Broccoli is one of the most beneficial vegetables to humans and it is packed with nutrients? The question is can cats benefit from it and can cats eat broccoli?
The answer to the question “can cats eat broccoli” is short and simple. Yes, cats can eat broccoli and it is beneficial to cats in some ways but when we are talking about plants and feline diet, there are always a few points to consider and watch out.
Although broccoli is not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about a cat’s diet, it might be a good idea to prepare some broccoli as snacks for our little furry friends and here is how they benefit from broccoli and how to feed them this wonderful vegetable.
Health Benefits of Broccoli to Cats
Broccoli contains antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and lutein, Vitamin C, K and B6 along with minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and phosphorus.
The antioxidants in broccoli help preventing cancer by fighting free radicals in the body as well as reducing the inflammations in the body which in the end turns out to be a boost to your little friend’s immune system.
Vitamin C aids cats by preventing and healing various illnesses. It also helps repairing body tissues by facilitating collagen formation.
Also with the fiber and roughage it contains. broccoli helps cats regulate their digestive system. As we all know, cats sometimes may have upset stomachs and look for some grass or other plants to consume in order to calm their upset stomachs. The good new is broccoli might be a good alternative if your cat does not have access to the plants it desires.
How to Feed Broccoli to Cats? What to Avoid?
The first question that comes to mind when we speak about feeding broccoli to cats is if it can should be eaten raw or cooked and if we cook it, how?
There are several reasons why you don’t want your cat consume raw broccoli. First of all cats’ digestive system does not have the digestive enzymes to appropriately break down raw broccoli because it evolved as a carnivore’s digestive system.
Also raw broccoli might become a choking hazard for cats in addition to upsetting stomach if the cat is not used to it.
The best way to serve broccoli to cats is to boil it without any salt or any other seasonings because these can be very harmful for your cat, especially salt.
Another good cooking method might be steaming the broccoli, again without any seasonings, toppings or any other addition.
Giving broccoli that is fried is not a good option, Actually anything that is fried is very harmful to your cat and should be avoided.
Conclusion
Cats can safely eat broccoli but as with all vegetables, it should be given in moderation as the cats get their main nutrition from meat, being obligate carnivores.
You can give broccoli as a treat to your cat but for the same reason written above, it can not be a main dish.
Boiled or steamed broccoli are safer and healthier options when feeding broccoli to cats.
Some cats might vomit or have diarrhea when they first consume broccoli or when they consume it in big amounts. On such occasions stop feeding broccoli to your cat.
You should always keep in mind that when introducing a new item to your cat’s diet, start with small amounts and increase it in time in order to prevent any digestive issues.
Always consult to your regular veterinarian before introducing a new food to your cat’s diet as nothing is more important than its health.
Be vigilant when you first give any kind of new food to your cat as there might be adverse effects or even allergies. On such occasions consult to your veterinarian immediately.
