Can Cats Eat Cashews?

We’re always looking for tasty morsels to give our cats. But the reality is that most “people food” either doesn’t have much nutritional value for our feline friends, or is simply dangerous, Most of us know about a few foods and beverages that are very toxic to cats (chocolate, alcohol, grapes, etc.) But there are a lot of foods that, while not necessarily toxic, aren’t good for cats and shouldn’t be shared with our furry companions.

Today we’re going to talk about cashews. Cashew nuts are amazing little pieces of nutty goodness. They’re creamy, tasty, and can give us a great energy boost during the day. But can cats eat cashews?

In this article, we’ll cover the following;

• Cats and Cashews- What You Need to Know
• Can Cats Eat Cashews?
• Can Kittens Eat Cashews?
• Benefits/Negatives of Feeding Cats Cashews
• Alternatives to Cashews for Cats

Cats and Cashews, What You Need to Know

Unfortunately for our feline friends, cashews fall under the “not good for cats” category, and shouldn’t really be shared with our beloved kitties.

Biologically, cats are best suited to a carnivorous diet made up of high quality meat. Any deviation from this diet is generally not a good idea, and cashews are no exception.

The most important reason why cashews aren’t good for cats is because of their high fat content. While one cashew is unlikely to do your cat much harm, cats have a hard time digesting large quantities of fat, and if they get their paws on an open bag of cashews the results could be very unpleasant.

Can Cats Eat Cashews?

Cashews are relatively healthy for humans. They contain a ton of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and healthy fats. While it’s never a good idea to overindulge (as cashews are very caloric) they are a healthy part of a balanced diet. But what happens when you open a bag, and your cat comes over and begs for a bite?

Does your cat do this as soon as you open a bag of cashews?

While it’s hard to resist those kitty eyes, it’s best not to share cashews with your cat. Cashews don’t have any nutritional value for cats, and their high fat content can make them dangerous if consumed in large quantities.

While some human foods can be a delicious treat for a cat in small quantities, cashews don’t really fall into that category and should be avoided at all costs. Luckily, many cats won’t be interested in cashews at all. They don’t have a strong odor, and most cats simply won’t care about them in either direction.

Can Kittens Eat Cashews?

The simple answer is no. While we may be tempted to experiment with different types of tasty treats with our adult cats, we really shouldn’t take any risks with kittens. Kittens are still growing, and optimal nutrition is absolutely essential to their health and well being. Kittens are more apt to suffer from digestive upset if they are given a food that isn’t intended for cats, and they are also more likely to accidentally choke.

Do yourself a favor and keep your kitten on a healthy, balanced cat food made specifically for kittens. And absolutely don’t offer them any cashews!

Benefits/Negatives of Feeding Cats Cashews

If your cat shows an interest in cashews, it may be hard to resist the temptation to give them one. But it’s important that you do so, because cashews can make your cat pretty sick.

Cashews don’t contain any health benefits for your cat, and giving them cashews can actually make them sick. If your cat accidentally gets into a bag of cashews, here are a few signs to watch out for:

1. Cats that ingest something that they shouldn’t will often throw up. If this happens, monitor your cat, make sure they have access to plenty of fresh, clean water, and withhold their regular food for a day to give their digestive system a rest.
2. This is another sign that your cat has eaten something that doesn’t agree with them. If your cat has diarrhea for a day, it will usually resolve itself on its own. If your cat still has runny stool after a few days, it’s best to bring them to your vet!
3. Abdominal pain. The very high fat content in cashews can give your cat more than just a stomachache! In fact, it can lead to something much more serious: inflammation of the pancreas. If your cat has a fever, loss of appetite, and seems fatigued after eating multiple cashews, bring them to the vet immediately. If left untreated, pancreatitis can be very dangerous.

Alternatives to Cashews For Cats

There are tons of healthy cat treats on the market that you’re bound to find one that your cat really enjoys! If your cat begs for cashews, try and find a treat that is roughly the same size and consistency. Crunchy treats will keep your cat satisfied, and you can rest easy knowing that you’re feeding them something that won’t hurt them!

These cats are enjoying some cat treats..and apparently excellent service!

So, Can Cats Eat Cashews?

Most cats won’t be interested in cashews. But if your cat is one of the unusual ones who are passionate about them, there are a few ways to curb their desire and keep your cat safe.

1. Buy a variety of healthy cat treats and offer them to your cat when they beg for cashews. Chances are they’ll be so distracted that they’ll forget all about the bag of nuts on the kitchen counter!
2. Keep your cashews tucked away in a drawer or cabinet. Cats are stealthy critters, and may jump up onto the counter or even on top of the fridge to reach the cashews if they really like them. And cats have been known to open bags!
3. If your cat accidentally gets into cashews, keep an eye out for the following signs that they’re not feeling well: vomiting, diarrhea, listlessness, abdominal pain, and fever. If you notice any of these signs, take your cat to the vet right away! And don’t forget to mention the cashews to your vet! Vets are used to their patients getting into all sorts of culinary shenanigans, and will be better able to help if they have the full story.

Another nutty treat that you may be wondering about is peanut butter. You can find out more by clicking here!

Do you have ideas on how to satisfy your cat’s love for cashews without actually giving them any? Does your cat have a favorite treat? Tell us all about it in the comments!