Cats are magnificent creatures that have been tamed through the years. These predators require proper nutrition, and feeding them by humans does not remove predatory behavior from the equation. Most of their prey are mice and other small creatures they will hunt multiple times daily. Consequently, this species must consume numerous small meals throughout the day, characterized by energy derived from animal protein.
Does that mean plant-based products have no place in a cat’s diet? Experts say no! Observations of wild felids have also led to the realization that plant-eating may mimic an evolutionary predisposition inherited from cat ancestors. So yes, cats are allowed to eat a few plant products, but in very small amounts. Are these strawberries? Can cats eat strawberries?
Are Strawberries Safe For Cats?
Cats are a carnivorous species and may not be interested in plant-based food. But there are times when the cat decides to take a bite of a plant. Seeing cats eat grass or house plants is common among cat owners, and they always question this behavior. Scientists say that eating plants helps to expel swallowed hair and that longhaired cats do it more than shorthaired cats. As a result, a cat might want to eat a plant for therapeutic and detoxifying measures. And some of these curious creatures may simply have a craving for a different kind of food. So, can you safely feed your cat strawberries?
In general, strawberries do not contain any toxic ingredients. Therefore, cats can eat strawberries. If a cat nibbles on this plant, nothing bad should happen. The fruits are rich in water content and thus can also give your pet hydration. But before you toss a strawberry into your cat’s bowl, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
Should Cats Eat Strawberries?
Cats can eat strawberries, as they are safe in small amounts. However, strawberries do not hold any special dietary value for cats since they are carnivores. While strawberries do have certain nutrients, a cat will struggle to obtain them. Plus, you have to remember that strawberries have an excess of sugar for a cat. Cats should not have a lot of sugar in their diet, as it leads to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.
Strawberry allergy is another key part. Similarly to humans, cats may also be allergic to some of the foods. What symptoms will show in them after consuming strawberries? If you see sure signs, like your cat throwing up or having diarrhea, preserving some breathing issues, or any signs and symptoms of distress, go to the vet. Cats could also have gastric symptoms after consuming an excessive amount of strawberries.
If your cat is crazy for strawberries and keeps begging for them, you can offer them a little bit. Cats can eat strawberries. However, you must first wash your strawberries and chop them up small. Your cat’s teeth should be able to chew through the fruit fine, but let’s not play with choking. If a cat’s diet is based on high-quality meat with nutrients that are important for cats, a small amount of fruit should not harm the animal.
Summary
Pet owners should be aware of what foods are harmful to their felines. Pet-safe products such as strawberries do not come on the list of toxic foods. Therefore, cats can eat strawberries. But these fruits are not the best addition to your cat’s diet. There is a risk that the cat will eat too many strawberries or be allergic to them. Furthermore, it is not good for felines due to its harmful sugar levels as well. Ask your vet if you still have doubts about giving your cat strawberries.
Sources
- Natália Kovalkovičová, Irena Šutiaková, Juraj Pistl, Václav Šutiak (2009). Some food toxic for pets.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2984110/ - Benjamin L. Hart, Lynette A, Hart, Abigail P. Thigpen, Neil H. Willits (2021). Characteristics of Plant Eating in Domestic Cats.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8300339/
