Broccoli, a popular vegetable used in a variety of dishes worldwide, is a member of the cabbage family and is known for its superior health benefits. Broccoli compliments almost any ingredient, be it chicken, cottage cheese, or pasta, and can even be enjoyed alone.
If we consider its health benefits, it would only be fair to call broccoli a superfood. But does it offer these same benefits to cats?
Can Cats Eat Broccoli?
Cats can absolutely eat broccoli. But before going ahead and placing a big bowl full of broccoli in front of your cat, it’s important to understand the right way to prepare it for them and the right quantity of broccoli to feed them.
Is Broccoli Good for Cats?
Yes, broccoli can offer a variety of health benefits to cats. That being said, cats are carnivorous in nature, so they shouldn’t eat fruits or vegetables daily. Many vegetables are toxic to cats, but broccoli is among the few that are safe for cats to consume.
Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, bioactive compounds, and antioxidants. One cup of broccoli (around 90 gms) consists of the following –
These nutrients help in reducing the risk of cancer, boost immunity, improve skin health, reduce the risk of diabetes, and offer a range of other benefits. These are the benefits of broccoli when eaten by humans, but in moderation, broccoli can prove to be a healthy treat for cats as well.
The Health Benefits Of Broccoli for Cats
Broccoli contains antioxidants, fiber, vitamin K, folic acid, and potassium. Let’s break down the nutrient values in broccoli and evaluate the benefits they offer for cats –
Eating broccoli may even help your cat lose weight because it can replace high-fat, high-carb treats.
Do Cats Like Broccoli?
It is very common for our feline pets to show interest in our foods. Surprisingly, when it comes to broccoli, many cats end up enjoying the vegetable, despite the pungent scent that can come from it.
How Much Broccoli is Good for Your Cat?
You should always start small when introducing a new food to your cat. Start with a piece as small as your fingernail and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction or upset stomach. If your cat doesn’t display signs of either, you can give them a few more small pieces of broccoli to enjoy.
Always remember that broccoli and other treats should not exceed more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. When it comes to broccoli, don’t just go off of the calorie intake. Broccoli is high in fiber which can cause digestive issues if too much is ingested. The recommended amount of broccoli for a cat is one teaspoon of chopped broccoli per serving, and only once or twice a week.
How Can You Feed Broccoli to Your Cat?
Before offering any broccoli to your cat or adding any to their food bowl, you need to prepare it for them. Here are a few tips on how to do this:
What Happens if a Cat Eats Too Much Broccoli?
If your cat manages to eat more broccoli than they should, keep an eye out for the following symptoms of an upset stomach. You should contact your vet right away if you see –
Are There Any Cats That Should Not Eat Broccoli?
Some cats, not specific to any breed, can be more susceptible to getting an upset stomach from eating broccoli. For them, broccoli should altogether be eliminated from their diets. The list includes –
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Conclusion
In summary, broccoli is a superfood that can offer a range of benefits to your cat. Just make sure to prepare it for them and stick to one teaspoon per serving, once or twice a week. Making broccoli an occasional treat for your cat may be a good idea and could be recommended, given that your cat does not have a history of allergies, digestive issues, or thyroid problems.