This is an answer to the same question that I found on "ask the Veterinarian"
It's only very harmful if they are eating it as their staple diet. Cats require a higher protein intake than dogs do. By eating dog food regularly, the cat will develop a protein deficiancy which can lead to serious health problems.
Dogs do not need as much protein in their diet. By eating cat food, the dog then will receive too much protein and will then face problems like bladder stones, urinary obstructions, fatty liver, etc. Now, if your dog or cat happened to steal some food out of the other's bowl, there is no need to worry. My cat steals a few pieces of my dog's food just about everyday.
Hilary Schiavone-Brensinger, DVM |