This Article Was Written By Israel Olaniran Reviewed By Dr Jenna Fred.
Last Updated on July 28, 2023 by israel olaniran
Are you a cat owner and pizza lover combined? Do you wish to discover the answer to the question “Can Cats Eat Pizza? Well, in this informative blog post, I will provide you with an insight into whether or not cats can enjoy the delight of pizza.
READ: Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?
Can Cats Eat Pizza?
No! cats shouldn’t eat pizza, some of the ingredients used in the preparation of pizza are harmful to cats, cats do not like some of this ingredients and some of them can affect the state of health of your cats.
The problem with pizza is that it provides little nutrition for your cat’s needs, even if you make it with safe ingredients.
Read: Do cats have belle buttons?
Hypothetically, a bite of plain pizza pie could be safe for your cats as long as they don’t usually show any ill signs after eating dairy. Feeding your cat pizza is far more likely to be safer if you make it yourself and know what ingredients are going into it.
Due to the wide variety of pizzas and toppings, you also risk inadvertently feeding your cat something that they might be allergic to — or worse, something toxic.
Do cats like pizza?
Yes, cats do like pizza however it is not recommended to feed pizza to cats. pizza ingredients are harmful to your cats.
🐾 Are you a dog owner who wants to ensure your dog gets the absolute best in terms of nutrition?
Read: how often do you take a cat to the vet?
Can Cats Eat Pizza Crust?
First off, what’s pizza crust? Basically, it’s the dough portion that usually forms the base of the pizza. The dough is now known as rolls when it’s rolled into defined shapes.
Pizza dough and rolls are raw crusts, making them even more harmful for cats.
The pizza crust is usually baked, but the dough must be prepared and cut into the desired shapes before that. After the crust is baked, it’s topped with various ingredients that might harm your cats.
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the pizza crust comprises high carbohydrates, and the baking flour is usually refined. That means it’s significantly low in dietary elements.
Ingredients in Pizza
Pizza comes in various forms, but most pizzas have a few common ingredients: dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings like meats and vegetables. Let’s examine whether these components are safe for cats.
Read: why do cats loaf?
Can Cats Eat Cheese?
The image of a cat lapping up a saucer of milk or nibbling on a piece of cheese is familiar to many. However, contrary to popular belief, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Consuming cheese can lead to digestive upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting. While some cats may tolerate small amounts of cheese, it’s generally not recommended as a treat.
Read: how long can a cat go without water?
The Danger of Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are commonly used in pizza sauces and toppings. Unfortunately, both of these ingredients are toxic to cats. They contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia. Even small amounts of onions or garlic can pose a serious health risk to your feline friend.
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Tomatoes and Cats
Tomatoes, while not as toxic as onions or garlic, can still cause mild digestive upset in some cats. The green parts of tomatoes, including the stems and leaves, are more problematic due to their higher concentration of solanine, a toxic substance. While ripe tomatoes are generally considered safe in moderation, the tomato sauces used in pizzas may have additional seasonings that could be harmful.
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Pizza Crust and Cats
Pizza crust is essentially bread, and cats have no nutritional requirement for carbohydrates like humans do. Feeding your cat bread-based products, including pizza crust, can lead to weight gain and potential digestive issues. It’s best to avoid sharing pizza crust with your feline companion.
Read: can cats eat pepperoni?
Can Cats Eat Meat Toppings?
Meat toppings are one of the components that might seem safe for cats to consume. Cats are carnivores, after all. While small amounts of plain, cooked meat might be okay as an occasional treat, pizza meats are often heavily seasoned and can contain ingredients harmful to cats, such as onions and garlic.
Read: can cats eat pineapples?
Cat Obesity and Pizza
Obesity is a significant concern for cats, and indulging them with calorie-dense human foods like pizza can contribute to weight gain. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including diabetes and joint problems. It’s essential to maintain a healthy weight in your cat to ensure their long-term well-being.
Digestive Issues and Allergies
Feeding pizza to cats can result in various digestive issues, especially if they are not used to consuming human food. Cats have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden changes in their diet can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal discomforts. Additionally, some cats may have allergies to certain pizza ingredients, leading to skin irritation, itching, or gastrointestinal problems.
Alternatives to Pizza for Cats
Instead of sharing pizza with your cat, consider offering them safe and suitable treats. There are commercially available cat treats that are specifically formulated to meet a cat’s dietary needs. You can also prepare homemade treats using cat-safe ingredients, such as small pieces of cooked chicken or fish.
Read: why does my cat lick me then bite me?
Feeding Pizza in Moderation
If you’re still considering sharing a small piece of plain cheese pizza with your cat, it’s crucial to do so in moderation. Keep in mind that cats have different nutritional requirements, and their treats should be designed with their well-being in mind. Occasional treats can be a way to bond with your pet, but they should not replace their regular, balanced diet.
Read: do cats have eyebrows?
Monitoring Your Cat’s Health
As a responsible cat owner, it’s essential to monitor your cat’s health regularly. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times, and pay attention to their litter box habits and behavior. If you notice any unusual symptoms or changes in your cat’s health, consult your veterinarian promptly.
READ: Can Cats Eat French Fries?
Why Should I Not Feed My Cats Pizza?
There are many reasons why you shouldn’t feed your cats pizza some of which are:
- Pizza isn’t exactly healthy food, even for humans. So make sure your cat only has a small bite of pizza, especially if they seem to like feasting on the crust. Otherwise, you risk bringing on feline obesity and related health issues.
- There are pizza toppings that could upset the cat’s digestive system or even be toxic to them. Garlic is a big no, and neither are onions. Any pizzas containing a lot of spice or hot sauce should also be off the table.
- Diabetes and obesity. These two common weight-related diseases are major risk factors for depression and cardiovascular disease. Besides, obesity is characterized by decreased activity, breathing problems, mobility issues, and generalized fatigue. It’s a sure way of subjecting your cat to its early death.
What Should I Do If My Cat Eat Pizza?
You should take actions depending on the amount/size of pizza your cat eats, take the following steps if your cat eat pizza.
- Provide water for your cat.
- If its much take your cat to the vet.
Final Thoughts On Can Cats Eat Pizza?
No! cats shouldn’t eat pizza, some of the ingredients used in the preparation of pizza are harmful to cats, cats do not like some of this ingredients and some of them can affect the state of health of your cats. Your cats risk lots of illnesses when fed pizza.
This post was written by Tochukwu for Animals District.
Can a small amount of plain cheese pizza harm my cat?
While a small amount of plain cheese pizza might not cause immediate harm, it’s best to avoid giving pizza to your cat due to their lactose intolerance and potential digestive issues.
Veggie pizza may still contain harmful ingredients like onions or garlic, making it unsafe for cats. It’s best to avoid sharing any type of pizza with your feline companion.
What should I do if my cat accidentally ingests pizza with onions?
f you suspect that your cat has ingested pizza with onions, contact your veterinarian immediately. Onion toxicity can be life-threatening and requires prompt medical attention.
Are there any pizza toppings that are safe for cats?
Plain, cooked meat without any seasoning may be safe for cats in small amounts. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before offering any human food to your cat.
Can I give my cat a pizza crust as a treat?
Pizza crust is essentially bread and lacks nutritional value for cats. It’s best to offer cat-safe treats or homemade treats made with their dietary needs in mind.
What human food can cats eat?
Some human foods safe for cats in moderation include plain, cooked meats (chicken, turkey, fish), small pieces of certain fruits and vegetables (carrots, green beans), and commercially available cat treats formulated for their dietary needs. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your cat’s diet.
Can cats eat pineapple?
While small amounts of fresh, ripe pineapple are not toxic to cats, it’s not a necessary part of their diet. Some cats may enjoy the taste, but it’s essential to offer it in moderation and observe for any adverse reactions.
Can cats eat cheese?
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, and consuming cheese can cause digestive issues. While some cats may tolerate small amounts of cheese, it’s generally not recommended as a treat. Opt for cat-safe treats instead.
Can cats eat pepperoni pizza?
No, cats should not eat pepperoni pizza or any pizza with meat toppings. Pepperoni and other seasoned meats used in pizzas can contain harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, and excessive salt, which can be toxic to cats and lead to health problems.
Can cats eat bread?
Cats can technically eat small amounts of plain, fully cooked bread without any seasoning or added ingredients. However, bread lacks nutritional value for cats, and it’s not a necessary part of their diet. Feeding bread to cats should be in moderation, if at all, as it may lead to weight gain and other digestive issues.
