Pet owners have a tendency to give a little of their food to their pets and the pets usually like it. But, there are also some foods that should never been given to pets, because these foods can be harmful to them such as onions. Cats are carnivores, so their bodies are designed to process meat, rather than fruits or vegetables. But what foods, except of meat, can form a part of cat’s diet and can be used as a treat? For example, many cats are known to enjoy eating berries, such as strawberries, raspberries or blueberries.
In this article we will see if raspberries are safe for cats. Raspberries normally don’t form part of cat’s diet, but are they toxic and will they make any harm to our cats? The answers to these and similar questions you can get below, but first we will tell you something more about this delicious fruit.
More About Raspberries
Raspberry (lat. Rubus ideaus) is a deciduous bush which grows up to 6 ft. It is a perennial fruit which belongs to the same botanical family as the blackberry and the rose. Raspberries are an excellent source of fiber, manganese, potassium, calcium, vitamin C and vitamin A. They also contain antioxidants that can fight free radicals. Raspberries can reduce the risk of many health conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes or even cancer. Raspberries also increase the brainpower and improve cognitive functions. As you can see, they have many health benefits for people and now you will find out which effects raspberries have on cats.
Are Raspberries Safe for Cats?
There are many human foods that are toxic for our pets and you should be well informed before giving your cat something unusual. But, we have the good news for you. Raspberries are not toxic for cats, so you can share them with your pet. Raspberries are not found on the veterinary lists of foods which are toxic for cats. This means that you can give raspberries to your cat, but only as an addition to your cat’s diet. You can freeze them for a cool summery treat or you can serve them unfrozen. Frozen raspberries will be more tempting as a toy for your cat than as a treat. Cats are very curious animals and they always want to taste something unusual.
Raspberries can be very attractive to cats because of their red color and great smell, but you should have in mind that raspberries won’t give to your cat a nutritional value that she needs. Raspberries are not toxic, but they are practically useless for cats. Apart from strawberries and other fruits and vegetables, cats need also proteins and fats which are contained in meat. Rice also isn’t necessary.
How Many Raspberries Should be Given to Cats?
Since the cats are carnivores, the majority of their diet should be based on meat proteins. But, that doesn’t mean that your cat should not enjoy the raspberries. However, raspberries should not become a regular part of cat’s diet. You can feed your cat with raspberries occasionally. A couple of raspberries daily will not have bad effects on your cat’s health and it is more than enough for any cat. But, if your cat eats raspberries very often and if you feed her with large quantities of this fruit, it can cause some side effects. Your cat will probably suffer from diarrhea, smelly feces and stomach upset.
Also, eating raspberries can also cause vomiting and dehydration of cat’s body. Large portions of strawberries can be toxic for cat’s kidneys, too.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, it is okay to give your cat raspberries every now and then, but it is not recommended for cats to consume too much of such foods. It is interesting to mention that, apart from fresh or frozen raspberries, cats also enjoy drinking raspberry yogurt or eating raspberry ice cream. If your cat also likes raspberry ice cream, you should know that few licks are enough.
At the end, we can say that if you are using raspberries in moderation, they can be a safe treat for your cat. But, if you notice some digestive or behavioral changes with your cat, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
