Generally speaking, if a cat is interested in strawberries, it will open its mouth to taste it. However, from a health point of view, are they suitable for eating strawberries?

Benefits of strawberries

Theoretically, strawberries are certainly nutritious.

1. As a fruit, strawberry is rich in water, which can increase the water intake of cats.

2. Nutrient-rich antioxidant: strengthens the immune system and slows down aging.

3. Rich in folic acid: metabolizes proteins and builds new cells.

4. Lots of potassium: good for the nervous system, and muscles, and promotes healthy growth.

5. Plenty of vitamin C: although cats can synthesize vitamin C, if the liver cannot produce vitamin C adequately due to diseases and other reasons, it is necessary to add vitamin C to the food.

6. Dietary fiber: pectin is abundant and it is good for the intestines.

But can cats fully absorb this nutrient? Will there be a negative reaction?

Bad effects of eating strawberries in cats

1. Strawberries contain a lot of sugar, which is not processed quickly and efficiently by the cat's digestive system, and high levels of sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.

2. Although strawberries are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, cats must eat a lot of strawberries to absorb these so-called nutrients.

3. Some cats may have allergic reactions to strawberries as follows:

Coughing and wheezing

Itchy skin

Runny nose and sneezing

Itchy and watery eyes

Vomiting and diarrhea

4. It may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. For example, stomach pain and vomiting.

5. If indigestion, it can cause diarrhea in cats.

6. Strawberries contain xylitol, which may cause severe symptoms of poisoning in cats.

Cats will release large amounts of insulin if they ingest xylitol, causing hypoglycemia and causing low liver function.

Although there are individual differences, it is also dangerous for a cat weighing 3 kg to ingest only 0.3 g of xylitol.

In general, strawberries are non-toxic to cats, and considering this, cats can eat them.

However, on the negative side, strawberries can also potentially affect a cat's health and it is recommended not to take this risk, so feeding strawberries to cats is not recommended.

Of course, if some cats show a strong interest and the owner is insistent on feeding the cat strawberries, then note the following points:

1. Remove the leaves and stems from the strawberries.

2. Make sure to wash the strawberry well.

3. Cut them into small pieces: cut a small piece for your cat to eat.

4. Be aware of any allergic reactions.

5. The recommended serving size for cats is no more than half a strawberry per day.

Likely, you don't need to dwell on these issues because odds are your cat isn't interested in strawberries at all.