It’s natural to want to feed your feline companion a healthy and balanced diet. With the rise in popularity of kale as a superfood, you might wonder if it’s safe to share this leafy green with your furry friend. After all, many human foods are toxic to cats, and it’s important to be cautious about what you feed them. So, can cats eat kale? Well, the short answer is yes. But what do you need to consider first? Read on to find out.
Can Cats Eat Kale?
Yes, cats can eat kale. Kale is a great source of fiber and vitamins. It also contains many antioxidants that help to keep your cat’s immune system healthy.
Kale is very easy to cook and can be used in a variety of recipes. You can steam or saute it with olive oil, garlic, and other vegetables such as mushrooms or tomatoes.
How Much Kale Should You Give Your Cat?
The amount of kale you should feed your cat depends on their size and age. For example:
For one-year-old cats weighing less than 10 pounds: Feed them about 2 ounces per day (about 1/4 cup). For older cats over 10 pounds but still under 25 pounds: Feed them about 3 ounces per day (about 1/2 cup).
About Kale
Kale is a green leafy vegetable that comes from the Brassica oleracea plant. It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients that help keep you healthy and has a slightly bitter taste. Kale can be eaten raw in salads or added to soups and stews if you like to cook. The leaves are also great for making pesto!
Kale Contents And How They Affect Your Cat
Kale is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and potassium, among other nutrients. While kale is generally safe for cats to eat in small amounts, it’s essential to understand how it can affect their health.
First and foremost, kale should never be your cat’s main source of nutrition. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet high in animal protein and low in carbohydrates. While kale does contain some protein, it’s not enough to meet your cat’s daily requirements, and too much can upset their digestive system.
Additionally, kale contains compounds called oxalates, which can be harmful to cats if consumed in large amounts. Oxalates can interfere with the absorption of calcium, leading to a condition called calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause urinary tract problems in cats.
When Is Kale Okay For Cats To Eat?
While it’s always a good idea to consult your vet before introducing any new food to your cat, kale is generally safe for most cats.
Kale is considered safe for cats if it is cooked first. It can be fed raw but should only be used as a treat because it has a higher risk of causing stomach upset in cats than cooked kale does. Cooked kale should be boiled until tender and cooled before feeding it to your cat.
When Is Kale Bad For Cats?
Suppose you have an older cat that suffers from kidney disease or diabetes. In that case, you should avoid feeding them raw or uncooked kale because they may experience an increase in blood glucose levels that could lead to hypoglycemia (low blood glucose). You should also avoid feeding raw or uncooked kale if your cat suffers from gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting because the high fiber content could exacerbate these problems.
How to Feed Your Cat Kale
Here are some tips on how to feed your cat kale:
Introduce kale slowly
It is important to introduce any new food to your cat slowly, as sudden dietary changes can cause digestive upset. Start by offering a small amount of finely chopped kale mixed in with your cat’s regular food. Monitor your cat’s reaction for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Cook the kale
While kale can be eaten raw, it may be easier for your cat to digest if it is cooked. You can steam or boil kale until it is soft and tender. Be sure to let it cool before serving it to your cat.
Serve kale in moderation.
Kale should only be served as a treat or supplement to your cat’s regular diet. It should not replace their regular cat food or be fed in large quantities. Too much kale can lead to digestive upset and interfere with your cat’s ability to absorb certain nutrients.
Mix kale with other cat-friendly foods.
To make kale more appealing to your cat, you can mix it with other cat-friendly foods, such as canned tuna or chicken. You can also add it to homemade cat food recipes, as long as the recipe is balanced and meets your cat’s nutritional needs.
Avoid seasoning the kale.
When feeding your cat kale, it is vital to avoid seasoning it with any spices or herbs. Cats have a sensitive digestive system and may not tolerate certain seasonings. Plain, cooked kale is the best option for your feline friend.
What Veggies Are Toxic To Cats?
The following list of veggies are toxic to cats:
- Avocado
- Rhubarb leaves and stems
- Chives
- Garlic and onions (even in small amounts)
- Grapes and raisins
- Raw potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams (cooked is fine)
What Veggies Can Cats Eat?
The following vegetables are safe for cats:
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Beets (cooked)
- Lettuce (not iceberg lettuce)
- Celery
Conclusion
In general, cats can eat kale. However, there are some precautions to keep in mind if you are going to provide your pet feline with this leafy green. When properly prepared, kale is a healthy treat for pets, but it still can pose some problems.