Is Sweet Potato good for constipation in cats
Can Cats Eat Sweet Potato? Are They Good or Bad?
Ipomoea batatas or sweet potato is a member of morning glory or bindweed family with a sweet-tasting, starchy tuberous root used as a vegetable.
While its name makes many people assume it is closely related to the normal or white potato (Solanum tuberosum), this is not the case. Actually, they belong to different families and the two are not closely related.
In culinary, the root, vine leaves, and shoots are edible. However, it is the root that is of much significance as is a staple food in some tropical regions. It can be baked, boiled, roasted, mashed, grilled, fried, steamed, made into chips, used to make soup, and so on.
What are some of the nutrients does it have? It has carbs, small amounts of protein and fats as well as vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, folate, K, beta-carotene (antioxidant)
Also, this tuber has calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium.
Can cats have sweet potatoes
Yes. Cats can have potato as an occasional snack. They are not bad for cats including their vines as ASPCA notes. Go for boiled, steamed, baked mashed, ones but ensure they do not have any ingredients including seasonings, toppings, herbs, spices, salt or sugar.
Unlike the Solanum tuberosum or potatoes that have solanine, raw sweet potatoes are not toxic and can be consumed while raw including by even human beings. However, kitties will find them difficult to digest and most will not even like them. Also, they may cause intestinal havoc and diarrhea.
Although Cuteness.com notes that felines should not any eat raw potatoes including Ipomoea batatas, these two do not belong to the same family as already noted.
Is a sweet potato snack good for cats? Obviously, we have noted the pets can eat this tuber vegetable and they will not harm them. However, although they are not poisonous, they will not provide any meaningful nutritional benefits since these animals being strict carnivores or meat-eaters.
Also, since they are high in carbohydrates, feeding them a lot will not only cause stomach upsets and diarrhea but can also lead to weight gain. A lot of carbs have also been associated with feline diabetes.
Finally, owing to their high level of fibers, you can give a bite-sized piece to your feline pal or kitten to help her deal with constipation. However, do not forget that they are harder to digest.
Can cats eat sweet potato baby food
If you would like to give your kitty baby food such as carrot, sweet potato, prune, and so on, ensure it does not have ingredients such as garlic, chives, onions, added sweeteners, vegetable oil, salt, dairy products and so on.
Foods with sweet potatoes
If your feline friend likes them, go for cat foods with this tuberous root. These foods are nutritionally balanced, i.e., they will provide all the required nutrients to your feline pal.
Some of the good options with chicken and sweet potatoes include
Finally, you can go for Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Salmon Recipe and Purina Beyond Indoor, Grain-Free, Natural Dry Cat Food, Grain Free Salmon dry cat food.
Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are a common human food source, known for their high levels of healthy fiber and antioxidants. Surprisingly, they are only distantly related to white potatoes and are nutritionally quite different.
As cat owners, you may be wondering if cats eat sweet potatoes and if there are any nutritional benefits. Well, the short answer is that our feline friends can eat small amounts of cooked potatoes, although are unlikely to gain many nutritional benefits.
Quick Overview: Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes
Is Sweet Potato Good for Cats?
Small amounts of sweet potato can provide a valuable fiber source, which can benefit the digestive system and prevent constipation. They are also a good source of certain vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants. However, these can all be gained from your usual cat food kibble without adding veggies to their diet.
Also Read:The 7 Best Cat Vitamins And Supplements
How Much Sweet Potato Can a Cat Eat?
Cats are obligate carnivores, and not very well adapted to eat veggies. This means that they should only be given in small amounts.
Cat owners can safely give the cooked product, such as steamed sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or baked sweet potatoes in small amounts, without any added seasonings. Too much sweet potato can cause an upset stomach. Raw sweet potato should never be given as it will lead to digestive issues.
How Often Can a Cat Eat Sweet Potato?
Sweet potato, and other veggies or starchy food, should not form a major part of your cats food, and should only be fed on an occasional basis. Sweet potatoes are known for their high level of carbohydrates, which can cause obesity in our cats, so potato treats should not be given often.
Are Sweet Potatoes Used in Commercial Cat Food?
Yes, some commercial diets use sweet potato as an ingredient. Commercial cat foods are usually animal protein-based, which is what cats digestive systems are adapted to, but use safe vegetables, potatoes, and legumes as added fillers. Sweet potato is often used as a filler which also functions as a digestive aid.
Are Sweet Potatoes Bad for Cats?
The ASPCA lists the sweet potato as being non-toxic to cats, including sweet potato vines, shoots, and stems. However, there are a few things to watch out for.
Overindulgence
Too much sweet potato can cause an upset stomach, and the high level of carbohydrates can cause weight gain and obesity if given too often just as if we ate too many potato chips or French fries.
Raw Sweet Potatoes
Uncooked potatoes can cause digestive issues and a really upset stomach, so should be avoided. Cooked potatoes are more suitable if you want to feed them as a cat food.
Seasonings
Sweet potatoes are safe, but you must still always check the recipe, as some of the commonly added seasonings can be dangerous.
- Marshmallows the high sugar content is not recommended for cats.
- Onions and garlic these are both toxic to cats and should be avoided in any amount.
- Salt too much salt causes excessive thirst and can cause imbalances in sodium and potassium levels leading to kidney problems. Canned sweet potatoes are often very high in salt and should not be given to cats.
- Butter this is a common ingredient in potato treats but high in fat which can lead to weight gain. Many cats are also intolerant to dairy.
This tasty veggie is safe for cats, if fed in small amounts and kept plain. Steamed sweet potatoes or baked sweet potatoes are ideal, as is plain mashed sweet potato.
Also Read:What Can Cats Eat? 36 Human Foods Cats Can Eat and 8 They Cant!
Do Cats Like the Taste of Sweet Potato?
Cats are carnivores, so their favorite tastes and smells are usually meaty or fishy. However, many cats are curious creatures and love to try out new tastes and textures, and may well enjoy sampling a small amount of potato, even if they dont get much nutritional benefit from it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a cat eats sweet potatoes?
Cooked sweet potatoes are perfectly safe to be given to cats in small amounts. A minor stomach upset is possible, but unusual if only a small amount is given. Raw sweet potatoes or potatoes with various added seasonings should be avoided.
How much sweet potato can I give my cat?
Your cats main food should be their usual dry kibble or wet food. Small amounts (a maximum of a full tablespoon is recommended) of sweet potato can be added to your cat food if you like, but the nutritional benefit to your cat will be small.
Are sweet potatoes good for cats and dogs?
They contain a good amount of fiber, which is good for reducing constipation, and contain some vitamins and minerals. They are probably more beneficial for dogs, who are omnivores, than cats, who are carnivores.
Is raw sweet potato good for cats?
No, raw potatoes should never be fed to cats as will likely cause a stomach upset.
Best Cat Food for Constipation
The best cat food for constipation promotes a healthy stool consistency. These foods are rich in hydrating moisture, made with easily digestible ingredients, and offer balanced fiber levels to ensure smooth and regular digestion.
When a cat is constipated, stool turns to stone, and bowel movements become increasingly frustrating. All the while, the digestive system continues merrily on, creating more waste to fill up the small intestine and double your cats discomfort.
In this guide, youll learn what features make a product appropriate for cats struggling with constipation. Weve also assembled a list of our top picks for the best cat foods for constipation on the market.
At a Glance: The Best Cat Food for Constipation in 2024
Overall Best
10.0
Picked by 31 people today!
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Cod liver oil provides omega-3 fatty acids
- Good source of hydration for your cat
Runner Up
9.8
Picked by 31 people today!
- Contains a single source of animal protein
- Rich in hydrating moisture
- Limited list of digestible ingredients
Budget Pick
9.4
Picked by 21 people today!
- Hydrating canned food
- Popular among cats with digestive issues
- Contains pumpkin
Best Ethically-Sourced
9.3
Picked by 18 people today!
- Made with ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients
- Contains a single source of animal protein
- Rich in moisture to support hydration and digestion
Best Wet
9.2
Picked by 31 people today!
- Formulated to support digestive health
- Rich in animal-sourced protein and fat
- Salmon oil provides anti-inflammatory omega-3s
Best Dry
9.1
Picked by 31 people today!
- Numerous sources of quality animal protein
- Much lowers carb content than typical dry food
- Free from artificial additives and fillers
Best for Picky Cats
9.0
Picked by 25 people today!
- Made with a single source of novel protein
- Easily digestible with low carbohydrate content
- Full of moisture to support your cats hydration
Best for Sensitive Stomach
9.0
Picked by 21 people today!
- Made with a short list of easily digestible ingredients
- Relies on animal-sourced protein and fat
- Doesnt contain carrageenan or gums
Best for Seniors
8.9
Picked by 18 people today!
- Rich source of animal protein
- Short list of easily digestible main ingredients
- Fairly low carbohydrate content
Top Picks Explained
In this video, Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, discusses the signs of constipation in cats and how to treat it. The products recommended below were chosen with Dr. Wootens advice in mind.
Why Trust Cats.com
The products recommended below were carefully selected and tested by several members of our team with their own cats at home. Prior to selecting products for testing, we consulted our panel of veterinary advisors to learn more about the dietary management of constipation in cats. Relying on in-depth research and veterinary advice, we made our selections and purchased the products at full retail price.
Our in-home testing process involves a detailed analysis of each products nutritional makeup as well as research into the brands history. We also read customer reviews to gauge cat owner satisfaction with the products. Our cats provide their opinions on the foods taste, texture, and general appeal while we make observations about the aroma, appearance, consistency, and packaging.
Our Veterinary Advisors:
The Top 9 Best Cat Foods for Constipation
For its meat-centric formula and rich moisture content, Smalls Fresh Ground Bird is our top pick for the best cat food for constipation. But it isnt the perfect pick for every cat. Your cat is unique and your choice should account for their individual needs and preferences.
We consider a variety of factors when evaluating and recommending cat foods. Our rankings are based on objective analysis of the product along with the results of in-house testing. To help you find the right product for your cat, weve categorized our picks by food type, price range, and other key markers.
What to Look for in Cat Food for Constipation
When waste arrives in the small intestine, it has a sludgy consistency. As it moves further along the gastrointestinal tract (GI), the large intestine draws out water, turning the sludge into stool. Once the waste firms up, it makes its way to the rectum and out of the body.
But if anything goes wrongif the process went too slowly, the body absorbed too much water, or theres something blocking the way the stool wont move out smoothly. A change in diet may help resolve ongoing issues with constipation and prevent it from recurring.
Heres what to look for in cat food for constipation.
High Moisture Content
Although well-hydrated cats can be constipated, dehydration is a contributing factor in feline constipation. Jean Hofve, DVM, says In more than 18 years of experience as a feline veterinarian, I have not personally seen constipation problems in cats who do not eat dry food.
Consider that dry food is 10-12% moisture and that your cats natural prey is at least 70% water. Combined with your cats low thirst drive, this is a recipe for chronic dehydration and all its ripple effects throughout the body, including constipation. High-moisture diets encourage water retention in the stool, making it easier to pass.
Easily Digestible Ingredients
Your cats body is designed to process meat, so the closer their diet is to whole prey, the easier it will be for your cat to digest. A species-appropriate diet for cats includes muscle meat, organs, and bones with plenty of hydrating moisture. Animal by-products, vaguely named meals, and high levels of carbohydrates may negatively impact a products digestibility.
Its also wise to stick to a recipe that contains a short list of ingredients. The longer the ingredients list, the more opportunity there is for something in the food to trigger a reaction or cause irritation. Keep it simple to ensure optimal digestibility.
Adequate Fiber Content
You might feel that cats dont require fiber after all, cats are obligate carnivores that eat meat. But remember that cats consume herbivorous prey which often carry a pocket of partially digested plant matter in their own tiny GI tract.
While we think of natural prey as an ultra-efficient form of nutrition for cats, its not completely digestible. Prey animals have hair, skin, teeth, and claws. Commercially-sold diets include substitutes for these natural sources of fiber and indigestible matter, but raw cat food or homemade diets seldom do.
There is no magic number when it comes to the fiber content of your cats diet. Excessive fiber is just as likely to cause digestive issues as inadequate intake. It may be a matter of trial and error to find the right balance in your specific cats diet.
Supplements to Support Digestion
For cats being fed low-fiber diets, adding a fiber supplement may help ease constipation. Insoluble fiber sources like beans, potatoes, and cellulose help prevent constipation by adding bulk to your cats stool. Soluble fiber (like pumpkin puree or psyllium husks) acts as a prebiotic that helps fuel probiotic activity in your cats gut to promote healthy digestion.
Cat food that contains probiotics may help resolve constipation by promoting a healthier, more balanced environment in the digestive tract. Digestive enzymes in cat food and supplements may be beneficial as well, helping the body break down food more efficiently to ensure a smoother trip through the gastrointestinal tract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does grain-free food help with constipation in cats?
It depends. A high-moisture diet focused on animal ingredients with low carbohydrate content is the best for constipated cats. Grain-free diets can be low in carbohydrates, but they often arent. These foods often include legumes like beans and peas which, though grain-free, can be difficult for cats to digest.
What does megacolon cat poop look like?
Megacolon sometimes develops in cases of severe constipation when the muscles of the colon become stretched out. Stools produced by cats with a megacolon may appear smaller than normal. The cat may pass a large amount of hard, dry stool once or several times a week instead of smaller amounts more frequently.
What is the best diet for a cat with a megacolon?
A cat with a megacolon may have trouble passing stool because the muscles of the colon have been weakened. Easily digestible diets are key. A low-residue diet will minimize the effort required to digest the food. Increasing your cats fiber intake may help as well by adding bulk to the stool.
What foods are natural laxatives for cats?
Fiber-rich foods like canned pumpkin may help ease difficult bowel movements. If your cat is on a dry food diet, feeding small amounts of wet food may also help. Do not give your cat fish oil or other liquid oils as a laxative. Theres no scientific evidence that oil is an effective method for relieving constipation in cats. In fact, it may cause diarrhea.
