Cats are the best. (That’s why I have three of them!)
They’re cute, cuddly and always up for a good time. Unfortunately, they can also be picky eaters with some weird food allergies that make it hard to please them.
That’s why I want to share a little secret with you — chia seeds!
Chia seeds are an all-natural superfood that have been consumed by humans for centuries because of their nutritional benefits. But did you know chia seeds can also help your cat?
After reading this post, you’ll know everything from why chia seeds are great for your furry friend, to how much your should feed them daily, to what type of foods they should be included in.
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What are chia seeds?
According to Wiki, Salvia hispanica, commonly known as chia plant, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family. Its origin is believed to be in Central America, where the seed was a staple in the ancient Aztec diet.
These tiny seeds contain a huge range of health benefits that can help improve your cat’s life and keep them looking and feeling great.
What are the nutritional benefits of chia seeds?
Chia seeds are jam-packed with some of the healthiest nutrients for cats. By serving your cat chia seeds, you’re providing them with a nutritious and energy-rich food source that can benefit their overall health in many different ways.
Here’s a list of just some of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can be found in chia seeds for cats:
- Chia seeds are rich in protein, so these seeds can help keep your cat’s coat looking beautiful and healthy.
- Due to the omega 3 fatty acids in chia seeds, these little seeds may be able to support a healthy heart in cats. Depending on their diet quality before adding chia seeds, they can help lower blood pressure and assist in weight loss.
- Chia seeds are also a fantastic source of essential minerals, such as manganese and zinc. These can help boost your cat’s immune system and keep them happy and healthy.
- If your cat suffers from joint problems, the omega 3 content of chia seeds may help improve your cat’s mobility and reduce inflammation.
- Chia seeds are low in calories and fat, making them a healthier alternative to many other treats.
- Chia seeds are also a very good source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential minerals for the proper development of strong bones.
- And last but not least, chia seeds are high in fiber which can help keep your cat regular. Fiber is essential for a cat’s healthy digestive system.
Are cats allergic to chia seeds?
During the spring and summer months, some cats are allergic to chia seed grass, flowers, and pollination. In cats, this is known as grass allergies or hay fever. However, it’s unlikely that eating homegrown chia grass will cause an allergic reactions
Do Cats like how chia seeds taste?
Some cats don’t like the taste of chia seeds because they are very bland and can be quite hard to chew. Plus, being carnivores, cats tend to favor fatty foods because of their high-protein content.
Fair enough. I don’t ever eat sit down and eat a handful of chia seeds either. (For myself, I’ll usually stir them into oatmeal or a peanut butter banana smoothie.)
It’s a good idea to soak the seeds first in a little water, broth, or milk, especially for the first few times. Not only will your cat be more drawn to the taste, but it will make it easier for them to eat and digest the seeds.
You can also:
- Mix them with a small amount of olive oil or peanut butter.
- Sprinkle some seeds on top of canned cat food.
- Put chia seeds into a treat ball like this one and make it into a game.
- Stir the seeds into some yogurt (and then make a separate bowl for yourself, because actually that sounds pretty good.
What amount of chia seeds should I feed my cat?
It’s a good idea to start with small amounts, with maybe about 1/4 teaspoon of seeds per day. Excited cats recommends working up to We recommend working up to feeding 1/2 teaspoon of chia seeds for every 5 pounds of your cat’s weight
Are there any negative side effects of feeding chia seeds to cats?
Too many chia seeds can lead to bloating, diarrhea, or digestive upset, so it’s a good idea to monitor your cat when they first begin eating chia seeds, or after you’ve increased the amount of seeds that you feed them.
If you see any changes in your pet’s stool quality, appetite, or behavior after feeding chia seeds, you should discontinue their consumption immediately and contact your veterinarian.
Can I feed chia seeds to my pregnant or nursing cat?
Pregnant or nursing cats should NOT eat chia seeds because they can cause:
- Uterine contractions in pregnant cats that have already been spayed before becoming pregnant, which could lead to an unwanted miscarriage
- Interrupted lactation and loss of milk production if the cat is already a mother
- Spasms in the digestive system of pregnant or nursing cats
Do I have to store chia seeds in specific ways?
Chia seeds can last a long time. Where
- Keep them in the freezer and they’ll last indefinitely.
- In the refrigerator and they’ll last up to 3 years
- In the pantry they can last for at least a year, maybe two
Wherever you choose to store them, a mason jar with a lid makes a nice storage container. It looks pretty, and you can easily see how many seeds you have left.
How can you tell if chia seeds are bad or expired?
If your chia seeds look heavily discolored or smell yucky, then yes, they are bad.
However, heavy discoloration by itself doesn’t necessarily mean that it is bad since nutrients fade with time. Also, if you still smell the subtle chia seeds odor, then they are probably fine.
Chia seeds are not just for humans! Cats can also enjoy these tiny but mighty healthy bites. There are many ways to incorporate chia into your cat’s diet, so you can make every kitty happy. I hope you enjoyed reading about what a great addition chia seeds are to your cat’s overall health.