Eggs are believed to be a perfect animal protein and a superfood for human beings. When cooked properly, they are helpful for cats also.
Cats are a carnivore, but they generally do not eat raw meat. They meet their nutritional needs by eating animal proteins. Eggs are good for cats and can be safely consumed in moderation.
Cats are one of the most independent pets. Cats can eat eggs but not much, only medium quantity. It's better to take the advice from your vet before feeding them new food. There are certain times and situations when eggs should not be given to the cats, so be careful.
The egg is a perfect source of protein which is why many Cat Food manufacturers add them into their formulas. Many breeders also add eggs to cats' diets to give them healthier claws and shinier coats.
Eggs for Cats
Eggs are a good source of protein and fats for your cat, but if your cat is already receiving a completely balanced diet, then it's not necessary to feed your cat eggs.
Eggs are rich in protein and amino acids that are good for cats. Cats eat eggs in moderation and as an occasional treat. Consumption of eggs in large quantities may cause health issues. Cats with any medical problem should not eat eggs.
It is necessary to know how much quantity of an egg is sufficient for your cat. The high-fat content of eggs can increase your cat's body weight if the correct portions are not given to them.
It is good to start with a small portion and see if there are any negative reactions or effects. Food allergies are well known in cats. And eggs are the most widespread food allergens for cats.
Raw Eggs or Cooked Eggs
Can eat cooked egg in any form scrambled, boiled, poached, or fried, never add any seasoning like salt, spice, and sauce. Some other ingredients are commonly added to eggs, such as cheese, garlic, and onions. This can be poisonous to cats or cause gastrointestinal upset.
Raw eggs carry E. coli or salmonella, which causes serious gastrointestinal problems for your cat. Those cats that are fed raw diets should not be given raw eggs.
Raw eggs whites contain avidin. Avidin is a protein present in the egg, which when consumed raw, interrupts the absorption of biotin and complex B vitamins. When the egg white is cooked it reduces a lot of avidins, making it safe for cats to consume.
Feed your cat fully cooked eggs, but avoid giving them raw eggs because it can cause illness. It is better if you consult your veterinarian before feeding your kitten or cat eggs.
Cooked eggs contain yolks which have high calorie and fat content. It raises the risk of being overweight, pancreatic disease issues in cats. Only give them cooked egg whites to reduce this risk.
Egg whites contain protein without the fat, so they are good for cats to eat. One tablespoon of egg whites in addition to your cat's diet is enough to supplement the amount of protein they consume.
If you do not see any symptoms like scratching or hair loss after a couple of weeks that means your cat is not allergic. And if you see these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.
Some benefits of eating eggs for cats.
Vitamin A supports the health of your cat's coat, skin, nervous system, and heart.
Vitamin B12 supports your cat's nervous system, immune system, and digestive system.
Vitamin B2 helps increase the production of red cells and antibodies your kitty needs to keep disease away and under control.
Vitamin B1 supports healthy carbohydrate metabolism.
Vitamin D helps in the growth of bone. Cat's body is unable to produce, Vitamin D on its own, that's why it is added to cat food.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that fights damage.
Zinc is an important mineral that improves the quality of your cat's hair and skin and helps to keep its reproductive system in good health.
Biotin is important for your cat; it pushes out protein, improves the quality of their skin and coat, and also supports thyroid glands present near the kidney.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that protects your cat's cells from body damaging chemicals.
Riboflavin is also known as vitamin B2, this nutrient helps in the production of red cells which acts as a disease fighter and helps the catfight against diseases.
Iron is an important nutrient for cats. It helps them to keep their blood-producing red cells to remain healthy. If it's not present in their diets, then your cat may become weak.
Thiamine is an important nutrient that supports a healthy carbohydrate metabolism for high-energy organs like the brain.
Carbohydrates are not present in the egg. Cat is a carnivore animal and doesn't require too many carbohydrates, carb-free egg is a good source of pure protein.
Taurine is necessary for maintaining a healthy heart and eyes and is found only in animal proteins. The egg is a good source of taurine, so give them to your cats to eat.
Eggs are full of Animals Protein. This is important for obligate carnivores because they don't have the liver enzyme which is necessary for metabolizing plant proteins or dairy products.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Cats need 11 important amino acids out of which 10 are found in eggs.
Downside of Eggs
Eggs have lots of fat and cholesterol. Too much fat in a cat's diet may cause pancreatic disease or may increase the overweight problem. Remember egg yolks carry the highest amount of fat and cholesterol.
Cats with kidney issues or overweight problems should not eat egg yolks and egg whites should be given occasionally only. Consult your vet, as they very well know about the right and safe quantity for your cat.
Can Cat Eat Eggshells?
Eggshells are a good source of calcium and are important for your cat's bones and ligaments. The best way to feed eggshells is to grind them into a fine powder and sprinkle the powder into your cat's food once in a while.
Conclusion
Looking for human food to serve them, that's a great treat. Offer them healthy food so that they can have shiny fur, healthy claws, and overall good health. A cooked egg is a good choice for them.
Just be careful about the quantity and the timing to avoid any digestion problems. Even a little quantity of eggs may be more for your cat if your cat is likely to get the pancreatic disease, is overweight, or has kidney disease.