Have you ever caught your kitty trying to take a nibble of the plants in your herb garden? While you may be asking yourself if your cat has turned into a vegetarian, the truth is that it’s perfectly natural for felines to sometimes develop a taste for greenery. The more important question that you should be asking is if the plant your cat is munching on is safe for her.
When it comes to your cat and parsley, you don’t have to fret. Parsley is safe for cats to consume, as long as it is in moderation.
Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about cats eating parsley.
Is Parsley Safe for Cats?
Parsley is a type of aromatic herb that many people use for culinary purposes. But while people can enjoy garnishing their fish, steak, chicken, or rice with this delicious plant, is it safe for cats to eat?
The short answer is yes. Parsley is safe for cats to eat. But that doesn’t mean you should be adding parsley to every meal your cat consumes. When eaten in moderation, parsley is safe, and even beneficial, for your feline friend.
The Health Benefits of Parsley
Parsley is overflowing with health benefits. Parsley is packed with potassium, folate, and essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and K. This herb is also rich in antioxidants supporting the immune system, folates that prevent anemia, and vitamin A which helps to maintain healthy eyes.
When it comes to your pet, adding a little bit of parsley to your cat’s diet can boost her immune system, promote circulatory health, and aid in good eyesight. Additionally, parsley can support a healthy urinary tract due to its diuretic properties.
Is Parsley Toxic to Cats?
As mentioned earlier, you should always feed your cat parsley in moderation. If consumed in large amounts, this herb can be toxic to your pet.
If fed large amounts of parsley, your cat could suffer from photosensitization, a condition in which her skin becomes overly sensitive to sunlight.
Additionally, it’s critical to never give your feline spring parsley. Even in small amounts, this type of parsley is toxic to cats. Always avoid curly parsley varieties and stick to the flat-leafed kind.
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Parsley Water for Cats
One safe way to treat your cat to parsley is by giving her parsley water. Parsley water also benefits felines that suffer from urinary tract ailments. This is because parsley has diuretic properties and can prevent kidney stone and renal gravel formations.
Do not give your cat parsley water over long periods of time. Moderation is key. Only give them one to two teaspoons of parsley water three times per day.
To make parsley water for your cat, follow these directions:
- Boil one cup of water.
- Pour the boiled water into a container that contains a few pinches of parsley.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Drain off the water.
- Store the unused mixture in your fridge to maintain freshness.
If your cat is pregnant or nursing, do not give her parsley water. Parsley can cause uterus contractions, leading to potential miscarriages. It can also significantly slow down—or even stop—milk production.
Conclusion
Your cat can eat parsley in moderation. The best way to give your cat this herb is by offering her parsley water. Never give your cat large amounts of parsley as this could be toxic and never feed her spring parsley.
Always talk with your vet before altering your cat’s daily diet in any way.
See also:
- Can Cats Eat Sage? Vet-Reviewed Nutritional Facts & FAQ
- Can Cats Eat Cilantro? What You Need to Know
Featured Image By: ka_re, pixabay
