Oat malt

What is oat malt?

Oat malt is a cereal product made from oat grains that are first soaked and then allowed to germinate. The germination process activates the starch and enzymes in the oats, which break down and release the sugar. The result is a sweet malt with a high maltose (malt sugar) content. The malt is then dried and ground or processed into syrup.

Oat malt is mainly used as an ingredient for beer, whisky or other alcoholic beverages, as it promotes the fermentation process. It is also used for baking bread or cakes to loosen the dough and give it a malty taste. Oat malt contains many nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins) and minerals (such as iron, magnesium or zinc).

What are the benefits of oat malt for dogs?

Oat malt can have several health benefits for dogs if fed in moderation. Firstly, it can aid digestion as it is rich in fiber, which can stimulate intestinal activity and prevent constipation. On the other hand, it can support the energy supply, as it has a high proportion of carbohydrates that can be quickly converted into glucose. This can be particularly beneficial for active or sporty dogs.

Oat malt can also strengthen the immune system, as it contains many vitamins and minerals that are important for the body's defenses. Particularly noteworthy are the B vitamins, which are involved in the formation of red blood cells and support nerve function, among other things. In addition, oat malt can care for the coat and skin, as it contains essential fatty acids that can ensure a healthy skin barrier and a shiny coat.

What are the disadvantages of oat malt for dogs?

However, oat malt is not only healthy for dogs, but can also have some disadvantages. On the one hand, it can lead to obesity if fed in excessive quantities, as it is very high in calories. Secondly, it can lead to flatulence or diarrhea if the dog is sensitive to grain or has an allergy to oats. It can also lead to dental problems if the dog ingests too much malt sugar, which can cause tooth decay.

You should also make sure that the malt oats do not come into contact with alcohol or even contain alcohol, as alcohol is very harmful to dogs and can lead to poisoning. You should also make sure that the oat malt does not contain any additives such as preservatives or flavorings, which can be incompatible for dogs.

How can you feed oat malt to dogs?

If you want to feed your dog oat malt, there are a few things you should bear in mind in order to benefit from the advantages and avoid the disadvantages. Firstly, the amount of oat malt should be adapted to the size, weight and activity level of the dog and should not make up more than 10% of the daily calorie intake. Secondly, the oat malt should always be diluted with water or mixed into the food to reduce the concentration of malt sugar and increase fluid intake.

In addition, the oat malt should always be freshly prepared or obtained from a fresh source to prevent it from being contaminated or spoiled. You should also always buy organic oat malt or make it yourself to ensure that it does not contain any harmful substances such as pesticides or heavy metals. Finally, oat malt should always be seen as a supplement and not a substitute for a balanced and species-appropriate diet for dogs.