Eggs are often regarded as the ideal source of animal protein and a superfood for humans. So, can cats eat eggs? Interestingly, they are equally as beneficial to cats when cooked! Numerous experts think they provide an incredible amount of nutrition to animals. That is excellent news if you want to give your cat eggs!
Let’s take a closer look at the egg and discover why, when used sparingly, it’s an excellent supplement to your cat’s diet.
The incredible egg:
Our feline companions consume birds, birds lay eggs, and wild cats consume uncooked nest eggs. However, are they beneficial to your cat?
They are indeed! That is why many cat breeders may sometimes add an egg to their cats’ meals in order to maintain their coats glossy and their claws healthy.
Cat food producers include eggs into their formulations, as well as cat treats, to boost protein content and provide many health advantages.
However, there is so much more to egg feeding cats!
As obligate carnivores (meaning they can only digest fatty acids derived from animal proteins), cats benefit from the egg’s ideal protein supply. They rival other protein sources nutritionally, and here’s why:
The benefits of the egg:
Eggs are completely composed of animal protein. This is critical for obligate carnivores since they lack the liver enzyme required for the metabolization of plant proteins or dairy products.
- Amino Acids: Proteins comprise cells, and amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Cats need eleven essential amino acids, ten of which are present in eggs. (Interesting fact: Humans need just nine essential amino acids.)
- Taurine: Taurine is required for heart and eye function and is exclusively present in animal proteins. Because cats cannot synthesize taurine on their own, it is included as a supplement to all cat diets. Eggs are a good source of taurine, making them an ideal addition to your cat’s diet.
- Carbohydrate Free: The egg has no carbs since it is a pure animal protein. Due to the fact that cats are obligate carnivores, they do not need carbs, making carb-free eggs a great source of pure protein.
- Vitamin A: This vitamin benefits the skin, coat, heart, and neurological system of your cat.
- Vitamin D: This vitamin regulates bone development and calcium‘s function in the body. Because cats cannot synthesize this vitamin on their own, it must be given to cat food. Humans can manufacture this vitamin (the sunshine vitamin) in their skin, but cats cannot.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from harm. Additionally, it is an important vitamin that is added to cat diets.
- Vitamin B12: This is another necessary vitamin that helps your cat’s immune system, digestive system, and neurological system function optimally.
- Thiamine: This vitamin contributes to the health of high-energy organs such as the brain by promoting proper glucose metabolism.
- Iron: This is a necessary vitamin for cats to maintain the health of their blood-producing red cells. If it is not included in their diets (pet food manufacturers include it), your cat may get anemia.
- Riboflavin: Additionally known as vitamin B2, this nutrient aids in the formation of red blood cells and antibodies that your cat needs to fight illness.
- Zinc: This vitamin benefits the skin, hair, and reproductive system of your cat.
- Selenium: This is a potent antioxidant that guards against free radical damage in your cat’s cells.
- Biotin: Biotin is necessary for your cat’s digestion and excretion of protein, as well as for the health of their skin and coat. It also supports their thyroid and adrenal glands.
As you can see, the egg contains a plethora of nutrients necessary for your cat’s wellness.
Let’s have a look at some safe methods to give an egg to your cat.
First things first, no raw eggs:
Eggs must be cooked before being fed to your cat. Raw eggs may contain E. coli or salmonella, which may cause your cat severe gastrointestinal issues. Even cats on raw diets should avoid raw eggs.
Avidin is found in raw egg whites. Avidin is a protein found in eggs that inhibits the absorption of biotin and complex B vitamins when consumed uncooked. Cooking the egg white substantially lowers the avidin content, making it safe to ingest for cats.
What is the best way to feed eggs to my cat?
The ideal method for feeding eggs to your cat is to boil, poach, scramble, or fry them (with no butter or seasoning).
Because cats are picky eaters, the first time you give fried egg to your cat, include it in tiny bits into their regular meal. This will conceal it enough for them to get used to the taste and subsequently easily accept it.
Cats may develop food intolerances or allergies, although an egg allergy is uncommon in cats. However, to be certain, monitor your cat’s health after you begin feeding eggs. Itching, ear infections, or stomach discomfort are all possible symptoms of an intolerance or allergy.
How much egg is a healthy amount?
Your cat needs a balanced diet, and eggs should be given solely as a supplement. Even though eggs are rich with vital nutrients, they should account for no more than 10% of your cat’s diet. Feeding your kitty an egg-only diet may result in malnutrition, since cats need a variety of vital vitamins and minerals present in commercial cat diets.
One egg per day for a 10 lb. cat is equivalent to 15 eggs per day for a 150 lb. person; therefore, feeding your furry companion one egg per day would be excessive. Cats should get eggs no more than once or twice a week and never a whole egg. It is better to break the egg up and give a few tiny pieces at a time.
What about eggshells?
Eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, which is necessary for the bones and ligaments of your cat. The easiest method to feed eggshells is to crush them into a fine powder and sprinkle it periodically over your cat’s diet.
The downside to eggs:
Eggs are very high in fat and cholesterol. Consuming an excessive amount of fat in a cat’s diet may result in pancreatitis or exacerbate a weight issue.
The yolks contain the most fat and cholesterol. Therefore, overweight cats and cats with renal problems should avoid egg yolks; egg whites, on the other hand, should be given as a treat on occasion. Consult your veterinarian to determine the amount that is safe for your cat.
Does your cat need eggs?
If you’re searching for a human food treat that’s rich in nutritional content and promotes glossy hair, healthy claws, and general wellbeing, the fried egg is an excellent option. When combined with a high-quality, well-balanced diet, this superfood provides an abundance of benefits and vital elements that is difficult to ignore.
Simply be careful with the dosage and frequency to prevent stomach or digestive issues. If your cat is prone to pancreatitis, is overweight, or has renal problems, less may be more with eggs. Apart from that, pet owners cannot go wrong with the amazing egg for their super cat!