Ever caught your feline friend eyeing your sandwich? It may seem uncanny for cats to eat bread, but you’ve probably seen videos of it on the internet or witnessed the act firsthand with your furry pal. So, you ponder - Can cats munch on bread or is it a no-no? Before hosting a bread buffet for your cat, let’s uncover the truth behind this carb conundrum!
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Can Cats Eat Bread
In general, giving your kitty small quantities of baked bread on occasion doesn’t pose any harm. However, remember not to give it daily. Only give it as an occasional treat if your cat seems to really like it.
While bread is technically not harmful for your cat, it doesn’t offer any nutritional value in terms of their needs either. Bread, for cats, is a case of empty calories. One slice of bread, for example, contains calories that are equivalent to ⅕ of the average cat’s daily needs. Because of this, giving your cat a second slice of bread apart from their meals is way too many calories for them.
On the other hand, bread can be a useful treat when you need to give your cat oral medications. Hiding it in the middle (if it is a pill) or squirting it (if in liquid form) on a slice of bread may do the trick. This may not always work, however. The PennVet Ryan Veterinary Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania shares that a lot of cats tend to avoid food with medications because of the bitterness they taste. Canned cat food might be a better choice, according to the hospital, but if your cat loves bread, you can try it out.
Making sure that your cat doesn’t eat anything harmful or in excess is important. But since you can’t always glue your eyes on them 24/7, the Petcube Cam may come in handy.
Which Bread Can Cats Eat
Can cats eat banana bread?
While bananas are not toxic for cats according to ASPCA, the other ingredients of banana bread may be potentially harmful, especially store-bought ones without you being sure about the ingredients or preservatives used.
Can cats eat white bread?
Yes, but only occasionally and in small amounts because it doesn’t provide them with the nutrients that they need.
Can cats eat bread crusts?
Like white bread, giving small amounts is generally okay, but it shouldn’t be part of their daily diet.
Can cats eat garlic bread?
Garlic is considered toxic to cats, especially if given in large amounts, so remember to keep your garlic bread away from your cat.
Can cats eat sourdough bread?
It’s not safe to give your cat sourdough since it has high amounts of yeast, which can have a reaction with carbohydrates and produce ethanol, which can cause seizures or respiratory illnesses. In addition, when your cat ingests uncooked yeast, it can cause alcohol toxicosis, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. It can also cause severe bloating and a distended stomach. Preventative Vet shares that even a small amount of raw yeast can easily produce carbon dioxide and alcohol, which can be very dangerous for cats.
Can cats eat corn bread?
Yes, you can, but only in moderation and in small amounts.
Can cats eat wheat bread?
It’s generally safe, but only on occasion and in minimal amounts.
Can cats eat pumpkin bread?
While pumpkin is safe for cats, other ingredients in pumpkin bread may be harmful such as sugar and spices.
Can cats eat bread crumbs?
It’s technically safe, but it doesn’t provide them with nutritional benefits.
Can cats eat pita bread?
If it’s baked and cooked, it poses no harm, but only in small amounts, and shouldn’t be given every day.
Can Cats Eat Bread With Additives
The more plain the bread is, the more safe it is for your cat in general. Remember that additives such as onions, garlic, sugar, and spices are harmful, with some being toxic.
Because cats may be susceptible to emergencies such as when they accidentally ingest things that are harmful or toxic to them, being assured that they will be protected and given the treatment that they need is helpful. Petcube’s Pet Emergency Fund is a worthy pet insurance alternative to consider to help protect your pet while giving you peace of mind during emergencies and unexpected situations.
Conclusion
Giving your cat an occasional slice of plain and baked bread is generally safe. However, it doesn’t provide them with nutritional value. More so, those with additives and flavors may have ingredients that are dangerous and even toxic. Also, note that raw yeast is extremely dangerous, so make sure that the bread you give is baked so as not to avoid trouble.