Cats are natural predators, and they chase their prey. Chasing flies is usually a good exercise for cats. Now, you might be wondering, Can cats eat flies? Are there any risks related to eating flies in cats?
The answer is yes; they can. Like many other pests or insects, flies are not harmful to cats. However, consuming infected flies or those containing harmful pesticides can cause problems. Besides, constant consumption can make them sick. They can suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
Here is more you need to know about: Can cats eat flies? So, let’s begin.
Why Do Cats Eat Flies?
Can cats eat flies? If yes, why do felines eat them? Natural predators want to chase anything that is moving; it might be a fly. The main purpose of chasing their prey is to eat it.
Further, these insects are favorite toys for your feline friends. Although it takes hours to hunt one fly, cats love to do it. So, they keep chasing it until they get it or it disappears from their sight.
What Are The Risks of Eating Flies In Cats?
Can cats eat flies? Are there any hazards related to eating flies in cats? Yes, eating flies can pose certain risks to felines. These include:
Eating Excessive Flies
As you know, “excess of everything is bad.” That’s why overconsumption of flies in cats leads to various gastrointestinal issues. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and stomach discomfort.
You should be worried even if your pet doesn’t show any of these symptoms in case of overeating flies. It might be possible that your cat is malnourished, that’s why he is eating too many flies.
Eating Contaminated Flies
In addition, your cat can also suffer from pesticide poisoning while eating flies. In the case of pesticide poisoning, symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and loss of appetite might appear.
Your pet can also die if he eats these flies, according to the strength of pesticide use. In case of observing any of these symptoms, it’s better to contact your vet immediately.
Consuming Pathogen-Carrying Flies
Another risk associated with eating flies in the case of felines is pathogens. Your cat might come into contact with worms while consuming flies. These worms are pretty dangerous for felines, and you must keep an eye on your pet.
What Are The Benefits If My Cat Plays With Flies?
Can cats eat flies? Are there any benefits if your pet plays with flies? Yes, definitely. Playing with flies makes your feline friends physically active. They can keep chasing flies for hours by utilizing their energies.
Moreover, this activity prevents these insects from laying eggs on the surfaces. To be more clear, doing this will prevent your food from getting contaminated. More specifically, if these insects are swarming in your kitchen.
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 Chocolate ice cream?
What Happens If Cats Eat Fly Eggs?
If your feline friend has consumed the fly eggs, he might get sick.
Here are the following problems that can occur if cats eat fly eggs:
Bacterial Poisoning
Consuming maggots or maggot-infected food can lead to bacterial poisoning in felines. Different bacteria can infect these maggots. These bacterial infections result in fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and cramps.
Allergies
Maggots can cause allergic responses in some cats. Consuming larvae that have been exposed or eating items that your pet is sensitive to can trigger allergies.
Ways To Prevent Cats From Eating Flies
Here are certain ways that can help distract your pet from eating flies.
- Feed them plenty of food
- Cover your doors and windows with screens
- Avoid letting your food uncovered
- Use insecticides that are safe for your cats
- Encourage your pet to remain active
How To Keep Flies Away From Your Cat?
Your pet will keep eating flies until he finds them flying and buzzing around. So the best solution is to get rid of these flies.
Here are some pretty simple ways to keep these flies away from your pet.
- Keep your houses and premises clean. Make sure to dispose of garbage properly and cover these trash bins well.
- Also, be sure to get rid of your pet feces and waste present in your yard or home properly
- To avoid these flies, use fly traps and citronella candles.
Final Thoughts
Can cats eat flies? Yes, they can. Although, flies aren’t hazardous for your pet. But flies can be dangerous for felines if they are infected or contain harmful pesticides. Chasing flies seems fun for your pet, and they remain active.
Make sure to get rid of these flies if your cat overeats them. Cleaning, disposing off garbage, and using fly traps can be helpful in this regard.
