Protein Choices
Here's a list of Proteins that can be served with Lenny's Kitchen Muesli. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) energetics are included for each protein. It is important to rotate the proteins your Pet eats. In the wild, your Pet would eat a wide variety of protein sources depending on the season and location. Rotation reduces boredom and lessens the risk of developing food sensitivities. Gut health is enhanced by microbial diversity and digestive resilience. By offering a broader spectrum of amino acids and micronutrients, nutrient gaps can be prevented.
Do you eat the same meal every day?
Kangaroo & Wallaby – Nutritionally, both meats are superior to farmed meats: low fat (3-4%), high in protein, and rich in vitamins and minerals. The meat is truly free-range, hormone-free, and organic. These creatures graze on a wide variety of pastures, wild grasses, shrubs, and trees, resulting in excellent health and meat rich in macro- and micronutrients. Recognised as "cooling" meats in Chinese medicine, as they come from a very dry, arid environment, and are ideal for treating pets with allergies. Harvesting is government-controlled and performed by licensed operators. TCM – Cool. Stomach, Spleen, Liver, Large Intestine.
Beef - Rich in essential vitamins, B12, B6, niacin, and riboflavin, which contribute to metabolism, brain function, and red blood cell production. Beef provides minerals, including iron, zinc, and phosphorus, which support immune health, bone strength, and overall well-being; and has one of the highest levels of L-carnitine, which is great for performance, recovery, and lean muscle. When choosing beef, consider the benefits of grass-fed, free-range beef, which is lower in fat than traditionally farmed, grain-fed beef. It may not be suitable for pets with allergies, although sensitivity may be mitigated if fed in rotation. TCM – Warm. Spleen, Stomach, Liver, Large Intestine, Kidney.
Chicken - As a lean protein source, chicken is packed with important nutrients to support your Pet's health. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) supports metabolism and energy production, B6 aids brain function and regulates hormones, phosphorus for strong bones and teeth and Selenium to support the immune function. Choosing free-range, antibiotic-free, ethically farmed chicken, with no added hormones, reduces the risk of allergies that can be caused by additives found in factory-farmed chickens. In Chinese Medicine, Chicken is classified as warming, as it supports the Spleen, Stomach, and Kidney systems. It is particularly useful during convalescence, postpartum recovery, or for those dealing with fatigue or a weakened immune system. TCM – Warm. Spleen, Stomach, Kidney.
Turkey - A close relative of the chicken, Turkey meat is a great choice for Pets. It combines 70% white meat and 30% dark meat and is high in protein and low in fat (except for the skin). Turkey is a source of iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus, and contains vitamin B6 and niacin. Turkey farming is nowhere near as intensive as chicken farming, and most birds enjoy much more space and outdoor time. TCM – Warm. Stomach, Spleen.
Duck - Duck is nutrient-dense, providing a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. A novel protein; it's higher in fat than other poultry options, ideal for active and working dogs that require more calories. Supports muscle development, immune function and tissue repair. Rich in Iron and Zinc, critical for oxygen transport, immune health and skin health. B Vitamins, including B6 and B12, support energy metabolism, nerve function and production of red blood cells. The antioxidant Selenium protects against cell damage. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory, promote healthy skin and coat, and support brain function. TCM – Neutral. Lung, Stomach, Spleen, Kidney.
Goat - Goat meat, also known as Chevon, Capretto or Cabrito, is the most widely eaten meat in the world. Popularity in Australia is increasing as the population becomes more diverse. Goat meat is lean and lower in fat and cholesterol than chicken, lower in calories than beef, lamb and pork and contains iron levels higher than beef. The taste is described as similar to Lamb. TCM – Warm. Spleen & Kidney.
Wild Venison – It is very high in protein and low in fat, and an excellent choice as a unique protein source when managing food allergies. A great source of B vitamins and minerals, including zinc, phosphorus, and iron. It helps dogs maintain healthy energy levels. Wild Venison is a good option for dogs who may have food sensitivities or allergies to other protein sources, such as beef or chicken. TCM– Warm. Kidneys, Spleen.
Lamb & Mutton – Despite its higher fat content, Lamb is excellent nutritionally, and a great source of B-Group vitamins, including riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. These vitamins are essential for proper nervous function in dogs and cats. Lamb is high in zinc, which is necessary for proper immune system function and support in dogs and cats. Lamb is considered a heating meat, as sheep are native to cold climates. Lamb shanks are a great choice for a meaty bone. TCM – Hot. Spleen, Kidney.
Pork – Provides a balanced mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, supporting healthy skin and coat, sustained energy levels. Pork provides all essential amino acids required for tissue repair, muscle maintenance and immune function. High in Thiamine (B1), vital for carbohydrate metabolism, nerve function and energy production. A deficiency of Thiamine can lead to serious neurological issues. Iron and Zinc support oxygen transport, immune defence, wound healing and enzymatic activity. Selenium helps protect cells from oxidative damage and supports thyroid function. TCM – Neutral. Stomach, Spleen, Kidney, Liver.
Wild Boar - A novel, highly digestible protein that grazes in the bush, free from hormones and antibiotics. It is naturally anti-inflammatory, hypoallergenic, and packed with essential nutrients, including Omega-3, Niacin, Thiamine, Vitamin B6, Zinc, and Selenium. Great for Pets with allergies, arthritis, dermatitis, and skin issues. It can support food intolerances and digestive issues. Only feed Wild Boar that has been commercially processed and harvested under government control to ensure safety. TCM – Neutral. Stomach, Spleen, Kidney, Liver.
Fish – Fish is low in fat, and high in vitamins and minerals, and is a novel protein, particularly for Dogs, and can be beneficial in managing and minimising food allergies. A source of Omega-3 fatty acids, naturally anti-inflammatory to support skin, coat, joints, and cognitive function. Fish skin (lightly cooked) can also deliver these benefits. Choice is important - avoid freshwater fish, which contain thiaminases that can cause vitamin B1 deficiency. It is best to steam fish and serve it cold; this method preserves higher levels of Omega-3, which can be significantly reduced by canning. Boneless Atlantic salmon, Atlantic cod, whiting, hoki, flathead, barramundi and flathead are easily sourced in Australia. If adding Sardines, choose canned in spring water for convenience, or fresh, frozen, defrosted in the refrigerator.Cats do enjoy the taste of fish; they are the last animal to be seen getting their feet wet, so we must conclude that fish is actually not a natural part of the cat's diet. Cats can also react allergically to certain deep-water fish, such as tuna, which can present as a generalised skin problem with itching around the head and ears. TCM – Neutral to Cool, species dependent. Stomach, Spleen.
Wild Rabbit - Lean, easily digestible, a source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle development, and maintenance for both Dogs and Cats. Like kangaroo meat, it is free-range, organic, low in fat, and high in nutritional value. Often sold whole, the frames provide essential nutrients - calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in their natural, raw form, contributing to optimal digestion and overall gut health. TCM – Cool. Stomach, Spleen, Large Intestine, Liver.
Green Tripe – The unprocessed stomach lining of ruminants, Green Tripe offers an abundance of nutrients, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial bacteria, and enzymes. Nutritional analysis indicates a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1:1. A natural superfood, Green Tripe can aid in restoring balance in the gut microflora for pets with allergies, digestive upsets, or those taking antibiotics, and supports overall wellness. TCM – Neutral. Stomach, Spleen.
Offal - The collective term used for organ meats, like liver, kidney, heart, spleen, lung, etc. Offal is very rich in protein, minerals and vitamins, including A, B1, B2, B6, and B12. Ideally, organs should make up at least 10% of a Dog's or Cat's daily meat intake, with 50% of the organ content being liver, to ensure a balanced vitamin intake. For safety, organs are best purchased as human-grade, frozen from a reliable Pet meat supplier, or as a freeze-dried powder. Lenny's Kitchen Triple Organ Blend powder contains Liver, Spleen and Kidneys from Organic grass-fed and finished Queensland Beef. TCM – Cool to Warm, organ dependent. Stomach, Spleen, Kidney.
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