Ever watched your pet do a little happy dance? It doesn’t matter if it is a bird doing the cha-cha or a reptile dancing with joy, any pet owner can smile when they see it. If you’ve not seen a pet do a jig for a long time, it might be time to give them a new treat. Mealworms are a big hit. A wiggly, worm-like treat that makes people “ick”, but drives pets crazy with delight.
Imagine that you are hosting a party and, instead of the typical cheese platter, you serve a dish of sun-dried tomato. Unexpected, right? This is mealworms, a tasty surprise for your pet.
They are packed with protein and fat making them a delicious delight as well as a healthy one. These are the triple chocolate fudge brownies for the animal kingdom. They combine both indulgence and nutrition. They are also high in moisture, so they can keep pets hydrated. Mealworms, unlike the stale cookies that you find on your grandmother’s shelves are anything but boring.
As your pet gets used to the mealworm, they will often show their enthusiasm. Imagine your pet as a little gourmet who lights up when they see gourmet food. That’s how powerful mealworms are.
What’s behind the bug that makes it so special? The natural behaviors of pecking and hunting at food are stimulated. This is especially beneficial to birds and reptiles whose relatives in the wild spend most of their time foraging. Add some mealworms and your picky eater will be the most happy forager around.
You’ll still want to watch the portion size. As you would not eat a dozen donuts at once (well, usually), it is important to use moderation when giving mealworms as treats. These tasty treats are a great addition to your pet’s food, but they shouldn’t be the mainstay. These wriggly treats aren’t good for your pet.
The convenience is also important. Mealworms are easy to prepare, unlike a hulking piece of steak or a complicated concoction. The mealworms can be tossed into the bowl straight from the bag or you can hand feed them if that’s what feels more comfortable. It reminds me of the romantic scene in “Lady and the Tramp” but… with mealworms. This is a special moment, even if it’s gooey.
They’re great pantry staples if you buy them dried. You don’t need to refrigerate them, and you won’t have to make last minute trips in search of fresh vegetables. Grab a handful and you are good to go. Those who want to be more adventurous can breed mealworms themselves. Imagine it as the ultimate Farm-to-Table experience for your pet, and not for you. You know, unless that’s your thing…
Remember that some pets are more experimental or adventurous than others. Reptiles such as turtles, lizards, and finches will have an absolute field day with them. You’re going to be in for an adorable mealtime experience if you have a hedgehog, sugar glider or other small animal.
Next time you wonder what could brighten your pet’s mood, try mealworms. This culinary treat will transform your pet’s life from blah to fabulous. Simple pleasures like a wriggly treat can make a huge difference to our pets. A tiny worm can bring so much joy and charm. The simplest of treats can be the most treasured.