Cats are curious creatures, and their adventurous nature can sometimes lead them to eat things they shouldn’t. While humans have a vast array of food options, cats are typically seen as strict carnivores. However, that doesn’t stop them from exploring different tastes and textures. If you’re a hummus fan, you may have wondered if your feline friend could share in your love for this popular Mediterranean dip.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the question: what happens if cats eat hummus? We’ll explore the ingredients that make up hummus and how they can affect your cat’s health. Plus, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional value of hummus and whether it can be beneficial for cats.
You might be thinking, “But chickpeas are safe for cats to eat, right?” While chickpeas themselves aren’t toxic to cats, some of the other ingredients in hummus could be harmful. So before you let your cat sample your snack, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences.
Keep reading to learn about the impact that hummus can have on your cat’s health and discover some steps you can take to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Trust us; you won’t want to miss out on this informative post.
What is Hummus?
A Middle Eastern dip or spread, has become a fan-favorite snack and appetizer worldwide. This creamy, savory, and tangy dish is made from cooked chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s also loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
However, as much as we love hummus, it’s not suitable for our feline friends. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to consume animal-based protein and fat exclusively. They have a hard time digesting plant-based sources of protein and fat properly and can upset their digestive system or even lead to toxicity if consumed in excess.
Not only does hummus not fit cats’ nutritional needs, but it also contains several ingredients that are potentially harmful to them. Garlic and onions, which are used in small amounts in hummus, contain compounds that can damage cats’ red blood cells and cause anemia. Tahini and olive oil are high in fat and calories, which can lead to obesity and other health issues if consumed in excess.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid sharing hummus or any other human food with your cat. If your cat accidentally eats hummus or any other human food, watch out for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. These signs could indicate digestive problems or toxicity that require medical attention from a veterinarian.
To ensure optimal health and wellbeing for our feline friends, cat owners should stick to feeding their cats a well-balanced diet of high-quality animal-based protein. It’s also essential to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new food into your cat’s diet.
Why is Hummus Dangerous for Cats?
However, it’s important to remember that cats have very specific dietary needs. While humans can enjoy a wide variety of snacks, some foods are dangerous for cats to consume. One such food is hummus.
Hummus is a popular dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. It’s a delicious and healthy snack for humans, but it can be toxic for our feline friends. The main reason why hummus is dangerous for cats is that it contains garlic and onion. These ingredients contain thiosulphates, which can damage the red blood cells in cats.
When cats ingest hummus, the thiosulphates enter their bloodstream and bind to the hemoglobin in their red blood cells. This binding process makes it difficult for the red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body, leading to anemia. Anemia can cause weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, and loss of appetite in cats. If left untreated, anemia can lead to organ failure and even death.
It’s important to note that even small amounts of garlic or onion can be harmful to cats, so it’s best to avoid feeding them hummus altogether. In addition to garlic and onion, hummus may also contain other ingredients that are toxic to felines such as spices or herbs. Furthermore, the high-fat content in hummus can cause digestive upset in cats and lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
To keep your cat healthy and happy, stick with cat-friendly foods that meet their dietary needs. Consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food into their diet. Your vet may recommend specific cat-friendly snacks that are safe for your furry friend.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Let’s talk about the dangers of hummus for our feline friends. While hummus may be a delicious snack for us, it can cause serious health problems for our cats. So, what symptoms should we be on the lookout for if our curious kitties have snuck a bite?
First and foremost, gastrointestinal distress. Cats who have eaten hummus may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, so it’s essential to keep a close eye on your cat’s behavior and seek veterinary care if necessary.
Another symptom to watch out for is dehydration. Hummus contains salt, which can make cats excessively thirsty and lead to dehydration. If your cat is not drinking enough water, they may become dehydrated, which can lead to serious health problems.
Allergic reactions are also a possibility. If your cat shows signs of itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming hummus, it could be an allergic reaction. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary care.
Lastly, it’s essential to monitor your cat’s overall behavior and energy levels. If your cat seems lethargic or uninterested in food or playtime after eating hummus, it may be a sign that they are experiencing discomfort or illness related to consuming hummus.
Anemia in Cats from Eating Hummus
It’s essential to remember that not all human foods are safe for cats to consume. One such food is hummus, which can lead to anemia in cats, especially when it contains garlic or onion.
Anemia is a serious condition in which the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. This condition can occur in felines due to the damage caused by garlic or onion in hummus to their red blood cells. As obligate carnivores, cats require a primarily meat-based diet, and the high carbohydrate and fiber content in chickpeas can cause digestive problems in them.
The symptoms of anemia in cats include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and loss of appetite. If you suspect that your cat has eaten hummus containing garlic or onion and is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to take them to a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian will perform a physical exam and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of anemia.
Treatment for anemia in cats includes medication to support red blood cell production and oxygen delivery, and in severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
Prevention is key when it comes to anemia in cats from consuming hummus. It’s vital to keep all human foods away from your cat’s reach, especially those containing garlic or onion. Instead of giving treats like hummus, stick to cat-specific treats or small amounts of cooked meat without seasoning. Moreover, ensure that your cat’s diet consists of high-quality commercial cat food that meets their nutritional requirements as obligate carnivores.
How to Prevent Cats from Eating Hummus
While it may be tempting to share your snack with your cat, hummus contains ingredients that can cause digestive problems and anemia in felines. To prevent this, here are five steps you can take to keep your cat away from hummus.
Store it Safely
The first step is to keep hummus out of your cat’s reach. Store it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge or a high shelf that your cat cannot access. This will help reduce the chances of your curious cat getting into the hummus when you’re not looking.
Use a Deterrent Spray
If your cat is particularly persistent, you can use a deterrent spray that has a bitter taste. These sprays are available at most pet stores and can be sprayed on the surface of the hummus or on the surrounding area. Your cat will quickly learn that hummus is not a tasty treat.
Create a Physical Barrier
Another option is to create a physical barrier between your cat and the hummus. You can use a cover or lid to keep your cat away from the hummus. Alternatively, try using a motion-activated deterrent, such as an air canister or an ultrasonic device, to startle your cat and discourage them from approaching the hummus.
Avoid Table Scraps
To prevent your cat from accidentally eating hummus, avoid feeding them table scraps that contain it. When hosting gatherings or parties, make sure to keep any hummus-containing dishes out of your cat’s reach.
Train Your Cat
You can train your cat not to eat hummus by using positive reinforcement. Whenever your cat shows disinterest in hummus, reward them with a treat or praise. Consistency is key when training your cat, so make sure to reinforce this behavior regularly.
Remember to monitor your cat’s behavior and watch for any signs of illness if they do manage to eat hummus. Symptoms of illness can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.
Treating a Cat that has Eaten Hummus
Not all human foods are safe for cats, and hummus is one of them. While hummus is not toxic to cats, it can cause digestive problems. So, what should you do if your cat has eaten hummus?
Firstly, stay calm and assess the situation. If your cat is experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset after consuming hummus, take them to the veterinarian immediately. The vet will examine your cat and determine the severity of the symptoms and whether any treatment is necessary.
Here are some steps you should take if your cat has consumed hummus and is displaying signs of digestive distress:
- Take your cat to the vet – Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a vet who can determine the severity of the symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.
- Withhold food – Your vet may recommend withholding food for a few hours to give your cat’s digestive system time to settle.
- Medication – Your vet may prescribe medication to alleviate any discomfort or pain your cat may be experiencing.
- Bland diet – Your vet may recommend a bland diet for a few days until your cat’s digestive system returns to normal.
It’s worth noting that prevention is always better than cure. As a responsible pet owner, keep human food out of reach of your cat to avoid accidental consumption. If you’re planning on sharing some food with your furry friend, make sure it’s safe for cats and consult with your veterinarian first.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hummus may be a tasty and nutritious snack for humans, it is not a suitable food option for cats. As obligate carnivores, cats have digestive systems that are designed to consume animal-based protein and fat exclusively. The ingredients in hummus, such as garlic and onion, can cause anemia in cats by damaging their red blood cells. Moreover, the high-fat content in hummus can lead to obesity and other health issues if consumed excessively.
To prevent your cat from eating hummus, it’s essential to store it safely out of reach and use deterrent sprays or physical barriers. It’s also crucial to avoid feeding table scraps that contain hummus and train your cat not to eat it using positive reinforcement techniques. If your cat accidentally eats hummus or any other human food, watch out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Before introducing any new food into your cat’s diet, consult with a veterinarian first. Cat owners should stick to feeding their feline friends a well-balanced diet of high-quality animal-based protein that ensures optimal health and wellbeing.
Remember that prevention is always better than cure when it comes to protecting our pets’ health.
