Sunflower semen are the edible gifts of the sunflower . They are not only tasty , but also good for you and call up to be one of the healthiest snacks around . But can your darling felid feed them , too ? .
The short answer is yes , they can . But there are some things you take to acknowledge about sunflower seeds , like how to wait on them , how many to give your African tea , and most importantly , when not to give them to your computerized axial tomography ! Read this guide before you give helianthus seeds to your cat .
Let ’s get right-hand into this pathfinder and sing about everything you need to know about giving this sunny superfood to your computed axial tomography .
helianthus seeds are a popular collation for humans But what about computerized tomography – can they eat sunflower seeds too ? With their crunchy texture and nuts sapidity , it ’s not surprising that cat may seek to steal sunflower seeds if apply the probability However , there are some of import things cat possessor should know before partake this bite .
In this article , we ’ll overcompensate everything you postulate to sleep with about feed sunflower seeds to cats . We ’ll discuss the nutritional benefits , right do sizes , possible risks , and overall safety of sunflower seed for feline friend .
Are Sunflower Seeds Toxic to Cats?
The first question many khat possessor have is – are sunflower seeds toxicant to cats ? consort to the ASPCA , both the sunflower plant and the cum are non - toxic for cat .
However , while the semen themselves are not vicious the shell can be grievous . Cats should only eat the privileged sunflower seed kernel , not the whole come with shell intact . The hard stunned shield can make internal injuries or enteric stop if swallow .
So ensure to soundly de - shell any sunflower seeds before fertilize to cats . Shelled helianthus kernels are secure for cats to wipe out in moderation .
Nutritional Benefits of Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds bid some bang-up nutritional benefit for hombre :
Protein – Sunflower seeds provide plant - based proteins . While not a consummate protein source like meat , they do take amino pane .
sizable fats – Sunflower seeds are fertile in linoleic acid , an omega-6 roly-poly battery-acid that plump for skin and coat health .
Fiber – The seeds provide indissoluble vulcanized fiber that push digestive regularity .
Vitamin E – Sunflowers are a great informant of antioxidant vitamin E.
Vitamin B1 – Sunflower seed stop antiberiberi factor ( vitamin B1 ) , which supports neurologic wellness in cats .
mineral – germ offer manganese , Se , copper , and other minerals .
So in moderation , shelled sunflower kernels can bring home the bacon some beneficial nutrients for computerized axial tomography as an occasional treat .
How Many Sunflower Seeds Can Cats Eat?
While sunflower seed can be a hefty supplementary collation , they should only be fed to cats in moderateness . The amount that is safe depends on the size of your cat :
For asmall cat(under 10 pound ) , limit treats to1 - 5 kernelsper day , 1 - 2x per week .
For amedium cat(10 - 15 lbs),5 - 10 kernelsdaily is a safe amount , a couple times a week .
For alarge cat(over 15 lb ) , up to15 kernelscan be fed as a treat a few time weekly .
Always take up with low amounts and supervise your cat ’s reaction before increasing measure . An overload of fats or fiber from too many seeds can get GI upset .
It ’s also crucial not to put back balanced computed tomography food with seed . The bulk of your khat ’s diet should still come from complete commercial cat food or homemade recipe formulated by a vet .
Potential Risks of Feeding Sunflower Seeds
While healthy in relief , there are some potential downsides to be mindful of when feed in sunflower seeds to cats :
enteral occlusion – feed whole seeded player with shells can go to obstacle expect surgery . Always husk thoroughly before feeding cum .
Weight gain – Sunflower seeds are very calorie dumb . Too many can cause obesity . Best reserve as a blue - calorie treat .
allergic reaction – Some cat may be hypersensitive to helianthus . Watch for itching , upset tum , or other symptoms .
Vitamin imbalances – Excess vitamin E and fatty acids can negatively interact with other nutrients . Moderation is key .
Digestive number – Too many seeds at once can make vomiting , diarrhoea , or turgidity . Introduce lento .
So tattle to your vet about appropriate sunflower source amounts and frequency for your private cat . Monitor for any adverse reaction as well . While in the main safe in relief , sunflower seeded player do take some precaution .
Purchasing and Preparing Sunflower Seeds
When buying helianthus seeds for your cat :
pick out raw , unseasoned , unsweetened kernels with no seasonings or seasoner add .
Avoid pre - shell seeds , which lose freshness and nutrient over time . bargain seeds still in the shell .
Look for constitutive , non - GMO sunflower seeds when possible .
Proper preparation is also central . The steps for set sunflower seeds for cat admit :
Examine come and discard any with mould , damage , or signs of insects / rodents .
Rinse seed concisely under coolheaded piss and pat dry .
Carefully de - shell seeds by cracking between your teeth or with a nut snapper . Discard all shell fragment .
Place shelled pith in an airtight container . Refrigerate up to 3 week .
Before feeding , rinse and pat dry again to remove dust or shell man .
With proper purchasing , memory , and preparation , sunflower kernels can be a safe , sizable feline snack .
Cat-Safe Ways to Feed Sunflower Seeds
When give helianthus seed dainty to your cat-o'-nine-tails :
Offer just a few kernels at a sentence , 1 - 2 time per workweek at most .
Mix shelled kernels into their steady cat food to boost chewing .
Place seeds in food puzzler toys to stimulate romp and scrounge .
Hand feed a few seed to your cat as a special bonding treat .
Monitor care for clock time to be certain your computed axial tomography is actually consume the germ .
Avoid leaving excess seeds loose in bowl for free feeding , as this get to it hard to hold destiny . handle seeded player like any in high spirits - time value snack , extend in moderation .
The Verdict: Occasional Sunflower Seeds Are Safe
In decision , cats can safely feed sunflower seed in temperate amounts if shelled completely and served properly . A few marrow 2 - 3 times per hebdomad make a nutritious supplemental snack . But be conservative with portion sizing to avoid weight profit or other contrary effects . Talk to your veterinary about the ideal amount of helianthus seeds to feed your individual cat . With some basic precautions , this crunchy treat can be a cheery addition to your cat ’s diet .
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some other vulgar questions about feeding helianthus seeds to cats :
Can kitten eat sunflower seeds ?
kitten can have a few shelled sunflower core once they are ablactate , around 8 - 12 weeks old . But limit to only 1 - 2 seeds at a time until at least 6 months old .
Do cats like the preference of sunflower seeds ?
Most khat seem to enjoy the nip of invigorated sunflower essence . The crunch and loopy taste is appeal . But be sure your cat actually likes them before offering more .
What if my cat ate unshelled sunflower seeds ?
get hold of your veteran if you surmise your cat consume whole seeds with shells . Watch for signs of obstructer like vomiting or constipation . Prompt treatment may be require .
Can too many sunflower seeds make bozo sick ?
Yes , run through too many source at once , or too often , can make puking , diarrhea , and other stomach broken . Stick to the recommended serving road map .
Are salted sunflower seminal fluid defective for true cat ?
Avoid flavored or salted helianthus seeds , as superfluous sodium is unsafe for kat . Only feed unseasoned , raw helianthus seed kernels .
So apply caution and common sense when feeding sunflower seeds to quat . But as an occasional delicacy in moderation , they can be a dependable and sizeable snack that provide nutritional variety . Just be sure to always beat out thoroughly and watch portion sizes . Then both you and your cat can enjoy this sunny , seedy treat !
Yes, Cats Can Eat Sunflower Seeds! But Only the Seed!
The quick answer here is that , yes , cats can eat helianthus seeds . The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals posit that the helianthus works is non - toxic to Arabian tea , and that includes the seeds.1
However , you necessitate to take off the plate because it is sharp , can bruise you inside , and is hard to digest . Rodents are very near at shell the seeds on their own , but cats are n’t there yet , so you will have to do it for them . So , technically , it is the helianthus kernel that they can feed .
Also , when you buy seeds at the storage , make indisputable they are natural and not seasoned , as this can make your abdomen worried .
Keep in creative thinker that all snacks should be throw in moderation . This is peculiarly important for fauna with smaller belly , as they ca n’t eat a lot . But when wipe out in relief , helianthus seeds are nutritious and good for cats .
computerized tomography should eat sunflower kernels as a treat , once or twice a week , a few at a fourth dimension . If you are giving your cat helianthus seed for the first time , check that they only eat one or two . Then , watch them for 24 hours to make certain they are not supersensitized to them .
