Bananas are high in nutritious carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals that are beneficial to both people and dogs. However, can cats eat bananas? Yes, cats can eat bananas as they are harmless and non-toxic to cats.
The fundamental question is whether bananas provide the same nutritional advantages and whether our cats should consume them or not. Read on to know more about whether cats can eat bananas or not.
Can cats eat bananas?
Yes, cats may safely eat bananas due to their non-toxic nature, but they should do so in moderation.
The question of whether bananas will assist your cat is another matter. While bananas are extremely high in nutrients (vitamins, fiber, minerals, etc.) that are good to people, you should bear in mind that the nutrients required by your feline companion are not the same as those required by humans.
As obligate carnivores, cats obtain their nutritional requirements from the consumption of other animals (meat). Thus, the most effective method to address these demands is to provide them with a balanced diet. If your cat is receiving all of the nutrition they require from their cat food, treats such as bananas are unnecessary.
Bananas provide several health benefits
- Calcium: It is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
- Fiber: Bananas are abundant in fiber, which is beneficial for the digestive system. Fiber aids in the movement of food (and hair) through the digestive track, assisting in the resolution of constipation, diarrhea, and certain blockages that may arise.
- Folate: Assists in the development of healthy red blood cells.
- Magnesium: Promotes healthy bone formation and aids the body’s absorption of vitamins and minerals.
- Potassium: Promotes healthy kidney function and heart function, maintains fluid levels, and aids in muscle growth.
- Vitamin B6: It is a necessary cofactor for the proper functioning of the brain and body. It maintains the body’s fluid equilibrium, synthesizes proteins, controls hormones, and supports neurotransmitters.
- Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that helps the immune system function optimally.
All of this sounds useful, correct? However, keep in mind that cats lack the enzymes necessary to digest plant-based diets. As a result, the sole nutritional advantage a banana provides your cat is dietary fiber.
Are bananas a favorite of cats?
That varies for each cat, but given felines’ reputation for being finicky eaters, the majority of them are not quite as interested in trying new meals as dogs are.
Moreover, many cats are afraid of bananas. You’ve probably heard amusing footage of cats being startled by a seemingly innocuous banana or a cucumber.
According to experts, this is because most cats loathe the ethyl acetate stench that these fruits emit. Indeed, rubbing banana peels on objects can be an excellent way to keep your pet from scratching them. Also, it is possible that the banana’s form resembles a snake and frightens them.
Is it safe for kitties to eat bananas?
Kittens require a particular diet during the first year of their lives to assist their growth and development. They should take food that has been particularly prepared to be high in calcium, magnesium, protein, and other necessary nutrients.
Small rewards, like bananas, can be offered gradually at the end of the first 12 months. However, it is always a good idea to check your veterinarian before adding new items to your pet’s diet.
What Is an excessive amount of banana for a cat?
Do not be alarmed if your cat takes an inquisitive taste of your banana without your consent. A small nibble will not harm them.
However, if they continue to consume this sugary fruit on a regular basis, it may result in obesity and diabetic symptoms. Cats can handle banana sugar in little amounts, but often boosting their blood sugar levels will cause long-term problems.
Among the symptoms of feline diabetes are the following:
- Extreme thirst
- Urination on a continuous basis
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of capacity to jump
- Vomiting
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe any of these symptoms since these might be early indicators of diabetes.
This is true for all sweet foods, whether they be cereals or other sorts of fruit. When purchasing cat snacks, always examine the packaging, since some may contain an excessive quantity of sugar and carbs.
When are bananas harmful to cats?
Cats are quite sensitive to unfamiliar foods. Because they have difficulty digesting plant-based meals, giving your kitty companion bananas may induce stomach trouble.
Bananas are abundant in carbohydrates and sugar.
Because cats lack the enzymes necessary for digestion, a healthy cat diet should consist of no more than 2% carbohydrate. Thus, while a slice of banana here and there will not damage your cat, giving them bananas regularly or in big quantities will cause their blood sugar levels to rise, which can result in obesity and diabetes.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you detect any of these above-said symptoms, and bear in mind your pet’s age since cats are more prone to developing diabetes as they age.
Bananas are also abundant in dietary fiber. Cats are unable to absorb some of the nutrients included in bananas; they will benefit primarily from the fiber, which helps to bulk up feces. Because fiber is not considered a necessary component of a cat’s diet, bananas’ additional advantages are limited.
Finally, you should exercise caution because even a tiny bit of banana might induce an allergic reaction in certain cats. The Clinical Nutrition Service notes that even foods assumed to be safe (such as bananas) might cause unexpected responses. Symptoms of a banana allergy include swelling, mouth irritation, throat irritation, itchy rash, wheezing, and throat narrowing.
If you detect any of these symptoms or anything else unusual after feeding a banana to your cat, call your veterinarian immediately.
How to feed bananas to cats safely
Considering your cat’s nutritional requirements and the hazards connected with banana eating, the following guidelines will assist you in feeding bananas to your feline companion safely:
Bananas should be cut into bite-size pieces roughly the size of cat kibble. Furthermore, you may purée a tiny quantity and sprinkle it on their meal. Also, adding water is a wonderful idea.
Because the peel is inedible, remove it prior to presenting the banana to your cat. Not only is it a choking danger, but it also has the potential to induce stomach discomfort if consumed. Avoid giving your cat another fruit immediately after they’ve eaten a banana, and stay away from rotting bananas, which can only create stomach distress.
Take care with the amount of food you feed your cat. Sudden dietary changes or an excess of bananas might irritate their stomachs. Besides this, a large banana may be difficult to digest and may even cause constipation. Keep in mind that treats should not account for more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie consumption.
Begin with a modest quantity and observe your pet’s response. In the majority of instances, symptoms of an allergic response manifest themselves relatively soon after intake. Consult your veterinarian if you experience digestive problems like diarrhea or vomiting.
Consult your veterinarian prior to adding additional human foods to your cat’s diet.
Sources: Daily Paws, Pet Finder, Pumpkin Care