Chock-full of vitamins and a great resource of minerals, carrots are one of the super foods that all humans should incorporate in their diets. But what about out feline friends, can cats eat carrots too? And if yes, what are some of the ways in which it would be safe to feed them to your cat?
If you’re considering offering your cat vegetables such as carrots, here are some of the things you should know before doing so.
Can cats eat carrots?
Carrots are a safe vegetable to feed your cat. Even though cats are obligate carnivores, they can still consume carrots which are just as nutritious for them as they are for us. However, it’s not recommended to feed raw carrots to your cat so, if you plan on adding them to your cat’s diet, do so as a treat, and in small amounts.
Are carrots good for cats?
Carrots are a great resource of fibre and vitamins like Potassium, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron – all of which contribute to the proper functioning of your cat’s immune system and general health. However, carrots are also very high in sugar and if consumed in large quantities, can lead to digestive issues, as well as obesity and diabetes. At the end of the day, your cat is still a carnivore so their diet should be mainly based on meat.
How to feed carrots to cats?
To make sure your cat takes advantage of the vitamins in carrots, it’s recommended to always cook the carrots before offering them.
Start by washing them thoroughly and peel them before cooking – you can either boil, bake, or steam them until they’re soft and chewy.
Although you might be tempted to make the carrots taste better for your cat, it’s important that you don’t season them as some ingredients can be toxic to cats. Cut the carrots into tiny pieces to make it easier for your cat to chew and digest them. Remember to only offer your cat carrots occasionally and in small amounts.
Can kittens eat carrots?
Kittens can also eat carrots, but as they’re very young and have a sensitive digestive system, it’s best stick to an appropriate diet. A small piece of carrot once in a while shouldn’t hurt them in any way, though.
If you have any doubts about what vegetable you can feed your cat or kitten, make sure to always contact your vet and ask for their opinion. They should be able to offer guidance on what type of diet would best benefit your feline friend.
Now that you’ve got your answer to the ‘can cats eat carrots’ question, it’s time to explore further nutritional advice for your cat. Check out if cats can eat spinach, next.
