Are Sweet Potatoes Safe for Cats?
Even though cats are primarily carnivorous, there are certain plant sources that can offer a variety of health benefits for your cat. One such food is sweet potatoes. While sweet potatoes are a fairly healthy option for cats, there are a few things to keep in mind before giving them to your feline friend.
What Nutrients Do Sweet Potatoes Have?
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, as well as vitamins such as B6, C and A, and minerals including calcium and iron. Additionally, they also contain a high amount of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and keep your cat feeling full longer.
Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, cats can eat sweet potatoes safely. Sweet potatoes are a great way to add variety to your cat’s diet, as well as beneficial vitamins & minerals. However, sweet potatoes should only be an occasional treat, since cats still need meat as their main source of protein and certain other nutritional needs.
How to Serve Sweet Potatoes to Cats
When giving sweet potatoes to cats, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Serving Size: Sweet potatoes are a treat, and should not replace the main agricultural food source in your cat’s diet. A suggested serving size of sweet potatoes for cats is ¼ cup, although this may vary depending on the size of your cat.
- Toppings: Toppings such as butter or oil can increase the calorie and fat content of sweet potatoes quickly. To avoid this, serve them plain without any added fats or seasonings.
- Cooking: Sweet potatoes are safe for cats whether cooked or raw, as long as there are no additional seasonings or ingredients used. Boiled sweet potatoes are probably the safest option to serve your cat.
Final Thoughts
While sweet potatoes are a fairly healthy option for cats, it is important to feed them to your cat in moderation and be aware of any potential allergies or digestive issues that your cat may have. As always, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian when introducing any new foods into your cat’s diet.
