You love pesto. It’s versatile, delicious, and can be added to a variety of dishes. But as a responsible cat owner, you might be wondering if it’s safe to share this green sauce with your feline friend. The answer is quite simple: cats should not eat pesto. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why and provide you with all the information you need to keep your furry companion safe and healthy.
What Is Pesto?
Pesto originates from Italy, specifically Genoa, and has been around since the 16th century. It’s a sauce made from pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, basil, and parmesan cheese. These ingredients are blended together to create the beloved sauce. While there are variations and substitutes available, we’ll focus on the traditional recipe for pesto.
Cats and Pesto
Each ingredient in pesto poses potential risks to cats. Let’s take a closer look at them:
Pine Nuts
While there are no current studies showing that pine nuts are toxic to cats, they can be difficult for cats to digest due to their high-fat content. Cats, being obligate carnivores, have a digestive system that is designed for a meat-based diet. Consuming too many pine nuts could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and an upset stomach for your feline friend.
Garlic
Garlic is a member of the Allium family and contains compounds that can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells in pets. This can lead to hemolytic anemia, a condition where the red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced. Garlic is highly toxic to cats, even more so than onions, and can be fatal if left untreated. Most cats naturally avoid garlic and onions, but it’s best to keep them away from any exposure.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient in pesto but is not considered poisonous to cats. However, consuming excessive amounts of fat, including olive oil, can cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and an upset stomach in cats.
Basil
Basil, while not considered toxic to cats, offers no nutritional value and cannot be properly digested by felines due to their obligate carnivorous nature. Ingesting basil may lead to digestive upset in cats.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is high in fat and lactose, making it less than ideal for your cat’s diet. Cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot efficiently process dairy products. While parmesan cheese is not toxic, it can cause digestive issues for your feline friend.
Signs of Toxicity
If your cat accidentally ingests garlic or pesto, it’s important to recognize the signs of toxicity. These may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, pale gums, and increased heart rate. If you suspect your cat has consumed garlic or pesto, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What to Do if Your Cat Eats Garlic
If you suspect your cat has ingested garlic, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible. Even if you are unsure if your cat has consumed garlic but suspect they may have, it’s best to contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline for guidance. The veterinarian will determine the best course of action based on your cat’s size, weight, breed, prior health history, and the quantity of garlic consumed.
Keeping Your Cat Safe
Prevention is the best way to keep your cat safe from potential toxins. Here are some tips to help you protect your feline friend:
- Secure food containers and promptly put away any potentially harmful foods.
- Keep pantry and cabinet doors closed to prevent access to dangerous substances.
- Consider using a secure trash can to prevent cats from rummaging through the garbage.
- Feed your cat a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. Cats are obligate carnivores and require a meat-based diet for optimal health.
- Choose cat food that is free from artificial ingredients, harmful chemicals, and unnecessary fillers.
- Avoid feeding your cat human food unless approved by your veterinarian or a feline nutritionist.
Now that you know what is safe for your cat to eat, it’s equally important to provide them with a bowl that supports their health and well-being. Our favorite option is the Hepper NomNom Cat Bowl, designed with whisker-friendly features and a wide tray to catch any spills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can cats eat pesto with alternative ingredients?
A: Cats should avoid pesto regardless of the ingredients used. The main concerns are the garlic and high-fat content, which are harmful to cats.
Q: Are there any safe alternatives to pesto for cats?
A: Instead of pesto, you can offer your cat specific cat-safe treats or consult with your veterinarian for recommendations.
Q: Is it safe for cats to eat basil leaves?
A: Basil leaves offer no nutritional value for cats and may cause digestive upset. It’s best to avoid feeding basil to your feline friend.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats should not eat pesto. The ingredients in pesto, particularly garlic, are toxic to cats and can cause severe health issues. It’s crucial to prioritize your cat’s well-being and avoid sharing pesto or any foods containing pesto with them. If your cat accidentally ingests garlic or pesto, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Remember to always provide your cat with a balanced and appropriate diet for their carnivorous nature.