When it comes to planning a balanced diet, most of us will picture greens, fruits, and veggies, maybe even a salad.
But would this assumption apply to your pet cat’s diet?
Should I Save my Kitty a Bowl of Salad?
The idea of feeding cats vegetables is surrounded by much controversy.
This is because cats are obligate carnivores, unlike us humans who are categorized as omnivores.
This means that cats only require animal protein to survive.
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All the essential nutrients for their diet can be found in meat- products.
While vegetables are not an essential part of your cat’s diet, it does not mean that feeding some vegetables would not beneficial to your pet.
Vegetables contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that would benefit your pet’s immune system and overall health.
My Feline Senses are Tingling
Contrary to popular belief, cats not only like to prey on birds and rodents, but they sometimes choose to chew on grass.
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This instinct aids the cat with digestion and the elimination of furballs.
While vegetables can be beneficial to your cat, these should only be given sparingly and should not be a substantial part of their diet.
Prepping the Veggies
Before handing your cat a bowl of salad, remember that cats should only eat veggies in moderation; and that these should always be cooked!
Cats do not digest food the same way humans do.
While steaming or cooking would provide fewer nutrients, it would be a lot easier for your cat to bite, chew, and digest their veggies.
Make sure to only serve veggies that have been cleaned thoroughly of dirt, pesticides, and chemicals.
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It would be best to cut the veggies into smaller pieces; and to remove the seeds, shells, leaves, and skin as these are only additional choking hazards for your pet.
Make sure to research.
You might want to consult with a specialist before feeding your cat an unfamiliar vegetable.
You may carefully ease veggies into your cat’s diet by offering a small piece and seeing how he or she will react to it.
Food Bowl Favorites
A perfect treat for your cat would be carrots that are cleaned, scraped, and softened.
It may even be better to puree the carrot and mix it in with their kibble.
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Carrots have beta-carotene, that would provide some health benefits to your cat’s eyes and vision.
Winter squash, broccoli, green beans, and asparagus are also some of a cat’s favorite treats.
Should I Start Tossing my Cat’s Salad?
While cats do not require vegetables in their diet, it does not mean that incorporating these into their diet would not be beneficial.
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Vegetables and fruits go well with a cat’s balanced diet, provided that they only compose 10% of their diet as an occasional treat; and that they are cooked.
So the next time you want to give your cat a treat, toss him or her a piece of broccoli instead!
