Are you looking for alternative fruits for your cat? Or, perhaps, you are considering replacing their dairy with coconut milk? Find out whether cats can eat coconut or any coconut-based products such as coconut milk, coconut water, coconut yogurt, and more. Do not rush to feed your cat coconut before reading further!
Is Coconut Safe for Cats?
Any natural, plain, unprocessed form of coconut is safe for your cat. No sugars and other additives on coconut is healthy or safe for your feline baby. In addition, feeding coconut shavings to your kitty has hardly any risks when compared to offering them the entire fruit itself.
Small amounts of coconut do not cause serious harm to felines. However, keep in mind that the oils contained within the flesh and milk of a fresh coconut can cause diarrhea, loose stools, and upset stomachs.
Are Coconut-based Products Safe for Cats?
Coconut is relatively safe for cats, but what about its products? See below for brief information on five popular coconut-based products that humans love. Can cats eat coconut milk or coconut oil? Let’s find out!
| Cat insurance from From | Dog insurance from | Coverage | Contribution | Own risk | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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€8.46 | €12.11 | €3.250 — €6.000 | 10% — 50% | €0 — €150 per year |
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€14.05 | €17.77 | €3.000 — €6.000 | 20% | €30 — €50 per year |
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€12.16 | €17.42 | €3.000 — €5.000 | 20% — 50% | €0 — €250 per year |
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€13.27 | €20,14 | €3.000 — €6.000 | 20% | none | View |
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€13.86 | €14.67 | €2.500 — €5.000 | 20% | none | View |
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€10.56 | €13.14 | €3.500 | 25% | €25 per claim |
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Coconut Yogurt
Coconut yogurt is rich in potassium, calcium for strengthening your cat’s bones, and magnesium for absorbing essential vitamins and proteins. It also contains probiotics that help treat digestive issues. Feeding coconut yogurt to your cat once in a while should be fine for them. However, keep in mind that coconut yogurt is low in protein as opposed to its dairy counterpart. Make sure to resort to feeding them coconut yogurt only if they cannot handle dairy yogurt.
Coconut Oil
As already mentioned, cats can eat coconut. However, the oils that it contains can seriously upset their stomach. You may use coconut oil in small amounts for homemade cat treats. Alternatively, talk to your vet about adding coconut oil your feline’s diet.
Coconut Water
Coconut water contains high levels of potassium which is unsafe for pets in general. Cats should not consume it either. Too much potassium (hyperkalemia) can acidify your cat’s blood. It may even affect their heart’s function. Do not offer coconut water to your cat.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is another potentially harmful product for your cat. It is too rich in fats and oils. It is best to not give any coconut milk to your cat. If your cat has a sensitive stomach and cannot digest dairy milk either, consult your vet for better alternatives.
Coconut Ice Cream
Coconut ice cream is not too different from coconut milk. It is has a thicker consistency, and it contains less water. It is best to avoid it.
In Summary
While the unprocessed natural fruit that is coconut is not a toxic food for your cat, it can easily upset your cat’s stomach. Although cats can eat coconut, there are better alternative fruits such as bananas for healthy feline nutrition. Further, with most coconut-based products being potentially harmful to them, it is best to consult your vet for better alternatives or to book a video consultation with one of Cooper Pet Care’s qualified veterinarians to get advice on your pet questions within minutes.
