Can cats eat bread? The type of bread and possible toppings that are used to make the bread will determine the response. Let’s look more closely.
I never imagined that I would search “Can cats eat bread?” while simultaneously shrieking “Don’t eat that!” at my cunning cat. I just discovered my cat attempting to sneak a piece of gluten-free bread while conducting product testing in my test kitchen. The bread was nicely spread out for human eating, or at least that was the plan when he leaped to the counter and began licking each piece.
I initially assumed it was the butter spread on the bread, but he was grabbing slices of white bread. He would attempt to draw a slice of bread back to the ground by its crust. He has only ever successfully stolen chicken nuggets off the counter, so I was surprised by the behavior. Do cats enjoy bread, then? Have they been keeping this a secret from us? Even so, can cats eat bread?
Can Cats Eat Bread and Other Breaded Products?
When pondering the question “Can cats eat bread?” It’s not just me. My pals interjected and informed me about their cat’s love of carbohydrates. One of them told me how his cat enjoyed stealing pizza crusts so that it could get to the doughy center. Another fell over over heels for a certain brand of pancake mix that included both cooked and uncooked dough. My pals didn’t know whether it was the bread itself or the toppings (such butter, cheese, or pepperoni) on it. They too wondered if it was safe for cats to eat bread and if it was possible for cats to consume it.
Can Cats Bread? Is Bread Dangerous to Cats?
So, are cats able to eat bread? Thankfully, bread doesn’t pose a significant risk to cats. So, while it’s technically true that cats can eat bread, it’s not really advised. Bread is not necessary for the nutrition of cats.
Can Cats Eat Bread That Isn’t Cooked?
Eating raw or rising bread dough poses risks, says Dr. Heather Loenser, Senior Veterinary Officer of the American Animal Hospital Association. She advises that the biggest threat to cats is eating uncooked dough since the fermentation caused by the yeast in the dough can result in the bread expanding in the cat’s stomach. “This may result in excruciating stomach agony and, in theory, perforate the stomach.”
Alcohol poisoning is a possibility, Dr. Loenser continues, “because alcohol is a consequence of fermentation. Vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, trouble walking, and a drunken appearance are symptoms. Fortunately, it doesn’t seem that many cats are drawn to eating raw bread dough; dogs seem to have more problems with it.
Can Cats Eat Bread With Toppings or Add-Ins?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Can cats eat bread?” What’s on or in the bread also causes us some problems. Before, we questioned whether cats could consume cheese, a frequent topping for bread. Do cats like cheese? Yes, but only in moderation since cats become lactose intolerant after becoming kittens.
But can cats eat bread with non-dairy toppings? According to Dr. Loenser, other elements in bread that can be harmful include garlic and onions, which can harm red blood cells and result in anemia. Garlic can upset a cat’s stomach and make them throw up and have diarrhea, even in little doses. If you think that your cat has taken garlic, seek veterinary care.
Cats and Bread: Final Thoughts
It’s not necessarily a common hazard, according to Dr. Loenser, who claims that in her 15 years of practice she has never encountered a case of a cat being unwell after ingesting bread or dough. Therefore, avoid eating the garlic bread, and keep the onion spreads away from any bread that may be in the route of your cat.
Read more: Senior Cat Food: Ultimate Guide