You’ve probably seen cats play with olives, which are little green or black fruits. But as a good cat owner, can cats try olives?
This extensive article discusses why cats love olives, whether they’re safe to eat, and the differences between green and black olives. We’ll also discuss olives’ dangers and benefits for pets and other uses for this versatile fruit.
In This Article
Why Do Cats Like Olives?
Because cats are so interested in olives, many pet owners want to know why their cats are so interested in them. There isn’t enough scientific proof to say for sure why cats love olives, but there are a few ideas that help explain it.
Some cats are interested in eating olives because they smell good, taste good, and even feel good. Amazingly, green olives have a chemical called isoprenoids that tastes a lot like nepetalactone, which is the active ingredient in catnip.
For some cats, isoprenoids can have effects that are very similar to catnip. They can make them more playful, silly, or even a little crazy. It’s catnip in a food form, which explains the strong attraction.
But it’s important to remember that not all cats are interested in olives. Each cat is different, with its own tastes and biological traits. If your cat doesn’t like catnip or valerian, olives might not be attractive to them either.
Can Cats Eat Olives?
People and, sometimes, our cats enjoy olives because they are a versatile fruit. These tasty little black or green treats are full of good things for you, like copper, iron, calcium, and vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. Even though olives aren’t poisonous to cats, you should still be careful when giving them to your cat.
Olives should only be given to your cat as a treat once in a while, not every day. It’s essential to feed them in moderation since giving them too much can have harmful effects like cats throwing up and having diarrhea. Because of this, it’s essential to talk to your vet before giving your cat olives.
Green vs. Black Olives: Is There a Difference?
Cats are particularly interested in green olives because they contain isoprenoid, which is similar to the active compound in catnip.
When taken in, they can cause common changes in behavior. Because of this, you can give your cat green olives as a treat once in a while, but only a small part of a whole olive should be given each time. To avoid any additives or preservatives, it’s also best to pick plain green olives that haven’t been salted.
But black olives are also safe for cats to eat, though they often have pits inside them that can choke them if they eat them.
Because they are cured differently than green olives, these olives usually have more oil and less salt. When given in moderation and as they naturally come, black olives can be a good treat for your cat.
Nutritional Stats of Olives
For every 100 grams of ripe olives, these nutrients are what they are made of:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Water | 80% |
| Calories | 115 |
| Fiber | 3.2 grams |
| Sugar | 0.5 grams |
| Protein | 0.8 grams |
| Fat | 10.7 grams |
As a fruit, olives have a fair amount of fat, but most of that fat is monounsaturated, which is good for your heart.
Getting more monounsaturated fats can help lower LDL cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease. It’s important to remember, though, that olives don’t have a lot of protein or carbs.
Vitamins and Minerals in Olives
Olives have a unique flavor and are full of vitamins and minerals that are good for you, like
- Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant
- Iron: Essential for red blood cell function
- Copper: Important for overall health and heart disease prevention
- Calcium: Crucial for bone, muscle, and nerve function
- Sodium: Usually present in brine or saltwater, making olives high in sodium
Potential Benefits of Olives for Cats
Olives are not necessary for cats to eat because they are obligate carnivores, but these fruits may be good for their health:
- Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties:
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds found in olives can help fight free radicals, which may lower the risk of getting diseases like cancer.
- Vitamin E for Healthy Skin and Coat:
Olives contain vitamin E, which can help a cat’s skin and coat stay healthy.
- Iron for Red Blood Cells:
Iron is needed to make healthy red blood cells, which keeps cats from getting anemia.
- Relief for Arthritis:
Olives may help a cat with arthritis by making its joints more mobile and reducing joint pain because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Blood Pressure Regulation:
Olives can help keep blood pressure in check, which is good for your heart health in general.
- Osteoporosis Prevention:
Olives might help keep osteoporosis from happening.
Safety Concerns For Cats
Cats can eat small amounts of olives without getting sick, but too many can be bad for their health. There are some things you should know about the possible risks before giving your cat olives:
- High Sodium Content:
A lot of olives are kept fresh in a liquid that is high in sodium. If you eat a lot of this liquid, you could get sodium poisoning.
Cats can die from sodium poisoning symptoms like loss of appetite, shaking, vomiting, and thirst that won’t go away.
- Upset Stomach:
Because the fiber in olives makes you go to the bathroom more often, giving them to kittens can make their stomachs upset. This can cause diarrhea and possibly dehydration, so the animal needs to go to the vet.
- Insulin Sensitivity:
Cats with diabetes shouldn’t eat olives because they may make their insulin less sensitive.
- Choking Hazard:
Olives with pits can choke your cat, so make sure you take out the seeds before giving them to them or watch them closely as they eat them.
Adding Olives to Your Cat’s Diet
You can give your cat olives in the form of raw olives, cat food, or treats that contain olives or olive flavoring. When added to food, olive oil is beneficial because it has more health benefits than whole olives.
Olive Oil:
Cats can safely keep some extra virgin olive oil around, but not too much. A tablespoon should be given every so often.
Some people think that olive oil can boost the immune system, lower the risk of heart disease, and help with problems like hairballs and constipation. Moderation is essential, though, because too much can cause diarrhea.
Choose 100% extra virgin olive oil for your cat because it is less acidic, hasn’t been treated with chemicals, and hasn’t been mixed with other oils. This makes it safe for cats to eat.
Can Cats Eat Olives with Pimentos?
Pimentos are mild red peppers that are used in many foods, such as olive stuffing. Nepetalactone, a compound in olives with pimentos, has effects that are similar to catnip and may make cats want to eat them.
To make sure your cat is safe, give it olives that are the right size and don’t have pits on them. Remember that moderation is vital to avoid getting too much sodium.
Can I Feed My Cat Kalamata Olives?
Olives from the Kalamata variety are famous for the deep purple color and cancer-fighting qualities that they possess.
Even though they may be beneficial to one’s health, they are also quite high in sodium, which increases the risk of kidney disease in cats. It is recommended that you limit your cat’s access to foods that are high in salt, such as kalamata olives.
Other Uses of Olives and the Olive Plant
Beyond eating, olives and the olive plant can help your cat’s health in other ways:
- Skin and Coat Health:
Applying a little olive oil to your cat’s dry or itchy skin can help ease its pain and make it less likely to scratch, which is good for the skin and fur.
- Ear Cleaning:
In a pinch, you can clean your cat’s ears with olive oil. A few drops can help clean and get rid of ear mites, but they aren’t a replacement for unique ear products.
- Chewing and Playing:
Cats can eat olive leaves, branches, and wood without getting sick. These parts have potent antioxidants that can clean your cat’s mouth and teeth and stop plaque and tartar from building up.
Olive leaves are also suitable for killing germs, and they can help make fur smooth and shiny. Chemicals in the plant can also make it appealing to cats as a toy.
Final Words
Cats can eat olives and the olive plant without getting sick, and the plant may even be good for their health. Being careful is important, though, and you should talk to your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet.
Cats are naturally carnivores, so they should mostly eat meat-based foods. Giving them too many non-meat sources, like olives, can be harmful.
Before adding olives to your cat’s food, you should always talk to your vet to make sure that your cat’s health and well-being are protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my cat like black olives?
Known for their curiosity, cats may like black olives due to their texture and scent. Olives’ briny smell and soft, squishy texture may remind cats of cat food or treats. It’s important to remember that cats have different preferences.
Are black olives OK for cats?
You can feed your cat black olives in moderation without harming them. Olives should be served occasionally, not regularly. Due to their salt and fat content, olives can upset your stomach. To avoid choking, remove the pit and consult your vet before feeding your cat new foods.
Why does my cat like olives so much?
Cats love new smells and textures, making olives appealing. Olives, especially briny ones, can attract cats. Cats love batting at and exploring tactile objects so that the squishy texture may appeal to their playful side. Like humans, some cats like olives, while others don’t.
Do cats like the smell of black olives?
The robust and savory scent of black olives attracts cats. Cats use their keen sense of smell to explore and investigate. Olives may intrigue them, prompting them to sniff or taste them. However, cats’ tastes vary, so some may be intrigued by olives while others may not. To keep your cat safe, monitor new food interactions.
