Ever watched your pet do a little happy dance? If you’ve ever seen a pet do a happy dance, whether it was a bird flapping their wings or a snake doing its version of a cha-cha it will put a big smile on your face. You may not have seen this kind of jig recently, but it is time to change things up by giving your pet Mealworms. Those wiggly morsels may make humans go “ick”, however, they drive animals bonkers.
Imagine hosting a dinner and serving sun-dried toms instead of your usual cheese plate. Unexpected, right? It’s mealworms – an unexpected snack for dogs and cats that will please all their taste buds.
The little mealworms contain a lot of fat and protein, so they are not only delicious but nutritious. Mealworms are essentially triple-chocolate brownies, combining both pleasure and nourishment. The high water content of these wriggly creatures can also help to keep pets hydrated. The mealworm is far more interesting than the plate of old cookies sitting on Grandma’s bookcase.
You can expect a range of reactions when you offer your pet a mealworm. From “what in the world!” to “Gimme it now!”, over time pets will recognize that they’re consuming wholesome food and show adorable enthusiasm. Mealworms can make your pets look like little gourmets who are delighted by gourmet foods.
Why is this bug so magical? To begin with, it stimulates the behavior of natural hunting and eating. It’s especially good for reptiles and birds, as they spend a lot of time hunting for food. Your finicky eater may become the best forager on the block when you add some mealworms.
But you will want to pay attention to the portions. You wouldn’t eat 12 doughnuts all at once, would you? Mealworms are tasty, but should not be your pet’s main source of nutrition. It’s not good to see your dog getting fat on these tasty worms.
You can’t overlook the convenience either. The mealworms don’t require much fuss, unlike some other meals like hulking meat or complex meal preparations. If you want to be more intimate, hand-feed them or just throw the mealworms into the feeder straight out of the package. The moment is one of intimacy, though a little gooey.
The dried variety is a great addition to your pantry. There’s no need for refrigeration or last-minute trips to get fresh produce. You can get by with just a few. You can also breed your own mealworms if you’re more adventurous. Consider it the ultimate farm to table experience, but for your pets and not yourself. If you don’t like that sort of thing, then I guess it isn’t for you.
Be aware that certain pets may be more daring or innovative than others. Finches, parakeets, and other birds love them. However, reptiles (such as lizards or turtles) can also have fun. A hedgehog or sugar glider will make you swoon!
Give mealworms another try next time your thinking about what you can do to brighten up the day of your pets. Witness the transformation of this culinary delicacy from boring to wonderful. In the hands and claws our companions love, small pleasures can be the most important. What if a worm was so charming and joyful? Some of the best treats come in the simplest forms.