Are strawberries safe for cats?

As responsible cat owners, we want to keep our furry friends healthy. Therefore, it is important to know which foods are safe for them to eat and which ones could carry potential health issues.

As we know, strawberries have great health benefits for people. They are not only packed with freshness but are also full of healthy vitamins and minerals. This fruit is a great source of vitamin C and rich in potassium and magnesium. Therefore, it can boost the immune system, help fighting bad cholesterol, reduce inflammation and regulate blood pressure.

But what about cats? Can cats safely eat strawberries? And, do they get any benefits from consuming this delicious treat?

Luckily, strawberry is one of those fruits that not only we can eat but our beloved cats as well. However, while we can experience a lot of benefits from having strawberries, cats don’t really get any nutritional advantage out of it. Although, this fruit has nutrients that cats may benefit from, the problem is: there is no cat that could eat enough strawberries to get these advantages.

In addition, cats’ digestive system is not designed to digest plant material effectively. Being carnivores, the main nutrition that cats require comes from protein which strawberries do not contain.

Therefore, feeding your cat strawberries as the main food is definitely not a good idea. To fulfill your cat’s nutritional requirements, it is recommended to feed her high-quality cat food and plenty of fresh water.

On the other hand, occasionally some special treats like strawberries can be offered as well, as they are absolutely safe for cats to consume, just make sure to consider the following precautions.

Strawberry leaves and stems can cause skin irritation, sneezing and eye problem, so do not forget to remove them before offering strawberries to your cat. Also, wash and rinse the fruit thoroughly as it is usually sprayed with toxic chemicals. It is also highly recommended to cut the strawberries into small pieces to avoid any stomach troubles.

All in all, it is safe to say that cats can eat fresh, washed and cut strawberries safely without having any health problems. But, if you decide to do it, please do keep in mind that moderation is always key when it comes to treats. Feed your cat only small amounts of strawberries at a time and do not make it as a usual part of her daily diet.

If you own a cat and are looking for more information about cats and strawberries please visit cattention.com