Most households use eggs as a staple for breakfast, baking, or as a protein-packed snack.
Like most cats, yours is likely more interested in human food and table scraps than their cat food. So you may be wondering, can cats eat eggs?
The answer is yes, cats can eat eggs. They provide a great source of protein and other essential nutrients that can benefit your feline friend.
But as with any human food that cats can eat, moderation is key. Let’s explore more about eggs and everything you need to know about feeding them to your cat.
Are Eggs Good for Cats?
Yes. Eggs are a great source of protein and fats, essential for your cat’s health. Egg whites have a high protein content, while egg yolks are rich in healthy fats.
These healthy fats include both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, crucial for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Omega acids also help brain and nerve cell development in cats.
Eggs are also a good source of taurine, a vital amino acid cats need for proper heart and eye function.
In addition, eggs contain essential vitamins such as A, B12, D, E, riboflavin, biotin, and thiamine. These vitamins help provide energy, support the immune system, and maintain a healthy metabolism.
Eggs are highly digestible, and the yolk contains lutein, an antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of eye diseases in cats.
How to Feed Eggs to Your Cat?
Feed your cat boiled or scrambled eggs as an occasional treat without any seasoning or additives. Cook the egg to a temperature of at least 160°F to kill any bacteria that may be present.
Remember moderation is key when feeding eggs to your cat. As with any treat, too much of it can lead to health problems.
Before giving eggs to your cat, consult with your veterinarian about any dietary allergies your cat may have.
Are Eggs Bad for Cats?
Feeding eggs to cats may pose certain health risks.
Raw or undercooked eggs can harbor bacteria such as Salmonella or E coli, which can cause food poisoning in humans and cats. Salmonella can also be present on eggshells, causing symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in cats.
Some cats may also have allergies or sensitivities to eggs, resulting in digestive issues or skin reactions. Check with your veterinarian if you suspect your cat may have an egg allergy.
Egg yolk is high in fat and cholesterol, so feeding it to your cat regularly can increase the risk of obesity and pancreatitis. Egg white has a high protein content, making it a healthier option.
Finally, there is the risk of malnutrition if your cat starts eating less of their regular food in favor of eggs. This can lead to deficiencies of essential nutrients not found in eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s dive right into those questions you may have about feeding eggs to your cat.
Can Kittens Eat Eggs?
Yes, kittens can eat boiled or scrambled eggs in small amounts. However, their primary source of nutrition should still be a well-balanced complete kitten food. Check with a veterinarian for more specific advice on feeding eggs to your kitten.
How Much Egg Can a Cat Eat?
Feed a tablespoon of egg white with their regular food once or twice a week. This should be enough for them to enjoy the nutritional benefits without overdoing it.
Eggs should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Are Eggshells Good For Cats?
Cats can eat and digest eggshells, a good calcium source.
Always ensure to boil the eggshells, as raw eggshells can pose a risk of salmonella contamination. Once cooked, grind the eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle on top of your cat’s food.
Can Cats Eat Raw Eggs?
No, cats should not eat raw eggs. Raw eggs may harbor harmful bacteria such as salmonella, which can make your cat sick.
Also, the protein avidin in raw egg whites can interfere with the absorption of biotin. Biotin is a B vitamin necessary for healthy skin and coat in cats. Cooking egg denatures avidin and kills harmful bacteria.
Can Cats Eat Poached Eggs?
Yes, cats can eat fully cooked poached eggs. Just make sure not to add any seasoning, salt, or spices.
Do Cats Need to Eat Eggs?
No, cats do not need to eat eggs as they can get all their required nutrients from a well-balanced diet of high-quality cat food.
Conclusion
Cats can eat eggs as part of a well-balanced diet, but they should not be the primary source of nutrition.
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals for cats. However, you should cook and serve it correctly to avoid potential health risks.
As usual, consult your veterinarian before making any changes in your cat’s diet, including introducing eggs.
Check out our homemade recipes for tasty and healthy treats you can make for your feline friend.