There’s something about an avocado that just hits all the right spots. They’re smooth and creamy, packed chock-full of vitamins and minerals, and super delicious. You can eat them sweet or savory and not experience any guilt while doing so.
But can your cat experience the same pleasure?
There are a ton of different fruits and vegetables that your cat should avoid, but fortunately avocado isn’t one of them. Your cat can safely eat avocado. And in fact, there are some great benefits to doing so!
However, there are some definite precautions you need to take when feeding it to them. Because as great as this fruit is, there are some hidden dangers.
Benefits of Feeding Your Cat Avocado
When it comes to your cat eating avocado, there are some distinct health benefits.
- Great source of protein: Avocados contain amino acids and proteins which are essential for your cat to have a healthy lifestyle. These proteins promote muscle growth, energy development, a strong immune system, good organ function, and they even help keep their coats nice and shiny.
- Full of healthy fats: Not all fats are bad for you. In fact, some keep your body (and your cat’s) in good health. These typically fall within the realm of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats — and 75% of an avocado’s fat is unsaturated.
- Contains antioxidants: These molecules are amazing for your cat. They can help your feline friend stave off illness, fight immune disorders, and keep their bodies safe by fighting off free radicals.
However, you’ll have to be very cautious when feeding this superfruit to your loved one.
How Are Avocados Dangerous to Cats?
As great as they are, avocado consumption has the potential to be dangerous to your cat. And that’s due to a substance called persin.
Persin is a compound that’s found naturally within avocados and is considered a toxin for cats in high doses. Fortunately, though, you don’t have to freak out over persin too much if you play it smart. This toxin is only found within the skin, pit, leaves, and peel of the fruit.
Avocado flesh and oil are free of persin! So as long as you properly dispose of your pit, peels, and stems, you shouldn’t have any problem with feeding avocado to your cat.
But remember, you need to practice moderation. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Avocados are very high in fiber and may upset your kitty’s GI tract if they eat too much. A single thin slice should be more than adequate for them.
Another thing you should look out for is letting your cat play with the avocado pit. While it might look like a fun ball to roll around, larger cats may gnaw on them and even choke. So, be sure to dispose of your waste properly.
How to Feed Your Cat Avocado
Avocado shouldn’t be an everyday treat for your furball. Instead, think of it only for special occasions. And like any new addition to their diet, consult with your veterinarian before feeding.
A thin slice of avocado is great chopped up as a topper for their dry food or a tasty mix-in for their wet food. But if you’re still on the fence about feeding them the flesh of the avocado, you can always add a small amount of avocado oil to their food.
Or if you’re looking for a safe way for them to get the benefit of avocados every day, look for cat food made by AvoDerm. AvoDerm is a top-notch cat food that infuses the power of avocados into your cat’s everyday kibble or wet food. Our personal favorite is the AvoDerm Chicken and Herring dry food formula.
Should You Feed Your Cat Avocado?
As long as you follow the safety guidelines associated with avocado, your kitten can benefit greatly from it. However, the persin aspect of things may still give you the heebie-jeebies. Choosing to feed your cat avocado shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re having difficulty making that call, talk to your vet. They may be able to help ease you and your loved one into an avocado-eating lifestyle.
Featured Image Credit: CC0 Public Domain, pxhere
