Is cabbage safe for your cat? A question that emerges in the mind of every pet cat owner ause they want to feed their cats only healthy and tasty food.
Cat owners try to offer tiny chunks of various foods to balance their diet. Can Cats Eat Cabbage? So, what about cabbages?
Can Cats Eat Cabbage?
Cabbage, a leafy green, white or red flowering plant, is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, cats are obligate carnivores that rely on animal protein for their nutritional demands.
These felines can occasionally enjoy cabbage if served in moderation and in its cooked form. The vegetable may improve their skin and aid indigestion.
Care must be taken while feeding cabbage to cats since it contains thiocyanate, which can have harmful effects on the thyroid gland.
Is Cabbage Good For Cats?
It is difficult to answer this question in one word. Cats, being meat-eaters, have a digestive system that is poorly adapted to process vegetables. Therefore, even though cabbage provides many health benefits to humans, it might not be a healthy option for cats.
If consumed excessively, it may cause flatulence, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Thiocyanate in cabbage can also suppress thyroid function, causing issues like weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance.
There is not much to worry about if your pet nibbles cabbage every once in a while.
Can Cats Eat Green Cabbage?
Green cabbage is the most common variety and is often found in the kitchen. Cats are explorative animals, so there is a high chance you find your pet chewing it.
You do not have to worry if it happens but make sure the cat does not overeat. It may cause stomach issues. In extreme cases, this may lead to hypothyroidism, which is fatal if left untreated.
Is Cabbage Toxic For Cats?
Even though cabbage is not a recommended food for felines, it is not poisonous. However, if it is fed in large amounts, it may cause thiocyanate poisoning, which causes hypothyroidism in cats.
Due to an underactive thyroid gland, a cat’s metabolism slows down. This may result in weakness, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, hair matting, neurological changes, and low body temperature. Therefore, it is best to avoid giving this vegetable to your pet even though it can hardly be fatal.
Check can cats eat broccoli
Can Cats Eat Cooked Cabbage?
Although the gastrointestinal tract of cats is not suited for vegetables and animal proteins are enough to provide energy, if you have to serve cabbage, it should always be in cooked form.
Raw cabbage is difficult for cats to chew and may cause choking. It can also cause digestive issues, e.g., bloating, upset stomach, and abdominal pain. Therefore, you should always cook it first. However, there is no need to add oil or spices. Boiling will perfectly do the job.
Can Cats Eat Napa Cabbage?
Cabbage is full of nutrients, so it might be a healthy snack for cats as it improves digestion and skin. It can also combat the risks of cancer.
Keeping the cat’s biology in mind and the fact that they feed on animal sources, limiting the amount of cabbage given to your pet is suggested. Or else, gastrointestinal issues followed by hypothyroidism may result, which, if untreated, can pose health hazards.
Check can cats eat cauliflower
What Happens If My Cat Eats Cabbage?
Nothing much will happen. Cats are naturally curious creatures, so it should be no surprise if you find your cat eating cabbage. Their bodies, however, are not designed for vegetable consumption, so they should not nibble on it for a long time. There is no need to panic unless it is a routine and your pet feeds on a large chunk of cabbage.
You should consult a veterinary doctor if you find your cat eating cabbage daily as this may cause harmful effects, e.g., constipation, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and hypothyroidism.
What Are The Alternatives To Cabbage That I Can Give To My Cat?
There are several better options that you can choose for your feline pet. These include:
- Broccoli Florets
- Brussel Sprouts
- Carrots
- Celery
- Frozen Corn
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Potatoes
- Peas
- Pumpkin
- Spinach
Limiting your cat’s exposure to vegetables is always better, no matter how many nutrients they provide. Their evolved biological mechanism mainly digests animal flesh. They do not need greens. If given in excess, it may pose a threat to the cats.
Can Cats Eat White Cabbage?
White cabbage is also known as Dutch Cabbage as it comes from Holland. Its outer leaves are pale green, while the tightly packed white leaves are in the center.
Like any other type of cabbage, cats can consume white cabbage and benefit from its therapeutic effects. However, it should only be ingested in moderation to avoid harm.
Why Does My Cat Eat Cabbage?
Cats like to explore and try different things, so it is understandable if your pet cat sometimes eats cabbage. However, if it is a pattern, you should get your pet checked by the veterinarian as it is not typical/healthy for cats to consume vegetables as a part of their daily routine.
Is Cabbage Poisonous For Cats?
No, cabbage does not contain toxic elements. Hence it is okay if your furry friend consumes it now and then. However, excess amounts may lead to hypothyroidism in cats which can cause several complications. Therefore, it is best not to overuse vegetables as a food option for your cat.
Can Cats Eat Red Cabbage?
Red cabbage, by far, is the healthiest cabbage of all. It is also known to reduce inflammation and improve the digestive system. As compared to other types, cats tend to enjoy red cabbage more since they can taste it.
Benefits Of Cabbage For Cats
As a cruciferous vegetable, cabbage may offer several health benefits to cats:
- If taken in tiny amounts, it can significantly aid a cat’s digestion.
- Moreover, it may improve the skin and fur of your pet.
- Considering this vegetable is rich in antioxidants, it can reduce inflammation and protect the animal from various forms of cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Cabbage Is Safe To Cats?
If given in moderation, cabbage is safe for cats and may offer health benefits. This includes serving 1 to 2 teaspoons of boiled cabbage over a week.
Can Cats Eat Raw Cabbage?
Raw cabbage can be harmful to your pet’s health as it is rich in fiber and may cause digestive issues, including flatulence, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Can Cats Eat Cabbage Leaves?
An occasional boiled cabbage leaf is safe to add to your cat’s diet for a different taste.
Can Cats Eat Cabbage Sprouts?
Yes. Cats can pick at cabbage sprouts occasionally. Like cabbage, sprouts won’t cause any toxicity in cats.
Can Cats Eat Purple Cabbage?
Purple cabbage has tons of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, it can be used as a treat for your cat.
Final Thoughts
Cats have sensitive stomachs, and unlike humans, they are obligate carnivores that obtain their nutritional energy from different animal sources. Therefore, what helps humans might not necessarily be suitable for cats.
Even though cabbage is not an unsafe food option, it should not be an essential part of your cat’s diet.
