Can Cats Eat Blueberries?
Cat owners who love their pets and want what’s best for them may wonder about which foods provide the best nutrients. Many well-meaning humans mistakenly think that all foods that are good for people will also be good for their cats. The truth is that many human foods offer exceptional nutrition for people, that are toxic to cats and can be deadly. It’s essential to know which human foods are edible for cats and which are not. One superfood for people, is blueberries, but is this on the edible list for cats? Here is everything you need to know about feeding blueberries to your cat.
Can cats eat blueberries?
The short, simple answer to this question is yes. there is nothing toxic in blueberries, that would make your cat sick. The next consideration is the nutritional value for cats. Rover warns that although Blueberries are not dangerous for cats to eat, they are a fruit, and this is not a natural part of a cat’s diet. Their digestive systems are designed to eat proteins as the main part of their diet. Because cats are carnivorous, the sugars found in blueberries when fed in large quantities can cause digestive upset. Sugar in a cat’s diet can also lead to the development of diabetes.
Are there any health benefits for cats in blueberries?
Blueberries are a superfood that contains a large supply of antioxidants that help to build up the immune system and prevent illness and disease. They’re also high in fiber, manganese, Vitamins, C and K, and the compounds found in blueberries help to fight cancer in humans and felines. Blueberries are also known to help regulate blood pressure, cholesterol, and lower the risk of heart disease. They also help to improve memory and cognitive function. Blueberries can offer some health benefits for your cat.
How to feed your cat blueberries
When fed in small amounts, blueberries offer some exceptional health benefits for your cat. If your cat will eat them, they are a healthy snack. Most cats won’t eat blueberries in their natural state. Some may enjoy the texture, but most are not attracted to fruits or sweet treats. They’re not designed with taste-receptors for sweets, but there are exceptions. The first thing to know about feeding your cat blueberries is to limit the quantity. Start by giving him a few blueberries if he likes them. If your cat refuses to eat blueberries, you can try chopping them up and putting them in his regular food offerings now and then. They are an antioxidant-packed supplement.
What are the consequences of feeding too many blueberries?
If your cat likes blueberries and eats them every day, there will be some health benefits, but risks also come with the daily consumption of sugar. Cats cannot metabolize the sugar in fruits as well as humans. Sugars may cause digestive upsets in the short term, but the long-term effects are the most concerning. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause permanent damage to the internal organs. It can interfere with the normal function of the pancreas, leading to diabetes over time. Signs of diabetes or blood sugar imbalances include a lack of appetite, excessive thirst or urination, vomiting, and problems jumping onto chairs, couches, or other furnishings. Your cat may lack the energy to perform his normal daily functions. Medical attention is required if your cat exhibits any of these symptoms.
Other ways to enjoy the health benefits of blueberries for cats
According to Purina, some cat foods and snacks contain concentrated forms of blueberries to maximize the nutritional value. Blueberry powder is a common ingredient in pet foods. You can find products that contain dehydrated blueberries. They provide the fiber benefit, which is healthy in smaller servings.
How to prepare blueberries to feed your cat
If you decide to supplement your cat’s diet with blueberries, there are a few ways to prepare them that are safe and healthy. You should always wash blueberries before serving them. This step removes all traces of pesticides and dirt. You can cut them in half and offer them as a snack. You can also mash them to create a tasty paste. Freezing blueberries is another option for hot summer days. You can also place them on top of dry or wet food for a supplemental treat.
How many blueberries should I feed my cat?
If you’re feeding your cat straight blueberries as a snack, it’s wise to limit the amount to one or two large blueberries, cut in half. This gives your kitty four bites. It’s enough to give him a nutritional boost without going overboard on the sugar. You can go up to three blueberries in one sitting, but it’s not recommended to go beyond that. Fruit should not make up over ten percent of your cat’s total dietary intake of calories.
Can my cat eat blueberries every day?
If your cat loves blueberries, there is a way to use them as a supplemental superfood without putting his health in danger. Bear in mind that any sugar is a negative, but as long as you don’t include more than three blueberries a day, you can prepare them without added sugar, feed as a snack or mix them with his regular cat food.
Final thoughts
Blueberries are a superfood for humans and they also have health benefits for cats. Aside from the sugar content, there is nothing in blueberries that is harmful to cats. Some commercial pet formulations also contain blueberries to deliver a punch of antioxidant health benefits. You can safely feed your cat blueberries as long as you don’t overdo it. It’s recommended that you consult with your pet’s health care provider before making any dietary changes. Your pet’s current health condition is also a consideration. If there are existing blood sugar problems, your vet may advise against feeding any foods that contain sugars.
