The short answer: Yes, but only occasionally and in moderation.
The long answer: Strawberries are juicy and fragrant fruits that your cat can enjoy once in a while. Since cats are obligate carnivores, they need to consume mostly protein and fat to fulfill their dietary needs. Fruits such as strawberries would only be considered as treats. They should only be limited to 10% of your cat’s daily required calorie intake.
Known as aggregate fruits, strawberries are packed with vitamin C, B9, potassium, manganese, and fiber. Your cat may be able to get some of these nutrients and help stay hydrated as she eats them. However, feeding should only be limited to a few sliced pieces because of the high sugar content. Eating too many strawberries can cause your cat to experience gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and/or decrease in appetite. Aside from that, feeding your cat strawberries on a regular basis may lead to obesity, diabetes, and/or tooth decay.
How to feed strawberries to your cat: Remove the leaves and stem. Wash the fruit thoroughly in cold water. Take out the moldy, overripe, or bruised parts, and discard them properly. Chop the strawberry into smaller pieces before serving it to your cat.
Let her try one small piece first, then observe her for any changes. Check for any allergic reactions. Do not feed her more than half a strawberry per day.
Here are three ideas for strawberry treats your cat will love:
- Chill, slice, and serve the frozen strawberries on a hot day!
- Add two to three slices of strawberries over her cat food.
- Give a slice of strawberry as a post-meal treat or reward for training.
In summary: Strawberries are safe for cats as long as they are eaten in limited quantities and only once in a while. Your cat will appreciate the fragrant scent and unique texture of the fruit, but she will not be able to taste its sweetness. Aside from strawberries, discover which human food cats can safely consume in our “can cats eat” category.
References:
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.