You must have noticed your cat eyeing the bowl of raspberries that you’ve kept on the table. Your cat might even try to sneak one or two behind your back! None of us are immune to the look our cats give us when we are eating one. So, this might make you wonder – can cats eat raspberries?
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Can Cats Eat Raspberries?
Yes, cats can eat raspberries, but only in small amounts. As you are aware, cats are strictly carnivorous. Therefore, they get all the necessary nutrients from meat. However, their digestive system cannot break down fruits and vegetables, so cats may not get the nutritional benefits from eating them as we do.
Raspberries are rich in antioxidants and numerous minerals and vitamins – vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, manganese, and dietary fiber. As a result, they provide many health benefits to humans – relieving nausea, improving heart health, boosting immunity, preventing cancer, to name a few.
This might tempt you to make raspberries a regular part of your kitty’s diet. You should resist this urge! Feeding your cat large amounts can cause diarrhea and stomach upset in her. Moreover, her body doesn’t produce the required enzymes needed to extract nutrition from raspberries.
Raspberries also contain xylitol, which is a sugar substitute. Research shows that xylitol, when consumed in large quantities, is harmful to animals. It is especially dangerous for dogs. So don’t take any chances and feed your furry friend only minimal amounts of raspberries.
If your cat has a history of gastrointestinal disorders, don’t let her eat raspberries. Kittens have a compromised immune system and sensitive stomach, which is why you shouldn’t give them raspberries.
You can give a couple of raspberries to your cat, but not more than that. It is best to feed raspberries as an occasional treat to avoid any health complications. If you want to be better educated in this regard, consult your vet about your cat’s needs.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Raspberries in Cats?
If your kitty has gobbled up a whole bowl of raspberries that you kept aside, keep an eye out for the following side effects –
- Kidney damage
- Upset stomach
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Foul-smelling feces
- Kidney toxicity
How Can I Serve Raspberries to My Cat?
Your kitty can eat fresh or frozen raspberries. Frozen raspberries can be given as a cold treat, especially on summer days. It also preserves their nutritional value.
Don’t put any additional seasoning of sugar, onion, or garlic on frozen raspberries. It can lead to gastrointestinal problems. Eating too much sugar can cause diabetes in your kitty. Make sure to wash the berries thoroughly before serving.
Can I Feed My Cat Raspberry Jam? What About Raspberry Ice-Cream?
Raspberries have low sugar content. But it is enough to destabilize the normal sugar level of your cat, especially if fed in large quantities. In addition, raspberry jams have added sugar and artificial sweeteners, which makes them unfit for cats. So, you should avoid giving your feline raspberry jam.
Don’t give your cat raspberry ice cream, on any ice cream for that matter. Ice cream is made up of milk and has artificial flavors and added sugar. Cats are lactose intolerant; they can’t digest milk. Plus, the additives are toxic to their health. Your cat may try to swallow the ice cream as a whole, which is a choking hazard.
You can’t feed her raspberry yogurt as it contains lactose too.
Summary
So, to conclude, can cats eat raspberries? Yes, they can. But moderation is the key. Your cat doesn’t get any nutrients from raspberries. You should find some other source to provide the necessary nutrients. To be on the safe side, check with your vet before feeding her raspberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does My Cat Love Raspberries?
Everything cats see is bleached and whitewashed. Raspberries have a vibrant red color, which first attracts cats as they get intrigued by bright colors. The strong scent and the delicious taste keep your cat hooked to raspberries.
Can My Cat Eat All Kinds of Berries?
It is safe for your cat to eat strawberries in small amounts. They contain potassium, vitamin C, magnesium, folate, fibers, and antioxidants. Remove the stems and leaves before feeding them to your cat.
Your furry friend can also eat blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries. They have a high content of fibers, flavonoids, and antioxidants; and are rich in vitamin A, C, K, and E. Just cut them into small pieces to avoid any risk of choking.
My Cat Has Eaten Raspberry Leaves. Will She Be, Okay?
If your cat has eaten fresh or carefully dried raspberry leaves, she’s fine. But wilted leaves may carry some toxicity, leading to nausea or vomiting. In addition, there may be residues of pesticides or other plant parasites. If transmitted into your cat’s system, they can cause numerous health problems.
