Plain, fully cooked mussel meat in small amounts is safe for pets. Remove all shell fragments and serve only the meat. Raw mussels carry bacterial and biotoxin risks and must not be offered.
Mussels are bivalve mollusks sold fresh in shell, frozen, smoked, and jarred. They are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, zinc, and manganese. Green-lipped mussels are marketed specifically as a joint supplement for pets.
Used in steamed preparations, pasta, seafood soups, paella, and marinades. Restaurant preparations almost always include wine, garlic, butter, or cream. Smoked and jarred mussels often contain high sodium levels.
Pre-marinated mussels add garlic, vinegar, or spice. Canned versions may be packed in flavored oil or brine. Mussel chowder includes heavy dairy.
