Natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, is often praised for its health benefits in humans. But if you’re a cat parent wondering whether your furry friend can share a bite of this sticky, pungent treat, it’s important to pause and consider the potential risks and benefits. Cats have unique dietary needs, and not all human foods are safe for them. Let’s dive into the details about cats and natto to help you make the best decision for your feline companion.
🐾 What Is Natto and Why Do People Eat It?
Natto is a fermented soybean dish with a slimy texture, strong smell, and a nutty, umami flavor. It’s packed with nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamin K2, and probiotics, making it a popular health food in many parts of the world. Its fermentation process involves a specific bacterium called Bacillus subtilis, which gives natto its unique characteristics.
While natto is a nutritional powerhouse for humans, it’s important to understand how it might interact with a cat’s digestive system, which is very different from ours. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on a meat-based diet, and plant-based foods often don’t provide the nutrients they need.
🐱 Can Cats Eat Natto?
The short answer is that cats can technically eat small amounts of natto, but it’s not an ideal food for them. While natto isn’t toxic to cats, there are some risks and considerations to keep in mind before offering it to your feline friend.
⚠️ Risks of Feeding Natto to Cats
Before you let your cat try natto, it’s essential to understand the potential risks. Here are some key concerns:
- - High sodium content: Many natto products contain added salt, which can be harmful to cats. Excess sodium can lead to dehydration, high blood pressure, or even sodium ion poisoning in severe cases.
- - Digestive upset: Cats have sensitive stomachs, and the fermentation process in natto may cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.
- - Allergic reactions: While rare, some cats may be allergic to soy products, leading to symptoms like itching, swelling, or respiratory distress.
- - Choking hazard: The sticky, stringy texture of natto can be difficult for cats to chew and swallow, increasing the risk of choking.
These risks highlight why it’s important to approach feeding natto to your cat with caution. Even if your cat seems curious about the food, it’s best to consult a veterinarian before offering it.
🩺 Nutritional Considerations for Cats
Cats have specific nutritional requirements that differ significantly from humans. Their diets must include essential nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and preformed vitamin A, which are primarily found in animal-based proteins. Plant-based foods, including soy products like natto, lack many of these vital nutrients.
While natto contains some beneficial nutrients, such as protein and probiotics, these don’t necessarily align with a cat’s dietary needs. Cats are unlikely to derive significant health benefits from natto, and it shouldn’t replace their regular, balanced cat food.
🐾 Signs Your Cat May Have Eaten Too Much Natto
If your cat accidentally eats a significant amount of natto, watch for these symptoms of digestive distress or other health issues:
- - Vomiting or diarrhea
- - Lethargy or lack of appetite
- - Increased thirst or urination (a sign of high sodium intake)
- - Difficulty breathing or swelling (potential allergic reaction)
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away. Prompt treatment can prevent more serious complications.
🐾 Safe Ways to Share Food With Your Cat
If you’re eager to share human food with your feline friend, there are safer and healthier options than natto. Here are some examples of cat-friendly treats:
- - Small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or fish (unseasoned and boneless)
- - A small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt (if your cat isn’t lactose intolerant)
- - A few cooked peas or carrots as an occasional treat
Always introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts to avoid upsetting your cat’s stomach. Additionally, make sure any treat you offer is free of harmful ingredients like garlic, onion, or artificial sweeteners.
🛑 When to Avoid Giving Natto to Your Cat
There are certain situations where feeding natto to your cat should be completely avoided:
- - If your cat has a known soy allergy or sensitivity
- - If the natto contains added salt, spices, or other harmful ingredients
- - If your cat has a history of gastrointestinal issues or a sensitive stomach
When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and skip the natto altogether.
FAQs
Q: Is natto toxic to cats?
A: No, natto is not toxic to cats, but it can cause digestive upset or other issues if consumed in large amounts or frequently.
Q: Can kittens eat natto?
A: Kittens have even more sensitive stomachs than adult cats and should avoid natto entirely. Stick to a diet formulated specifically for kittens.
Q: How much natto is safe for a cat?
A: If your vet approves, only offer a very small amount (less than a teaspoon) as an occasional treat. Monitor your cat for any adverse reactions.
Q: Are there any benefits of natto for cats?
A: While natto contains protein and probiotics, these benefits are minimal for cats, as they require nutrients primarily from animal-based sources.
References
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
