Can Cats Eat Eggplant?

Eggplant, like tomatoes and potatoes, belongs to the nightshade family. It is a vegetable that has gained popularity over the years. Humans enjoy this vegetable in their salad or pizza. Eggplants have a rich juicy taste and not to forget that they are full of nutrients.

No doubt, this vegetable is good for humans. But what about cats? Can cats eat eggplant? Is it safe for them? There's quite a bit of controversy when it comes to feeding eggplants to your cat; some people say you can feed cooked eggplant to your cat while others have said all forms of the vegetable are bad for cats. So, what's it going to be? Keep reading this post to find out.

Can Cats Eat Eggplant?

Eggplants are toxic to cats and as such, should not be given to them. Eggplants contain Solanine, a glycoalkaloid that is dangerous to your cat's health. Although eggplant is rich in dietary fiber, it is not considered safe for your cat. However, if your cat accidentally eats even a small piece of raw eggplant, take them to your veterinarian immediately.

Is Eggplant Bad For My Cat?

Yes, eggplant is not just bad but harmful to your cat. Eggplant is on the list of the most toxic foods not to give to your cat. Your cat can become exposed to Solanine poisoning if they eat even a small amount of the vegetable.

Some symptoms of solanine poisoning include drooling, lethargy, aggressiveness, withdrawal behavior, and irritation. If you suspect your cat has eaten eggplant or you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet as soon as possible.

Can Cats Eat Raw Eggplant?

Cats should never eat raw eggplant. Raw eggplant is extremely toxic to cats and can lead to death. Eggplant is a nutritious vegetable that a lot of people enjoy in different varieties. But when it comes to our furry friends, the eggplant should not be on the list of new foods we would like them to try. Raw eggplant contains solanine in high doses that can do great harm to your cat in a little time. The best thing to do? Avoid feeding raw eggplant to your cat.

Can I Feed Eggplant Leaves To My Cat?

Cats are not usually drawn to the green leaves on the eggplant but if your cat is one of those curious ones, then they may try to nibble on the green leaves. However, you must be quick to stop them from getting a bite of the leaves. This is because eggplant leaves are highly dangerous for your cat. 

In fact, these leaves are considered more toxic than the fruit. Humans may as well face a few mild consequences if they eat the leaves but since cats are smaller, the effects will be immediate and greater. Hence, if you ever find your cat munching on the leaves of eggplant, take them to your vet immediately.

Is Eggplant Seed Safe For My Cat?

This one is easy, the answer is no. Eggplant's numerous seeds are anything but safe for your feline. The seeds contain a compound known as cyanogenic glycosides. This compound is toxic to your cat because when it comes in the count with your cat's stomach acid, it forms cyanide which is a naturally occurring toxin found in seeds, stems, and leaves. Just like the leaves, eggplant seeds are bad for your cat.

Can Cats Eat The Peels Of Eggplant?

Normally, the peels of vegetables are difficult for your cat to digest. But when it comes to eggplant peels, they are not just hard to digest, they are equally poisonous for your feline. Eggplant skin contains solanine which is toxic to cats.

 

Can Cats Eat Cooked Eggplant?

There is a lot of controversy concerning this, hence there is no straight answer to it. Some people have said that cooked eggplant is safe for cats to eat while others have stated otherwise.

So, can cats eat cooked eggplants? Cooked eggplant is considered safe for cats but in reality, it is still not safe enough. This is because of the seeds present in the flesh of the fruit.

It is advisable to feed only the flesh of cooked eggplant to your cat but you and I know that that is almost impossible. The seeds of eggplant are tiny and numerous. Also, they cannot be easily separated from the flesh. And don't forget that the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which are toxic to your cat.

What's the way out? Your best bet will be to play it safe and not feed any kind of eggplant to your cat at all. If you are not sure if cooked eggplant is completely safe for your cat, it is better to not feed them the vegetable at all. However, to be clear, you can consult with your vet.

What Should I Do If My Cat Eats Eggplant?

If you happen to catch your cat goofing around an eggplant, the first thing to do is to confirm if they ate any part of the plant or not. If you notice any missing flesh on the fruit, that's your cue. Your next action should be swift, take your feline to the vet immediately. This is because raw eggplant is toxic to your cat. Once you reach your vet, they can induce vomiting in your furry guy and ensure they are safe.

However, if your cat steals a bite of cooked eggplant, you may keep your calm. Watch out for any signs that may indicate ill health such as drooling, lethargy, intense digestive upsets, and behavior change. If your cat starts showing any of these symptoms after eating a cooked eggplant, take them to your vet immediately. Or you may choose to not wait for them to show any symptoms and just consult your vet as soon as possible.

Final Words

Eggplants are toxic to your cats. To be on the safe side, it is not recommended to feed this vegetable to your cat. If you want to introduce a vegetable snack into their diet, you can confirm with your local vet the options of vegetables that are safe for your kitty.