Skip to main content

Can cats eat blueberries? What you need to know

Are blueberries safe for cats? Find out here

Cat with blueberries
Image used with permission by copyright holder

As a cat parent, you may be interested in incorporating fruit into your fur baby’s diet. Many fruits can provide nutritional benefits for your feline companion, but can cats eat blueberries? We have some good news. One of your favorite superfoods is perfectly safe for your cat to eat in moderation, but before you share blueberries with your kitty, you should be aware of the potential side effects. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about giving your cat blueberries.

Recommended Videos

Benefits of giving blueberries to cats

Blueberries are a low-calorie fruit packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy treat for your kitty. An excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, blueberries can help boost your cat’s immune system and prevent infections. Additionally, blueberries are high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and help even regulate your kitty’s bowel movements.

In terms of minerals, blueberries contain essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Potassium is essential for healthy muscle function, as it can help regulate blood pressure, while magnesium is necessary for bone and muscle health. Lastly, manganese helps support your cat’s metabolism.

Potential risks

While blueberries can provide some nutritional benefits for cats, it’s also important to keep in mind that they should only be given in moderation. Too many blueberries can cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting in some cats. Also, the seeds and skin of blueberries can be potentially harmful to cats if ingested in large quantities. The seeds can cause digestive problems, and the skin can be difficult to digest for some cats, leading to digestive discomfort.

When feeding your cat blueberries, it’s essential to consider their individual dietary needs and any existing health conditions. If your cat has a history of digestive issues or is prone to urinary tract infections, it’s best to avoid feeding them blueberries altogether.

A fluffy black cat sits with their front paws on the dining table.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Safety tips for feeding blueberries to cats

To properly incorporate blueberries into your cat’s diet, start by giving them a small piece or two and watch for any adverse reactions. If all goes well, you can gradually increase the amount you give your kitty. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and not overdo it with any treat. Too many treats can lead to weight gain, causing a whole host of problems.

It’s also important to prepare blueberries before feeding them to your feline friend. Wash the berries thoroughly to remove any potential pesticides or harmful bacteria, and remove the stem and leaves. You can also mash or puree the blueberries for easier digestion and to eliminate potential choking hazards.

Blueberries can be a safe and healthy addition to your cat’s diet in moderation, and they may provide some health benefits. As with any new treat, it’s best to start off with small amounts and monitor your cat’s reaction before increasing the serving size, which helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues. With proper preparation and moderation, blueberries can be a tasty and nutritious treat for your feline friend.

Mary Johnson
Contributor
Mary Johnson is a writer and photographer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Her work has been published in PawTracks and…
How to treat ringworm in cats safely and effectively
Effective treatments for cats with ringworm
Orange cat scratching an itchy spot on its neck

If you ever notice irritated skin or hair loss on your cat, your first thought might be that your cat has fleas. That could be the case, but it's also possible that a bout of ringworm is to blame. Ringworm can be both irritating and uncomfortable for your cat, and it can also spread to people and other pets in your home. Therefore, it's crucial to identify and treat ringworm in your cat as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can help minimize or prevent ringworm in cats, allowing your cat to feel comfortable and happy again quickly.
What is ringworm in cats?

Ringworm might sound like a worm or parasite, but it's actually a fungal infection that affects your cat's skin and hair. Several types of fungi can cause ringworm infections, and these fungi can also infect humans, dogs, and other cats.

Read more
Can cats eat apples? What’s safe and what’s not
How to prepare apples for cats
Fluffy cat looking at table of apples

It's essential to feed your cat a nutritionally complete diet, but you have a lot more leeway when it comes to cat treats. Meals should make up most of your feline friend's diet, so the treats you choose don't have to be as nutritious and filling. Treats are for enjoyment and rewards! Many human foods are safe to share with your cat as treats and some are toxic, but it can be hard to remember what's on the list.
If you've ever wondered, "Can cats eat apples?" you're not alone. After all, fresh fruits are an essential component of a balanced diet for people, so is it the same for cats? Let's find out!

Can cats eat apples?

Read more
Why your cat sleeping at your feet is a big compliment
If you've ever wondered about this cat behavior, this article is for you
Calico cat lying on a white comforter

Have you noticed that when you go to sleep, your cat automatically heads to the foot of the bed and curls up by your feet? It's no mistake, and it's not your cat giving you the cold shoulder, either. This is a deliberate decision on your kitty's part, and there are many reasons why they might choose to sleep there instead of curling up on your stomach or by your shoulder. Actually, if your cat sleeps by your feet, you should take it as a compliment and feel flattered.

So, why do cats sleep at your feet? It's a mix of your cat's affection for you, a feeling of safety, and even the body heat you generate that plays into your cat's decision to sleep at the foot of the bed. It's both smart and sweet!
Why do cats sleep at your feet? The reason is sweeter than you think

Read more