Avocados are one of the healthiest beneficial fats for the human diet. And, as we have already examined, avocados are dangerous for dogs if you aren’t cautious. But what about cats? Are these are any health benefits to cats eating avocado? What are the risks and can you avoid them? This article is here to provide with you an answer to all your questions regarding cats eating avocados.
Can Cats Eat Avocado?
Yes, your cat can eat avocado. But there’s a catch: they shouldn’t eat it in large amounts and certainly not often. Although avocado is very nutritional to humans, it can become unhealthy to animals, including your cat. Thus, it is important to know how to safely give avocado for your cat to eat.
Health Benefits to Avocados
Avocados have high nutritional value with nutrients that can benefit your cat. They contain:
- Amino acids
- Antioxidants
- Fiber
- Folate
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Vitamins A, B3, B6, C & E
However, avocados and other fruits such as bananas are also high in sugar and carb. Only feed your cat fruits sparingly despite their healthy nutrients.
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Risks to Cats Eating Avocados
The main risk for cats eating avocados stems from overconsumption. Avoid feeding your cat large portions of avocado due to the possible development of feline pancreatitis which is a painful inflammation of the pancreas — keep in mind, this is a difficult disease to diagnose in cats. Moreover, large amounts of avocado consumption can drive your feline to experience the toxic effects of persin.
Side-effects to cats eating large amounts of avocados include:
- pancreatitis
- vomiting & diarrhea
- myocardial damage
- stomach upset
- weight gain
- persin poisoning
Safety Measures
If you wish to give avocado to your cat, make sure you take the right measures and avoid any of the aforementioned side effects.
- Moderation: Remember the 10% rule: all treats and human food should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake. Avocado bites should only replace a small treat, but never a full meal. Know that a medium-sized avocado contains about 320 calories & 29 grams of fat. Ideally, you should only give them 15 grams (1 tablespoon).
- Fruit only: Do not offer avocado to your cat if it contains the stem, bark, leaves, pit, or skin. ,
- Plain only: No guacamole! It contains harmful ingredients such as onions and salt which are toxic for your cat.
Final Words
Your pet can enjoy avocado in moderation, however too much can be unhealthy. If you are worried about offering it to them, talk to a vet about it. In addition, you can opt for other human food options that are healthy and much safer for cats such as carrots or pumpkin.
Do you still have any questions about your cat? Then schedule a video consultation with one of our qualified vets!
