Can Cats Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Can cats eat Brussel sprouts? Absolutely! Brussel sprouts are a great food choice that helps to reduce your cat’s waistline and provides an overall healthy addition to a cat’s meal. However, the internet forums are awash with concerns about this plant is toxicity to cats and this article will address them all.  

Can Cats Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Brussel sprouts are mini powerhouses when compared to the nutritional value grains provide cats. These plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and antioxidants. So, they are great food options for cats and are an excellent addition to your cat's meals. 

Are Brussel Sprouts Toxic To Cats?

As carnivorous animals, you might wonder if brussel sprouts are toxic for cats. The answer is, no. Brussel sprouts are not toxic to cats and pose no danger whatsoever, they instead contribute to the growth and wellbeing of your cat. Although they are cabbage-like, brussel sprouts contain vitamins C and K. 

It is important to note that your cat might not take an immediate liking to brussel sprouts. They will certainly notice if that sprouts has been mixed in with their food. 

If you are feeding brussel sprouts to your cat for the first time, there is an unlikely chance that your cat may experience mild vomiting or diarrhoea. This might not be anything serious, it may be that your cat is getting used to the new supplement. 

However, if these symptoms become more severe and your cat develops fever, muscle cramps or stomach upset, you should take it to the vet. 

Health Benefits of Brussel Sprouts

Vegetables have a lot of nutritional benefits for humans and cats. As vegetables, some of the benefits cats derive from brussel sprouts include the following:

1.     Vitamins B, C and K. 

Vitamins are very essential in the growth of cats. They protect your cat's immune system, clear their vision, strengthens bones and teeth, and improves skin and fur.

2.     Minerals 

Minerals play the same role in your cat's diet as vitamins do. In addition to that, they also help blood clot, maintain muscle functions and body fluids. 

3.     Proteins. 

Cats, more than dogs, need enough protein in their meals. They use more protein to expend energy and certain amino acids to build their muscles and aid body functions. 

4.     Fibres

Fibres play a major role in your cat's meal and that is to help with your cat's digestive system. 

5.     Antioxidants

Antioxidants are also present in brussel sprouts and their work is to reduce the growth of cancerous cells in your cat.  

How Can I Serve My Cat Brussel Sprouts?

To combat the weird possibility that your cat might get infected by bacteria resulting from serving raw brussel sprouts. Therefore, it is advisable to cook the sprouts in small quantities before adding it to your cat’s food. Doing so eliminates any bacteria that may be found in the sprouts and limit the possibility of infections.

Veterinarians also advice against feeding more than one vegetable to your cat at once. Therefore, brussel sprouts are best served as the sole veggie in your cat’s meal to avoid any possible complications.

Why You Should Serve Your Cat Brussel Sprouts

Besides the enormous nutritional benefits meals comprising of brussel sprouts afford your feline buddy, this plant is also low in fat and nutritionally balanced. It provides the vitamins and minerals needed to boost your cat's immune system. 

Conclusion

As long as you can make your cat comfortable eating them, brussel sprouts are a great meal addition. The best way to get your cat accustomed to this vegetable is to mix it with their food. However, you would need to seek professional advice from your vet before you can get your cat started on them.