Can Cats Eat Blueberries Safely?: Are Blueberries Safe For Cats?

can cats eat blueberries?

Do you love blueberries? I sure do!

Blueberries are often referred to as a “super fruit” because they have so many health benefits to us humans.

Blueberries are known for being low in calories and high in all sorts of nutrients, and are also super tasty.

They work to protect our health and they contain very high amounts of antioxidants, which are said to fight off cancer and slow the aging process.

They are said to repair damaged DNA, lower blood pressure, protect the cholesterol levels in the blood from becoming bad, and also work to improve brain function.

But, you may just be wondering if this is also true for our beloved pets?

Can cats eat blueberries and are they a “super fruit” for cats as well?

Let’s find out!

Can Cats Eat Blueberries?

As a pet owner, you may be wondering what human foods are okay and safe for your furry friends.

Many people believe that since cats are carnivores, meaning they are predominately meat eaters, they cannot or will not enjoy a treat of fresh fruits or veggies from time to time.

But believe it or not, cats can in fact eat Blueberries!

These animals are not exactly known for loving fruit salads, but there are the occasional fruits they can enjoy once in a while.

Are Blueberries Safe For My Cat?

Blueberries are completely safe for cats to eat.

Blueberries contain antioxidants that are good for cats. These antioxidants help protect the body’s cells and slow down the aging process, as well as possibly protecting against heart disease, cancer, and other diseases as well.

Blueberries also contain high amounts of water and fiber which are also among the benefits that come with feeding these berries to your feline friend.

On top of all of these benefits, blueberries contain vitamin C, K and manganese, which are all great for your cat.

Blueberries may also help support urinary tract functions in your cat so that everything will work right.

Some cat foods contain blueberry powder in them, so they are a good snack for your cat. Not all cats like blueberries however.

This is because cats cannot taste sweet flavors. It is more likely that your cat will enjoy the texture or consistency of the fruit as opposed to the actual taste and flavor of it.

are blueberries bad for cats? giving cat blueberries. woman feeding white cat outside.
are blueberries safe for cats to eat?

How Many Blueberries Can My Cat Eat Safely?

If you decide to try to give your cat some blueberries, do make sure that you wash them carefully first to remove any possible dirt or pesticides.

You can give blueberries to them whole or you can try to squeeze them into a paste, cook them, freeze them, or even cut them into little pieces and place on top of their regular food.

Although blueberries are safe for cats, they should not have too many.

There is some truth to the saying of having “too much of a good thing!”

Only give your cat about two to three blueberries a day, no more than two or three times in a single week, so that the treat does not add too many extra calories into their diet.

Again, since cats are natural carnivores, most of their diet should consist of meat and they do need a lot of protein to thrive.

Too many blueberries may upset your cat’s stomach and make it feel nauseous.

Some cats may also just not like blueberries and that is perfectly fine. It is best not to force them to eat something that they are not interested in.

But, our little furry friends often do get curious about the things we are eating ourselves, and this very same curiosity in a cat may just cause it to start meowing at you to try some of that strange little blue fruit you are enjoying….

And this time, you actually are allowed to let your cat try some.

Also read: Can cats eat cheese?

Can All Cats Eat Blueberries?

While blueberries are generally a safe treat for cats, there are a few cases in which your cat should not eat them.

If your cat has a known intolerance or some allergy to blueberries, it is best not to give them any to begin with.

Cats who are on a prescription diet for health concerns or a hypoallergenic diet should also steer clear of these berries.

Any felines with a weakened immune system, due to illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, or asthma, should not try blueberries.

As always, it is important to always check with your vet before adding any new food to their diet.

Especially if you are thinking of giving your house cat something that seems exotic or “strange” such as blueberries.

Are There Any Possible Side Effects to Watch For?

If you give your cat too many blueberries, they may experience some digestion problems, like an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Also be sure to keep a look out for any signs of allergies, like sneezing, itching, or a rash on your cat.

Start with maybe just one berry or a half one, if it is the first time you are giving blueberries to your cat.

blueberries in a bowl. bowl of blueberries. white bowl with blue berries.

My Cat Loves Blueberries….Now What?

If your cat has found a particular liking to this type of berries, you may want to try a cat food that contains blueberries in it.

FirstMate Chicken Meal with Blueberries, and Blue Buffalo Wilderness are both good cat food options that contain blueberries in the ingredients.

They also, obviously cater to this particular flavor preference and your cat may come to just love these foods if it likes that taste especially.

If you want to try different fruits with your cat, there are some other fruits that are safe in moderation for your little friend.

Fruit is high in water, which will help your cat stay hydrated.

But, always be careful to do your research first, and make sure cats can actually eat the thing you have in mind!

Here are some other fruits that are safe for your cat:

Apples

Apples contain antioxidants, calcium, vitamins, and pectin.

Always carefully wash the apple first and cut it into small pieces. Never let your cat eat the apple seeds!

Apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous for cats so be very careful with this.

Peaches

Peaches are a good source of antioxidants, potassium, and vitamins A and C.

Introduce small pieces of washed and skinned peaches to your cat, and they may just find a new favorite snack.

Melons

Different types of melons, like watermelon, honeydew melon, and cantaloupe are also safe for cats.

Cats seem to be most drawn to cantaloupe in my experience, but all melon varieties are perfectly safe for your cat to try in fact.

When feeding your cat some melon, make sure to cut the fruit into very small pieces and make sure to remove any seeds and the rind from the fruit.

Do keep a close eye on your cat still always when giving him something like this, you don’t want to take any chances.

Strawberries

Mmmm….everybody loves strawberries, am I right?

If your cat loves blueberries, they may also enjoy strawberries, which contain high levels of vitamins C, B1, B6, K, and fiber.

Make sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly and well, remove any leaves and stems, and then cut them into small pieces as well.

With that in mind, canned strawberries and strawberry flavoring is NOT a good idea and should be off limits for your beloved cat.

Like blueberries, when feeding your cat any fruit, it should always be in moderation.

Only two or three pieces a couple of times a week is the perfect amount.

Human food and snacks should make up no more than 15% of your cat’s diet.

Also, be sure to be on the lookout for any signs of an allergy when feeding your cat any new food or snack.

Never give your cat citrus fruits, grapes, or coconut, which can be dangerous for your feline friend.

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Are There Any Vegetables That my Cat Can Safely Eat?

If you are looking for another healthy and safe snack option, look no further than to some common vegetables.

Adding small amounts of vegetables to your cats diet, will add some extra vitamins and minerals to their diet.

Since cats are carnivores, a cat’s body does not digest plant matter the same way it does meat, so like fruit, feeding your cat veggies should be limited to moderation.

Here are some vegetables that are safe for your cat:

Broccoli

Broccoli may help your cat if they have an upset stomach.

Like blueberries, broccoli is also high in antioxidants which can ward off free radicals.

Make sure you cook the broccoli, either by steaming or boiling it, and then allow it to cool down well before feeding it to your cat.

Give your cat the broccoli florets when they are soft, either as a treat or on top of their regular meal.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and zinc as well.

Small amounts of cooked pumpkin, free from the rind and any seeds, is safe for your cat, and can help if your cat is constipated.

Canned pumpkin can also be used as long as there are no extra additives, like sugar or seasoning.

Make sure there is nothing like xylitol in it! It is harmful to cats.

Zucchini

Zucchini is healthy for cats because it is high in water, potassium, fiber and calcium.

Calcium is important for strong teeth and bones in cats, and to make sure that the fluids regulate correctly through the body. Make sure the zucchini is cooked fully before cutting it into small pieces for your cat to enjoy.

Peas

Peas are also safe for cats and are actually used in many pet food recipes and by brands.

Peas are high in protein, fiber, iron, potassium, copper, and are great for improving your cat’s digestive health.

To give your cat peas, make sure they are cooked and cooled well enough.

For smaller cats and kittens, the peas should be cut up or pureed to prevent possible choking.

Can Dogs Eat Blueberries As Well?

In a lot of households that have both cats and dogs, pet owners may start to notice that their dogs like to steal the cat’s food.

Sneaky little things…

So are blueberries an okay treat for dogs too?

Dogs, unlike cats are omnivores, and a healthy diet for dogs combines meat with plant based foods.

And blueberries are safe for them as well! (1.)

A lot of dogs love the sweet taste of blueberries, and the benefits that blueberries give cats, such as the large amounts of antioxidants, fiber and water, they give to dogs as well.

So blueberries are a great snack for both your cats and your lovely cute dogs.

Final Words

Blueberries, as well as some other fruits and vegetables, are a healthy snack when given to your cat in moderation.

Too much fruit is not great for your cat’s health and well being, but as a treat every now and then, blueberries can be a great option for a fun snack.

So the next time you see your cat staring longingly at that blueberry you are holding, give him a taste!

Did you now though, that cats are actually scared of one type of vegetable, cucumbers?

It is pretty interesting, and you can read about it right here: Why are cats so scared of cucumbers?

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Author: Cathour

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