Dandelion is considered a well-known medicinal plant, readily available to everyone. The only thing is, don't pick it in unfavorable places, like near highways. I have two Staffordshire Terriers and two cats, and one day I noticed they were interested in dandelions, so I decided to find out if the plant was harmful to them. Besides, a neighbor says she made teas for her sick dog and then gives them to her chickens.
As it turns out, dandelions are indeed used in poultry farming, and all parts of them. Although they have a slightly bitter taste, chickens eat them with relish. Dandelions contain pigments, which is why the yolks in their eggs are also more vibrantly colored.
Even the fingers turn yellow:
Dandelions also improve digestive function, but they are slightly diuretic. However, they also kill bacteria. They contain vitamins and minerals, so they strengthen the immune system.
It's best to feed young and spring leaves; they're juicier and sweeter. Rabbits also love them. And as it turns out, dandelions provide the same benefits for them as they do for birds. Just be sure not to overfeed rabbits, and they should be introduced at about 4 months.
As for cats and dogs, dandelions are useful for stomach upsets and stones. The plant is quickly digested, but it should be given raw or boiled. I even experimented with it when my dog was upset – I brewed it like a weak tea and used it instead of water. She drank it all day (about 750 ml) and had normal bowel movements in the morning. It works!
I dry dandelions just in case:
I also found out that dandelion parts are even added to dog food. But if a pet eats too many dandelions, it can cause problems, such as stomach pain.