Quinoa is one of those foods that nobody had heard of a few years ago, and now everyone is raving about it! This delicious grain is a great addition to soups, salads, casseroles – basically, anything you fancy! But can cats eat quinoa, or is quinoa toxic to cats?
Can cats eat quinoa?
Quinoa is a healthy snack that many cats will enjoy. Unlike most grains, the nutritional content of quinoa can be very beneficial to cats.
When served to your cat correctly and safely, quinoa is a healthy treat that can be a tasty addition to your cat’s dinner.
What are the health benefits of quinoa?
Grains such as quinoa would not top the list of favorite foods for many cats, but a few grains of quinoa mixed into your cat’s normal food can have many health benefits. In fact, many commercial cat foods already contain quinoa!
Quinoa is high in fiber, which helps to satisfy your cat’s appetite and stave off hunger. Fiber is also essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
This nutritious grain also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are a great source of energy and help to maintain your cat’s heart, lungs, and immune system.
And finally, quinoa contains magnesium, iron, and potassium, all of which help to keep your cat’s body healthy and functioning normally.
What should I be aware of when offering quinoa to my cat?
Cats are obligate carnivores – this means they need to eat meat to ensure their nutritional needs are met. Any other type of food such as quinoa should only make up a small part of your cat’s diet, otherwise, nutritional deficiencies may occur.
Stick to feeding just a small amount of quinoa to your cat on an occasional basis. Too much quinoa can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea.
It is recommended that quinoa is cooked before being fed to cats. While raw quinoa is not toxic to cats, they dislike the flavor and find it difficult to digest. Boiling and steaming are the best methods to use to cook quinoa for cats, but do not add any salt, oil, or flavorings.
Maven is all about proactive pet care. Be your best friend’s best friend by giving them 24/7, high-quality, industry-leading vet care to improve their mental health, physical health and more. No more frantic googling or unneeded stressful visits to the vet – Maven helps you save hundreds while also ensuring your pet lives the best life possible. Get your kit now!
