Cats are animals that fulfill their nutrition through meat. But some cats also like to eat food other than meat like my cat. She likes to eat all the things that I eat including potatoes. But the question from all the pet owners is can cats eat potatoes?
The potatoes are not harmful to the cats when given to them in small amounts. Know this is good. It is a long talk about whether can cats eat human foods. You can provide small amounts of food like treats but not in large amounts and daily meals. Potatoes are the starchy foods that cause weight gain in your cats. If I tell you about myself I give only a small amount and very rare potatoes to my cat.
You also need to avoid food that contains ingredients like garlic and alcohol. Is garlic bad for cats. You need to know that it is very dangerous for your cat. To learn more about the benefits and risks of potatoes to cats read more.
Can Cats Have Potatoes?
Can cats eat potatoes? Yes, you can give potatoes to your cats but you need to check the kind of potatoes before giving them to cats. The best kind to give cats is peeled and roasted potatoes. Because in this type there are no changes in fats, and spices and also no addition of salts, these ingredients are harmful for cats.
But you also need to know that potatoes are not a must diet for cats. You can give them potatoes if they like it otherwise you can also skip this from their meal. Some cats also don’t like to eat potatoes but some love it. All the cats have their taste, they are the queen or king of our houses. Pretty cool right?
But if your cat or kitten wants to eat it then you offer them in small amounts like bit size. Raw food or the skin of potatoes is harmful to the cats so don’t ever give them the skin of potatoes always give them after peeling. Before giving the potato always wash it, completely peeled and cooked without seasoning.
Can Cats Eat Mashed Potatoes?
After finding the answer to can cats eat potatoes? Almost every cat owner is curious about is can we give mashed potatoes to our cats like me. Yes, cats can have mashed potatoes, but you need to keep some important points in mind.
The most important thing about giving mashed potatoes is that they are plain and have no butter, milk salt or any kind of seasoning in them. As I told you earlier the seasoning is very harmful for your cats. If you want that your cat to live a long healthy life keep these small things in mind.
Cats are always meant to eat meat as their proper diet. But some cats get bored like my cat to only eat meat daily. So you can also give them mashed potatoes as a change of taste. But always check the condition of cats after giving them potatoes and make sure they digest it completely.
Are Raw Potatoes Safe for Cats?
No, you need to remember that raw potatoes are not safe for your cat. Raw potatoes with their skin contain solanine which is very toxic for your cats. By giving raw potatoes they cause an upset stomach and also cause vomiting in cats.
Your cats have many health issues when you give them raw potatoes. Only give them cooked potatoes in a small amount. It is safe for the cats and also don’t add any seasoning to it.
Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?
Can Cats Have Potatoes? Yes, your cats can eat potatoes and sweet potatoes. I also told you earlier that keep in mind to always give them in small amounts. Sweet potatoes are not harmful to cats when you give them in small amounts and are completely cooked.
Always cook the potatoes until they are soft and peeled before giving them to your cats. After cooking completely give them in small amounts and don’t make it as their regular diet. Their main diet should be complete cat food that provides all the necessary nutrients.
Potatoes Cats Should Avoid To Eat
Can Cats Eat Potatoes? Yes, but you can not give all types of potatoes to your cats. I am here to tell you the kind of potatoes which are very harmful for the cats.
Potato Skins
Pottaos skin contains high levels of solanine. So this is not the option to give it to cats. Always give them peeled potatoes and not give them with their skin.
Green Potatoes
By reading this there is in your mind that what are Green Potatoes? Green potatoes are the potatoes that are turned green and keep in mind that it is very dangerous to your cats.
Fried Potatoes
Fried potatoes, like French fries, contain unhealthy fats and seasonings that are not suitable for cats. So don’t give them to cats as these can cause stomach problems and other health issues.
Potato Chips
Potato chips are not safe for cats due to their high salt content and added flavours. These can lead to sodium poisoning and other health issues.
Potatoes with Additive
Potatoes cooked with butter, cream, salt, spices, or other seasonings should be avoided. These additives can be harmful and might upset your cat’s stomach.
Conclusion
Cats can occasionally enjoy a small amount of plain, cooked potatoes, certain types of potatoes should be avoided. Raw potatoes, potato skins, green potatoes, fried potatoes, potato chips, and potatoes with added seasonings or fats are not suitable for cats and can pose health risks.
So, can cats eat potatoes? The answer is yes but with caution. Make sure any potatoes given to your cat are well-cooked, peeled, and served in tiny amounts. Sweet potatoes can also be a safer option if prepared correctly, but should still be offered sparingly.
In the end, it’s best to stick to a balanced cat food diet and use potatoes only as an occasional treat.
