There are many human foods that we often wonder if our feline friends can indulge in. One such food is beans. While it may seem harmless to us, we must be cautious when it comes to what we feed our cats.
In this blog post, we will explore whether or not cats can eat beans and discuss any potential risks and benefits associated with this vegetarian staple.
Types of Beans
Firstly, let’s take a look at the different types of beans available on the market. There are several kinds of legumes, including kidney beans, black beans, navy beans, pinto beans as well as green (also known as string) beans.
Nutritional Value of Beans
Beans have high nutritional value for humans; they provide protein and fiber along with vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins. However, do these nutrients benefit cats too?
Cats require a diet higher in protein than humans do to thrive properly; therefore some cat owners supplement their feline’s diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources like chicken or fish instead of plant-based proteins such as legumes.
Dangers Associated With Feeding Your Cat Beans
While there may be some benefits from feeding your cat certain types of cooked plain green bean in moderation (as an occasional treat), most other varieties should be avoided altogether due to potential health complications.
Raw kidney bean especially contain toxins called phytohaemagglutinin which can cause vomiting and diarrhea when ingested by both people or pets alike.
Furthermore, canned baked-beans often come pre-flavored with garlic or onion – two ingredients that can cause digestive upset for cats when consumed in large quantities.
Overconsumption could also lead to obesity due to their carbohydrate content.
The Bottom Line: Should Cats Eat Beans?
As much as you might want your kitty companion partake in your vegetarian dish, it is not recommended to feed them beans regularly or as a primary source of protein.
While small amounts of plain cooked green beans may be given as an occasional treat, any other type should be avoided due to potential health complications.
When selecting food for your feline friend’s diet, stick with high-quality animal-based proteins like chicken and fish formulated specifically for cats. Remember that every cat is different and has their own dietary requirements; thus always consult with your veterinarian before introducing something new into their regular meal plan.
