Kaitlyn Collins
Your cat leaped onto the kitchen counter the other day as you were making a fruit salad. Can cats, on the other hand, consume strawberries safely? Before you give your favourite kitty a nibble, here's everything you need to know.
Yes, cats can eat strawberries…
Strawberries aren't hazardous to cats, so if yours is interested (and not on a particular diet) and nibbles on one, it's perfectly harmless. Dr. Teresa Manucy, a veterinarian and contributor to PetMD, says they shouldn't have them all the time or in big quantities.
…occasionally and in moderation
To survive, cats require only animal protein. Because they don't have taste receptors for sweetness, most cats won't even try to eat your strawberries after catching a scent. However, keep in mind that cats are carnivores and do not absorb sugar in the same way that people do. Giving your cat too much sugar might lead to stomach problems or possibly diabetes in the long run.
How to safely feed your cats strawberries
It should be kept to a few licks or bites at most. Strawberries (and fruit in general) should be considered a treat rather than a source of nutrients or a meal substitute. And, because treats should account for no more than 10% of your cat's daily calories, you can determine out how many strawberries they can consume. However, this does not imply that giving them the maximum amount is acceptable. If your cat can consume goodies worth 25 calories, that's around six strawberries. You shouldn't feed them all six because they contain more sugar than the normal meat-based treat.
It's also crucial to remember that each cat's digestive system is unique, and introducing a new meal to them can result in stomach distress, diarrhoea, or vomiting. There's also the possibility of an allergic reaction.
If your cat is ready for a sample, make sure the strawberries are completely washed and that all stems and leaves are removed. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces that your cat can easily chew, around the size of a kibble piece.
RELATED: Can Cats Eat Watermelon?