Can cats eat gingerbread cookies?
It’s the holiday season and you want to give your beloved cat a treat. But can our furry friends indulge in that traditional wintertime treat – gingerbread cookies?
Bad news first
The short answer is “no.” Gingerbread cookies are not good for cats, and in some cases, they can even be downright unsafe! Here’s why:
- Too much sugar: Gingerbread cookies usually contain lots of sugar, which cats have no use for. Sweet treats can cause digestive, dental and weight-related issues for your kitty, so it’s best avoided.
- Ingredients: Many gingerbread cookie recipes use spices and/or citrus juice, which can be toxic to cats. Additionally, some gingerbread mixes contain xylitol, a form of artificial sweetener, which is potentially deadly for cats.
What’s the alternative?
Fortunately, you don’t have to deny your cat’s wishes for a sweet holiday treat altogether. Specialty pet stores carry safe and healthy treats for cats. Talk to a vet before giving your cat any human food, and, if you choose to give treats, distribute them sparingly and monitor your cat for any reactions.
To make sure your cat also has balanced nutrition, stock-up on commercial cat food so your cat can have healthy snacks whenever they want.
In conclusion
Gingerbread cookies are not suitable for cats and should be avoided. But, if you’d like your cats to join in the holiday spirit, there are plenty of special treats available at pet stores. As always, when introducing any type of treat to your cat, proceed with caution and consult your vet if you’re ever in doubt.
