Fall is a wonderful time of year, filled with pumpkin spice lattes, cinnamon donuts and colorful leaves. It's also a time when we share our favorite seasonal treats with family and friends. But when it comes to our cats, not all fall foods are safe. Chow down on what you need to know about cat-safe foods! (Always talk to your veterinarian before having your best feline friend taste something for the first time.)
Pumpkin is a quintessential fall favorite and can be a fantastic treat for cats. It's packed with fiber, which aids in digestion, and is a rich source of vitamin A, beta-carotene, potassium and iron. Whether puréed or baked into cat treats, pumpkin can be a healthy addition to your cat’s diet.
Sweet potatoes are another fall staple that is healthy for cats. They’re high in fiber and loaded with anti-inflammatory nutrients. Sweet potatoes also provide vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, copper, B vitamins, potassium, and beta-carotene. Mix cooked and pureed sweet potatoes into your cat’s regular food.
As we head back to school and work, packed lunches may include peanut butter sandwiches, and natural peanut butter is a treat that cats love, too. It's high in protein, amino acids, calcium, phosphorus and niacin, and can be a great source of entertainment when frozen into toys! Note: Be sure your peanut butter is free of preservatives and life-threatening additives, such as xylitol.
Apples are a great source of antioxidants and fiber, and apple slices are a nice safe snack to share with your cat. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as the seeds contain toxic cyanide and the core can pose a choking hazard.
While pumpkin itself is healthy, pumpkin-flavored sweets are not. Pumpkin pies, pumpkin spice lattes and other sweetened pumpkin treats often contain preservatives and sugar substitutes that can upset your cat’s stomach and be toxic. Only share these seasonal treats with your human bestie!
Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or blockages in your cat’s digestive system and should never be given to cats—raw or cooked.
Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure. Keep these far away from your pet, especially during fall feasts.
With fall comes the harvest of many crops—most of which are safe for your cat. However, vegetables in the onion family, including garlic, chives and leeks, pose a serious risk.
Despite these dangers, fall is a fantastic season for cats! With cooler days, the windows can be opened wide, providing new smells for your cat to enjoy and wildlife to watch.
By being aware of these fall food dos and don’ts, you can keep your cat safe and happy all season long. Enjoy the crisp air, the beautiful leaves and the joy of sharing seasonal cat-friendly treats with your companion!
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