The question of whether or not cats can eat eggs is one that many cat purr-ents struggle with. In some circles, it is considered a cat superfood with plenty of nutrients and trace compounds to boost your cat’s health.
Cats can eat eggs and have a lot of benefits to look forward to. However, there are also several risks associated with these tasty food items which should inform your decision not only when it comes to how much but also what form of eggs you can give.
Are eggs good for cats?
We have already established briefly that it is actually ok to give your cats eggs. For some perspective, here are some of the key health benefits your little one gets to enjoy from this tasty treat.
It is a good source of proteins
Egg whites are packed with proteins like albumin and other important amino acids. These act as building blocks in the cat’s body for structural and functional proteins including hormones, neurochemicals, and even antibodies.
The protein in eggs is easier to digest
Protein found in eggs is also one of the easiest to digest for cats. Eggs are good especially for cats that are struggling with some form of digestive issue whether it is a stomach bug or general indigestion. That way, they get access to much needed protein without having to put their digestive systems through the trouble of breaking down heavier proteins like those found in meat.
They taste great
Eggs are just really tasty whether scrambled or even boiled. This makes them ideal cat food or treats for kitties that are particularly picky with their meals. It is an especially effective way to spruce up homemade cat food making it more palatable to the cat.
Contains micronutrients
Eggs also contain micronutrients which serve different purposes in the cat’s body. These include vitamins D, B5, B12 and B2. They also include minerals like calcium and iodine.
How to prepare to prepare eggs for your cat?
So how do you prepare the eggs for your cat? First of all, you should never give it raw. As with raw meat, uncooked eggs often carry pathogenic microorganisms like salmonella which could cause serious infections. Instead, find ways to prepare the eggs that kill the germs but maintain the flavor and nutritional value.
Here are 3 preparation options that could come in handy.
Boiled
This is the easiest and healthiest way to prepare eggs for the cat. It comes in particularly handy if your cat has been vomiting as the bland nature makes it less likely to trigger further episodes.
Scrambled
Scrambled eggs are many cat’s favorite way to have eggs. Just make sure to fry them in healthy grease options like coconut oil.
Cat omelet
You could also give your cat an egg in the form of an omelet. Just make sure to avoid ingredients like onions or garlic that may be harmful to the cat.
How many eggs can a cat eat?
Cats need less food than we realize and can survive on 200 calories a day. Now considering that one egg can have as many as 90 calories, it goes without saying that you should only give your cat small amounts. 10 to 20% of an egg should be enough.
Just prepare it whether it is boiling or scrambling and divide it up into portions that you can give the cat every day and refrigerate what is left. Or you could just make it occasional cat treats by feeding them off your plate and eating the rest.
Egg whites vs. yolk: which is best for your kitty?
Egg yolks have a lot of fatty acids including cholesterol. This may not be the best for your cat and consistently feeding your cat large amounts of yolk could cause obesity.
While egg whites are the way to go with cats, it is important to understand the importance of avoiding raw diets. This is because raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin in egg whites binds micronutrients like biotin.
If you find this article useful, make sure to read our in-deprth artcile on 6 super foods for your cat.