If you’re planning on eating some popcorn while watching your favorite television show tonight, you might be interested to find out – can cats eat popcorn?
Well, you might be surprised to learn that the answer isn’t as straightforward as one might think.
Worry no more!
This article will help clear up any questions you have about whether or not your cat can eat popcorn so you can enjoy a snack together.
Keep reading to find out the answer!
Popcorn: What’s in it?
Popcorn has become so popular in recent years because it’s low in calories (about 30 calories per cup) and its high fiber content helps lower cholesterol levels.
The ingredients in popcorn are corn, soybean oil, salt, butter or cheese, and a few other spices. Some brands use sugar as well.
Can Cats Eat Popcorn?
Yes, cats can eat popcorn but in small amounts. Popcorn by itself is not toxic and is considered safe for cats.
Please keep in mind—popcorn is ok, not perfect.
Besides stomach aches and other issues that can occur from eating too much popcorn, the ingredients in popcorn, such as butter and salt, can also pose health risks.
Cats are obligate carnivores and need a meat-based protein diet to maintain their health. The best cat food for your cat is the type that is mostly animal meat in order to keep it healthy.
Does Popcorn Provide Any Health Benefits to Cats?
Although there are some health benefits to popcorn for both humans and other animals, it is not a good choice of food for a cat.
Popcorn has trace amounts of vitamins B, A, E, and K, but no essential protein or minerals that are beneficial to a cat’s diet.
The nutrients found in popcorn are plant-based and therefore not a good source of nutrition for obligate carnivores like cats.
That being said, your cat can enjoy some plain-cooked popcorn occasionally.
Why Do Cats Have an Urge Towards Popcorn?
Cats are drawn to popcorn because of its high aromatic quality. The butter or cheese that is added to the popcorn emits a very strong smell that is attractive to cats.
Butter or cheese-flavored products smell just as good to cats as they do to humans and will often encourage them to beg for food.
Additionally, cats have excellent senses of smell; they may be attracted to popcorn.
Lastly, as more and more research is done into the psychology of animal attraction, it has been found that animals can be attracted by color as well as by smells and tastes.
Can Cats Eat Popcorn of Any Type?
Many types of popcorn are not safe for cats to eat because they are laced with butter and salt, which can lead to an upset stomach or digestive issues in your pet.
The safest type of popcorn for your pet to eat is plain-cooked popcorn.
Avoid flavored popcorn, cheese, or butter because these ingredients may be too strong for their sensitive digestive systems and could lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
Is Plain Salted Popcorn Safe for Cats to Eat?
Salted popcorn is toxic to felines when ingested in large amounts. The salt in salted popcorn irritates the stomach lining and leads to excessive thirst.
When cats drink too much water they will urinate more and may not be able to take in enough water for their body needs.
Symptoms of high-sodium poisoning include:
