Your cat certainly wants to! Whenever you bring out the big guns (the biggest tub of manuka honey you could find in the store), she starts meowing and begging for your to let her give it a lick. And let’s be honest, you weren’t able to say no to her on more than one occasion.

After all, how can honey even be bad? It’s one of the most delicious things on Earth, it has antidepressant, anticonvulsant, and anti-anxiety properties, and it’s beaming with antioxidants. That might sound like a lot of antis, but trust me, they’re good… for humans.

You haven’t really thought of including this sweet syrup in your cat’s diet. You have no idea whether those antis would be good for cats. But, you wouldn’t mind giving her a spoonful of honey if you knew it would help with her seasonal allergies, sore throat, and other health problems.

Luckily, your “can cats eat honey” search mission brought you to the right place. According to our friends over at the ASPCA, cats can eat honey. But… There’s always a but when it comes to feeding your cat anything that isn’t supposed to be a regular part of her diet.

Keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about the complicated relationship between the nectar of the Gods and your feline friend. Let’s start from the beginning, shall we?

Do cats like honey?

“Curiosity killed the cat”, but let’s hope it doesn’t do the same thing to your furry friend.

She’s a curious creature and she certainly doesn’t mind exploring the secrets of your kitchen whenever you’re busy doing something else. She’s bound to stumble upon a thing of honey at one point or the other.

She also doesn’t mind meowing your ears off until you succumb to the pressure and let her have a taste. Why does she get bored with cat food so easily? Why does she love human food more than anything else? And does she even like the taste of honey?

Believe it or not, cats are sweets-blind. They have a genetic condition that doesn’t make their sweetness receptors sensitive enough to taste the same things most animals (and humans) do. Actually, while most humans have thousands of tastebuds, cats only have a couple hundred.

But, there’s still a chance your cat can taste honey (which would explain why she seems to like it so much). She might not be able to taste the sweetness, but she’s probably able to taste something else within the honey itself (aka protein, fats, or other components).

And let’s not forget about the whole “monkey see, monkey do” thing (or, in this case, “cat see, cat do”)! Your cat is more likely to show interest in certain foods when she sees you devour them in one sitting. You’re eating a teaspoon of honey? She’s eating a tablespoon of honey!

So, can cats eat honey?

Feeding honey to your cat sounds like a great idea when you think about the nutritional and health benefits she might gain from this sweet syrup. Even a small amount of honey gives you energy, boosts your immune system, and gives you plenty of nutrients to start your day right.

But, honey doesn’t necessarily do the same thing for your cat. Cats are obligate carnivores which means they require meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diet. That doesn’t mean they can’t eat anything else. But, it certainly does mean that they get the most benefits from these things.

Cats can eat honey, but can cats digest honey? Their digestive system isn’t equipped with the necessary enzymes to break down and process lactose, fructose, and glucose.

That might sound like a bunch of gibberish. However, these three things are responsible for sending your cat running to her litter box when she eats one too many spoonfuls of honey. Upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting are only some of the symptoms she might experience afterward.

So, honey seems to have a bunch of benefits and a bunch of drawbacks, making your decision that much harder. Give your vet a quick call, scroll down to learn more about the complicated relationship between cats and honey, and buckle up. You’re in for a ride!

When is honey good for cats?

When you ask any human about their opinion on honey, they’re bound to tell you something along the lines of “honey is pretty much a miracle potion.” It has a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it makes for a sweet, nutritious, and delicious treat.

Additionally, it has loads of health benefits including the ability to soothe a sore throat, help with digestion, treat wounds, and even calm down allergic reactions. And it has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. So yeah, you can say honey can be pretty great.

But, can it be great for your four-legged friend? Can cats eat honey? You might be disappointed to learn that a lot of these properties don’t apply to your cat. Not only does honey react differently in your cat’s stomach, but it’s also known to do more damage than anything else.

Don’t get completely discouraged because this doesn’t mean your cat shouldn’t enjoy an occasional lick of honey. It simply means that you have to make sure to be extra careful with the type of honey and the amount of honey you feed to your cat.

Here are a couple of things you can count on when you let your furry friend feast on a tiny amount of honey every now and then. Firstly, the antioxidants contained within this sweet syrup can boost her immune system.

Secondly, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help her heal whenever she gets a bruise or a scratch. And lastly, honey can slightly soothe her allergies (but you might want to consult with your vet on that one).

However, the best thing you can do when you notice your cat might be getting the sniffles is to contact your vet and follow his advice to a tee.

When is honey bad for cats?

Let’s be honest, you can’t make a decision on whether cats can eat honey without looking at the long list of repercussions and adverse reactions. While this sweet syrup might be a great choice for you, it might give your cat quite a hard time in her litter box. Yeah, you read that right!

We’ve already mentioned how cats are carnivores and how they very have specific nutritional requirements. To your cat’s disappointment, honey doesn’t meet pretty much any of those requirements. While it’s rich in protein, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, it doesn’t make for a healthy cat treat.

Technically speaking, your cat can’t even have sweet treats. Your cat’s digestive system isn’t equipped to digest the sugar and other carbohydrates that can be found in most sweet treats. So, honey can only result in a bunch of digestive issues such as stomach aches, weight gain, obesity, and diabetes.

Don’t even get me started on diabetic cats! They shouldn’t come anywhere near this sweet syrup. It might cause them severe spikes in sugar levels and insulin levels. Trust me, that’s pretty much a general rule of thumb for cats with health issues. They have to keep their paws away from honey.

Another side effect of feeding your cat honey actually comes from raw honey. Raw honey is basically the unprocessed type of honey. It’s taken straight out of the beehive, strained, bottled, and ready to be enjoyed but everyone except for your cat.

Raw honey might contain something called botulinum. Botulinum can cause botulism or botulinum poisoning in cats which can result in permanent paralysis. Obviously, most cat parents avoid feeding their cats honey because they don’t want to take the risk.

So yes, cats can eat honey… But, at what cost?

Can kittens eat honey?

Absolutely not! Adult cats might not have that hard of a time digesting a couple of drops of honey, but we can’t say the same thing about young kittens.

Their digestive system isn’t equipped with the necessary enzymes to process such high levels of sugar. Not only that, young kittens aren’t supposed to eat pretty much anything other than their mother’s milk.

And even when they aren’t able to get hold of their mother’s milk, they’re supposed to eat kitten formula and kitten food. Honey might not be toxic to kittens, but it can cause a bunch of gastrointestinal problems including stomach aches, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Honey can also cause weight gain, obesity, and diabetes which can dangerously diminish the quality of your kitten’s life. Let’s just say your kitten doesn’t have to be in the room when you’re enjoying your sweet syrup.

Can cats eat raw honey?

We’ve already touched upon this question in one of the previous paragraphs. But, it doesn’t hurt to go over some of the most important points. After all, your furry friend won’t stop meowing and begging just because you’re unsure of the answer to the “can cats eat raw honey” question.

Cats can eat raw honey, sort of. Raw honey is just a different term for unprocessed honey (which is honey that’s been taken straight out of the beehive and bottled with no added ingredients). Raw honey can even be a better choice for your furry friend than processed honey, but…

There are a couple of things to consider before hopping online in search of local raw honey producers. Some pet parents believe that raw honey contains something called botulinum. Botulinum is pretty much a toxin that can cause permanent paralysis.

So, it’s safe to say that you shouldn’t feed raw honey to your cat. We can’t say that every bottle of honey contains this threatening toxin, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

What about Manuka honey?

What’s so different about Manuka honey? Manuka honey’s generally known, loved, and used as a traditional remedy for pretty much everything. While regular, processed, or unprocessed honey can be used for the same purposes, Manuka honey holds the first place.

Regular honey can be made from different types of plants honey bees use to collect the nectar from. But, Manuka honey can only be made from the nectar of the Manuka plant that can only be found in Australia and New Zealand.

And yes, cats can eat Manuka honey! Same as with regular honey, they shouldn’t scoff down the entire bottle but they’re free to have a drop or two every now and then. Consult with your vet before using Manuka honey as a treatment for health problems, but other than that… Get another bottle for your furry friend.

Can cats eat honey nut cheerios?

They absolutely can! Well, they can have a couple of them… Kind of.

If your four-legged friend stumbled upon your secret stash of honey nut cheerios and decided to have a couple of them for dessert, you have nothing to worry about. A small number of honey nut cheerios shouldn’t cause any discomfort to your cat.

But, that doesn’t mean you should count on honey nut cheerios to provide your cat with her daily dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Sweet treats like honey nut cheerios have high levels of sugar which makes them pretty hard on your cat’s stomach.

Unless you want to see your cat running to her litter box every fifteen minutes, you should keep these sweets out of your cat’s reach. So, cats can eat honey nut cheerios but that doesn’t mean that they should.

What about honey buns?

Oh, the deliciousness of the doughy pastry drizzled with honey and coated in cinnamon! Honey buns happen to be one of your favorite desserts and you can’t help but wonder “can cats eat honey buns?” Are these cinnamon rolls and donuts hybrids safe for your four-legged friend?

While honey buns aren’t necessarily toxic to cats, they contain ingredients that can harm your cat in the long run. Sugar, carbohydrates, and calories are only a few of the reasons why you should rethink the whole “sharing is caring” thing and devour that honeybun by yourself.

Unfortunately, cats can’t eat honey buns. But, you can count on carefully crafted cat treats whenever your furry friend decides to meow and beg for something she can much on.

Cats can eat honey, but…

That doesn’t mean that they should. While it’s completely fine for you to use a little bit of honey to treat your cat’s wound or to let her take a couple of licks (with a green light from your vet), you shouldn’t treat honey as a regular part of your cat’s diet.

A little goes a long way when it comes to this sweet syrup!

Olives have been that fruit for a while and it’s about time you and your mischievous munchkin started giving them the time of the day. She’s certainly been showing interest ever since you purchased that absolutely adorable (and absolutely necessary) olive oil dispenser.

She’s been walking around, scrunching her nose and perking her ears, sniffing and nibbling. “Mom, you need to let me have a taste of what’s on the inside!” You knew she was bound to be curious, but you didn’t expect her to be this persistent.

“Mom, come on, don’t be selfish!” You would let her scoff down the entire thing, but you’re not sure whether those TikToks were right. You’re all too willing to let her live out her olive oil fantasies, but you’re not sure she wouldn’t fall ill. You’ve learned the hard way you can’t trust everything you see online.

Well, fear not – we’re here to help! According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), they see no harm in feeding a little bit of olive oil to your cat every now and then.

Cats can have olive oil, but there’s always a but hiding somewhere in there. Dive in below, find everything you’ve been looking to learn about cats and olive oil and take notes.

Can cats have olive oil?

They absolutely can, as long as they don’t have too much or too often. Whenever you’re thinking of feeding something to your cat, try to think whether that particular item falls under a category of foods that are supposed to be a natural part of her diet.

And if you figure out that it doesn’t, make sure you consult with your vet and go easy on that particular food. You might think you’re doing your cat a favor by saying yes whenever she gives you that look, but you’re not.

Cats are carnivores, which means they need a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive and thrive. They don’t need fruits, veggies, and grains the same way you do. They don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods you eat regularly.

And while your furball does possess the enzymes needed to deal with olives and olive oil, she doesn’t really need them all the time. Cats like them – most cats go bonkers when presented with an olive branch because they sense similar compounds to those found in catnip. But, they don’t need them.

What’s the verdict then? We would say that olive oil can bring benefits to your cat’s table, but we wouldn’t ignore the risks. Take a look at what we’re talking about down below and make an informed decision before you make TikTok the bringer of the feline gospel.

Biggest olive oil benefits for your cat

Wondering whether there’s something wrong with olive oil considering the fact that we keep saying how cats can have olive oil but shouldn’t have too much? You’re not the only one – oils have been causing quite a fuss in the feline world for some time.

But, olive oil seems to be one of the best oils for your cat. Olive oil contains the lowest levels of saturated fats, which are bad because… cholesterol. Coconut oil, for example, contains 80% to 90% saturated fats, unlike olive oil, which only contains around 15%.

Olive oil also contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making for numerous nutritional and health benefits.

1. Olive oil can soothe skin

That’s right! When you’re considering giving your precious purrincess a little bit of olive oil, try starting off topically. Olive oil’s great for maintaining the health of her skin and hair (Gigi Hadid, who!?) but also for battling rashes and irritations.

Add a couple of drops of olive oil to her skincare and haircare routine and voilà! She won’t have to worry about flakiness, dryness, or even matted hair. Massage a little bit of olive oil around her ears (and inside) and she won’t have to deal with ear mites. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, hello!?

2. Olive oil can get rid of hairballs

“Okay, now I’m pretty happy that cats can have olive oil!” Here’s the thing – hairballs aren’t bad solely because they look bad (or sound bad when your cat’s trying to get rid of them). Hairballs can actually cause health problems for your cat when she’s unable to get them out of her digestive system.

And, they can be pretty uncomfortable, which can make your feline friend restless and agitated. You may even end up with a couple of scratches by the end of the day, completely unaware of what your cat’s going through. Add a couple of drops of olive oil to your cat’s regular food and she should feel better.

3. Olive oil can relieve constipation

“Now you’re making things up, how’s that possible?” Olive oil helps lubricate your cat’s digestive tract which, in turn, helps everything she’s eaten move through her gut. Not only that, but olive oil can also soften up whatever’s trying to move through.

So yes, with only a couple of olive oil drops, your furry friend can have stress-free poops and enjoy her time in her litter box.

Biggest olive oil risks for your cat

That’s right, not everything’s bright and dandy when it comes to olive oil. There are certain risks you need to take into consideration before trying to reap the benefits.

Consult with your vet beforehand (regardless of the food you’re trying to introduce to your cat’s diet). Check out what to expect when you’re feeding olive oil to your four-legged friend. And always keep an eye out for the risks.

1. Calories

Olive oil is 100% fat and packed with calories, which makes for a pretty bad choice for chunky cats. One teaspoon of olive oil contains around 40 calories – not much for you, but quite a lot for your precious purrincess who doesn’t move her butt off of the couch for the majority of the day.

Consuming too much olive oil on a regular basis can easily lead to weight gain, which in turn can lead to other health problems. Overweight cats might appear adorable and fluffy, but they’re suffering because of that extra weight putting strain on their bones and muscles.

And don’t even get me started on other dangers of obesity and diabetes! Trust me, she’s much better off having a couple of drops here and there.

2. Stomach problems

Cats can have a little bit of olive oil, but anything more than that can cause stomach problems. “Umm, didn’t you say olive oil can help with constipation?” And we didn’t lie, but consuming too much olive oil can cause a nasty stomachache, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Your cat’s digestive system doesn’t expect her to consume large portions of olive oil in one sitting. She doesn’t possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down such high levels of fat at once – not to mention the fact that most olive oil available to humans isn’t even the extra virgin kind that she needs.

The chemically-treated types of olive oil can wreak havoc throughout her digestive system. Unless you’re able to get your hands on some cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil, you might want to skip out on the entire “let me feed my cat olive oil to see what happens” thing.

3. Allergies

And, yes, cats can have olive oil only when they haven’t experienced allergic reactions to olives or other olive products. Consult with your vet to check whether she gets the green light to have a drop or two, and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.

Stop feeding your cat olive oil the moment that you notice symptoms such as redness of the eyes, rashes and skin irritation, drooling, wheezing, difficulty breathing, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

An allergic reaction to olive oil isn’t that common among felines, but it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your cat’s health. A couple of drops of olive oil here and there can bring some benefits to the table, but they’re not worth the risk if you haven’t got your vet’s go-ahead.

Read more: Is Patchouli Safe For Cats? Everything You Need To Know

Whether there were some leftovers on the table after you’ve finished your meal, or you left the jar open, your fur baby decided to try Marmite. It could be that some of that dark spread stayed in a spoon you were using to spice up your cheese sandwich.

She saw you enjoying your toast, and of course, she’s going to try it. Can you blame her? I mean, as cat owners we know how they’re curious beings, so we’re used to her sniffing around and licking leftovers from time to time.

Even if it gives us a slight heart attack whenever they try something new, we’ve learned to survive. From that first time when she tried human food, to the moment when she can have some of it included in her diet – that’s how far we went.

Cats are generally attracted to strong smells, and well, this specific spread has a kind of meaty taste, so it’s appealing to our little feline friends. But is it safe for cats to eat Marmite in fact?

What is Marmite?

If Marmite is not something you’ve already heard about, let me quickly explain it to you. This dark food spread is made of inactive chemicals that can be found in some fungi and it is usually made from the yeasty paste that stays after brewing beer.

“Marmite” was founded in the UK back in 1902 by Joseph Crowther. It is one of the UK’s famous exports and people in around 100 countries enjoy its taste. Their marketing slogan is “Love it or hate it” and it’s actually the truth since people either love it or absolutely can’t stand it.

Marmite is a good source of B vitamins and it has a salty, powerful flavor. It also has high levels of glutamate and it has traditionally been used as a savory spread on butter toast, biscuits, or salty crackers.

It can also be added to your favorite sandwiches, spaghetti, consomme, and even cocktails. Since it’s made of wheat it’s not completely gluten-free, but it is definitely a vegan-friendly spread.

There are a lot of other similar products that are not directly related to the original UK’s Marmite. Some of those are the Australian Vegemite, the Swiss Cenovis, and Brazilian Cenovit. But enough about this savory treat, we need to learn if can cats eat Marmite. So, buckle up!

Can cats eat Marmite?

Unfortunately, there is no right answer to this one, like with any other human food that is. Many cat owners reported that their feline friends actually enjoy Marmite with them and nothing has happened.

A little Marmite from time to time probably won’t hurt your furbaby since it’s made from natural ingredients. However, make sure you consult with your vet before you feed your cat human food.

Some things may not be poisonous to us, but your feline can suffer a lot from taking them. For example, onion and garlic are a big no, while cauliflower is something you can serve to your cat and be at peace.

As obligate carnivores, Marmite definitely isn’t something they need in their diets. But, serving her a bit of it while you’re enjoying your breakfast, won’t hurt her. You can add it to her dry or raw food, just to spice up her meal.

It will provide some important minerals and proteins, as well as B vitamins (especially B12) that can boost her immune system.

Some substances found in this spread, like iodine and sodium, can cause some health issues if your feline is eating a lot of them. But, consuming small doses is actually healthy.

This is an extremely salty treat and, as we know, salt is not good for a cat’s kidneys and blood pressure. Pay attention to any sign of dehydration, or hypernatremia.

The latter happens when your feline friend drinks too much water. Your cat may act weird, she may feel disoriented and listless. She’ll also drink a lot of water and her urination will increase. In some extreme cases, she may even faint or have seizures.

If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention for your furbaby immediately!

Why do cats like eating Marmite?

Nobody can give the exact explanation why cats enjoy this treat, but they obviously do. The strong smell is attracting them, that’s for sure, and they enjoy eating it straight from the jar.

Since cats have the ability to taste salty food, this delicacy (for some) will tickle their taste buds for sure. Marmite, besides the yeasty and soy source flavor, has a meaty smell which makes it even more appealing to our feline friends.

Their sense of smell is stronger than their taste, so that’s the reason why this savory spread reminds them of all those meat treats they enjoy daily. Imagine how badly they want it when you put it on a slice of warm bread with butter or margarine.

How much is too much?

Small amounts of Marmite cannot hurt your furbaby, but if she consumes anything over 14g (one tablespoon), that may be concerning.

As we’ve mentioned earlier, Marmite has high amounts of sodium. Just one jar of it contains almost one-quarter of the daily recommended dose for your feline. She needs minerals to stay healthy, and yes, she can get some from this savory spread.

You can find some Marmite-flavored cat food so you can buy those for your furbaby if she really enjoys this specific treat. Just pay attention to the ingredients she may be allergic to.

Also, you need to pay attention if she drinks enough water since she consumed a great amount of salt. If she starts behaving oddly, call your vet. He’ll be able to give you some advice and help you in case something serious happens.

So, there is no short answer to the question “Can cats eat Marmite”. Although, if your feline companion likes it and it doesn’t have any side effects, a small dose won’t hurt her. Whenever you decide to introduce something new to her diet, I’d advise you to check with your vet first.

When has your life turned into a series of “what’s in your mouth” and “what did you just do”? Or even into sighs of relief when you google whatever your mischievous monster munched on this time and find out she’ll live to see another day?

When has regular cat food become a thing of the past for your four-legged friend? And when has she decided it was acceptable for her to roam around the apartment, sniff and lick everything she can get her paws on, and get herself in all sorts of easily avoidable trouble?

While we can’t help you answer any of these questions, we can certainly help you answer the one from the beginning of this article. So, with this “why are cats so weird” rant out of the way, we can start unraveling the odd relationship your cat has with this sour solution.

According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), vinegar isn’t that big of a deal for your feline friend. She isn’t likely to experience adverse reactions from a lick or two, but…

That doesn’t mean you should go ahead and pour a cup of apple cider vinegar for your furry friend as a way to celebrate this monumental moment. Contrary to the popular belief, just because something isn’t labeled as toxic doesn’t mean you should add it to your cat’s diet. What?!

Can cats eat vinegar? Can you clean your apartment safely with the particular type of vinegar you have? Keep reading to find out!

So, can cats eat vinegar?

Let’s start from the beginning. What even is vinegar?

What’s the reason most pet owners think it’s harmful to their feline friends? What’s the reason most pet owners think they have to hide it from their kitchen countertops and away from their feline friend’s paws?

Well, vinegar is a sour solution that’s typically made through the process of fermentation. It’s made from different ingredients depending on the type of vinegar we’re talking about. White vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar have different bases, flavors, and consistencies.

However, what makes this sour solution so popular among humans isn’t the fragrant odor or the tingling taste. These two components make for a mouth-watering explosion of flavors. But, most humans love vinegar because of its numerous health benefits and surprising chemical properties.

Did we just say chemical?! Yes, we did. These chemical properties might be the main reason why most cat owners panic and call their vet when they realize their curious creature decided there was something delicious about the freshly mopped kitchen floors. Can cats eat vinegar?

Yes, they absolutely can! There’s nothing black and white about different things your feline friend might put into her mouth. But, you can certainly scratch vinegar off the list of things you need to worry about. A couple of licks here and there won’t send your cat into the vet’s office, but…

That still doesn’t mean that you should add vinegar to your cat’s drinking water. Or pour a bunch of vinegar into a spray bottle and spray down the entire apartment. Like with anything else, there’s a right and a wrong way to use vinegar in a household that’s ruled by your four-legged friend.

What makes vinegar good for your cat?

This sour solution is pretty much a holy grail in every household. It’s no wonder you’re looking up “can cats eat vinegar?” You’re completely aware of the incredible health, nutritional, and chemical benefits your cat might be missing out on.

You’ve been feeling a bit bloated and heavy for a couple of weeks? Throw some of your favorite vinegar into your salad and observe how much it helps with your digestive issues. Go for the balsamic one because the trick is in the acetic acid!

You’ve noticed your oven has been in desperate need of a thorough scrub? Make an extraordinary cleaning product with vinegar and baking soda that’s going to leave your oven and your entire kitchen looking and smelling like a pharmacy. Who wouldn’t want that?

So, what makes vinegar good for your cat? This fragrant fluid might not be your cat’s favorite afternoon snack. But, it might be able to help with an array of health issues such as urinary tract infections, mites and fleas, different skin rashes and so much more. Let’s dive in!

1. Vinegar can help with UTIs

There’s a good chance this hasn’t even crossed your mind! But, vinegar is a great home remedy for all sorts of ailments your feline friend might be struggling with. Urinary tract infections, bladder infections, ear infections… You can treat pretty much anything with just a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

Well, it might not be as simple as that. But, it’s certainly as simple as it can be when we’re talking about home remedies you can literally find in your own kitchen in a matter of seconds. Make sure you consult with your vet beforehand and you’re good to go.

So, what makes vinegar such a powerful tool in fighting infections? Vinegar has the ability to stop bacteria from growing and spreading around your feline friend’s body. Apple cider vinegar is the best choice because it’s the one your cat is most likely to ingest. But, you can use pretty much any other type.

For instance, if your feline friend has a urinary tract infection you can add a couple of teaspoons of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar into her bowl of food. You can use it as an additional tool in fighting against bacteria. But, don’t use it on its own (that’s what antibiotics are for).

On the other hand, if your furry friend has an ear infection you can add some diluted vinegar to a cotton ball (dip, don’t soak) and use it to wipe away any dirt, mites, and goop. Your cat’s ears are incredibly sensitive, so make sure you don’t go overboard with the wiping.

2. Vinegar can help with mites, fleas, and fungus

This sour solution can also be a great way to get rid of those pesky mites, fleas, and fungus that might be hiding in your four-legged friend’s fur. There’s hardly anything more heart-breaking than seeing your furbaby unsuccessfully scratching and itching every inch of her body! But, there’s hope.

You can use diluted apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in a spray bottle to spray your cat’s fur throughout the day. It’s important that you dilute the vinegar, but… Make sure you don’t add too much water as you need those flea-repelling powers.

What makes vinegar so efficient? Well, the smell of vinegar doesn’t seem to offer the most pleasant housing experience for most parasites. It doesn’t kill any of them, but… It does make them run away and it does stop them from hopping back onto your four-legged friend!

Before you go bonkers on parasites, there are a couple of things you need to take into consideration. Firstly, make sure your feline friend doesn’t have any cuts or sores underneath the fur. You don’t want to accidentally make the entire experience uncomfortable.

Secondly, make sure none of the diluted vinegar ends up anywhere near your feline friend’s eyes. Vinegar can cause a burning sensation, irritate the entire area around the eyes, as well as impair her vision for the rest of the day (or until you manage to wash it out). It’s better to be safe than sorry, don’t you think?

3. Vinegar can help with the health of skin and coat

Your furry friend doesn’t have fleas? Good for you (and good for her), but that doesn’t mean you don’t have any use for vinegar in your household. While it’s true that this sour solution helps with so many flea-related issues, it’s also a great preventative measure.

Vinegar has a strong smell (you don’t say?!). It acts as a repellent for so many different bugs and insects, and pretty much anything else that wants to find a forever home in your cat’s fur. And trust me, that sounds a lot less adorable when it actually happens to your cat.

So, when you’re freaking out and typing “can cats eat vinegar” and “is vinegar safe for cats” you should know that this fragrant fluid can help your cat’s skin and coat in so many different ways.

As mentioned before, you can spray some diluted, organic apple cider vinegar onto your cat’s fur as a preventative measure against different insects, bugs, and fleas. Most parasites hate the smell of vinegar. They won’t come anywhere near your cat as long as you keep doing this.

On the other hand, vinegar is also anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory which makes it a great tool to clean your cat’s skin and fur. Make sure she doesn’t have any cuts, scratches, and open wounds that might get irritated in the process.

And, you can always add a couple of drops of vinegar into your cat’s water bowl. This will help her with any digestive issues she might have. But, it will also keep her hydrated and ensure the health of her skin and coat from the inside. You’re starting to think vinegar is a magical potion, aren’t you?

4. Vinegar can remove the smell of urine

Your cat does what your cat wants, isn’t that the truth? You have to admit that there are times when your cat doesn’t want to do her business in the litter box. She wants to do it somewhere else in the apartment… Somewhere where everyone who visits you can smell it!

Luckily for you, there’s a great way you can remove the stain and the smell of urine from your favorite furniture… And, it’s hiding in your kitchen! So, next time your four-legged friend decides to have a tinkle in the living room, you don’t have to yell at her. It’s a win-win situation!

So, let’s start from the beginning. Get rid of the mess she made by blotting the area with an old, rugged towel. Make sure you remove every drop of moisture before moving on to the next step. Quick warning – your towel will retain the smell of urine so it’s best you throw it away.

After you’ve done that, you can dilute some organic apple cider vinegar with water. Pour it into a spray bottle and apply it to the area your four-legged friend ruined. Add some baking soda to get rid of the stain, and the diluted ACV should be enough to mask and draw out the smell.

And you’re pretty much done! As for the smell of urine coming from the litterbox… It might be your cue to clean it out more often than you’re doing right now. You can use the vinegar in the spray bottle technique for a quick fix, but your cat might not enjoy the smell that much… Which brings me to the last point.

5. Vinegar can act as a cat repellent

Cats cat eat vinegar, but… That doesn’t mean that they want to. Your furry friend might feel compelled to give your freshly mopped floors a little lick. But, she isn’t all that likely to consume any type of vinegar on her own. Believe it or not, vinegar is a cat repellent.

There are certain smells that make your feline friend scrunch up her nose in disgust and run away in desperation. Citrus scents like oranges, mandarins, and lemons, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and fragrant fluids like vinegar – great for you, not so great for your cat.

But, how did vinegar being a cat repellent end on the “what makes vinegar good for your cat” list? Let’s say your four-legged friend loves leaving her paw marks everywhere in your apartment. She enjoys scratching the furniture, sharpening her claws on your wooden table, and biting the lamp.

Take your trusty spray bottle, pour some concentrated (undiluted) white vinegar, and spray the area your feline friend typically attacks. Cats hate the smell of white vinegar the most out of all other types of vinegar! This makes it an excellent cat repellent (and an anti-scratching contraption, too).

Cats can eat vinegar, but does that mean they should?

Let’s be honest, there’s nothing you wouldn’t do to ensure your cat’s health. That’s the main reason why you’re spending hours and hours on your computer looking up every bit of information on the topic of “can cats eat vinegar”, “can cats eat tomato sauce”, or even “can cats eat Doritos”.

As a cat parent, you care deeply about what goes into your four-legged friend’s tummy. You can eat your weight in Cool Ranch Doritos, but your cat isn’t allowed to eat anything other than carefully crafted, nutritious, and delicious cat food. So, what makes vinegar bad for your cat?

For starters, vinegar doesn’t have any nutritional value for your furry friend. Sure, it isn’t toxic and it shouldn’t lead to any adverse reactions. But other than that, there’s pretty much no reason why you should include it in her regular diet.

Additionally, there are a couple of things you should consider before letting your cat drink vinegar straight out of the bowl. Digestive issues, allergic reactions, as well as the effect it might have on cats with renal problems are only some of them. Let’s dive in!

1. Digestive issues

Repeat after me: “Just because my cat can eat something doesn’t mean she should!”

That’s pretty much the general rule of thumb when it comes to feeding your cat anything that shouldn’t be a regular part of her diet. Vinegar is highly acidic, and it’s not much of a surprise that it isn’t the best choice for your cat.

A teaspoon of vinegar in your furry friend’s wet food (or even water) shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions, but… Anything more than that might end up in an emergency visit to your vet. Or at least a gnarly rush to her litterbox!

Regardless of the type of vinegar, this sour solution doesn’t make for the best addition to your feline friend’s diet. Cats hate the smell of vinegar which means that your cat isn’t likely to eat or drink anything that contains vinegar.

On the off chance that she does eat or drink something that contains vinegar, she might experience various digestive issues starting with stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Even worse, she might develop mouth sores and other mouth-related irritations. Yikes!

2. Allergic reactions

Yes, cats can be allergic to vinegar! While vinegar allergies aren’t on the top of the list, they are a possibility you should be mindful of. When you’re planning on introducing vinegar to your cat’s diet (or cleaning her house with it!?), you should consult with your vet beforehand.

You can never be too careful when it comes to your four-legged friend’s safety. A quick visit to your vet should answer any questions regarding allergies you might have. And you should be able to proceed with your plans without that inside voice asking you “what if?”.

However, on the off chance that you notice symptoms such as skin irritations, itchiness, hives, abdominal pain, upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea, you might need to contact your vet or take your cat to the emergency animal center.

While vinegar allergies and intolerances aren’t widespread in the feline world, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You shouldn’t use any type of vinegar in your household if you have a reason to believe your cat might have an allergic reaction.

3. Possible side effects

We can’t have the conversation about including vinegar into your cat’s regular diet without mentioning the possible side effects. A lick or two shouldn’t cause any harm to your cat. But, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t consult with your vet beforehand.

Let’s say your four-legged friend is happy and healthy, enjoys a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients, and hasn’t shown any signs of illness in pretty much forever. That right there is the best-case scenario when debating whether you should use vinegar in your household.

There’s no reason why you should be scared to clean your house with white vinegar, use apple cider vinegar to get rid of mites, fleas, and other parasites, and add a couple of drops of any type of vinegar to your cat’s regular food. But…

There are certain situations in which you should steer clear of this sour solution. For instance, cats with kidney disease shouldn’t consume vinegar under any circumstances.

They’re unable to process the acetic acid that can typically be found in vinegar, regardless of the type. Unfortunately, if they accidentally ingest foods or liquids that are highly acidic they might experience serious and even fatal repercussions.

So, can cats eat vinegar? Here’s what you should keep in mind…

First things first, stop panicking and take a deep breath because cats can eat vinegar! It doesn’t matter whether your curious creature decided to lick the freshly mopped floors or quench her thirst from a bowl of vinegar, she shouldn’t experience any adverse reactions.

Most pet parents wonder whether they can use the chemical properties of vinegar to clean their apartments, chase away those pesky parasites, and deal with their four-legged friend’s meows that say “can I please have whatever you’re having?” And to that, we say – YES!

Not only is vinegar considered safe for cats, but it can also find a bunch of uses in your household. The only thing you should be careful with, however, is the amount of vinegar you add to your cat’s food or water bowl. A couple of drops or even a teaspoon should be enough, but…

Too much vinegar might leave your furry friend running to the litterbox. Other than that, feel free to clean your apartment and pour a drink with a tang of vinegar for you and your four-legged friend. Good luck!

I don’t know about you, but I’m serious when it comes to my pancakes. They have to be purrfectly put together and only then can I relish in their magnificent flavor.

However, whenever I’m making these treats, I always sense some kind of presence with me in the kitchen. It’s like a shadow lurking from behind…

Sooner or later, the dark knight shows herself and I’m met with tiny pawprints all over the countertop. Now, this isn’t an issue as I love sharing food with my pet.

But we’re not so sure whether cats can eat these homemade or store-bought sweets. I know human food differs a lot from cat food, but what could possibly happen?

If you’re having the same thoughts as me, you might as well check out some interesting facts about syrup and cats!

Can cats eat maple syrup?

If you and your pet share the habit of having breakfast together, then I’m sure she’s encountered the deliciousness called pancakes.

You may have a picky eater, but I can’t relate to that. My furry devil will gobble down any food that comes his way. But it’s usually her that makes sure the food comes.

Sometimes, it seems as if she forgets that she’s an obligate carnivore. I’ll find her indulging in some grains or plants, so why not try out some pancakes with syrup?

Carnivores aren’t supposed to eat these treats, but what’s stopping them? Well, I should be the one to interfere whenever I see the thief committing a crime, but she’s so fast!

Before I can get to her, she devours the leftover pancake and waffles with maple syrup on them. The dough isn’t really the reason for concern, but what about the toppings?

You’re thinking how you must be a terrible cat owner to allow that to happen, but don’t worry. Cats are devils and stealthy little creatures.

I’ve never met an animal that has so many tricks up its sleeves. So, don’t take the blame for your furchild’s behavior. Instead, let’s find out can cats eat syrup!

What are syrups made of?

When I say pancakes, I just know you’re clearly thinking of maple syrup, right? Well, this may or may not be the case.

You can find regular pancake syrups that differ a lot from maple syrup. So, what’s the difference?

They might look the same, but they’re certainly not. Regular syrups that are store-bought are highly processed condiments.

Maple syrup is made from maple tree sap that goes through the process of caramelization, giving it its distinct color and flavor.

On the other hand, store-bought ones consist of simple high-fructose corn syrup. However, both of these sweeteners have certain ingredients that can be a step backward for your cat’s health.

So, when we ask “can cats eat syrup”, the answer leans more toward the negative.

Can cats eat syrups safely and do they like them?

If you have a furry friend like I do, it’s inevitable she’ll stick her nose in this sweet sauce. However, the sweet flavor isn’t what attracts your feline pal.

Small quantities aren’t likely to be a reason for immediate concern but that’s only if she has a lick or two.

A small piece of pancake or waffles with maple syrup on it should be okay every once in a while, but don’t get ahead of yourself.

Although it’s not poisonous to felines, it’s not on the completely safe side either. Sugar levels found in these table condiments aren’t beneficial to your cat’s health.

Pet owners are sometimes not aware of this fact. Make sure you do your research for the sake of your friend’s health.

Felines don’t have a sweet tooth as we do. They lack the receptors needed to detect the sweet flavor of sugar.

Now, this isn’t life-threatening but it could surely cause some health problems in the long run.

If you have a kitten that isn’t quite of age yet, make sure she stays away from these human foods. Small cats need a specific diet to help them fully grow and develop.

So, make sure you stick to her natural choice of food, which is meat of any kind. Consult with your veterinarian if your kitty’s had some of the forbidden food products.

Are there any health benefits of cats eating syrup?

We know that sweets aren’t a carnivore’s natural choice of food. When you really think about it, it’s hard to find a place for carbs and sweets in a cat’s diet.

Meat is at the top of their menu, so we can only assume that maple syrup, or any syrup for that matter, is nowhere near.

Therefore, highly-processed corn syrup isn’t necessary for her diet. While it contains some health benefits, they come in really small quantities. These include traces of minerals such as manganese, calcium, and some amino acids.

What about maple syrup?

Although it’s high in sugar and calories, we can say that maple syrup has a lot more health supplements for your feline friend.

Some of these include certain nutrients such as iron, calcium, phosphor, zinc, potassium, as well as manganese.

These minerals play an important role in keeping your cat’s health top-notch. They boost the immune system, strengthen bones and teeth, and give a fuller, shinier look to her coat.

Next to these, maple syrup has an abundance of omega-6 fatty acids. While these are more likely to be found in meat such as sardines, it’s one of the pros of this syrup.

They are types of polyunsaturated, healthy fats., and help regulate metabolism and various bodily functions. These healthy lipids lower the cholesterol levels in the blood, which decreases the risk of your cat developing certain heart diseases.

However, this isn’t enough to supply your pet with all the needed health supplements. It goes without saying that protein is an essential part of a feline’s diet and it’s nowhere to be found in pancake syrups.

What are the downsides to pancake syrups?

Unfortunately, there are a lot more downsides to these delicious flavors than health advantages. It’s mainly because of the high sugar content found in these sweeteners.

Both maple syrup and regular, highly-processed corn syrup, are packed with natural and artificial preservatives.

Sugar could become a real problem for your cat’s health if she consumes it over a certain period of time.

It can cause tooth decay in felines and other dental issues. Moreover, it’s the leading cause of obesity in felines and one of the reasons why they struggle with various health issues.

High sugar levels can set the foundation for diabetes as well. Besides weight gain, sweet foods that have high sugar content are often detrimental to your cat’s digestive system.

In severe cases, your pet has the risk of developing pancreatitis. This medical issue can be exhibited in common symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

However, sugar isn’t the main reason for concern.

Artificial sweeteners

Many products consist of artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol. This chemical compound is mainly used in processed foods like gummy bears.

Pure maple syrup is supposed to be stripped of this harmful ingredient, whereas other types are loaded with it.

Unfortunately, xylitol is extremely dangerous for felines because it’s toxic. It’s often found in many sweet treats and even small amounts of it can lead to death.

It decreases the levels of blood sugar which can lead to certain diseases. If your pet eats sugary foods on a regular basis, you’re basically setting her up for failure.

Besides having no nutritional benefits, sugar and sweeteners can make your pet suffer from hypoglycemia and liver failure.

Moreover, the number of carbohydrates found in maple syrup, as well as regular ones, is concerning, to say the least.

Carbs don’t hold any nutritional value for felines and are, therefore, unnecessary in their diet. However, if she continues to feast on them, she’s likely to struggle with weight.

Can cats eat sugar-free syrup?

You might think this would be an excellent substitution for sugary ones, but you couldn’t be more wrong.

When you’re offered a product that’s labeled as “sugar-free”, it’s usually anything but. Sure, there are no traces of actual sugar found, but where is that sweet flavor coming from then?

The answer lies in artificial sweeteners, yet again. They’re used to enhance the flavor that will appeal to the customers.

Also, some of the preservatives and additives serve to prevent the product from going bad. They secure their long shelf life, but just how healthy can this be for felines?

Well, it can’t. I’m sorry to break the news to you, but these artificial sweeteners are toxic to most pets. Next to xylitol, the one often found in sugar-free foods is maltitol.

Sounds familiar, right? Unfortunately, this is another chemical compound found in syrups that cats aren’t allowed to eat.

These sugar substitutes are perfect for adding flavor, but it’s not worth the risk.

To sum up

In summary, cats shouldn’t be indulging in these sweets, as they can be quite detrimental to her health.

High sugar levels are what pose a threat to your furry friend. They can be the reason for dental problems, obesity, diabetes, pancreatitis, liver damage, and so much more.

Besides, store-bought syrups often use artificial flavors and sweeteners in order to emphasize the flavor of the product. Some of them, known as xylitol and maltitol, are extremely toxic to felines.

Other than that, your pet can get used to consuming these calorie-dense foods and refuse to devour her cat food. This can become a problem for both of you as she’ll soon fall sick.

In conclusion, don’t inspire your feline to test out boundaries and indulge in these pancake toppings, ever!

Now, we all know how much of a beggar they can be at times, so what should you do? It’s a tough decision because we want to give in to their desires, but we also know human food isn’t the best choice for them.

On the other hand, we think our loveable pets can get tired of cat food. Now, you have to make the call, so can cats eat tomato sauce?

Can cats eat tomato sauce safely?

The struggle is real and we’ve all been there. If your pet happened to steal a lick or two of your sauce, don’t panic. It’s unlikely a small amount will harm her health. However, this doesn’t mean she has a green light when it comes to this treat.

People love sauces and various dips because they add flavor to the food. Otherwise, most of it would be bland. Still, some human foods can be detrimental to felines’ health, so it’s best to consult with your vet. Also, food allergies are no exception in the cat world!

Unfortunately, tomato sauce isn’t a natural choice of food for your furry companion, so it’s best to stay away from it.

Moreover, it contains certain ingredients that can be poisonous to her. Just like ketchup, try to keep the tomato sauce out of your cat’s paws.

Are tomatoes okay for cats to eat?

I might have to disappoint you with this one. Unfortunately, you shouldn’t feed your pet tomatoes. Although they’re highly beneficial to humans, the same can’t be said for cats.

These veggies come from the nightshade family. Although they’re abundant in certain nutrients such as vitamin C, they aren’t healthy for your feline.

While humans can gain from the health benefits it offers, cats can’t. Tomatoes contain a compound known as solanine which is poisonous to felines. It can cause various symptoms to appear and your can will have a bad experience with them.

If she’s taken only a bite of a tomato, it shouldn’t be enough to invoke the poisoning signs. However, eating large amounts will surely be detrimental to her health. Your feline friend may be in a lot of trouble if she feasts on this veggie.

Green tomatoes are also a major concern for felines. They’re also known as unripe tomatoes and are even more dangerous than ripe tomatoes because they contain higher amounts of toxic compounds.

What about the green parts of the tomato plant? This is also worrisome because the leaves and the stem also contain the chemical compound – solanine.

The toxicity occurs within a short span of time. Your feline may start to exhibit certain signs of solanine poisoning, such as decreased heart rate, excessive vomiting, and urination.

The nightshade family members are, therefore, off-limits for felines. This includes tomatoes, as well as eggplants.

What else can be found in tomato sauce?

If you think that tomatoes are the only thing found in this delicious sauce, you’re wrong. There’s much more to this flavorful sidedish than what meets the eye.

People aren’t always aware of all the ingredients found in certain sauces and dips such as pesto, for instance. This is why you have to be careful when feeding your pet your leftovers that are covered in these condiments and dips. Some of the ingredients may not be good for your cat’s stomach and we all know how that ends…

1. What about olive oil?

It’s safe to say that olive oil isn’t toxic to pets, but it’s not recommended either. While it contains certain health benefits, it’s not enough to be considered a must in the cat’s diet.

However, the content of this oil isn’t alarming in tomato sauce. So, if you’re wondering can cats eat tomato sauce because of it, the short answer is yes. Still, don’t forget how tomatoes can affect your pet!

If you have to incorporate the oil into your feline’s diet, make sure you choose the extra virgin olive oil. It’s the least dangerous for your pet. Other oils can be harmful as they are packed with fat that can upset your cat’s stomach.

It’s possible your feline will feel ill after eating foods with high amounts of oil in them, such as french fries.

2. Can cats eat tomato sauce because of the seasonings?

As cat lovers, we must always be aware of the dangers certain foods carry. Tomato sauce is often used in spaghetti sauce and it’s no secret that cats love pasta.

They love the carbs just as we do! Sometimes, you’ll use some of this treat to bribe her to get down from the tree.

However, it’s a mistake. Don’t pull your hair out because a few bites won’t necessarily do her any harm. Still, if you let your cat eat spaghetti sauce, she might get hooked on it and beg for more.

Consuming these sauces, in the long run, could be detrimental to her health. Next to olive oil, seasonings such as salt play an important part in adding to the flavor of this dressing.

The other herbs used in making the tomato sauce are oregano and basil, together with spices such as black pepper. Although these herbs aren’t poisonous to felines, they’re not fit for their diet. It’s possible your cat will experience certain gastrointestinal issues after consuming these herbs.

As for basil, we can say it plays on your cat’s team. It’s non-toxic and completely safe for her to consume. However, she won’t get much nutritional value from it.

The good news is that it contains an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage. Moreover, it’s known to enhance the flavor of the food, hence its use in tomato sauce.

3. The dangers of salt and garlic

Although tomato sauce contains some ingredients that are totally fine for your pet, here’s something to worry about.

Pet owners should be cautious when it comes to these seasonings and spices as they’re incredibly toxic to felines. The ingestion of garlic and cloves, as well as other members of the Allium family, can be a disaster. Some milder symptoms include stomach upset followed by vomiting and diarrhea.

In severe cases, it can seriously harm your cat’s health. Garlic and onions are known for destroying your pet’s red blood cells which leads to various types of anemia.

This is why you should avoid feeding your cat tomato sauce all the time. It’s simply not worth the risk!

As cat owners, our furry friends’ digestive system, as well as overall health is a priority. The same rule is applied when speaking of salt.

Sodium toxicity is no joke, and whether you like it or not, can cause serious damage to your feline. Some of the most common symptoms of sodium poisoning are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and others.

Can cats eat tomato soup?

Knowing how tomatoes and seasonings affect your cat, unfortunately, the answer is no. Try to refrain from feeding your pet these human foods unless they’re homemade.

Just like any soup, this red one can spark your cat’s interest. Make sure to leave out the harmful seasonings if you intend on feeding them to your pet. If you do, remember that tomato soup doesn’t hold much nutritional value to felines.

Final words

To be loud and clear; tomato sauce is harmful to your furry friend. It’s no problem if she has a lick of it, but it’s best for her to keep her paws out of the pot.

It can contain poisonous ingredients such as salt and garlic. Don’t get deceived if you think that it’s okay for cats to eat sardines in tomato sauce either.

If you don’t have the time to make one by yourself, beware of the store-bought tomato sauces as they contain various preservatives. These can be harmful to felines in the long run.

After all, apples are perfectly safe for cats. You can cut them into cubes or slices, and offer them to your picky eater as a delicious and nutritious treat. They’re high in calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K, and pectin. And they’re unlike any other fruit as they offer the same health benefits to cats as they do to humans!

It makes sense to assume that cats can eat applesauce, too. You always have a pouch or two hidden somewhere in the kitchen. It would be so easy to open one for your precious purrincess every time she’s acting out and begging for a treat.

While the main ingredient in applesauce is apples, you should be mindful of the amount of sugar, additives, and preservatives most fruit sauces contain. Don’t get me wrong, applesauce isn’t toxic to cats, and consuming it shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions.

However, that doesn’t mean that you should include it in your cat’s regular diet. If your feline friend’s a big fan of fruit sauces, you can use applesauce as an occasional treat. There are a couple of things you need to take into consideration, though, so let’s dive in!

Do cats like applesauce?

First things first, applesauce is a sauce made from apples. Apples are skinned (or unskinned) and ground into a liquid consistency. It’s typically sweetened with sugar, honey, or maple syrup. It’s not unusual to include other flavourful ingredients like cinnamon or nutmeg.

That sounds delicious, but here’s the catch – cats can’t taste sweet things. They lack sweetness receptors that prevent them from enjoying sugary treats most of us can’t live without.

So, if your mischievous monster starts showing interest in applesauce, she’s either doing it out of sheer curiosity or she’s enjoying the gravy-like texture. Let’s be honest, your cat would munch on dirt if she thought it looked like the most delicious gourmet meal.

Cats might like applesauce, but that doesn’t mean they should eat it. The biggest problem with this fruity treat is that the commercially available applesauce contains heaps of additives and preservatives. That’s not something you want in your precious pet’s belly!

Some brands use a lot of ingredients in their sauces and you should feel free to leave those on the shelf. Don’t worry, because there are plenty of other brands that use fewer ingredients in hopes of making their products healthier and accessible to everyone. Fewer ingredients are always better in the feline world!

Cats can eat all-natural applesauce with no additives and preservatives, but… Those are really hard to find. If you’re still wondering whether cats can eat applesauce safely, here are a couple of risks and benefits that might help you make the final decision.

Risks of feeding applesauce to your cat

If you’re planning on sharing a pouch of yummy goodness with your precious pet, you should take a couple of things into consideration. While apples aren’t toxic to cats, applesauce can contain different ingredients that might harm your cat in the long run.

1. Applesauce is rich in sugar

Believe it or not, 100 grams of applesauce contains around 15 grams of sugar. Cats are carnivores which means they require a protein-packed diet. They thrive on meat and animal-sourced vitamin, minerals, and antioxidants.

Cats don’t require fruit in their diet, and their digestive systems aren’t designed to break down carbohydrates. If your feline friend accidentally eats too much applesauce, you might be in trouble. Too much sugar can lead to discomfort, excessive thirst and urination, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Not only that, if you include applesauce in your cat’s regular diet she might experience serious health problems in the long run. Weight gain, tooth decay, and diabetes are only some of the issues that might arise from letting your cat consume too much sugar.

2. Applesauce contains additives and preservatives

Most commercially available applesauce doesn’t even fall under the healthy category. You might think your precious purrincess is eating high-quality apple puree and gaining all the nutritional benefits, but she isn’t. All she’s gaining is unnecessary weight!

Apart from sugar, applesauce typically contains a bunch of additives and preservatives. These two ingredients refer to any substance that’s added to change the sustenance at hand in some way. Meaning they extend shelf life, improve taste and appearance, and even act as nutritional supplements.

With all that in mind, can cats eat applesauce? No! You shouldn’t feed applesauce to your cat unless you’re one hundred percent positive it doesn’t contain any additives and preservatives!

3. Apple leaves, twigs, and seeds are toxic to cats

This universally loved fruit isn’t toxic to cats, but… You should be extra careful when trying to introduce it to your cat’s regular diet. You should always consult with your vet before making any significant changes and decisions.

Believe it or not, apple leaves, twigs, and seeds contain cyanide! You need to know that cyanide is a potentially deadly chemical. In this particular case, pits and seeds of various fruits (apricots, apples, and peaches) contain substantial amounts of chemicals which are metabolized into cyanide.

While most commercially available applesauce shouldn’t contain anything other than the apple flesh, you can never be too careful. You have no control over what goes into those pouches, so it’s better to avoid prepackaged fruit sauces altogether.

Benefits of feeding homemade applesauce to your cat

Believe it or not, the biggest culprits of applesauce are sugar, additives, and preservatives. Get rid of them and you’ll get the most mouth-watering treat for your precious purrincess! If she loves munching on this delicious sauce, you might want to look into making it from scratch.

Homemade applesauce is completely safe for feline consumption! Not only that, it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber which can do wonders for your cat’s digestive system. Since it contains some water it can also help keep your cat’s hydration levels in check.

1. Applesauce is packed with vitamins and minerals

If you provide her with an occasional applesauce treat, your boisterous beast might benefit from heaps of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. While cats do get most of their nutrition from animals, it doesn’t hurt to add some more!

Vitamin A supports your cat’s immune system and contains well-known antioxidants. It helps to protect your cat’s body against cancer formation, vision deterioration, and other diseases. Vitamin B6 is the driving force behind the production of your cat’s red blood cells.

Vitamin C has an important physiologic role in various metabolic functions including proper tissue growth and maintenance, oxidative stress relief, and (you guessed it) immune system regulation.

Lastly, potassium, calcium, and magnesium regulate the fluid concentration in your cat’s body, help with urinary disorders, and help prevent kidney disease (as well as other renal disorders). It’s safe to say that homemade applesauce really packs a punch!

2. Applesauce is rich in fiber

While it’s difficult to talk about homemade applesauce nutrition facts, 100 grams of applesauce should contain around 1,2 grams of fiber. Trust me, this is a great amount for your feline friend as cats shouldn’t consume too much of it (unless you want her to run to her litterbox all the time)!

Carbs are evil, but… Fiber is a type of carb that isn’t digested by a cat’s gastrointestinal tract. It’s incredibly important for your cat’s health because it helps with all sorts of digestive functions. It improves the stool quality in constipated cats as it provides bulk to let food move through.

It’s safe to say that homemade applesauce can be your cat’s best friend when you learn how to use it responsibly. Don’t include it in your cat’s regular diet, but do use it as an occasional healthy treat. Your precious purrincess might not taste the sweetness, but she’ll appreciate the texture!

3. Applesauce can keep your cat’s hydration levels in check

Have you ever noticed the hatred cats feel towards water? That look of utter disgust whenever they catch a glimpse of their water bowl is priceless. Not to mention the fact they always forget to drink out of it! Chances are your cat’s hydration levels aren’t in check, and that’s where applesauce can step in.

Since it contains lots of water, you can use applesauce to trick your feline friend into being more responsible with her hydration levels. It’s quite a delicious way of introducing more water into her regular diet.

One thing to keep in mind – you should be careful with the amount of applesauce your cat consumes. Homemade applesauce doesn’t have to contain any added sugar, but you shouldn’t forget about the natural sugars that come from apples. Your precious purrincess needs some fresh water, too!

How to make homemade applesauce?

This is the best time to answer the age-old question ”Can cats eat applesauce?” Cats can eat applesauce if you make it from scratch! It’s the best way to ensure your feline friend gets the highest quality treat with no additives and preservatives. Here’s a great recipe you can use!

Ingredients

Three large apples (Gala, Red Delicious, or Granny Smith);

Two tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or some other cat-friendly sweetener;

One cup of water.

Directions

Peel and slice your apples, and remove the leaves, stems, and seeds. Put them in a pot and add your water and honey/maple syrup. Cook for two hours, or until they have completely softened. Remove them from the pot carefully, put them in your blender, and blend until you get a smooth consistency. Voila!

Don’t forget! Commercially available applesauce isn’t good for cats as it contains heaps of sugar, additives, and preservatives. If you’re wondering whether cats can eat prepackaged applesauce, the answer will always be no.

On the other hand, homemade applesauce can be your savior. If your feline friend’s a big fan of the gravy-like texture, you can always throw a couple of apples in the pot and make it from scratch. Use it as an occasional treat, and your cat will love you forever!

You can’t say no to your precious purrincess! When she looks at you with those adorable little eyes, you can’t help but agree to let her have a taste. This garnish might take pride in its strong flavor, but your cat doesn’t seem to be bothered by it at all.

Luckily for you, authentic wasabi paste isn’t toxic to cats. That said, while they can enjoy it without adverse reactions, this spicy garnish isn’t popular in the feline world. Chances are your feline friend will give it a try, a lick, or even a nibble out of sheer curiosity… and that’s it!

Wasabi contains isothiocyanate, which is a natural cat repellent. Even if your curious creature still decides to give it a try, you shouldn’t expect to see her reaching for wasabi ever again. Beware, next time she might go for your sushi rolls instead!

So, can cats eat wasabi safely? While wasabi won’t put your precious pet in any immediate danger, you should be mindful of the amount she consumes. Satisfy her curiosity and leave it at that!

It’s best not to include wasabi in her regular diet, and here are some reasons why.

Real wasabi vs. imitation wasabi

Let’s start from the beginning!

When we talk about wasabi, we typically refer to the flavorsome, greenish paste that’s served with sushi. This spicy garnish is incredibly popular around the world because it brings out the flavor of food and gives it that mouth-watering kick.

Real wasabi is made from a Japanese horseradish plant. Wasabia Japonica can only be grown naturally in, you guessed it, the riverbeds of Japan. Since it’s fairly difficult to find anywhere else in the world, the price point of this horseradish paste makes it unattainable to most restaurants.

Here’s where the imitation wasabi comes in! Imitation wasabi is made from regular horseradish, mustard powder, green food coloring, and cornstarch. It’s much cheaper, available everywhere in the world, and most likely what’s on your plate when you order a platter of sushi.

You’re not bothered by the fact you’ve been tricked into thinking you’re eating the real deal. But, your cat might not share the same opinion. While real wasabi isn’t toxic to cats, the imitation one might lead to serious health issues.

So, can cats eat wasabi? If you’re planning on sharing some with your fiery feline, you should take a couple of things into consideration.

Real wasabi might offer an array of nutritional and health benefits to your cat (if she can appreciate the spice). Imitation wasabi, on the other hand, might make her run to the litter box!

If cats can eat wasabi, does that mean they should?

Oh, the age-old question of whether cats can eat human food… It’s never an easy task to provide an answer with certainty. While some foods might not be toxic to cats, it’s a matter of good judgment whether you should let them eat those foods regularly.

If cats can eat wasabi, does that mean they should? Wasabi is one of those things your feline friend might want to try out of sheer curiosity. The real deal might make her scrunch up her nose and walk away, but it will provide her with some nutritional and health benefits at the same time.

Imitation wasabi is where you should draw the line. While regular horseradish isn’t on the list of toxic ingredients, it does carry potential health risks (including skin irritation and eye infection). Your feline friend should also steer clear of mustard, but more on that subject a bit later.

Whether it be real or imitation wasabi, it’s best to not include this pungent garnish in your cat’s regular diet. If you can get your hands on the real deal, feel free to let her have a little taste. However, if the only thing you can find is imitation wasabi, it’s best to avoid it altogether. And if you need more convincing…

Can cats eat real wasabi?

As mentioned before, real wasabi is made from Japanese horseradish. Since it can’t be grown anywhere else in the world, Wasabi Japonica can rack up quite a price – we’re talking between $160 and $250 per kilogram! I guess the best costs, right?

If money isn’t your concern and the only thing you’re wondering is whether cats can eat real wasabi, this is your lucky day. Not only is this incredibly rare garnish not toxic to cats, but it also comes with heaps of health benefits.

Firstly, wasabi contains isothiocyanate, which prevents the growth of salmonella, Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, and Staphylococcus. If your mischievous monster manages to steal a lick or two of this flavorsome paste, it might offer her a helping paw against food poisoning.

This is one of the main reasons wasabi is often served with seafood. Since it has antiparasitic properties, it makes for a great ally when you’re eating raw meat. (Side note: Even with all the wasabi in the world, you should never feed your cat raw seafood!)

Secondly, the same isothiocyanate also prevents Streptococcus from growing in your cat’s mouth. Streptococcus is actually the main culprit when it comes to tooth cavities and decay.

And if that wasn’t enough, wasabi is also a great tool in feline cancer prevention. Real wasabi contains the compound 6-MITC, which can induce the death of cancerous cells in your cat’s stomach.

Lastly, this incredible garnish offers anti-inflammatory properties and helps promote weight loss. If you have a chonky on your hands, you might want to start adding real wasabi to her bowl every once in a while. You should, however, consult with your vet before introducing this garnish to your cat’s diet.

What’s the deal with imitation wasabi?

Here’s where the problems arise. Since real wasabi isn’t available in most parts of the world, restaurants and markets use imitation wasabi as a substitute.

Imitation wasabi is made with regular horseradish, mustard powder, green food coloring, and cornstarch.

Not only do these ingredients not make up for the healing properties of real wasabi, but they can also cause serious damage to your cat’s digestive system. Two main components of the imitation paste, horseradish and mustard, aren’t recommended for feline consumption.

Here’s the thing. Horseradish isn’t the best thing to feed your furry friend. While it isn’t toxic, it can lead to digestive issues because it contains a glucosinolate called sinigrin, which can cause eye or skin irritations when hydrolyzed.

Moreover, mustard can cause severe gastrointestinal diseases such as gastroenteritis. If your picky eater manages to steal some mock wasabi, you might want to keep an eye out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, dry heaving, lethargy, and decreased appetite.

Consuming an excessive amount of imitation wasabi can also leave your cat severely dehydrated. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your vet immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so you’ll want to keep your wasabi out of your cat’s reach.

It’s also important to mention that kittens shouldn’t eat any type of wasabi, real or imitation. Not only are their little stomachs are too sensitive and delicate, but they also require a healthy, kitty-appropriate diet that supports their continuous development. Wasabi will give your kitten tummyache!

Lastly, if you can get your hands on the real deal, you should avoid imitation wasabi. Both you and your furkid deserve good quality food! If you can’t afford to procure Wasabi Japonica, you should steer clear of this pungent paste altogether.

Can cats eat wasabi peas?

If you’ve never eaten wasabi peas, you have no idea what you’re missing out on! Wasabi peas, as the name suggests, are regular green peas that have been roasted and coated in wasabi. Other than peas, this popular snack can also contain traces of salt, herbs, and seasonings.

To answer your question, cats can eat wasabi peas, but that doesn’t mean they should. A little nibble is unlikely to cause your precious pet any harm, but adding them to her regular diet might not be the brightest idea. Hmm, why is that, you ask?

Wasabi might be too spicy for your cat’s sensitive stomach, in turn, leading to digestive issues. In addition to that, peas are packed with fiber, which may lead to frequent litterbox visits. These green balls aren’t as harmless as they might appear!

Did you know regular green peas might lead to feline gastrointestinal issues and kidney failure!? Then add heaps of salt, garlic powder, and unfavorable herbs… You get the memo! It’s safe to say that you should avoid feeding your furry friend any amount of wasabi peas.

Can cats eat wasabi sushi?

If you caught your cat eyeballing your sushi platter on more than one occasion, there are a couple of things you should take into consideration. We’ve already touched on the risks of adding imitation wasabi to your cat’s regular diet, but what about sushi?

Cats are notorious for their love of marine life. But, you should think twice if you’re considering the idea of sharing some sushi with your trusty sidekick. Raw fish isn’t safe for cats as it may contain bacteria, parasites, and something called thiaminase.

Thiaminase is an enzyme responsible for breaking thiamine (or vitamin B1) in your cat’s body. If your seafood lover accidentally consumes sushi or anything containing raw fish, she might be at risk of developing a thiamine deficiency.

This is a serious condition that can lead to neurological problems, convulsions, and even coma. If you throw imitation wasabi and its health repercussions into the mix, it’s safe to say you should definitely not introduce wasabi sushi to your pet’s diet.

Are you disappointed because the two of you can’t share your favorite Sunday lunch? Here are a couple of things you can do to ensure your precious pet gets her well-deserved seafood extravaganza!

It’s simple. You can order grilled salmon sushi and ask the cook to skip the harmful seasonings. Or, you can try making sushi from scratch. Add some authentic Japanese wasabi and you have yourself (and your cat) a feast!

Think fast, what are your options? You could pick her up and show her what’s on the menu. Or, you could let her take a tiny bite.

Who are you trying to fool!? You know very well your mischievous monster would grab that entire piece of meat and devour it before you could even utter the word ”Stop!”

Let’s be honest, being a cat parent can be incredibly overwhelming. Your four-legged friend seems to get herself in trouble all the time. She needs those nine lives or else she wouldn’t live long enough to get out of that awkward teen phase.

Who would’ve known that she’d be in danger because of some mouth-watering marinade!? But, BBQ sauce does seem to be a sort of kryptonite in the feline world. While it isn’t completely toxic, it does contain a bunch of ingredients that might harm your cat in the long run.

So, cats can’t eat BBQ sauce! Since it’s better to be safe than sorry, you shouldn’t include this yummy sauce in your cat’s regular diet. If you need more convincing, take a closer look at the ingredients list and how they affect your cat’s overall health.

So, can cats eat BBQ sauce?

If your boisterous beast accidentally (or purposefully) takes a couple of bites of BBQ meat, there’s no reason to panic. Tiny amounts of this flavorsome sauce shouldn’t lead to any adverse reactions.

Does that mean you should add it to your cat’s regular food every single day? Absolutely not!

BBQ sauce contains a bunch of ingredients that might harm your cat. If you take a closer look at the ingredients list, you might find anything along the lines of vinegar, tomato paste, onion powder, liquid smoke, salt, spices (mustard or black pepper), and sweeteners (sugar or molasses).

Obviously, the contents of the sauce depend on the brand, the region where it came from, or whether it’s store-bought or homemade. Most of the ingredients present some level of danger to your precious pet, so it’s pretty clear why cats can’t eat BBQ sauce!

Reasons why you shouldn’t feed BBQ sauce to your cat

When your precious purrincess gives you those goo-goo eyes, you can’t help but throw her some leftover barbecue scraps. That’s where you’re making a huge mistake! She might look like she’s enjoying herself right now, but her litterbox will tell you otherwise in a couple of minutes!

Your cat might be a barbecue connoisseur, but she should steer clear of BBQ sauce. Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and sugar are only some of the ingredients that might lead to serious gastrointestinal problems in the long run.

Let’s take a closer look.

1. Onion and garlic powder

Onion, garlic, and any other plant that belongs to the Allium family are incredibly toxic to cats. They contain compounds called disulfides and thiosulphates. Disulfides and thiosulphates damage your cat’s red blood cells and lead to various types of feline anemia.

If you notice symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, pale gums, increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, and collapse, you should contact your vet immediately. He should be able to provide your cat with proper medication and medical care.

Apart from that, if your cat eats any sauce with onion and garlic she might experience various digestive issues with symptoms ranging anywhere from mouth irritation and drooling, to abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. So, you tell me if cats can eat BBQ sauce!

2. Salt

A tiny amount of BBQ sauce (two tablespoons, to be exact) contains around 300 milligrams of sodium. Do you know how many milligrams of sodium your cat is allowed to consume in one day? Less than 40 milligrams!

So, two tablespoons of BBQ sauce will likely lead to sodium poisoning. If your mischievous monster happens to eat some barbecue meat, you should keep an eye out for symptoms such as diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, loss of balance, and increased urination and thirst.

In some severe cases, your cat might even experience tremors and seizures. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact your vet immediately. If you’re too worried about her condition, you can always take her to emergency animal care.

3. Sugar

Most BBQ sauces contain sweeteners like sugar, molasses, or even xylitol. While sugar isn’t toxic to cats, it isn’t recommended as a regular part of their diet. Consuming too much sugar can leave your cat with various digestive issues.

Cats can’t taste sweet things! One of the two genes responsible for the sweetness receptor got permanently switched off millions of years ago. Because of that, your cat’s digestive system can’t break down carbohydrates!

So, two tablespoons of BBQ sauce contain around 16 grams of sugar. If your four-legged friend happens to eat more than that, she might experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Tooth decay, diabetes, and obesity are also linked to excessive sugar consumption in cats.

4. Spices

Cats can’t taste spicy things, either! Before you go on an offensive rant, cats are superior to humans in pretty much every other way. They’re lacking in that department because they’re carnivores. They don’t require anything other than meat and animal protein in their diets.

Fresh animal meat isn’t spicy, so your cat simply doesn’t have the need to detect that flavor on her tongue. Believe it or not, you have around 10000 taste buds responsible for detecting heaps of mouth-watering flavors. How many do you think your cat has? Only 470!

While BBQ sauce might owe its delicious flavor to various spices, your cat would be better off without them. In fact, too much spice can irritate and burn your cat’s mouth.

If you notice any signs of drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose, wheezing, or difficulty breathing – contact your vet immediately. While your cat isn’t likely to consume enough BBQ sauce to cause these issues, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Final verdict on BBQ sauce

So, can cats eat BBQ sauce? Absolutely not! There’s no reason why you should include ketchup, mayo, or BBQ sauce in your cat’s regular diet. While these condiments might be tasty, they could be detrimental to your cat’s health in the long run.

You can always choose to make some delicious BBQ sauce from scratch. There are numerous cat-friendly recipes online that are easy to follow and promise paw-licking results. Good luck!

This Middle Eastern spread is one of your favorites, so you shouldn’t be surprised when you notice your cat throwing curious glances at it. Hummus is pretty healthy for humans, so surely your trusty sidekick could give it a lick or two, right?

Smaller amounts of this tasty treat won’t do any harm, but…

You shouldn’t rely on hummus to enrich your feline friend’s regular diet. Unfortunately, hummus is packed with ingredients that might cause harm to your cat’s digestive system if eaten in excessive amounts. Chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice are only some of the culprits to blame!

If your feline friend’s a big fan of hummus, you can try making it yourself. There’s only one catch – homemade hummus without the unfavorable ingredients might end up tasting like a regular veggie spread. And trust me, your cat couldn’t care less about vegetables but there’s no harm in trying!

Can cats eat hummus? The good, the bad, and the ugly

Hummus is a mouth-watering spread made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a bunch of flavourful seasonings. If you’re wondering whether cats can eat hummus, you should look into the ingredient list and check whether it contains anything that might harm your precious pet.

So, let’s dive in!

1. Chickpeas

These delicious balls are one of the main ingredients of hummus. They’re packed with protein and fiber which makes you wonder whether they’re good for your furbaby, too. Wonder no more, chickpeas are one of those superfoods that get a passing grade in the feline world.

However, they shouldn’t be a regular addition to your cat’s diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they thrive on animal protein. While chickpeas do contain a substantial amount of protein, it’s not the kind your precious pet needs in her everyday life.

Not only that, chickpeas can be pretty tough on your cat’s digestive system. They contain antinutrients that wreak havoc on your cat’s body and prevent her from absorbing essential nutrients. They also contain oxalic acid, which can trigger food allergies and lead to kidney disease. Yikes!

2. Tahini

This sesame seed paste isn’t the worst thing you can feed to your cat. It contains lots of dietary fiber, minerals like zinc, calcium, and magnesium, as well as nourishing gut-friendly bacteria.

Not only that, tahini can lower the risk of inflammatory and heart diseases, relieve constipation, help with weight management, and promote healthy bones. Luckily for you, this nutritious paste isn’t toxic to cats, but again, you shouldn’t make a regular habit of feeding it to your furchild.

Tahini is pretty high in fats, which can upset your cat’s stomach, lead to other gastrointestinal issues, as well as feline obesity. There’s no reason to panic if your cat has a lick or two of tahini (or in most cases, even hummus), but you should make sure not to feed it to her in excessive amounts.

When it comes to whether cats can eat ingredients in hummus, tahini isn’t one of them you should be worried about. Not only can it offer an array of nutritional and health benefits to your precious pet, but it can also serve as a delicious treat when you’re looking to enrich your cat’s otherwise boring diet.

3. Lemon juice

Unfortunately for your hummus-loving friend, all citrus fruits are mildly toxic to cats. Grapefruit, oranges, limes, and lemons contain harmful compounds that can become poisonous to your cat if consumed in sufficient quantities.

Most mischievous monsters are put off by the smell of citrus, which means they won’t eat lemons willingly. But, if they’re contained within other foods, your cat might not be able to detect the scent, which can cause serious problems later on. Trust me, she wouldn’t eat hummus if she knew what was in it!

Unfortunately, if your cat happens to ingest excessive amounts of lemon juice, she might experience citrus poisoning. Keep an eye out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, weakness, and lethargy. Not only that, if it gets on her fur, she might develop skin irritation and rashes.

If your cat ingests lemon juice or anything else containing citrus, look for any symptoms of citrus poisoning and contact your vet immediately. If she’s experiencing severe symptoms, get to your vet or the nearest emergency animal care center. It’s best to be on the safe side!

4. Olive oil

While olive oil isn’t toxic to cats, it might not be the best idea to include it in your precious pet’s regular diet. Consuming too much oil can cause an array of problems in your cat’s body, starting with digestive issues and going all the way to feline obesity. And hummus contains lots of olive oil!

Let’s get one thing out of the way. If you love preparing homemade food for your feline friend and you happen to use olive oil for cooking, you have nothing to worry about. Olive oil can only be harmful to your cat if consumed in excessive amounts. If your cat loves olives… get her out of the kitchen!

In short, olive oil isn’t the most harmful hummus ingredient. If your furry sidekick manages to eat an entire container of hummus while you’re too busy staring at the TV, olive oil should be the least of your concerns. While it doesn’t bring many benefits to a feline’s table, it’s not labeled as toxic.

5. Garlic

Your mischievous monster might not be a vampire, but you shouldn’t be surprised if she loses her composure at the sight of garlic. This member of the Allium family is extremely toxic to your cat and you should avoid feeding her anything containing garlic, including hummus!

What makes garlic so bad? All Alliums (including garlic, onions, leeks, chives, etc.) contain compounds called disulfides and thiosulphates.

These compounds can cause serious damage to your cat’s red blood cells. Even if she consumes it in small amounts, garlic consumption can lead to feline anemia.

If your cat eats an entire container of hummus, she might experience garlic poisoning. You should keep an eye out for symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, breathlessness, paleness of the gums, and loss of consciousness.

Unfortunately, these symptoms might not appear for several days after garlic ingestion. You should contact your vet as soon as you notice a change in your cat’s behavior or appearance.

It’s very difficult to detect garlic poisoning, so if you have any reason to believe your cat ingested large amounts of hummus or other food containing garlic, make sure to contact your vet and ask for advice.

6. Herbs and spices

When determining what your cat can and cannot eat, you shouldn’t forget about the various hummus alternatives available on the market. Each of them contains different flavourful ingredients that might cause harm to your cat’s digestive system.

Roasted red pepper hummus, creamy avocado hummus, black bean hummus – your little rascal might get her paws on any of these and you should be prepared to react accordingly. Your cat shouldn’t consume excessive amounts of red peppers, avocado, beans, and most herbs and spices.

Herbs like basil, rosemary, and dill are usually added to spice things up a bit, and if you catch glimpse of these on the ingredients list, you shouldn’t worry. These herbs are completely safe for feline consumption!

On the other hand, oregano, lemongrass, and mint are causes for concern.

Lastly, cats don’t mix well with salt and other spices. If you want to keep your feline friend happy and healthy, you might want to stick to bland cat food.

Salt can make your cat dehydrated and thirsty, while anything with a bit of kick to it might lead to serious gastrointestinal issues.

My cat ate some hummus! What should I do?

Cats can eat hummus (if only a bit)! If you make sure your precious pet has no more than an occasional lick or two instead of adding it to her regular diet, hummus shouldn’t cause any serious issues.

All these harmful ingredients shouldn’t pose much danger unless they’re eaten in sufficient amounts.

So, if your cat happens to eat some hummus, no need to panic. If she did eat too much, keep an eye out for any symptoms of food poisoning, and feel free to contact your vet. Even if she seems fine, you’ll feel better knowing your vet is up to date with the situation.

It goes without saying, but if you find a way to avoid ingredients like garlic or chives, you should definitely do it. You might want to make some homemade hummus using chickpeas (which are okay in smaller amounts), steamed broccoli and carrots, and herbs like basil or rosemary.

You might be thinking ”That’s not hummus!” and you would be correct. Here’s my defense – if your furry friend’s a huge fan of hummus, chances are she only likes it because she sees you eat it all the time. If you make this cat-friendly version, I promise you she won’t notice the difference!