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.
Bananas are delicious and healthy snacks for us humans, but can the same be said for cats. As obligate carnivores, cats can eat bananas in small amounts as a safe occasional treat.
Read on to learn more about whether bananas are good for cats, how much should they be eating and more.
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Are bananas good for cats?
Bananas are not bad or toxic for cats, but they aren’t particularly beneficial either. While bananas are safe and non-toxic, they don’t provide significant nutritional value for cats.
However if your cat happens to enjoy bananas, here are the potential benefits of this fruit:
- Rich in Potassium: Bananas contain potassium, which is good for muscle and nerve function. However, cats usually get sufficient potassium from their regular diet.
- Low Calorie Treat: A small slice can be an occasional snack if your cat enjoys it.
Bananas are okay as a rare, tiny treat, but they don’t offer any essential nutrients that your cat can’t get from their normal high-quality cat food. If your cat likes them, you can share a small piece occasionally, but they’re not a “superfood” for your feline friend.
Are bananas bad for cats?
Bananas are not bad for cats if given in moderation. They are non-toxic and safe as an occasional treat. However, they can be problematic if consumed in large amounts or too frequently. Here’s why:
- High sugar content: Cats are obligate carnivores and don’t need sugars. Too much banana could contribute to obesity or diabetes over time.
- Digestive issues: Some cats may experience diarrhoea, constipation, or stomach upset if they eat more than a small piece.
- Choking hazard: Large chunks could be difficult for cats to chew and swallow.
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
How much banana can a cat eat?
A small piece of banana, roughly the size of a thumb nail (about 1-2 cm). This tiny amount is enough for a taste without overloading their system with sugar or fibre, which cats don’t need.
How to tell when a cat has had too much banana?
If your cat has eaten too much banana (or fruit), they may show some digestive symptoms or other signs of discomfort. Here’s what to watch for:
- Digestive upset: diarrhoea, loose stools or vomiting
- Lethargy: your cat seems more tired than usual if their stomach is bothering them
- Reduced appetite: they might avoid food (even their favourite treats) if they’re feeling bloated or nauseous
- Excessive drooling: this can happen if they feel queasy
- Dehydration: they might lose fluids from diarrhoea or vomiting, so watch for signs of dehydration, like dry gums or reduced skin elasticity.
If your cat shows any of these signs, keep them hydrated and avoid offering any more bread or treats for a day or two. If symptoms are severe or don’t resolve within 24 hours, it’s best to consult your vet for advice.
How often can cats eat bananas?
Cats can enjoy bananas as an occasional treat, ideally no more than once a week. Since cats are obligate carnivores, their digestive systems aren’t designed to process fruits regularly. Here are some tips for offering bananas in moderation:
If your cat seems to tolerate fruit well, giving them a small amount occasionally is a nice way to add variety—just remember to keep the portions small and infrequent.
How to feed your cat bananas?
Follow these steps to help ensure watermelon are a safe, enjoyable snack for your cat:
Pick a ripe banana without any brown spots to ensure it’s soft and easy to digest.
Remove the peel completely; banana peels are tough and not suitable for cats.
Slice a piece about 1–2 cm or the size of your thumbnail. Cats don’t need large portions.
Offer the banana without any toppings like chocolate, honey, or whipped cream, as these are harmful to cats.
Avoid mixing bananas with their regular food. Serve it as a treat on its own (hand-feed / in their dish) to prevent overeating and to monitor for reactions.
Treat them to banana no more than once a week to prevent sugar overload.
