Cats are known for their picky eating habits and pet owners are often curious about what they can and can’t feed their furry friends. As biscuits are a popular snack for many people (and many types of pets as well), people often wonder ‘can cats eat biscuits or not?’
In this article, we will share with our readers whether cats can be fed with biscuits or it is exclusively for humans and dogs only. Examine the pros and cons of feeding your cats with biscuits to always make well informed decisions about the cat’s diet.
Can Cats Eat Biscuit?
Many cat owners are seeking answers on the internet for a commonly occurring thought ‘can cat eat biscuits?’. The answer for this question is that cats can definitely eat biscuits but occasionally and in little amounts.
Biscuits are often used as treats for cats because of the crunchy texture that appeals to them and frankly not just cats, many other pets also love biscuits. However, despite the lower sugar content, biscuits aren’t good for cats.
While selecting any product for their cats, pet owners should always consult the labeling on packages of various products. As it can be very difficult for cat owners to know what is in the food they are feeding their cats, going through the nutritional facts and ingredients on the packages may give them an insight.
In addition, some biscuits contain hazardous things such as herbs that are not suitable or harmful to your pet’s health. So, it is always important to check the ingredients of any type of biscuit before giving it to your pet.
What are the Ingredients Used to Make Biscuits?
If you always want to know the correct answer to the question ‘Can Cats eat biscuits?’, then you certainly need to know what ingredients go into a biscuit. There are different types of ingredients that go into the making of biscuits, depending on what type of biscuit it is.
The most common ingredients used in making biscuits are flour, butter, sugar and salt with the exception of other ingredients for special cookies. Although these ingredients are used basically, there can be things like powdered milk for taste or chewy texture.
If you are making biscuits at home for your cat, you can also add protein and other useful minerals to make sure your cat is getting enough nutrition in their diet while having fun with the treats.
Butter
Butter is usually added to biscuits to give them a creamy taste. However, it is important to know that cats cannot metabolize the milk protein in butter. So, it is better to not give them any food containing this ingredient as it is not good for their digestive system.
Milk
Milk may seem like the best thing you can offer to cats, but it is not good for cats if not given in moderation. It contains lactose which can give them diarrhea when consumed in excess.
Salt
Biscuits may also contain salt, which is added for flavor or to preserve the food. However, salt in large amounts can be toxic for cats and cause them to have an electrolyte imbalance in their body.
Sugar
Sugar is not good for cats. Too much sugar consumption is bound to make your cat obese or overweight which can make them at risk for a variety of health concerns, including pancreatitis, diabetes, respiratory difficulties, heart disease, and urinary disorders.
Flour
Biscuits also contain flour which is a carbohydrate. While it is not harmful for cats in any way, carbs are not essential for a healthy cat diet.
Is it Safe to Feed Cats with Human Biscuits?
Source: 21cats.org
Can cat eat biscuits? As most of the ingredients used in making biscuits are not suitable for consumption by cats, it can be said that cats should not eat biscuits that are manufactured for human consumption.
The ingredients in a biscuit can cause gastrointestinal problems, obesity, and diabetes if it is consumed too frequently by cats. Most store-bought or homemade biscuits contain dairy products as well as other substances that should not be a part of your cat’s diet.
However, occasional treats in moderation can be given but only after consulting with the vet of your pet.
Pros of Feeding Cats Biscuits
Source: 21cats.org
Convenient and Easy to Store
Biscuits are a convenient and easy-to-store snack option for pet owners. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be easily kept in a pantry or on a shelf. Biscuits are also great for travel and can be taken on the go, making them a great option for pet owners who like to take their cats with them.
Nutritional Benefits
Some biscuits are specially formulated to provide cats with essential nutrients and vitamins that they may be lacking in their diet. These biscuits can help improve a cat’s overall health, especially if they are on a low-quality diet.
Treats for Training
Biscuits can be used as a treat to reward cats for good behavior during training sessions. They are small, easy to carry and can be used to reward a cat for learning a new trick or for being good during a grooming session.
Cons of Feeding Cats Biscuits
High in Fat and Carbs
While biscuits can be a convenient snack option for cats, they are often high in fat and carbs. This can lead to weight gain and other health problems if a cat eats too many biscuits.
Not a Complete Meal
Biscuits should not be used as a replacement for a cat’s regular meals. They do not provide all of the essential nutrients that a cat needs to thrive and should only be used as a supplement to their regular diet.
Allergies
Some cats may have allergies to certain ingredients in biscuits. It’s important to carefully read the ingredient list and monitor your cat’s reaction to the biscuits to make sure they are not having any adverse effects.
Overview
Biscuits can be a convenient and fun treat for cats, but pet owners should be aware about ‘can cat eat biscuits?’ Knowing about the potential risks involved with feeding biscuits to their pet cat is quite important.
Make sure to provide a well-balanced diet for cats and only use biscuits as a supplement, not a replacement for their regular meals. If you are considering feeding your cat biscuits, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to make sure they are appropriate for your pet’s individual needs and health status.
