Eggs are not only a superfood for humans but also a great source of animal protein for our feline friends. Cooked eggs are of great nutritional benefit to animals. So can cats really eat eggs too?
Many cat owners will add the occasional egg to their cat’s diets to help with their growth and development. Eggs are also a common addition to commercial cat food and treats. They add the protein percentages as well as the health benefits of cat food.
Why Cats Can Eat Eggs
Cats are obligate carnivores. This means that they can only obtain nutrients from animal proteins. One of the richest sources of animal protein is the egg.
Eggs pack a nutritional punch that will help in the growth and development of your kitty. These nutrients include:
Amino Acids
Eggs are a rich source of amino acids. Of the 11 essential amino acids needed by cats, 10 are found in eggs.
Taurine
Taurine is essential for the development of a healthy heart and eyes. Cats, unlike dogs, can’t manufacture taurine on their own, and can only obtain it from animal proteins. Eggs are an excellent source of taurine.
Carbohydrate Free
Cats have no need for carbohydrates in their diets. Eggs are carbohydrate-free, making them an excellent source of protein for cats.
Vitamin A
Eggs also contain vitamin A which is important for the development of your cat’s nervous system, heart, coat, and skin.
Vitamin D
Cats can’t manufacture vitamin D on their own. Eggs are a good source of vitamin D which is essential for bone growth and the management of calcium in the body.
Vitamin E
Eggs also contain vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
Vitamin B12
Is an essential vitamin that supports your cat’s nervous system, digestive system, and immune system.
Thiamine
Helps with your cat’s brain development and carbohydrate metabolism.
Iron
It’s an essential nutrient required by your cat for the production of red blood cells. It helps prevent anemia in cats.
Riboflavin
Also known as vitamin B2, it helps in the production of red blood cells in cats. It also improves your cat’s immune system.
Zinc
Helps with your cat’s reproductive system and also helps improve your cats hair and skin.
This nutrient improves the quality of your cat’s skin, hair, and reproductive system.
Selenium
Is an antioxidant that prevents your cat’s cells from being damaged by free radicals.
Biotin
It’s an essential nutrient found in eggs that helps the functioning of your cat’s thyroid and adrenal glands. It also helps your cat process and excrete excess protein.
Can Cats Eat Raw Eggs?
You should avoid feeding your cat raw eggs. The only way you can safely feed eggs to your cat is if they are cooked. Raw eggs carry harmful bacteria such as salmonella or E.Coli which can cause serious gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea for your cat.
Raw eggs also contain a protein known as avidin. This protein interrupts the absorption of biotin and complex B vitamins. The amount of avidin is significantly reduced in cooked eggs to a level that is safe for cats.
What is the best way to feed eggs to cats?
The best way of serving eggs to your cats is by scrambling, boiling, poaching, or frying. You should avoid adding any seasoning or butter to the eggs. Seasonings such as onion, garlic, and other spices are toxic to cats.
Most cats are selective feeders. As such, if you plan on introducing eggs to their diet, you should add eggs to their normal food in very small pieces. This will disguise the taste of eggs, allowing them to get accustomed to the taste and accept it later.
Cats also have allergies and are intolerant to certain foods. Even though an allergic reaction to eggs is rare in cats, you should watch your cat’s health once you introduce eggs or any new food for that matter, to their diet. Symptoms such as itching, digestive upset, or ear infection could indicate an allergic reaction.
How Many Eggs Can Cats Eat In a Day?
Even though eggs are a rich source of animal protein, they should only make up a small percentage of your cat’s diet. Eggs should only be served as a supplement. Your cat should be fed a healthy and balanced diet. Feeding your feline friend only eggs will cause her to suffer from malnutrition. Your cat needs many essential vitamins and minerals found in commercial cat foods. You should feed your cat eggs once or twice a week, but never a whole egg.
Can cats eat egg yolk?
Egg yolks are safe for cats. They contain the bulk of the egg’s nutritional value. However, egg yolk should not be fed to your cat raw. Yolks should also be fed in moderation since they are rich in fat and cholesterol. Feeding your feline friend too much yolk can lead to an obesity problem or cause pancreatitis.
Eggs have loads of fat and cholesterol. If your cat is overweight or has kidney issues, you should consult your veterinarian to know if eggs are safe for your cat and if so, how much of it.
Want to learn more about your feline’s diet? Check these articles out!
Can Cats Eat Bread?
What Can Cats Eat Apart From Cat Food?
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