No one in this world can deny wanting to eat popcorn when they smell a freshly popped bag of it. If you love this smell, then describe in the comments how much you love the smell of freshly popped popcorn and what you think about it.
Now, imagine it’s nighttime, and you are watching a movie with your beloved family. Your beautiful cat is just looking at you, and you want to treat your cat with some pieces of popcorn. But first, you want to know, “Can cats eat popcorn?”
In this discussion, we will answer that question and cover everything you need to know. So, let’s discuss the golden words for our golden furry friends.
Can Cats Eat Popcorn?
No, cats should never eat popcorn. Research has shown that cats can’t handle grains, so how is it possible for them to handle a grain-based product like popcorn?
There is nothing beneficial for cats in popcorn. The hard and sharp kernels can scratch your cat’s mouth and cause damage.
Now, the question arises: Is there any safe type of popcorn among the hundreds available that we can give to cats? Yes, there are two safer options: plain popcorn and air-popped popcorn. Both are less harmful to cats, but it is not advisable to give them without your vet’s permission. They are considered safer because they contain no oils or salts. More here
NOTE: Always consult with your vet before treating your cat with human foods (like popcorn).
Read Also Can cats see colors?
Is Popcorn Bad for Cats?
Yes, popcorn is bad for cats if you give it to them with kernels. Cats can’t handle kernels, and you will also notice that the size of the popcorn is often bigger than a cat’s mouth. This larger size can pose a choking hazard.
Additives in Popcorn That Can Harm Cats
Plain and air-popped popcorn is not harmful to cats, but many commercial popcorns contain additives that make them dangerous, such as:
- Salt
- Butter and oil
- Flavorings (garlic, onion, etc.)
- Caramel and chocolate
- Artificial butter flavoring
These can lead to symptoms like excessive thirst, increased urination, vomiting, and diarrhea in your cat.
if you are owner of dog and cat then read also topic “Can a Dog Get a Cat Pregnant?“
Health Benefits of Popcorn
Popcorn offers many benefits for humans because it contains vitamins B1, B3, and B6, as well as minerals like zinc, magnesium, and potassium. Not only that, but popcorn can also help reduce the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer.Learn About Can Cats Eat Carrots?
However, in the case of cats, there are no benefits. Popcorn has almost zero nutritional value for them. It can only be considered a treat if your cat craves it, and you must provide it without kernels, using only the white pieces.
In short, popcorn has many benefits for humans, but none for cats.
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Can Cats Die From Eating Popcorn?
No, cats won’t die if they eat popcorn, but the following symptoms can appear:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Illness
- Choking
- Aspiration
- Intestinal obstruction
Note: These issues can occur when the kernels are not removed and additives like salt are present in the popcorn.
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6 Most Common Dangerous Types Of Popcorn For Cats
· Butter-flavored popcorn
· Salty popcorn
· Caramel popcorn
· Cheese popcorn
· Spicy popcorn
· Popcorn with added chemicals
My Cat Ate Popcorn. Now What I Do?
If your cat eats a large amount of popcorn, the following symptoms may occur:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Coughing
Don’t wait to consult with your vet as soon as possible. Provide detailed information about how much popcorn your cat ingested and how much time has passed since ingestion. Read Also Can Cats Eat Chocolate?
Warning: Don’t try to induce vomiting in your cat using hydrogen peroxide (at home); it can be dangerous for cats.
Safe Alternatives to Popcorn
There are many fruits, vegetables, and other options that are safe for cats. Some of them are listed below:
Fruits:
- Blueberries
- Apples (without seeds)
- Bananas
- Peeled Melon
Vegetables:
- Cooked Carrots
- Green Beans
- Peas
Other Options:
- Plain Cooked Chicken
- Plain Cooked Fish
- Catnip
These are safe options, but don’t forget to contact your vet before introducing any new food to your cat.
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