If you think about the foods that cats like, you might not think about eggs. There are several ways to prepare eggs. Once cooked, preferably boiled, egg proteins can be good for cats. In this article, I will talk about this topic and I invite you to read some important and interesting facts about eggs and their place in a cat’s diet.
Here are some benefits and risks if you feed your cat eggs.
Can cats eat eggs?
Eggs are good sources of protein and fat, and cats are exclusively carnivorous, which means they eat a protein-based diet, which is generally animal-based.
Egg whites contain fat-free proteins. Egg yolks, on the other hand, mostly contain fat with some protein. Therefore, keep in mind that feeding your cat egg yolks will increase the fat content in their diet. So, yes, cats can eat eggs.
Eggshells contain calcium and other minerals but tend to be less appetizing for your feline. Mineral supplementation of your cat’s diet should be done only under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Can cats eat cooked eggs?
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Cats can eat omelet eggs or boiled eggs without salt or spices. There is a risk of adding too much fat to your cat’s diet, and before offering her eggs, consult with your veterinarian.
Boiled eggs or omelets, which contain egg yolks, are high in fat with a high number of calories that increase your cat’s risk of obesity. In addition, fatty meals can cause gastrointestinal disorders and pancreatitis. Feeding only boiled egg whites or omelets from whites will reduce these risks. Egg whites contain almost no fat, making them the best source of protein for your cat.
How many eggs can a cat eat?
Feeding small amounts, about 1 tablespoon of egg whites, in addition to your cat’s normal diet, can help supplement the amount of protein she eats. A cat needs 150-200 calories a day, in the case of a moderately active pet, weighing about five pounds. The amount of egg your cat receives should not account for more than 10% of the total daily calories.
However, cats tend to need less food than we think and are generally good at converting extra calories into fat or extra pounds. It is important for cats to be fed a fully balanced diet. Before adding eggs to your cat’s diet, talk to your veterinarian.
Cats are likely to develop diseases secondary to nutritional deficiencies, such as heart disease. If you’re thinking about feeding your cat a homemade diet, consult with a veterinary nutritionist who can help you establish a balanced diet.
Is egg a good main dish for a cat?
No! Eggs are considered the best source of protein. Even though protein and amino acids are beneficial for your cat’s body, remember that complete food and balanced nutrition are more important.
How to offer eggs for cats:
- Boil the egg
- Remove the entire shell
- Limit the portion
Are raw eggs good for cats?
Raw eggs are not good for cats. Eating raw eggs or raw egg whites increases the risk of infection with a bacterium called salmonella. Salmonella can infect both cats and their owners. It can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Egg whites are not indicated at all for pets. It contains a protein called avidin that binds to the essential vitamin B7, and a cat’s body cannot absorb them. Over time, this can lead to vitamin deficiency. For this reason, to eliminate the risk, cook the eggs for cats.
Millions of people are infected annually with Salmonella, which carries some risk of hospitalization and death in humans. In general, feeding raw eggs will increase the risk of exposing yourself, your family, and your pets to harmful bacteria. It is much safer to feed your cat with cooked eggs.
Are cats likely to like eggs?
It depends on the cat. These animals are known to be quite picky when it comes to food. Most cats are for variety when it comes to food. You can tell your cat accepts this food only after you give her a small egg-based snack.
Are kittens allowed to eat eggs?
Kittens can eat eggs in the form of an omelet or boiled eggs in small amounts. Eggs should not be a main dish for a kitten. Cats need a complete diet to provide all the nutrients needed for growth. Consult with your veterinarian before giving eggs to your kitten.
What is the best way to give your cat eggs?
Egg whites should be cooked, boiled, or omelet, without salt or spices. Make sure the eggs are cooked at an internal temperature of at least 72°C. Allow the eggs to cool, then sprinkle a small amount over your cat’s normal food.
Final words!
Cats are carnivores, so eggs are a source of protein and amino acids. If you have decided to give this food to your cat, it is advisable to do it only in the form of small snacks. You don’t want to put too many calories into your little feline’s diet.