最近、ミカンは犬には良くないと聞いたけど本当？【再】
Many dog owners are surprised by recent claims that mandarins are bad for dogs, asking 'Wait, I can't give my dog a mandarin?'
This topic is quite debated online, with differing opinions, especially since some used to give them without issue.
Everyone's curious about the safe amount, or if they should be avoided entirely.
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Characteristics of the Canine Digestive System
There are several key differences in the structure and function of the digestive systems of dogs and humans. Dogs are omnivores, closer to carnivores, with a relatively short digestive tract and highly acidic stomach acid (very low pH). While this is suitable for digesting meat, it can be taxing for the digestion of certain plant-based foods. Fruits like mandarins are high in sugar and have a strong acidity, which can easily irritate a dog's sensitive stomach. Specifically, high concentrations of sugar can disrupt the balance of intestinal bacteria, potentially leading to diarrhea and vomiting. Furthermore, mandarin peels, white pith, and seeds contain a lot of difficult-to-digest fiber. Ingesting these can easily cause indigestion. While humans benefit from a high fiber intake, dogs cannot efficiently digest and absorb such large amounts of fiber. For example, even a small amount can upset the stomach of small dogs or those with delicate digestive systems, so extreme caution is needed regarding the amount and parts given. Understanding the characteristics of the canine digestive system is thus a crucial factor in deciding whether or not to give mandarins.
D-Limonene
D-limonene is a natural aromatic compound found abundantly in the peels of citrus fruits, including mandarins. For humans, this component provides a pleasant fragrance and is used in aromatherapy, food additives, and even as an ingredient in detergents and insecticides. However, if dogs ingest large quantities of D-limonene, it can have adverse effects on their health. A dog's liver has different metabolic capabilities for certain chemical substances compared to humans, meaning it may not efficiently break down and excrete D-limonene. This can lead to its accumulation in the body, potentially causing gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhea), and in severe cases, central nervous system effects or liver dysfunction. It is particularly concentrated in mandarin peels and white pith, more so than in the flesh, so these parts should absolutely not be given to dogs. While the amount of D-limonene in the fruit flesh is low, caution is still advised as effects can vary depending on the individual dog and the amount ingested. Cases of dogs showing poisoning symptoms after accidentally ingesting D-limonene-containing essential oils have been reported, making an understanding of this compound crucial for protecting canine health.
Oxalic Acid and Canine Health Risks
Oxalic acid is an organic compound found in various plants like spinach and rhubarb, and it can be present in very small amounts in mandarins, especially in their peels, leaves, and white pith. Oxalic acid itself has the property of binding with calcium in the body to form insoluble calcium oxalate crystals upon ingestion. In humans, large amounts are known to increase the risk of kidney stones, and similar concerns exist for dogs. Especially for dog breeds with a genetic predisposition to forming calcium oxalate stones (e.g., Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers), even trace amounts require caution. If these crystals accumulate in the kidneys or urinary tract, they can cause urinary stones or kidney disease. However, the amount of oxalic acid in the mandarin flesh is very small, and the risk of directly causing stones with typical consumption is considered low. The problem arises if a large amount of peel or leaves is accidentally ingested. Moreover, for dogs already suffering from kidney disease or urinary tract disorders, it is crucial to control oxalic acid intake and consult with a veterinarian. Therefore, when giving citrus fruits like mandarins, oxalic acid risk should be considered as one of the factors.