Can Cats Eat Tofu?

Can cats eat tofu? You may have asked yourself while you ate some tofu in the company of your kitty cat. Feeding your cat tofu may not cause harm, but it’s not in the best interest of your feline companion either. In this post, we will put the cat and tofu relationship under the spotlight and answer all related questions.    

Can Cats Have Tofu? 

Yes, cats can have tofu but they gain nothing from eating it. Cats are obligate carnivores and they feed basically on meat, to get vital nutrients. Tofu is a soy-based food, that is popular among the vegetarian community. 

Tofu is not toxic to cats, but it holds no nutritional value for cats. Cats depend on animal-based food because they can digest most of the animal protein. Tofu on the other lacks the required nutrients needed by cats.  

Nutritional Benefits of Tofu 

Tofu is highly nutritious and contains essential nutrients. It contains amino acids, iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, vitamin B1, and zinc. But these nutrients are mainly beneficial to humans. A cat diet should include mainly proteins.  

Additionally, Tofu contains raffinose and stachyose, which are not easily digested by felines but are healthier than cheese or unprocessed milk because of the absence of lactose.  

Also, tofu seasoned with garlic, onions or salt, should not be given to cats because they are allergic to cats. Cats may develop symptoms like vomiting, bloating, lethargy, diarrhea, and even loss of appetite. 

Can Cats Eat Tofurky?  

Yes, cats can eat tofurky as a snack and not part of their main diet. Tofurky is usually called “vegan turkey.” As you’d expect with vegan foods; there’s no real turkey in it. But instead, it is made from organic tofu and wheat protein. They’re usually seasoned with spices and herbs that are bad for your feline companion. 

Can Cats Take Soy Milk?  

Since felines are lactose intolerant and can’t take cow milk. Many people assume that soy milk is fine since there is an absence of lactose in it. Unfortunately, soy milk contains some substances that cats find difficult to digest.  

Allergies are very common with cats. About ten percent of allergies that occur in cats are caused by food, and tofu, made from soy, is not exempted. Tofu can cause an allergic reaction in cats; thus, you need to introduce it to your cat slowly as you monitor your pet’s response. Other foods that cause allergic reactions include chicken, corn, fish, wheat, and unprocessed milk.  

The presence of raffinose and stachyose, two sugars that cannot be digested by cats, in soy milk is the reason why you should avoid giving felines soy milk. Soy milk affects cats in a similar way to milk with the presence of lactose. 

What is Required In a Cat’s Diet? 

Cats require proteins for muscle and bone-building and also for energy production. Some micronutrients such as zinc, calcium, and magnesium are important for enzymatic action. Cats do not need, nor will they benefit from vitamins and minerals in tofu. When feeding cats, always remember that they eat mainly meat. Cats can only feed on tofu in moderation because they lack some of the enzymes needed to digest some tofu sugars. These sugars are likely to affect the gastrointestinal tract and come out as watery stool.  

Conclusion 

You can feed your cat some homemade tofu. However, most commercially made Tofu contain additives or they are seasoned with salts, garlic, or onions that may upset your cat’s stomach. 

If your cat has already tasted and liked tofu, make sure to moderate the amount of tofu given to your cat, to twice a week as a treat. Observe your pet to ensure it does not develop a life-threatening allergy related to soybean intolerance. The fact that your pet likes tofu does not mean you should convert it into your cat’s main meal.