CAN CATS EAT EGGS?
Cat parents want the best for their feline friends. But, with a range of food, such as dairy and grapes, being an absolute no-no for cats, it's natural to have questions around safe foods for cats. One such popular question is: can cats eat eggs? We all know it is an excellent addition to our diet, especially because eggs are loaded with proteins and vitamins. But, can cats join us in enjoying this superfood? Let's find out.
CAN CATS EAT EGGS?
Indeed, cats can eat eggs. Cats are obligate carnivores, and eggs offer them a rich source of protein and essential amino acids. Feeding your cats fully cooked eggs, minus the shell, can make for a highly digestible and nutritious treat.
However, moderation is key. While egg whites are a lean source of protein, yolks increase the fat content of your cat's diet. So, should cats eat eggs? The answer is yes, but only as a supplement to their regular meals not as a replacement entirely.
ARE EGGS GOOD FOR CATS?
As we established, your cat can eat eggs, but should your cat eat eggs? Here are some things you should keep in mind before you feed your cat an egg, so you can decide if egg is good for your cat:
EGG WHITE VS YOLK:
Egg whites are a protein powerhouse and can be a great addition to your cat’s diet. On the other hand, yolks are rich in healthy fats, and thus they can contain extra calories. So, if you are trying to manage your cat’s weight, egg yolks might work against your goal.
EGGSHELLS:
Eggshells can also be a great source of calcium and other minerals for your feline friend, but they may not like the taste of eggshells much. Furthermore, supplementing vitamins in your cat’s diet should only be done under the supervision of veterinarians.
NUTRIENT NUGGETS:
Eggs are packed with beneficial nutrients including amino acids, vitamins, and minerals such as Taurine. Getting an egg for your cat can thus help improve its vision, digestion, and heart function.
SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE:
While proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins like B2, B3, and B6 make eggs a great addition to your cat's diet, they should not be the sole source of nutrients as it is also rich in fat. Consult with a veterinarian before giving your cat an egg.
HOW TO FEED EGGS TO CATS:
Though eggs are a healthy addition to a feline diet, it's important to remember that cats should never consume raw eggs. Raw eggs pose a risk of foodborne illnesses, such as Salmonella or E. Coli. These ailments can result in unpleasant symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy, and if untreated, could be fatal. Furthermore, raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin, which obstructs the absorption of biotin, an essential nutrient for cats.
So, how should cats eat eggs? Cook them thoroughly. Whether scrambled or boiled, cooked eggs are not only safer but also easier for your cat to digest. Remember, no salt or seasonings – keep it plain to suit your cat's palate.
Cats - both adults and kittens - can indeed have eggs. However, due to their lower caloric needs, eggs might not be the best option for kittens. When preparing eggs for your feline friend, ensure that they are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F and refrain from adding excessive salt or seasoning. Once cooled, a small amount of egg can be a delightful add-on to your cat's regular meals.
