Can Cats Eat Pasta?
Who doesn't want a huge pasta dish? Perhaps it's one of the sought-after food items that are comforting and starchy that is a daily staple for many families. But, is your cat able to take a bite of pasta or linguine occasionally?
According to experts, maybe. Pasta is suitable for cats to eat occasionally. But, as with all human meals, there are a few security considerations you need to consider (and possible dangers to bear in your mind) before feeding your cat with spaghetti.
Can Cats Eat Pasta?
Like other foods that your pet may find interesting, however, it's not the pasta that could be dangerous, but how it's made. The main ingredients of pasta--flour eggs, water, and flour usually safe for cats to consume. The shape of pasta isn't a factor due to its soft texture. So, no matter what you prefer, pasta or linguine it's acceptable that your pet eats.
While the pasta ingredients won't cause any health issues for cats, the ingredients aren't very nutritious. Carnivores are the primary food source for cats, which means they must get the majority of their nutritional needs from protein sources, such as chicken or fish.
Protein deficiency is a serious problem that could lead to serious cat health issues that's why, should you offer your pet human food it is recommended to add healthy, nutritious choices such as salmon, fruits and vegetables, and even some kinds of cheese.
Although grains are common ways into some pet (and dog) food items, they can only be used to increase the bulk and hold the food together but don't offer any significant nutritional value for our furry friends. Pasta is also lacking in the essential minerals and vitamins cats (and the humans they share with) require on a regular every day.
The Dangers of Pasta for Cats
However, while it's not necessarily "good" to your pet, it isn't harmful to indulge in a small amount occasionally provided that it's served plainly and isn't smothered in tomato sauces or creamy sauces (which are either too acidic, or too creamy, and high in fat) butter, other ingredients.
Certain ingredients found in a variety of pasta dishes, like onions, garlic salt, and garlic can be harmful to canines and cats, which is why you're not likely to be able to share a cooked pasta dish at the restaurant. Anything packed with sugar, salt as well as fat, and other additives won't be healthy for your cat, including pasta and its toppings.
Another pasta type to stay clear of is pasta that has been previously made (think Spaghetti-Os) and instant noodles that can be filled with sodium. Cats don't like large amounts of sodium, eating processed or salty noodles could be detrimental to your cat.
Other risks associated with your cat's consumption of pasta can increase their chance of becoming obese and other weight-related problems. Certain cats might also struggle to digest pasta and this can result in GI problems like diarrhea. There's also the possibility that your cat is sensitive to wheat and that the cat should definitely stay off pasta as well as other starchy food items.
How to Safely Offer Pasta to Your Cat
Always talk to your veterinarian prior to offering pasta or other food items that is human to your cat. each cat has its own medical needs. Your vet will be able to advise you on whether it's okay to offer your spaghetti for sharing.
If you receive the green light, begin with a tiny bite or two and then observe your cat's reaction. If they are showing indications of digestive issues or other health issues it is best to avoid feeding your cat any more pasta. If your cat seems to be enjoying the pasta, bear in your mind that you are only served a tiny amount occasionally, and it shouldn't be an integral part of their diet.
Another thing to bear in your mind is that cats should not receive raw pasta. They aren't equipped to digest raw pasta, and this could cause digestive discomfort for them should they accidentally be able to get their hands on dried pasta.
If your cat is scurrying around your kitchen counter while you're cooking dinner and manages to eat dried pasta, call your vet for advice and keep an eye out for any indications of stomach upset.
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