No, cats should not eat hazelnuts. Hazelnuts are not poisonous to cats, but their high-fat content may cause choking stomach issues, and pancreatitis.
As obligate carnivores, cats don’t require nuts. Hazelnuts may have cat-toxic coatings or spices.
What nutrients are found in hazelnuts that could potentially benefit cats?
Hazelnuts include protein, fiber, good fats, antioxidants, vitamin E, manganese, and copper. These nutrients may decrease cholesterol, improve skin, minimize oxidative stress, and boost cognitive function. These nutrients help humans more than cats. Cats cannot digest plant proteins. They can only produce vitamin E and other antioxidants from plant sources. Hazelnuts are not nutritious for cats.
Health Risks Associated with Cats Eating Hazelnuts
There are several health risks associated with cats eating hazelnuts. Some of them are:
Do hazelnuts contain anything toxic or harmful to cats?
Hazelnuts are not hazardous to cats, however, they may contain dangerous chemicals. Hazelnuts may be coated or seasoned with salt, sugar, chocolate, artificial flavors, or preservatives. These compounds may poison cats or induce dehydration, obesity, diabetes, renal disease, or obesity. Therefore, avoid providing your cat with salted or flavored hazelnuts.
Are hazelnuts more difficult for cats to digest compared to other nuts?
Yes, cats find hazelnuts harder to digest than other nuts. Hazelnuts’ hard shells hurt cats’ mouths and throats. They also overwhelm the cat’s liver and pancreas with fat. Cats may acquire pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes deadly pancreatic inflammation, due to their inability to break down lipids. Cats with pancreatitis have vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, fever, and stomach discomfort.
Can eating hazelnuts cause gastrointestinal issues in cats?
Yes, Cats may have stomach difficulties from hazelnuts. Cats can’t digest hazelnuts, which may cause indigestion, gas, bloating, and constipation. They may also induce vomiting and diarrhea in cats with sensitive stomachs. If untreated, cats’ vomiting and diarrhea may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Conclusion
Cats shouldn’t consume hazelnuts. Hazelnuts are heavy in fat and may cause choking digestive issues, and pancreatitis in cats, but they are not dangerous. Since cats are obligate carnivores, they don’t require nuts. Cats may be allergic to hazelnut coatings or spices. Thus, give your pet cat-friendly snacks instead of hazelnuts.
