Can Cats Eat Vegetable Oil?
Vegetable oil is a common kitchen staple used in many different dishes. But can cats have it?
The Pros
There are a few potential benefits to feeding your cat vegetable oil:
- Health benefits – Vegetable oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help protect your cat’s heart. This type of fat can also benefit their metabolism and digestive system.
- Joint health – These fats can help reduce the inflammation that can lead to joint pain, and help keep your cat’s joints healthy.
- Skin health – Many cats are prone to skin allergies and dry skin. Vegetable oil can be beneficial to cats because it is rich in essential fatty acids, which help keep the skin soft and hydrated.
The Cons
There are also some potential drawbacks to feeding your cat vegetable oil:
- Calories – It is high in calories, so if you are feeding your cat too much of it, it can lead to obesity.
- Diarrhoea – Cats can be sensitive to dietary changes, so if you are feeding your cat vegetable oil, it can lead to digestive upset, such as diarrhoea.
- Digestive upset – Vegetable oil can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Conclusion
It is possible for cats to eat vegetable oil in moderation as it can provide some health benefits. However, it can also lead to digestive upset and obesity. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before adding vegetable oil to your cat’s diet.
