"Blueberries: Safe for cats in moderation. Rich in antioxidants and fiber, but consult your vet before adding to their diet."?
"Blueberries: Safe for cats in moderation. Rich in antioxidants and fiber, but consult your vet before adding to their diet."?
blueberries in cupped hands
Indeed. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they must consume meat in order to survive, but they are not limited to eating meat. Cats can also consume things like grains, veggies, and blueberries that are high in protein and carbs.
Given that cats are carnivores, this
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may seem strange. Cats can digest fruit's carbohydrates, but it's not as effective as their ability to digest meat's protein, according to Purina Nutritionist Karina Carbo-Johnson, MS. For cats, blueberries are a fantastic treat.
Are Cats Able to Eat Blueberries?
For humans, blueberries are a "superfood" rich in
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antioxidants, but cats do not feel the same way. A cat's diet does not naturally include blueberries. Cats have more evolved digestive systems than other animals because they are mostly carnivores.
Having said that, cats may benefit from blueberries in terms of health. Blueberries' antioxidants may have some
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of the same positive health effects on cats as they have on us. For instance, they might strengthen the immune system, support joint health, and aid a cat's body combat free radicals.
Are Cats at Risk from Blueberries?
Not in tiny amounts. Cats can safely consume blueberries as a treat. However, it's crucial
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to remember that a cat's diet should consist of complete and balanced cat food for 90% of the time. Make sure that no more than 10% of your cat's diet consists of blueberries and other treats. A serving size of two to three blueberries is sufficient.
The amount of sugar is something else to consider. Having
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a sweet flavor, blueberries
sugar content to rise. A cat's food that contains an excessive amount of sugar may cause digestive problems as well as more severe conditions like diabetes.
How About Blueberries for My Cat?
Perhaps. Since every cat is unique, some may determine that blueberries are not for them.
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It's alright. Curiosity or the novelty of eating blueberries may lead some cats to consume them. Some people could actually like the fruit.
Strangely, cats cannot taste sweets because they are carnivores. As such, their choice to eat blueberries may not be influenced by flavor. This is because, similar to lions
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and tigers, they are devoid of a certain gene that gives them the ability to determine if an object is delicious or not.
How to Give Blueberries to Cats
When a cat owner chooses to offer their felines blueberries as a
To get rid of any dirt or pesticides, always wash. Slice the blueberry open so your cat
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may smell it.
Mash to make a pâté or paste. Put on top of either dry or wet food.
As a reward, feed one or two whole.
Recall that cats have distinct preferences and appetites. Not every cat will be a blueberry fan. Before determining whether blueberries are the best option for your cat, Carbo-Johnson suggests giving them a try a couple times.
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