Fruits And Vegetables For Cats: Which Ones To Give And How?

Obesity is a serious health problem, and responsible owners go out of their way to help their pets maintain a healthy weight. Fruits and vegetables come to our rescue. 

Offering fruits and vegetables to the cat is not essential to ensure its nutritional balance. The cat, in fact, is a carnivorous animal, not an omnivore like the dog and the human being. This means that animal proteins are the only ones able to satisfy its nutritional needs.

As a result, veterinarian-approved quality feed is sufficient to keep the cat healthy. However, if you want to replace calorie-rich wet food with fresh food, fruit and vegetables in small proportions are safe options for your health. Remember, however, to always consult your vet before adding a new food to your cat’s diet.

Fruits and vegetables for cats: which one to choose

Although felines are carnivorous animals, it is advisable to occasionally offer them some varieties of fruit and vegetables. However, due attention must be paid, as some fruits, such as grapes, are not suitable for cats.

The most prudent choice is therefore to rely on the veterinarian in order to know the particular dietary needs of your pet. Vegetables should be boiled and given in moderation. Specifically, among the most suitable for cats are:

• Boiled carrots. Easily digestible, they provide fiber and vitamins in the cat’s diet, necessary for a balanced diet.

• Boiled peas, rich in vegetable proteins, vitamin B12 and magnesium. They should be offered in small quantities if the cat does not particularly appreciate their taste.

• Boiled pumpkin. It is an excellent source of soluble fiber which promotes the cat’s digestive health. As a result, it is especially indicated when the animal is suffering from constipation or diarrhea. It is advisable to prepare a puree, excellent if mixed with meat.

Raw or cooked food

• Raw or boiled cucumber. It is a very moisturizing vegetable that offers several benefits to the urinary system. It should be given in small quantities and the cat’s tolerance checked.

• Raw or boiled lettuce  offers fiber, water and contains no fat. If your cat shows a special fondness for lettuce, take advantage of it.

• Green bean. It is moisturizing, contains plenty of fiber and is an important source of vitamins and nutrients that are ideal for complementing a cat’s diet.

• Potatoes. Ideal for satisfying the voracious appetite of some felines. Offered in small portions, like other vegetables and greens, they can be mixed with meat, chicken liver, etc.

• Broccoli. In addition to containing a lot of fiber, antioxidants and powerful plant substances, they also improve digestion. Steam them and add them to the cat’s diet.

• Spinach. This is another healthy option. Steam them and serve as indicated for the broccoli.

• Kale. It protects the liver and reduces inflammation. Try adding a tablespoon of kale to your cat’s usual food every day.

The best fruit for the cat

Although some fruits have no contraindications for cats, they should never be the basis of their diet.

Some cats feel more attracted to fruit than vegetables, but even this should be consumed in small quantities. The best fruits for cats are:

• Bananas and blueberries. They are fruits rich in nutrients; they promote intestinal activity by regularizing depositions in case of constipation.

• Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and fiber. Some cats especially love this fruit, but they don’t have to eat plenty of it.

• Cantaloupe melon is refreshing and moisturizing. This fruit is highly recommended in the summer. The cat will love the goodness of the melon during the warm season.

• Watermelon has the same benefits as melon. It is prudent to offer it as a refreshing alternative in addition to water.

• Chunks of apples and pears are ideal outside meals.

• Peaches are often cats’ favorite fruit. Be careful not to give large quantities a day even if the feline asks for more.

Fruits and vegetables for cats as an alternative

Although they are very healthy foods, fruits and vegetables should never be the only source of nutrients in the cat’s diet. It is best to give them as a snack or reward.

They don’t even have to make up the bulk of the diet, but accompany meat or fish. Animal proteins form the basis of the cat’s diet.

Fruits and vegetables are the ideal accompaniment to prevent or reduce the ingestion of unhealthy snacks. Added to the usual food, fresh products represent an ideal supplement for the general well-being of the animal.