Are you a pet parent? If yes, then the safety of your furry friend is your top priority. Do you ever ask yourself if human food is safe for them to eat? You would think that pistachios are safe. Yet, cats should not eat them. In this article, we’ll explain why cats should not eat pistachios and what other food options you can give them.
Pistachios – or “green almonds” – are tasty nuts humans can eat in moderation for potential health benefits. But, can cats eat them too? No! Cats need specific diets and pistachios don’t align with this. Plus, they are high in fat and contain phosphorus and minerals which can be dangerous for cats if eaten in large amounts.
If you do share pistachios with your cat, make sure to remove the shell first. Eating shells can cause an intestinal blockage – a condition needing vet help.
What are Pistachios?
Pistachios are a type of nut that is globally adored. They come in either a red or yellow-brown shell, and the seed inside can be white, pink, or fawn-colored. These nuts provide protein, unsaturated fats, and dietary fiber – making them a healthy snack!
The Pistacia tree is the source. It mainly grows in the Mediterranean (Syria and Turkey are the biggest producers). Asia and North Africa also have trees. Inside its fruit, you’ll find one seed inside an almond-shaped shell, surrounded by an outer husk. The raw seed is eaten when tender green and the ripe seed can be consumed fresh or dried for oil extractions.
Pistachios are gaining worldwide fame due to their health benefits, like reducing cholesterol. They also contain many vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
- Vitamins A
- B6
- C
- Iron
- Calcium
are all necessary for good health and can be found in pistachios.
Are Pistachios Safe for Cats?
Pistachios are a fav snack for many pet owners, but these nuts can be toxic – even fatal – to cats. Their health risks outweigh any potential benefits. Small amounts may be enjoyed by some cats, but it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Pistachios have high levels of fat and phosphorus. These can worsen existing conditions like obesity and kidney disease. The shells can cause intestinal blockage, as they’re tough to digest and can get stuck. Roasted and salted pistachios may also have added ingredients that are dangerous to cats, like garlic, onion powder, and artificial flavorings.
Never feed pistachios directly to cats. Don’t leave them out, either. If your cat does consume a shell, seek immediate veterinary help from an expert animal doctor or an emergency vet hospital.
Potential Health Risks of Eating Pistachios
Pistachios have interesting nutrients for cats. However, like all human food, it is important to serve them in moderation. Eating too many can cause digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea due to their fat content. This can lead to obesity in cats that gain weight easily. In addition, the protein may be too high and damage the kidneys.
Xanthines in pistachios can interfere with heart rhythm.
Also, the shells of a pistachio nut are dangerous. They can cause an intestinal obstruction, which requires immediate vet help and puts your cat’s life at risk. Do not give cats pistachios with shells. If you give them any kind of nuts, make sure they come without shells.
Why Cats Should Not Eat Pistachios?
Pistachios may seem yummy to cats, but they can make them unwell. The bright green nuts are full of fat and calories. This can lead to obesity if cats have too much. And their shape makes it hard for cats to swallow.
Plus, pistachios are high in sodium and phosphorus. Too much of either can cause dehydration or kidney problems. It’s best not to give cats pistachios.
The shells can be dangerous too. Eating them can cause an intestinal blockage. If you want to share a pistachio with your cat, make sure it’s without a shell. That’s even more dangerous than the nut itself.
Is it OK to Share Pistachios with Cats?
Sharing snacks with your cat may seem like a nice gesture, but it’s important to be aware of potential dangers. Pistachios are one such snack that can be toxic for cats. Though they look delicious, they have a high-fat content which can cause an upset stomach. Eating too many can also lead to pancreatitis, which requires medical attention.
Even if you still think of sharing pistachios with your cat, make sure the shells are removed. They can cause intestinal blockage, which requires immediate veterinary attention. So, just to be safe, avoid giving cats pistachios altogether!
How to Make Pistachios Safe for Cats?
If you’re going to feed your cat pistachios, you need to prepare them correctly. Don’t give them with shells on, as this could lead to an intestinal blockage. Also, they must be unsalted, uncooked, and unseasoned.
Only give them in small quantities and observe your pet’s behavior afterward. You may want to grind them up first, so your cat isn’t getting a large amount at once. Also, make sure your cat has access to fresh water after eating.
If your cat is showing signs of illness afterward, e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, or behavioral changes, it’s important to get veterinary attention immediately.
Conclusion
Therefore, cats should not eat pistachios. They could contain too much phosphorus and fat, which would be unhealthy. They also might choke on the shells, or have an intestinal blockage.
If you still want to share snacks with your feline friend, try something nut-free or low-fat. Remember to ask your vet before giving any new food to your pet.
