Cats can eat fruit and vegetables the same as human beings. Typically, cats are carnivorous in the wild, but fruit and vegetables are an extra source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your forever companion. Veterinarians even suggest incorporating certain fruits and vegetables into their diets can optimize their overall physical well-being.
Like humans, pets can succumb to specific health issues and require a nutrient-rich diet to control the symptoms. Here are the dos and don’ts of incorporating fruits and vegetables in your pet’s diet, including their benefits, the nutrients offered, and how often they should eat them.
Cats Shouldn’t Eat All Fruits and Vegetables
The pressing question is whether or not a cat can eat fruits and vegetables. The answer is yes, but in moderation, according to veterinary experts. However, sufficient evidence suggests that only certain ones should be ingested. According to Catster, a veterinarian-certified website on expert cat care suggests that there are 15 total that cats can eat safely. First, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, and cantaloupe should be considered. Next, experts verify that pumpkin, cucumber, zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, green beans, broccoli, peas, and cauliflower are also safe.
But how much and how often should a cat consume fruits and vegetables? While it’s not immediately necessary for a cat to consume fruits and vegetables, they should only do so a few times a week as a special treat. While the ones suggested by Catster are safe, there are still those that should be avoided. These foods include grapes, raisins, coconut, citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, garlic, onions, chives, shallots, and avocados. It is best to avoid fruits like grapes and raisins because they contain toxins that can decrease renal function and lead to kidney damage, and citrus fruit can result in allergic dermatitis that causes a rash.
Garlic, onions, chives, and shallots are considered the most toxic due to Allium Toxicosis. Allium Toxicosis causes damage to red and white blood cells, resulting in Heinz body hemolytic anemia. Symptoms may take several days to appear and include excess salivation, fatigue, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, discolored urine, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, yellow gums, and in severe cases, death. Therefore, if your cat has ingested even the tiniest amount of one of these, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Are There Any Health Benefits?
Not all fruits and vegetables are safe for your cat, but veterinarian experts might say that others are actually beneficial, and here’s why. Cats can eat fruits like bananas, which are rich in potassium and necessary to prevent excessive weight loss, muscle pain, lethargy, and weakness. Though your cat may get all the potassium needed with their regular diet, increasing it is not bad if you want to add fruit. You can even replace store-bought treats with a small piece of banana. Cats can also eat blueberries, which are used to provide added antioxidants and improve joint health.
Strawberries and raspberries are rich in vitamins K and A, and fiber for promoting muscle health, healthy skin, and proper blood clotting. But can cats eat vegetables? Some of the most nutrient-rich vegetables to add to your cat’s diet are pumpkin, zucchini, and bell peppers. These are preferred over other choices because they are all rich in fatty acids, fiber, water, and antioxidants that optimize your cat’s digestive tract, keep it running smoothly, and provide extra hydration if needed.
As with fruits, cats can eat only a few bites to satisfy their hunger and boost their health. Like humans, felines occasionally require boosts of vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients to optimize their health. Your veterinarian may even recommend adding a few fruits and vegetables listed here if they suffer from health conditions like early onset arthritis, vitamin deficiencies, or renal problems.
Final Thoughts
Cats can eat fruits and vegetables like bananas, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, pumpkin, and zucchini in small quantities. However, they should only be consumed in small amounts, such as for a treat or snack a few times a week. Most cat foods contain rich vitamins A and K and nutrients like potassium. If your pet needs added nutrients, ask your veterinarian how to add those to their diet with fruits and vegetables.
It may improve their muscle and joint health and keep their digestive tracts clean and optimal. Make sure all vegetables are cooked thoroughly before serving them to your pet. Cats can eat fruits as long as they’re washed thoroughly to eliminate contamination by pesticides or germs. Most importantly, do what it takes to keep your pet healthy, even feeding them fruits and vegetables.
Disclaimer: This article is simply intended to provide information. It does not intend to replace the advice of your pet’s veterinarian. Please speak with your vet if you have any questions or concerns.
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