Can cats eat marshmallows? If you’re treating yourself to a couple of marshmallows, and your cat is close by, you might have thought about this question. After all, humans can eat marshmallows, so can cats safely eat them, too?
The short answer is no, cats can’t safely eat marshmallows. In fact, beyond the lack of health benefits contained in marshmallows, they can, in some cases, become a choking hazard to your cat and result in serious consequences.
Here’s what you need to know about marshmallows and cats.
Why Are Marshmallows Bad For Cats?
First of all, marshmallows are bad for cats because they don’t have any nutritional benefits. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need a diet that’s mostly made up of lean protein, not sugary treats like marshmallows.
In fact, the amount of sugar in marshmallows could quickly result in your cat putting on weight and suffering from feline obesity, which is obviously something a responsible cat parent should want to avoid.
Marshmallows also contain a surprising amount of sodium, which is not something you should be actively adding to your cat’s diet.
Beyond the lack of nutritional value, marshmallows can become a choking hazard, too. The size and shape of a marshmallow means they could become stuck in your feline’s throat. This is part of the reason why they’re not recommended for children under the age of three, either.
What Should I Do If My Cat Eats Marshmallows?
If you notice your cat snacking on some marshmallows, then make sure that they are not choking first. If they are, then you must call your emergency vet straight away and follow their advice to the letter.
In more comforting news, if your cat does manage to sneak a bite of some marshmallows, rest assured that the candy itself is not poisonous to cats, so just take the sweet treats away and make sure it doesn’t happen again.
Has your cat ever accidentally eaten a marshmallow? How do you deal with a cat who keeps insisting that they want to eat some of your sweets? Let us know in the comments below!
