Can Cats Eat Goji Berries?
Most responsible cat owners are already aware of the health benefits of occasionally treating their feline friends to well-cooked lean meat, eggs, and fish. There are also other amazing superfoods that make excellent cat supplements, such as Goji Berries. Berries such as goji berries do not only offer a more nutrient ratio per calorie but are also super cat-friendly. They also have a high content of antioxidants and amino acids that will help prevent the growth of harmful cancer cells as your cat ages. Goji Berries are packed with essential nutrients that help reduce fat and blood sugar, serving as a healthy treat for your cat. In this post, we will provide you with answers to the question: Can cats eat goji berries?
What Are Goji berries?
Also known as wolfberries, they are often considered to be superfoods. According to Thedailycat, wolfberries originated from a shrub native to China and have grown to be very popular for many years due to their amazing health benefits. While they are safe for human consumption, goji berries also contain high amounts of amino acids and antioxidants that can benefit your cats when fed in the right portion.
Goji berries are rich sources of fiber, vitamin A, protein, Iron, antioxidants, and vitamin C. They also provide a great boost for the human immune system and are very effective in dealing with sleep, athletic performance, and weight loss. As always, it is advisable to first consult with your local veterinarian before deciding to feed your cat any new human foods.
Can cats eat goji berries?
People often wonder if they can eat goji berries; can they feed this vivid red superfood to their cats too? Well, yes, you can; cats can also eat goji berries but in moderation. This is because these berries contain a small number of harmful substances that can be harmful to your feline friend if consumed in large quantities.
However, goji berries also contain high amounts of antioxidants and essential nutrients that are extremely beneficial to your cat’s overall health. While moderately feeding your cat with goji berries, ensure that the berry treats are fresh. Gauging the number of goji berries you feed to your cat will help you better determine how your feline friends respond to eating them. If your cat tolerates the goji berries well, you can gradually increase the number of berries you feed them to supplement their normal diet.
Can Cats Eat Dried Goji Berries?
Unfortunately, cats should not be fed with dried goji berries. This is because dried fruits are generally higher in fiber and sugar than fresh fruits, meaning they are more likely to cause digestive problems in cats. Dried fruits are also treated with sulfur dioxide, a preservative that can trigger an allergic reaction in some cats. That said, if you plan on feeding your cat with goji berries, it is best if you give them frozen or fresh goji berries.
The Benefits of Feeding Goji Berries
According to Micatguide, goji berries are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. They can provide your feline friends with a number of health benefits such as:
Improving immune system
A strong immune system is very critical in protecting your cat from various infections and diseases. The antioxidants in goji berries also help boost their immune system.
Reducing inflammation
Goji berries have anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce inflammation throughout your cat’s body.
Improving cardiovascular health
The excessive amounts of antioxidants in goji berries can improve your cat’s cardiovascular health. This includes lowering cholesterol levels and supporting healthy blood pressure.
Supporting kidney health
Goji berries can support your cat’s kidney health. This is because they are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that safeguard their kidneys from damage.
Improving vision
The antioxidants in goji berries can help improve your cat’s vision. This is extremely beneficial for aging cats who are experiencing vision problems.
Lowering stress levels
The essential nutrients in goji berries can help reduce your cat’s stress levels. This is helpful for cats suffering from anxiety disorders.
Enhancing cognitive function
Goji berries contain essential nutrients that can help improve your cat’s cognitive function.
Regulating blood sugar levels
Goji berries are effective in regulating your cat’s blood sugar levels. This is beneficial for diabetic cats and cats prone to weight gain.
Improving digestion
Goji berries have a high fiber content that can help improve your cat’s digestion.
Goji Berries Feeding Tips for your Cats
According to Cattime, you need to consider several things when feeding goji berries to your cats. They include:
1. Starting with a small amount as you closely monitor how your cat tolerates the fruit.
2. If your cat tolerates well, gradually increase the number of goji berries you feed your cat.
3. Make sure to check for any signs of digestive problems in your cat, such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, and vomiting. If your cat experiences digestive problems, contact your veterinarian for medical assistance.
4. Try feeding your cat with organic goji berries, as they will help protect them from pesticides and other toxic chemicals.
5. It is advisable to feed your cats with frozen or fresh goji berries. The fresher the berries, the more nutritional benefit your feline friend will gain from them.
6. If you have leftover goji berries, make sure to store them properly. Fresh berries can be stored in the refrigerator, while dried berries can be stored at room temperature.
Problems Associated with Giving your Cat Goji Berries
Below are some of the common risks involved with feeding your cat with goji berries:
High blood sugar levels
Goji berries usually have excessive amounts of sugar that can harm your cat’s health, resulting in increased blood sugar levels. This means that you should feed these berries in moderation.
They can cause digestive problems
Goji berries can cause loss of appetite, diarrhea, or vomiting; thus, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian before feeding them to your feline friend.
Harmful chemicals
You can opt to feed your feline friends with organic berries as they are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
They could interact with medications
If your cat takes any medication, it is good to inform your veterinarian before feeding them with goji berries.
Allergies
It would be best to stop giving your cats goji berries after noticing any adverse reactions since some may be allergic.
