Cats are known for his or her picky eating habits, but they’ll sometimes surprise us by nibbling on unexpected treats. One strange item that seems to get many cats’ attention is graham crackers, but are they protected for cats to eat? Fortunately, graham crackers are superb for felines in small amounts, but are usually not suitable so as to add to the weight loss program as they’re lacking in all of the nutrients your little carnivore needs.
What Are Graham Crackers?
Graham crackers were created in america within the late 1800s, inspired by preacher Sylvester Graham. He introduced the primary graham product that used coarsely ground flour (graham flour) as a part of a vegetarian weight loss program. Several corporations began mass-producing them and so they are still a well-liked food item today, often sweetened with honey or cinnamon. Also they are an ingredient in lots of desserts, like pie crusts and s’mores.
Graham crackers contain enriched flour, whole grain wheat flour, sugar, canola or soybean oil, preservatives, molasses, honey, baking soda, calcium phosphatase, salt, dextrose, cinnamon, soy lecithin, natural cinnamon flavor and sodium sulfite.
Image Credit: Duntrune Studios, Shutterstock
Problems With Graham Crackers
Flour
Graham crackers are primarily coarsely ground wheat flour. While cats can technically digest small amounts of carbohydrates, their digestive systems are usually not well-suited for processing large quantities of wheat or grains, and eating an excessive amount of might result in digestive upset. Graham crackers also lack the essential nutrients that cats need for a balanced weight loss program.
Sugar and Fats
Graham crackers often contain added sugar, fats and oils, which isn’t suitable for cats. Cats are usually not even capable of experience sweet tastes. An excessive amount of sugar or fat over time will result in weight gain, which puts your feline in danger for diabetes and joint problems.
Honey
Some graham cracker varieties contain honey. While honey is natural, it continues to be high in sugar and will cause weight gain over time.
Image Credit: Steve Buissinne, Pixabay
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a standard spice utilized in graham crackers. While small amounts of cinnamon are generally protected for cats, large quantities can result in digestive upset, mouth sores and even toxicity. Although ingestion of enough cinnamon to cause an issue is unlikely in cats.
Salt
Some graham crackers may contain added salt, which might harm cats in very large doses. Although again, ingestion of enough to cause an issue is unlikely.
Potential Allergies
Some cats can have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients present in graham crackers, corresponding to wheat. Signs of an allergic response can include continuous itching, scratching, overgrooming, and biting.
Advantages of Feeding Graham Crackers to Cats
Unfortunately, there isn’t a real profit to feeding graham crackers to your cat, as they don’t contain any meat, which is what cats require of their diets. Nevertheless, a graham cracker shouldn’t cause any harm in case your cat nibbles on a tiny piece you dropped on the ground.
Image Credit:
Alternatives to Graham Crackers for Cats
Cat Treats
Business cat treats are great options and help meet feline dietary requirements. They are available in various flavors and textures, so with a little bit of experimentation, you will certainly find something that your cat enjoys.
Cooked Meat
Cats love meat, and small amounts of cooked chicken, turkey, or fish may be tasty and protected treats on your furry friend. Boil the meat without spices, let it cool, and cut it into small pieces before serving.
Catnip
Catnip is a natural herb that many cats enjoy. You possibly can sprinkle it on a scratching post or use catnip-infused toys to offer entertainment. It’s also a fragrant, attractive, and easy-to-grow plant that you could keep indoors or outside.
Dental Chews
Dental chews are just like industrial cat treats but have special ingredients to assist cats maintain their oral health. Take a look at the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved list of dental products.
Image Credit: Marinka-Buronka,Shutterstock
Health Guidelines for Cats
- Schedule annual check-ups along with your veterinarian. Regular vet visits may also help catch and stop health issues early.
- Make sure that your cat receives the suitable vaccinations to guard against common feline diseases.
- Provide balanced, high-quality cat food appropriate on your cat’s age and health, and follow the portion sizes advisable on the package.
- All the time provide fresh, clean water. Some cats prefer running water, so a water fountain may also help.
- Constantly monitor your cat’s weight and body condition. Obesity is a standard issue in cats and may result in health problems. Seek the advice of your vet for weight management strategies in the event you struggle to maintain your cat at an appropriate weight.
- Promote dental health with regular teeth brushing, dental treats, and toys designed for oral hygiene. All the time use pet-safe toothpaste, as human toothpaste can contain dangerous ingredients.
- Use the flea-and-tick control measures that your vet recommends, and administer deworming treatments as essential, as these insects can transmit several harmful diseases to your pet, including Lyme disease and heartworm.
- Keep the litter box clean, and alter the litter a few times a day to maintain it hygienic. .
- Provide toys, scratching posts, and treat-dispensing puzzles to maintain your cat physically and mentally lively. Spend a minimum of 20 minutes each day engaging your cat in activities and games.
- Repeatedly brush your cat’s coat to forestall matting and reduce shedding. Long-haired breeds may require more frequent grooming and trimming.
- Spaying and neutering may also help prevent unwanted litters and reduce certain health and behavior issues.
- Consider microchipping your cat, and have them wear a collar with an ID tag along with your contact information.
- Cats may be sensitive to changes of their routine. Minimize stress by providing a stable and cozy living environment.
- Look ahead to changes in behavior, appetite, and litter box habits or signs of discomfort, and get in touch with the vet immediately in the event you notice any.
- Have a plan in case of emergencies. Know the phone number and address of the closest 24-hour veterinary clinic.
Conclusion
In case your cat ate a graham cracker without your approval, they may probably be superb, but it surely is an excellent idea to observe them closely for several hours for signs of digestive upset and call the vet if there are any problems. Graham crackers contain no dietary advantages for cats, and most of the ingredients, like flour and sugar, may be harmful in large amounts. Selecting a more suitable food, like a industrial cat treat or plain cooked meat, is best on your cat.
Featured Image Credit: Brent Hofacker, Shutterstock