Disclaimer: Always check with your vet on what “human foods” your cat can and cannot eat as information may vary based on their dietary needs and health conditions.
Eggs are a good source of protein, essential amino acids, and vitamins. When cooked and prepared properly, cats can eat eggs in moderation.
Read on to learn more about whether eggs are actually good for cats, how much they should be eating and more.
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Are eggs good for cats?
Yes, eggs can be beneficial for cats when given in moderation. They are rich in high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and nutrients like vitamins A, B12, and riboflavin. These nutrients support muscle growth, energy levels, and overall health.
Eggs also contain taurine, an amino acid that cats need for heart and eye health, which is particularly important for them since they cannot produce taurine on their own.
Are eggs bad for cats?
Eggs are generally not bad for cats when fed in moderation, but there are some important considerations:
- Raw eggs: Raw eggs carry a risk of foodborne illnesses like salmonella or E. coli. These bacteria can lead to digestive issues or infections, so it’s essential to cook eggs before giving them to your cat.
- Allergies and sensitivities: Some cats may have sensitivities or allergies to eggs, which could lead to gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhoea. Always monitor your cat after introducing a new food.
- Overfeeding: While eggs are nutritious, they should not replace a balanced cat diet. Too many eggs can lead to an imbalance of nutrients, especially if they are a frequent part of the diet.
Which is why at Petchef, we ensure that all the ingredients that go into your cat’s meal is made for obligate carnivores! All the meals tailored for cats contain:
It’s completely free of preservatives, additives, fillers and grains! If you’d love for your cat to eat the food they were born to eat, come have a chat with our friendly pet nutritionist to find the ideal meal for your pet
In summary, eggs can be a healthy treat when cooked and given in moderation. Always ensure they are prepared without added oils, salt, or spices, and watch for any adverse reactions from your cat.
How much eggs can a cat eat?
A cat can eat 1/4 to 1/2 of a cooked chicken egg as an occasional treat, depending on its size, age, and dietary needs. This portion provides a good amount of protein and nutrients without overloading their system.
How to tell when a cat has had too much eggs?
If a cat has had too many eggs, you may notice some signs of digestive upset or an imbalance in their diet. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Vomiting: excessive egg consumption can cause an upset stomach, leading to vomiting
- Diarrhoea: too many eggs can irritate a cat’s digestive system and lead to diarrhoea.
- Lethargy: if a cat has an upset stomach or an unbalanced diet, they may become more tired or lethargic than usual
- Change in appetite: overfeeding eggs might cause a loss of appetite or, conversely, an unusual craving for food
- Weight gain: eggs are calorie-dense, so if given in large amounts, it could contribute to weight gain over time, especially if not balanced with their regular food intake
- Gas or bloating: if your cat is bloated or passing excessive gas, it could be a sign of too much egg or another food issue
If you suspect your cat has had too many eggs, it’s best to remove eggs from their diet for a while and monitor their symptoms. If signs persist or worsen, contact your vet for advice, especially if there are more serious symptoms like prolonged vomiting or lethargy.
To prevent this in the future, limit egg portions to small amounts, and offer them as a treat no more than once or twice a week.
How often can cats eat eggs?
You can offer eggs once or twice a week, but it should never replace a balanced, complete cat food diet.
Always observe your cat for any signs of digestive upset when introducing new foods.
Is there a type of egg that's better for cats?
Chicken eggs are the most common and readily available type of egg used for cats, and they are perfectly fine to feed in moderation.
In terms of specific types of eggs (e.g., duck eggs, quail eggs, etc.), there isn’t a significant nutritional difference that would make one better than another for cats. However, some things to consider:
How to feed your cat eggs?
To safely feed your cat eggs, follow these steps
Chicken eggs are the most common and easily accessible option, but you can also use duck or quail eggs in moderation.
Boil or scramble eggs without any butter, oil, salt or seasonings to eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses like salmonella. Avoid frying eggs with oils or butter, as those can be unhealthy for cats.
Cats tend to be small eaters, so a small portion of small, bite-sized pieces is enough.
Start by offering 1/4 to 1/2 of an egg (depending on your cat’s size) once or twice a week as an occasional treat.
Do monitor for reactions like upset stomach.
While the eggshell is technically safe for cats and contains calcium, it’s best to avoid giving your cat the shell unless it is finely ground. Large pieces of eggshell can be difficult for them to digest.
Remember to only offer eggs as an occasional treat and not replace your cat’s main diet, which should be nutritionally complete. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calories.
