Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?
While a lot of cats enjoy the flavor of this salty and sweet spread, cat parents shouldn’t feed peanut butter to their furry companions. Not only does it have no nutritional value, but some of the ingredients—like fat and artificial sweeteners—can be toxic or even harmful to cats.
If you decide to give your cat peanut butter, make sure you read labels carefully and are aware of any potentially dangerous ingredients.
- Xylitol: Ingredients that may be harmful to your cat’s health are added when natural peanuts are processed to make peanut butter. One such component is the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is poisonous to animals. You shouldnt feed your cat products that contain xylitol. According to CatHealth, symptoms of xylitol poisoning include drooling, vomiting, lethargy, balance problems, and even seizures. com. Because xylitol can also be found in other foods consumed by humans, such as baked goods and chewing gum, it is crucial to always read labels.
- Oil and Fat: Although peanuts are called nuts, they are actually legumes, which are edible seeds cultivated in pods, similar to other beans, green peas, and lentils. However, in terms of nutrition, peanuts are regarded as a nut because they are high in fat and oil. Nuts rank close to the top of the list of foods that people should not feed their pets, according to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). These ingredients may be good for humans, but they are not pet-friendly and may cause gastrointestinal problems.
- Sodium: Roasted peanuts, which are a common ingredient in peanut butters, are high in sodium (and oil). Natural peanuts don’t contain any sodium. According to the ASPCA, your cat should not be fed salty foods because consuming large amounts of salt can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and/or urination, depression, seizures, and other serious health issues. The same goes for cats and cheese: eating foods high in sodium can also cause heart problems in people.
Find food that fits your pet’s needs
Like some human foods, peanut butter can be consumed safely in moderation, but the answer to the question “Can cats have peanut butter?” is a little more nuanced than “yes” or “no.” Dogs go crazy for this treat, but can cats eat peanut butter? “.
What To Feed Your Cat Besides Peanut Butter
The best treats to offer your kitty are meat-based. A tiny square of chicken or turkey breast can be a healthy and safe special treat. A tasty snack can also be a tablespoon of canned salmon or tuna in water, or fresh if you’re cooking at home and haven’t added any spices.
When you boil eggs for breakfast, crack one open and give your cat a small piece as a delicious snack alternative.