It’s natural to want to share a treat with your best friend, even if your best friend is a cat. Oreos are a popular snack, and your cat has likely been in the same room when you’ve been helping yourself to them. Unfortunately, your cat can’t share in your love of Oreos and should never eat one. We’ll discuss what exactly makes Oreos such an unhealthy choice and what you should do if your cat ever gets hold of one.
Are Oreos Dangerous for Cats to Eat?
Just because your pet isn’t allowed to eat something doesn’t always mean that it’s dangerous to eat, so it’s a fair question. However, Oreos aren’t just unhealthy and filled with empty calories; they contain some toxic ingredients. Oreos contain cocoa powder, and unfortunately, any form that chocolate comes in is toxic to cats because of the caffeine and theobromine.
Caffeine Toxicity
Cats are more sensitive to caffeine than humans are. Caffeine toxicity can result in gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea and vomiting, and it can also raise your cat’s blood pressure, leading to cardiac arrhythmias. After eating something that contains caffeine, you might also notice your cat urinating more.
Theobromine
Theobromine is a compound similar to caffeine, and unfortunately, there is more of it in chocolate than cocoa powder and caffeine. The signs of theobromine toxicity are similar to caffeine toxicity but can also result in muscle tumors, panting, restlessness, and seizures. There might then be a drop in your cat’s blood pressure, and if your cat has too much theobromine in their system, it can lead to a coma and death.
High in Sugar and Fat
Oreos are high in sugar and fat; eating too many can lead to health problems like digestive issues, pancreatitis, weight gain, and diabetes.
What Should You Do if Your Cat Eats an Oreo?
We recommend contacting your veterinarian if your cat eats an Oreo. The chances are your cat will be just fine since the amount of Oreos most cats would eat doesn’t contain enough pure cocoa powder to reach toxic levels. However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry about your cat’s health.
After your cat has eaten the Oreo, you should watch for signs of stomach issues, like diarrhea and vomiting, and for increased urination. How your cat reacts depends on their age, size, and overall health status.
Do Cats Like Oreos?
Cats don’t have the same reputation as dogs for stealing food they shouldn’t, but it still happens. It is unlikely that your cat will be very interested in Oreos except maybe to sniff them. But every cat is different, so it’s wise to keep them away from your curious cat.
Unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores, and they need meat to thrive. Oreos don’t smell or taste like a snack that would excite your cat. There is also the added fact that cats are incapable of experiencing a sweet taste. This means it’s doubtful your cat will go in for seconds and eat enough Oreos to have a toxic reaction.
Safe Treats to Feed Your Cat
Just because you can’t share the same treat doesn’t mean you can’t ever treat your cat. The healthiest option for your feline friend is commercial cat treats since they’re specifically formulated with your cat’s nutrition in mind.
Other foods you can serve include lean meats that have been boiled or baked without seasoning or oil; turkey, fish, and chicken are excellent options. It’s important to note that treats shouldn’t account for more than 10% of your cat’s daily intake.
Too many treats can lead to your cat putting on weight and result in serious health problems, such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and urinary bladder stones.
Final Thoughts
Oreo cookies are a tasty human treat you should never share with your cat. Not only do they have empty calories and contain too much sugar and fat, but they also contain toxic ingredients. It’s unlikely your cat will be too interested in stealing an Oreo, but pets are reliably unpredictable, so you never know.
Your cat will likely be fine if they consume a small piece but may experience digestive problems. However, contacting your vet for advice and monitoring your cat is best. And, of course, make sure you keep those Oreos out of your curious cat’s reach in the future!
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Featured Image Credit: WikimediaImages, Pixabay
