Can cats eat asparagus? Yes, they can eat asparagus because it is not considered a harmful food. Cats also appreciate the texture of asparagus when it comes into contact with their gums. If your kitty faces a dental problem or has gingivitis, then she will especially like its texture.
Well, cats can eat these green it is not toxic only in moderation but make a note that asparagus ferns are not safe it can cause abdominal and stomach pain in kitties.
Asparagus, on the other hand, provides vitamin A, B6, C, K, fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals to your cat. It’s also a low-calorie veggie. Not only is it safe for them, cats like asparagus.
Can Cats Have Asparagus?
Yes, cats can safely cat asparagus but don’t overuse it. In fact, it is rich in potassium, vitamin, A, B6, C, K, and it is also fortified with folate which is good for pregnant cats. However, as it is highly alkaline it can cause trouble to those kitties who are already affected by kidney issues and UTI problems.
As quantity is the key make sure not to overfeed your kitty with only greens because then it can cause stomach problems she can face vomit issues, diarrhea, allergies, and urinary tract infection.
However, if a cat eats this green vegetable in a moderate amount her body will receive potassium, vitamins, and essential nutrients. It can make her immune system stronger, and as it has vitamin B6 and folate it especially helps the cat’s during their pregnancy.
Also, it is important that they should just be eating asparagus and not asparagus fern. As it is harmful can cause allergies in cats. Yes, both may sound similar but there are distinct if your furry feline eats asparagus fern she can face the following issues.
- Problem in the skin.
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
Now, you know can cats eat asparagus, but what about kittens?
Can Kitten Eat Asparagus?
No, kittens can’t consume asparagus. It is not toxic to them. But, if they consume it in small quantity she faces stomach pain.
It’s important to avoid because kittens are young their digestive system is not fully developed in the initial year, and it is not also not strong. Therefore, avoid feeding kittens asparagus.
Refer to our blog on do cat like vegetables?
Is There Any Benefit of Feeding Cat Asparagus?
Yes, there are many benefits of feeding your cat pet green asparagus. They are safe to include necessary dietary fibers, help to keep your cat’s digestive system healthy, and prevent constipation. Enriched with antioxidants, keeps the cat’s immune system better.
It is also fortified with potassium. And, do you know what is the benefit of potassium in a cat’s diet! Well, it is good for their heart and blood pressure.
These jumbos green stems has a good range of folic acid, and it is loaded with vitamin A, B6, C, E, K, and chromium.
A single cup of cooked asparagus contains 4 grams of protein, 40 calories, 4 grams of fiber, and 404 milligrams of potassium.
| Health benefits of feeding the cat asparagus |
|---|
| It improves her digestion. |
| Keeps her heart-healthy. |
| Maintains her immunity. |
| Helpful for pregnant cats |
Also Read: Are Raspberries Safe For Cats
Are There Any Side Effects if You Give Asparagus to Your Cat?
Well you know already cats can eat asparagus but are you aware that it has adverse effects? Asparagus is often alkaline in nature, thus giving her too much of these greens can cause a pH imbalance.
This can change her urine and cause a urinary tract infection (UTI) in cats. Also, if your feline companion has renal disease or UTI, you must avoid it totally.
As feline are obligate carnivores animals their body can’t tolerate a plant-based diet because they need meat therefore, feeding only asparagus to your cat can cause stomach irritation, and in some cases, it can lead to allergies in cats too.
Sometimes she can face problems like vomiting, diarrhea trouble breathing, unusual behavior, and her face can also swallow.
There is a risk in feeding asparagus to your kitty actually if you do not finely chop them before feeding it to them. It can cause choking issues. And, it will hurt her digestive tract and throat.
So, be responsible cat owners and feed them in small sizes.
| Risks |
|---|
| UTI infection |
| Tummy troubles |
| Allergies |
| Chocking issues |
Safe Way to Feed Asparagus to Cats
So, far you know can cats eat asparagus, do you know which is the best way for cats to eat asparagus?
Well, the harmless way of feeding your cat asparagus is either boiling it in water or putting it inside the steamer and letting it steam.
Then simply chop it into small pieces it helps the cat to chew and prohibit choking issues. Well, you must only use fresh asparagus to give your cat. If she tastes seasoned asparagus it can cause health problems this is because it has an extra amount of salt.
And, sodium is not at all good for your cat’s health. You must avoid raw asparagus too, this is because most cats don’t like to chew the hard stem for long, so they may end up throwing it.
FAQs
Is asparagus safe for cats?
Yes, asparagus is safe for cats. It is a good source of fiber, antioxidants, potassium, and essential minerals. Your cat will not have any digestive issues or allergies if she consumes it in moderation.
But, if your cat is already suffering from urinary tract issues then it can cause trouble, this is because it is highly alkaline. And, it can affect her bladder and cause stones.
Should cats eat cooked asparagus?
Asparagus is not poisonous to cats, and you can either boil them or steam them before feeding them to your kitty. It is the safe way.
Also, make sure to finely chop them as they can chock inside her throat. Raw asparagus should not be given to her because it may impede her digestive tract.
How much asparagus is too much for felines?
Feed your kitty asparagus only in moderation. Just add a few chunks of it to cat food. You can use this as an occasional treat also do not involve it as their staple diet.
Well, That’s a Wrap!
In conclusion to can cats eat asparagus is yes, they can eat it safely but only in small quantities, this is because it is an alkaline vegetable which is why it can affect your cat’s urine pH level. Also, make sure to chop them in a small shape to reduce the chances of choking as it can be hazardous.
Also, you can feed them cooked asparagus. Basically, if you give 5.3 ounces it will offer her 20 calories and 3 grams of fiber. It is rich in folate which is good in pregnancy, potassium, vitamin A, K, B6, and minerals.
Also Read: Cats Eat Bell Pepper
References
- Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Cats — AVMA
- Excess Alkali in the Blood in Cats — PetMD
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals