Cats like to hunt bugs, even though they are totally satisfied with their diet or daily treat. But have you ever wondered, Can cats eat bugs?
Well, yes, they often eat bugs. Your cat’s behavior of chasing bugs is natural. So, eating bugs doesn’t harm your cat unless they cause some unusual symptoms.
But definitely, there are some risks associated with eating bugs for cats. Some creepy crawlies are more dangerous than others and might lead to gastrointestinal issues.
If you are interested in knowing more on this matter, Can cats eat bugs? Then, you are in the right place. So, let’s begin.
Why Do Cats Eat Bugs?
Probably, you are curious about, Can cats eat bugs? And if so, then why? So, let us answer this question.
It’s A Hunter Game
Hunting is part of cats’ nature, and they often practice it daily. In this case, bugs are quite appropriate to catch cats’ attention the way how they move.
At one point, they stand still, and they move in an unpredictable direction the next moment. That’s why cats have fun while chasing bugs.
But it’s worth mentioning here that cats don’t always hunt their prey to eat it. That’s because they’re opportunistic hunters.
So, they follow prey even though they are not hungry. Chasing prey sends pleasure signals to your cat’s brain and brings satisfaction to your pet.
Some Bugs Are Nutritionally Suitable for Cats
Moreover, bugs are a great source of proteins, vitamins, and trace minerals. Also, insects can be an alternative source of a few nutrient items found in pets’ food.
That’s why felines might enjoy the occasional bug treat, whether inside or outside the home. This is the answer regarding, Can cats eat bugs? Therefore, cats enjoy bugs, especially for proteins and taurine, an important part of the felines’ diet.
Is It Okay For Cats To Eat Bugs?
Being a pet owner, you should know, Can cats eat bugs? Or is it okay for felines to consume bugs? Well, some bugs like butterflies and moths are generally harmless to cats.
But there are also some risks related to consuming insects for cats. Some insects are more dangerous to cats than others, and here’s how.
Venomous or Toxic Bugs
Spiders, caterpillars, ladybugs, and stinkbugs are some insects that can damage your cat’s digestive system. In addition, insects like black widow spiders can cause serious health issues in felines.
If you observe your cat consuming any of these insects, it’s better to consider professional help from a vet.
Food for Cats: Did You Know?
Felines are not actually picky eaters as one might think. Therefore, we have looked at several different foods and tell you if it’s safe for your cat to eat or not. Like this one: Can Cats Eat Bell Peppers?
Stinging or Biting Bugs
Biting and stinging bugs include bees, wasps, mosquitoes, spiders, and houseflies. These creatures can damage your cat’s face, mouth, or tongue as he tries to consume them. Besides, it also leads to an allergic reaction in felines.
Parasites
Further, cats can get parasites by consuming the feces of infected animals. But eating cockroaches, beetle, flea, or cricket that has consumed infected feces can also pass parasites to cats.
Also, fleas and ticks lead to skin irritation and discomfort via their bites and can cause allergic reactions in pets. These wingless insects carry infectious agents themselves, like tapeworm eggs. Moreover, they also carry other organisms that can cause infectious anemia in cats.
How to Stop Your Cat From Eating Bugs?
Getting rid of bugs can be tricky, but that’s how your cat can stay away from any harm.
Use of Bug Baits
One of the easiest and simple solutions to this problem is using bug baits. Try some safe homemade alternatives for your pet instead of pesticides baits. The bug number at your home can also be reduced via securing windows using mosquito nettings.
Keeping your house clean and free from nearby dead bugs can also prevent your cat from eating them.
Keep Your Cats Indoors
Another easy solution to avoid bugs for cats is to keep them indoors. Regardless of how fun the outdoors can be, there are also some dangers for your pets.
Being curious creatures, cats might eat a toxic bug, resulting in severe allergic reactions. So, keeping an eye on your pet is quite important.
Final Thoughts
Can cats eat bugs? Yes, they can. Besides, cats are curious and find pleasure in chasing bugs. Some bugs are nutritionally important for cats being rich in protein. Although, there are some harmless bugs like butterflies and moths.
But cats can consume some harmful bugs that provoke severe allergies in cats. Using bug baits and keeping your cat indoors are some easy solutions to avoid serious problems in cats.
