Can Cats Eat Sunflower Seeds? (3 Actual Benefits)

In my last article, I wrote about sunflower oil for cats, so I decided that I will also share information about sunflower seeds for cats. So I did a little bit of research on it. 

I will start with, can cats eat sunflower seeds?

Yes, cats can eat sunflower seeds in moderation. While giving sunflower seeds to them, there are a few things you should know.

Read the next to know what things you should know about feeding sunflower seeds to your cat. 

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE FEEDING SUNFLOWER SEEDS TO CATS:

can cats eat sunflower seeds

As you know you can feed sunflower seeds to cats but you should also know that the outer shells of sunflowers are hard for cats to digest, you should remove the shell of the seeds, then add them to your cat’s meal. 

However, these outer shells can also cause intestinal distress because of their sharpness. 

Buying Sunflower Seeds For Cats:

You should know this before buying sunflower seeds for your cat. Actually, there are some sunflower seeds available in the market that are seasoned. This type of seasoned seed is extremely harmful to cats. 

When buying sunflower seeds for your cat, but the natural that doesn’t contain any  seasonings and flavors

How Many Sunflower Seeds Can Cats Eat?

can cats eat sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are eaten by cats in moderation. As compared to humans, Cats have smaller stomachs they cannot eat in very high quantities.

Sunflower seeds are nutritious and beneficial for them. They should eat it as a treat. Give your cat very few seeds at a time and you can feed her once or twice a week.

If you’re feeding it for the first time, start with small amounts, if without any problem a cat eats it, then you can increase the amount slowly. 

Additionally, you can also discuss this with your vet. 

I hope now you want to know the benefits of feeding sunflower seeds to cats. So, to know the benefits just read the next.

3 BENEFITS OF FEEDING SUNFLOWER SEEDS TO CATS:

can cats eat sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds have a lot of nutrients and it’s beneficial for cats. They contain omega fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

Following are the benefits of feeding sunflower seeds to cats

  1. 1. Rich In Protein:

Sunflower seeds are rich in protein. Cats also need a high amount of protein in their diet. But they need animal-based protein. Meat is the best source of protein for cats. 

However, these seeds are rich in protein and that’s also a reason cats enjoy eating sunflower seeds. 

  1. 2. Rich In Fiber:

These seeds are also rich in fiber. It’s popular that high-fiber foods support the digestive system of cats. 

Additionally, keep in mind that fiber is good for cats but too much fiber can lead cats to stomach issues. And this is also a reason that it’s recommended to feed sunflower seeds to cats in moderation. 

  1. 3. Good Source Of Vitamins:

Sunflower seeds are also rich in vitamins. That’s also a reason that sunflower seeds are beneficial for both humans and cats.

It contains a good amount of vitamin E. Vitamin E is good for your cat’s skin and coat. 

Vitamin E also protects against several types of cancer, and vitamin E helps cats to make a healthy oxidative state.

It’s also rich in Vitamin B1, that’s also known as thiamine, as you know sunflower seeds are rich in this vitamin, which is why these seeds are beneficial for cats. Vitamin B1 is important for cats that suffer from thiamine deficiency.

Moreover, so feed your cat sunflower seeds if she has thiamine deficiency but feed her in moderation.

Can Cats Eat Sunflower Kernel?

can cats drink sunflower oil

Sunflower kernels are safe for cats to eat. Most of the cats enjoy this. You can give it to your cat as a treat. 

However, the shells of sunflower kernels are also fine for some animals. 

If you are feeding your cat with shells, Before feeding it to your cats, make sure you wash them with water and then clean them. 

If you’re buying them for your cat, buy the unsalted and unflavored ones. Therefore, sunflower kernels are completely safe and a good treat for your cats

Can Cats Eat Sunflower Seeds? (With Shells)

Actually, Sunflower seeds with their shells are safe for cats to eat but it’s best to discard the shells. 

If you discard its shells it will be easy for cats to digest and it will be completely safe for cats

Related Questions:

What Happens If My Cat Eats Sunflowers?

can cats eat sunflower seeds

If your cat eats sunflowers in small amounts then nothing will happen. Sunflowers are non-toxic to cats, and don’t cause illness. However, before allowing your cat to eat any plant, make sure that plant isn’t harmful to her.

Can Cats Eat Sunflower Seeds With Shells?

No, cats shouldn’t eat sunflower seeds with shells because they’re not suitable for cats, it’s hard for them to chew and digest. These shells can also lead cats to stomach issues.

Why Do Cats Love Sunflower Seeds?

can cats drink sunflower oil

I can’t tell the exact reason why cats love sunflower seeds but there are a few common reasons. Cats love to eat it because maybe they need more fiber in their diet. However, Sunflower seeds are rich in fiber. Maybe cats love it because they like the smell or taste of sunflower seeds.

Are Sunflower Seeds Toxic To Cats?

cat tired

Sunflower seeds are Non-Toxic for cats. They are beneficial for cats, as they are high in protein, vitamins E, B1, B5, copper, etc. But they are beneficial for cats if eaten in moderation.
If eaten in small amounts, it has a good impact on the digestive system of cats. ,

            CONCLUSION 

Cats can eat sunflower seeds in moderation. They’re beneficial for cats. Remove the outer shells of the seeds and choose the natural sunflower seeds that aren’t seasoned. 

However, sunflower, sunflower oil, and sunflower seeds are Non-Toxic for cats ingested in moderation.

I hope after reading this informational and amazing article, now you know that, can cats eat sunflower seeds.