The short answer: It is not recommended.
The long answer: Meat-loving cats do not need to consume sugar because this sweet-tasting human food is something that they cannot taste and digest. Their bodies are not good at breaking down carbohydrates, and they are better off having protein-rich meals. Feeding your cat too much sugar (whether in simple or complex form) can lead to feline diabetes, obesity, dental problems, and other life-threatening complications.
On a related note, xylitol is a commercially produced sugar substitute that is made from birch bark and corn cob. Some studies claim that the artificial sweetener may not be as lethal to cats as it is to dogs, but it is still advisable to keep it away from her. This is because when broken down, xylitol significantly elevates the levels of insulin in your cat’s bloodstream 6 times higher than the same amount of sugar, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels).
What to do if your cat accidentally eats sugar or xylitol: Observe your cat and consult with your vet immediately. Watch for signs of xylitol poisoning such as sudden lack of coordination, vomiting, lethargy, seizures, coma, and liver failure.
In summary: Even though sugar isn’t lethal for your cat, it’s best not to introduce it to her since she won’t be able to enjoy it anyway. Too much of this sweet treat can cause irreparable health problems. Xylitol is also a risk for your cat, so keep xylitol-flavoured items away from your cat at all times. Discover which human food cats can safely consume in our “can cats eat” category.
References:
Can Cats Eat Sugar? What You Need to Know
Strange but True: Cats Cannot Taste Sweets
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