When it comes to our cats, understanding what foods are safe for them is vital.
One such intriguing question is whether cats can indulge in the delightful crunch of walnuts.
In this article, we will embark on a journey to unravel the truth behind this nutty enigma, exploring the nutritional needs of cats, the properties of walnuts, and providing alternative treatment options for our purring friends.
Can Cats Eat Walnuts? Cat’s Dietary Needs
Now, let’s address the burning question: Can cats eat walnuts? The answer is a cautious NO.
As per the experts at ASPCA, “Nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts, contain high amounts of oils and fats their high-fat content can lead to digestive upset, such as diarrhea or pancreatitis”.
Although small quantities of walnuts may not necessarily be toxic to cats.
Moreover, the shape and size of walnuts pose a choking hazard. The outer shell can cause intestinal blockage if ingested, leading to severe health complications.
Before delving into the realm of walnuts, it’s essential to grasp the unique dietary needs of cats.
As obligate carnivores, felines require a diet rich in animal protein, healthy fats, and specific nutrients like taurine[1].
Human foods that are harmless to us can sometimes be hazardous for cats due to their distinct digestive systems.
Consequently, seeking professional advice from a veterinarian becomes crucial before introducing new foods to our feline friends.
Walnuts: Nutty Facts
Walnuts are well-known for their impressive nutritional composition in the human diet.
Packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, these nutty delights provide numerous health benefits for humans.
studies at HMS have found that “people with higher nut consumption have improved cardiovascular risk factors and lower rates of cardiovascular disease”.
Walnuts are the only nut that is an excellent source of Omega-3[2].
As per The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, “Consuming the right amount of walnut in a daily diet has improved cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease“.
However, Walnuts can be magical to humans but when it comes to cats, the story takes a different turn.
While walnuts contain certain beneficial nutrients, their overall composition poses potential risks for our whiskered companions.
My Cat Ate Walnuts. What Should I Do?
If your cat ate walnuts by accident then at first you need not don’t need to panic, Small quantities may not cause harm to your cat.
You should just keep an eye on your cat for signs of choking, digestive issues, or constipation.
If your cat shows any sign of discomfort or has vomiting or diarrhea that persists, you should immediately take them to the vet.
Safe Alternatives
- Walnuts are not suitable for cats to eat, but there are other safe treats available.
- Give your cat lean, cooked meats like chicken or turkey as a protein-rich snack.
- “Small pieces of cooked fish, such as salmon or tuna, can also be enjoyed by cats and provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids for their coat and overall health”, confirms experts at WebMD.
- Feeding your cat a single walnut won’t cause major harm, but it’s best to avoid making it a regular snack due to its high fat content.
- Multiple walnuts may lead to vomiting and diarrhea in cats.
- Be cautious of moldy walnuts as they can be dangerous for cats due to the production of toxic substances by fungi.
- Always throw away any moldy walnuts to ensure your cat’s safety.
Consider checking out specialized cat treats available at pet stores that are designed to meet a cat’s nutritional needs.
FAQs
1. What Nut Is Toxic to Cats?
Macadamia nuts are toxic to pets, and like grapes, the exact mechanism of toxicity is unknown. Other types of nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts, are rich in oils and fats that can cause digestive upset and potentially even pancreatitis in cats.
2. Can Cats Eat Walnuts or Almonds?
While many types of nuts have nutritional benefits to humans, including Omega 3 fats and protein, the bottom line of giving nuts to cats and dogs is to just say no. Keep nuts out of your pets’ reach and stored securely to avoid a sick, or accidentally poisoned pet!
3. Are Walnuts Good for Kittens?
No, it is not recommended for cats to eat walnuts. Humans enjoy eating raw, toasted, pickled, and candied walnuts. They also use walnuts as an ingredient or topping for other dishes and pastries. Though walnuts can be enjoyed by humans in many ways, these should never be shared with your pet cat.
4. Can Cats Be Allergic to Walnuts?
Nut allergies are not uncommon in cats even though they are generally considered to be nontoxic to animals. In fact, nut allergy is one of the three most common causes of itching in cats.
Conclusion
It is generally not recommended to feed walnuts to cats due to the potential risks they pose.
In the quest to determine whether cats can eat walnuts, we have unraveled an important truth: while walnuts are a delightful indulgence for humans, they are not suitable for our feline companions.
It is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of our cats by understanding their unique dietary requirements.
Remember, always consult a veterinarian before introducing new foods into your cat’s diet.
So, let’s treat our purring friends with care and opt for alternative snacks that keep them happy, healthy, and purrfectly content!
Reference:
- Feline Nutrition – Paws for Compassion.
- Fan, N., Fusco, J. L., & Rosenberg, D. W. (2023, April 22). Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Walnut Constituents: Focus on Personalized Cancer Prevention and the Microbiome– NIH.
Patricia is a guardian to an exotic shorthair cat named Suz. She’s a professional cat trainer and behaviorist. She has expertise in writing on feline behavior, house training, and tips & tricks including product reviews of related products.
