals Irradiated prey animals are treated with ionising radiation to kill any potential pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi, while largely preserving the nutritional value of the animal. Using irradiated prey animals offers several advantages, especially in environments where the health of the feeding animals or maintaining sterile conditions is crucial. Here are some of the key benefits: 1. Reduced risk of disease transmission : Irradiating prey animals greatly reduces the risk of disease transmission from prey animals to predators or other animals. This is especially important in zoos, breeding programmes, and when keeping exotic animals, such as reptiles. 2. Extended shelf life: Irradiated prey animals often have an extended shelf life because the radiation slows the growth of spoilage micro-organisms. This makes it easier to stock and store food without rapid spoilage. 3. Maintaining nutritional value: Irradiation kills pathogens without significantly affecting the nutritional value of the animal. This means the predators continue to receive necessary nutrients without exposure to harmful bacteria.En savoir plusTortoise diet vs. Tortoise LS
We have two different variants of tortoise diets from Mazuri in our assortment. Tortoise diet is the most well-known variant, a very popular product for tortoises. In addition two this diet we do have a a new variant: Tortoise diet LS. But what is the difference? In short, compared to Tortoise diet LS, the "normal" Tortoise diet contains less starch and a higher fiber content. LS therefore stands for Low Starch. This makes it more suitable for true herbivorous tortoises, whereas 'normal' Tortoise diet is also recommended for more omnivorous species. Below is a summary of which foods are recommended for which species. Tortoise diet: Burmese or Indian Star Tortoise, Elongated Tortoise, Red-footed Tortoise, Adult Box Turtles and Wood Turtles. Tortoise diet LS: Aldabra, African Spurred/Sulcata, Desert, Egyptian, Galapagos, Gopher, Greek, Leopard, Pancake and Radiated tortoise. More information can be found on the data sheet:En savoir plusBrowsers and grazers
Vegetable material is relatively difficult to digest due to the presence of fiber-rich cell walls. Due to these cell walls, chewing and digesting plant material takes more energy. To break down these cell walls and release energy, herbivores depend on certain bacteria during the fermentation process. In addition, the nutritional value of plant material is much lower than that of animal products, so that the food intake of many herbivores is higher than that of carnivores and omnivores. Differences between browse and grasses There are major differences between the plant material eaten by herbivores. The main differences are between the categories: grasses and browse (see table). First of all, grasses consist of thicker, slow-digesting fibers (cellulose) and weeds consist of thin, fast-digesting fibers. In contrast, browse often contains more indigestible fibers of lignin. The thickness and amount of indigestible fibers depend on the season, so that the nutritional value of browse fluctuates more strongly. In contrast, grasses are more stable throughout the year. Secondly, there is a difference between the protection mechanisms of grasses and browse. For example, grasses have more silica, which causes teeth to wear off; and browse more tannins, which reduce digestibility. Thirdly, there is a difference between the way of growing, which makes grasses a more stable form of food for large herbivores, while browse brings more diversity in the diet. Source: (Shipley, 1999) Classification of browsers and grazers Different herbivores use different plant parts. According to Hofmann and Stewart (1972) there are three groups: 1) Grazers, where <25% of the diet is browse; 2) Browsers, where >75% is browse; or 3) Intermediates, who select both grasses and browse. Eating different plant parts allows many different species of herbivores to live in the same place without directly competing with each other for food. According to Hofmann (1989), herbivores can be classified as 25% grazers, 40% browsers, and 35% intermediates. The table below shows an example of such a layout. In which group an animal is classified is partly on a subjective basis and therefore not black and white. Source: (Hofmann, 1989) Difference in digestion between browsers and grazers The digestive systems of browsers and grazers are specialized to digest the food from their preferred diet as well as possible. Grazers benefit from teeth with a high crown, short roots and extra enamel due to rapid tooth wear from fibrous and silica-rich material. In contrast, browsers have shorter crowns and longer tooth roots. The shape of the muzzle also differs between the two; grazers often have a larger snout so that more material can be eaten, but this means that they are less able to graze selectively. Browsers have a narrower snout, longer tongue and relatively larger mouth opening. With this, food can be properly selected by, for example, stripping leaves from a branch. Management In order to provide all herbivores with a good diet, it is important to know which category they belong to. In general, fruit is not recommended and a salt stone is recommended. Furthermore, grazers can be fed with different types of hay and possibly a small amount of browse. Browsers can be fed with different browser variants and additionally with some roughage (such as alfalfa). Intermediates can be fed with both hays and browses, with a ratio of 50:50 recommended. Both hay types and browse varieties can be fed dry and fresh in combination.En savoir plusHow is Boskos being made?
Kiezebrink is the official exclusive European importer of the South African game feed ‘Boskos’. Literally translated Boskos means; ‘feed from the bush’. It is a pelletised diet made of shredded and dried bushes, such as Acacia species of the African Savannah. Zookeepers have found that herbivores in captivity instinctively appear to recognise Boskos for what it is, a foodstuff that is natural to them. Boskos is a staple diet, especially as a winter grazing supplement, in zoos, national parks and game reserves around the world. More European zoos are feeding Boskos, as this natural food is healthier for their animals. For our customers, we made a video of the process of making Boskos. The Boskos movie from Wes Enterprises:En savoir plus
Zoos
13/10/2026
Seed or Pellets? An Evaluation of Feeding Strategies for Psittacidae
Obesity and nutrient deficiencies are frequently observed in Psittacidae and constitute an important consideration in nutritional strategies for this group of birds. When a suitable and balanced diet is lacking, such deficiencies may develop, potentially leading to reduced overall health and welfare. In captivity, Psittacidae are often fed commercially formulated diets consisting primarily of whole seeds. These are frequently regarded as a “natural” diet, as parrots have traditionally been perceived as seed-eating birds.
Research, however, shows that this assumption is incorrect. Species such as the Guatemalan Amazon parrot forage on a diverse diet in the wild, including seeds, fruits, vegetation such as blossoms, and insects. An exclusive seed-based diet is therefore often detrimental to the species in the long term. Commercial seed mixes regularly contain insufficient levels of essential vitamins and minerals and often exhibit an unfavorable calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Furthermore, the husking of seeds and selective consumption of the kernel increase the likelihood of selective feeding behavior. Birds often prefer energy-dense seeds such as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, causing actual nutrient intake to differ from the theoretical composition of the diet.
In addition to these nutritional limitations, social food selection also plays a role in group housing. Dominant individuals often consume the most energy-rich components first, leaving less attractive dietary components for subordinate birds. Consequently, actual nutrient intake may differ substantially between individuals, even when the offered diet is theoretically balanced.
Despite these disadvantages, seed-based diets remain valuable from an environmental enrichment perspective. Seed husking and food manipulation resemble natural foraging behavior and stimulate active use of the beak and feet during feeding. However, such diets should be supplemented with a variety of vegetables or other dietary components to prevent physiological deficiencies. Furthermore, variation in seeds, nuts, vegetables, and fruits can contribute to behavioral enrichment.
An alternative to seeds as the primary food source is the use of complete diets, such as pellets. Complete diets contain all essential nutrients in a fixed composition, reducing selective feeding behavior and allowing better control of nutrient intake. Due to their low moisture content and concentrated formulation, pellets also provide more nutrients per gram than fresh foods or seed mixtures. As a result, a relatively small quantity can still meet the complete energy and nutrient requirements of an individual bird.
Nevertheless, this feeding strategy also has limitations. A pellet-based diet restricts the expression of natural feeding behaviors such as seed husking and food manipulation. In addition, parrots are often neophobic and may be reluctant to accept novel foods, meaning that transitioning from seeds to pellets can take time. In Psittacidae, the risk of gizzard lesions associated with pellet feeding appears limited because food is mechanically reduced by the beak before ingestion, minimizing stress on the muscular stomach.
From a nutritional perspective, current feeding recommendations suggest that approximately 70% of the energy requirements should be provided by a complete diet, while the remaining 30% should be allocated to enrichment and behavioral stimulation. This 30% may consist of seeds, nuts, vegetables, and limited amounts of fruit. During the breeding season, this ratio may be adjusted to 60% complete diet and 40% enrichment to provide additional stimulation without compromising nutritional balance. Within this approach, complete diets should always remain the primary dietary foundation.
Within the supplementary dietary component, vegetables are generally preferred over fruit. Although fruit forms a natural part of the diet of many Psittacidae, cultivated fruits intended for human consumption typically contain more sugars and fewer fibers than their wild counterparts. Consequently, a higher proportion of vegetables may contribute to a more balanced nutritional profile. Fruit is therefore preferably restricted to a supplementary or reward-based role within the diet.
The additional 30% of the diet should be offered in a controlled manner and not varied completely on a daily basis. By spreading dietary variation over several days, sufficient diversity can be maintained while nutrient intake remains manageable. It is recommended to offer this enrichment component in the morning, when foraging motivation is at its highest. Complete feed can remain available throughout the day, with both components preferably provided simultaneously but separately.
Finally, the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae can be a valuable addition to the diet. These larvae possess a favorable calcium-to-phosphorus ratio and a relatively high fiber content compared to commonly used alternatives such as mealworms. In addition, they serve an important behavioral function by encouraging active interaction, thereby contributing to both nutritional and cognitive enrichment.