We often wonder what our beloved feline friends can and cannot eat to ensure proper nutrition. A common question is whether cats can eat beans. Yes, but cats should eat beans sparingly. Knowing what cats should eat is crucial in feline nutrition.
Obligate carnivores like cats are built to eat animal proteins. They need protein, essential amino acids, taurine, and arachidonic acid, which are mostly found in animal tissues. Beans cannot meet these nutritional needs. In this article, I investigate whether cats can eat beans without harm.
In This Article
Can cats eat beans?
Coffee and cacao beans are toxic to cats, but other beans can be eaten. However, proceed with caution. Cats are obligate carnivores, so their digestive systems are designed to eat animal proteins.
Plant-based beans lack taurine and arachidonic acid, which cats need to stay healthy. Feeding cats beans as a main food may cause nutritional deficiencies.
Also, beans can cause digestive issues for cats. Their digestive systems can’t handle beans’ high carbohydrate content. This can cause gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Can kittens eat beans?
Like adult cats, kittens need high-quality animal-based proteins and specific nutrients for growth and development. Beans are safe for kittens when cooked and served in small amounts, but they should not be a major part of their diet.
Kittens’ delicate digestive systems may struggle to process beans’ high carbohydrate content, which may cause digestive issues.
Although a small taste of cooked beans may not harm kittens, it’s important to prioritize their primary diet of high-quality kitten food formulated to meet their nutritional needs and consult a veterinarian for diet advice.
What is in a bean?
Beans, like lima beans, green beans, and soybeans, are legumes and have a lot of different health benefits.
So, even though beans may have some health benefits, like protein and fiber, cats may not be able to get these benefits as easily because they can’t digest plant material very well.
Because they are high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, different kinds of beans have become known as “superfoods” for humans. The following amounts of nutrients are found in a typical bean:
| Nutrient | Percentage |
| Protein | 9% |
| Fat | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 26% |
| Fiber from Carbohydrates | 9% |
Besides these macronutrients, beans also have high amounts of several essential minerals that people need every day, based on a cup of beans (171 g):
| Mineral | Percentage |
| Iron | 20% |
| Calcium | 8% |
| Magnesium | 21% |
| Phosphorous | 25% |
| Potassium | 21% |
It’s important to stress that these values are based on what people need to eat and may not necessarily apply to cats.
Mineral Content and Potential Health Risks
When cats eat beans, the minerals in them can cause imbalances and health problems:
Hyperkalaemia (Excess Potassium)
Cats can get hypokalemia if they eat too many beans, which are high in potassium. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) like cystitis and bladder stones are linked to this condition, which shows up as symptoms like muscle weakness, depression, and irregular heartbeats.
Hypernatremia (Excess Sodium)
Cats that eat too much sodium can get thirsty all the time, feel sick, be tired, lose weight, have seizures, and even bleed internally.
Carbohydrates and Their Effect on Cats
Carbohydrates are hard for cats to process, and eating too many of them can cause blood sugar problems and weight gain. Cats’ bodies turn carbs like fiber and starch into sugar, which can change their blood sugar levels and lead to diabetes, pancreatitis, or even lethargy.
Benefits and Limitations
Benefits of Beans for Cats
Cats need animal protein for the majority of their diet, but adding beans in small amounts can help them get extra protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
All of these things can help a cat get the nutrients it needs. Fiber, in particular, helps keep your digestive system healthy and keeps you from getting constipated.
Limitations of Beans for Cats
Beans are nutritious, but too much can cause digestive issues and pancreatitis. To avoid upset stomachs, cats should only eat small amounts of beans occasionally because their digestive systems are designed to handle animal protein.
Stressing that cats shouldn’t eat beans is crucial. Consider them a treat rather than a main meal. To meet nutritional needs, cats should eat mostly meat.
Other Beans That Cats Can Eat:
- Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans):
Some cats have trouble digesting it.
It’s not something that cats normally eat.
Chickpeas that have been cooked and left plain are fine for cats to eat sometimes, but not all the time.
- Black Beans:
If cats eat it in small amounts, it won’t hurt them.
The best choice is black beans that are plain and cooked.
If the juice is from a can, rinse it off.
- Refried Beans:
Small amounts of refried beans that are made from scratch and don’t have any extra spices added can be given.
Please don’t give your cat canned refried beans because they often have harmful spices in them, like garlic and onion.
- Green Beans:
Cats that like to eat greens can be given cooked or steamed green beans.
Cats, especially those who have digestive problems, can get extra nutrients, fiber, and water from green beans.
Green bean dishes with onion and mushrooms are bad for cats, so don’t give them those foods.
Raw Beans And Cooked Beans For Cats
| Aspect | Raw Beans for Cats | Cooked Beans for Cats |
| Toxicity | Potentially toxic due to lectins | Safer after proper cooking |
| Digestibility | Difficult to digest; may cause issues | Easier to digest after cooking |
| Nutritional Value | Lacks essential nutrients for cats | Limited nutritional value; not a complete diet |
| Allergies | Some cats may have sensitivities | Possible sensitivities; monitor reactions |
| Portion Control | Should not be a primary food source | Small portions as occasional treats |
Understanding Harmful Bean Varieties
Small amounts of most types of beans are safe for cats, but cats should stay away from the following:
- Canned Beans Often have extra salt in them, which is bad for cats’ kidneys.
- Jelly Beans: Cats can’t eat candy that has artificial sweeteners in it, like xylitol.
- Coffee Beans and Chocolate-Covered Beans contain theobromine, which is bad for cats and could kill them.
- Refried Beans: It’s high in fat and might have unhealthy seasonings in it, like onions and garlic.
- Raw Beans: They can be very bad for cats’ stomachs, so they should always be cooked all the way through before giving them to them.
Conclusion
Small amounts of beans are safe for cats, but they shouldn’t be their main food. The majority of their diet should be meat for their health. Knowing what our cat friends like to eat helps us make healthier food choices.
Talking to a vet about cat nutrition and diet is best. Responsible pet ownership requires knowing and meeting your cat’s dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of beans can cats eat?
Chickpeas, black beans, and green beans can be eaten moderately by cats. Beans should be occasional treats and not a major part of their diet.
Can cats eat rice or beans?
Plain and cooked rice in small amounts may help cats’ digestion. Plain and cooked beans can also be given occasionally as a treat in moderation.
Can my cat eat kidney beans?
It is advisable to avoid giving cats kidney beans. Lectins in raw kidney beans can poison cats. Due to digestion issues, cooked kidney beans are not advised.
Are canned beans cooked?
Canned beans are cooked to make them safe to eat. Before feeding cats canned beans, rinse them well to remove salt and other contaminants. Avoid giving cats canned beans with added spices or flavors that could harm them.
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