Many store-bought cat treats are high in calories and offer little nutritional benefit. On the other hand, fruits and vegetables are low in calories, and excellent natural sources of the vitamins and minerals often added to commercial cat treats.
If you’d like to offer your cat fruits and vegetables, preparation is key. Never add any sugar, salt, oil, butter or other seasonings. Though fruits and veggies can be healthy, remember that every calorie counts, and treats should be given sparingly.
Cats with health issues including bladder stones, kidney disease and diabetes should not be fed anything other than a veterinarian-recommended cat food. This is because other foods may be high in nutrients that worsen their diseases or symptoms.
While there are no studies that find harmful long-term effects of feeding cats fruits and vegetables, there are also no studies that find benefit. The best nutritional benefit for a cat comes from store-bought cat food designed to support all of a feline’s specific nutritional needs.
Interested in treating your kitty to a fresh snack? Here are five fruits and veggies that are safe to feed cats.
Zucchini
Zucchini can be given to cats as a treat either raw or cooked. If cooked, do not add oil, salt or other seasoning. Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great substitute for a store-bought treat.
Beans
Beans are high in fiber and protein and are very filling. Each cooked bean (kidney, garbanzo, cannellini, etc.) is a perfect cat-sized treat. If using canned beans, be sure to rinse them well to remove any salt added during the canning process.
Bananas
Bananas have a unique texture that some cats will enjoy. They’re also high in potassium, magnesium and vitamins C and B6. You can even use more and less ripe bananas to add some variety.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins and minerals including iron, calcium and B vitamins. They are high in antioxidants and ease digestion. Boiled, baked or steamed in the microwave, it is easy to prepare small squares to use as the occasional treat for your cat.
Apples
For cats who prefer some crunch, a slice of apple can be a delicious treat. Like humans, cats can eat the fruit and the skin, but not the seeds. Cut a thin slice into pieces big enough for your cat to get a good chomp.
Other fruits and vegetables can also be given to cats based on their preferences. However, never give grapes, raisins, onions or garlic. Nuts should also be avoided.