Updated: November 26, 2023 by CanCat Eat
You may have seen your cat eat a few tomatoes on several occasions in the past. Or, you might have heard that some cats eat tomatoes. And then you might be wondering. If you should give your cat some slices of tomato, You might have questions like, “Are tomatoes bad for cats?” or “Can cats eat tomatoes?” Because, as a cat owner, our cat’s health is important to us. There are a number of sources that say cats and tomatoes do not match together.
Tomatoes are classified as a fruit but are often used as a vegetable owing to their delicious flavor. A cat may wish to eat tomatoes for several reasons. Then, you might have even gotten more confused after knowing that tomato is an ingredient commonly used in cat food. So, what’s really the score about tomatoes and cats? Is it really safe to feed your cat? And if yes, how much should you do for your cat?
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Can Cats Eat Tomatoes
Technically speaking, tomatoes are completely safe for cats. The ripe tomatoes won’t hurt your cat when she ingests one. However, the green parts of the tomato plant, such as the leaves and stems, are very toxic for cats. You should not let your cat eat them. Because it contains solanine, called a glycoalkaloid, which is very toxic for cats. A healthy cat can nibble tomatoes.
Several veterinarians have dispelled the myth. There is no need to worry if your cat is eating a tomato.
Are Tomatoes Bad for cats?
Someone asked, “Can cats have tomatoes?” Dr. Basko suggested that cooked tomatoes are good for cats to eat to prevent possible contamination. He says there is no issue with feeding your cats some vegetables, like organic tomatoes. And it is also a good idea.
Dr. Marie Haynes is a veterinarian based in Ottawa, Ontario. Dr. Basko’s assertion also supports her. She notes this in a blog post. She has never heard anything like a cat getting sick because of eating tomatoes.
credit: http://www.naturefresh.ca/types-of-tomatoes-guide/
Cat Foods Often Contain Tomatoes
Let’s get back to tomato use in cat food. You can try reading the labels of cat foods. There’s a good chance that you will see tomatoes listed as an ingredient.
It should be noted, though, if that ripe tomato is used in cat food. But the amount is too minimal to cause any negative effect on cats.
Most experts agree that cats can eat the ripe fruit of the plant. But don’t worry, as cats are unlikely to nibble on raw tomatoes. Because the texture and taste of green tomatoes aren’t pleasing to most of our cats.
Is Tomato Plant Poisonous to Cats?
It is commonly believed that the leaves of tomato plants are poisonous. Many deadly plants come under this plant family; the tomato is not one of them. But it contains the alkaloids tomatine and solanine. Generally, tomatoes are rarely poisonous to cats and dogs. But ingesting a large amount of solanine could result in severe poisoning.
Are Tomatoes Poisonous To cats?
Things to keep in mind: You should not give your cat the green parts of the plant.
The toxic part of the tomato plant Such as the leaves and stems. These parts of the plant are very toxic to cats. These parts contain a glycoalkaloid called solanine.
Solanine is also present in plants. They are under the Solanaceae family, such as eggplant, paprika, and peppers.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, cats can exhibit the following symptoms when they ingest the green parts of tomato fruit or other veggies and fruits:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Diarrhea
- Hypersalivation
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Behavioral changes
- Slow heart rate
- CNS depression
- Vomiting
Due to the fact that most of the adult cats are very picky about their food. They wouldn’t chew on tomato leaves and stems. Kittens, for all their inquisitiveness. They are more prone to eating these toxic parts of the tomato plant. You should keep your kittens away from the toxic parts of tomato plants.
Young cats who have been kept indoors for a long time. And then they were allowed to roam outside the house. They may also simply be unfamiliar with vegetation such as tomato leaves and stems.
What is Tomato Plant Poisoning?
The tomato plant is from the Solanaceae family. If you notice your cat eating the leaves or stems of a tomato plant, then take her to your vet right away. Humans can easily eat tomatoes. The substances in the stems and leaves of the tomato plant are toxic for most small animals. The tomato plant contains solanine. This is toxic for your cat.
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What To Do If Your Cat Eats Tomato Plant
Tomato plant poisoning isn’t typically fatal for cats. But it will definitely cause uncomfortable symptoms.
Symptoms of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats
You’ll notice the following symptoms after your cat has eaten from a tomato plant:
- Excessive salivation
- Lack of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Extreme stomach upset and vomiting; Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Behavioral changes
- Central nervous system depression
- Apathy
- Physical weakness
- Slowed heart rate
- Enlarged (dilated) pupils
Causes of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats
Tomato plant poisoning in cats is caused by ingesting toxins within the green parts of the plant. The unripe fruit, including solanine and alpha-tomatine. Cats are most often bored. They have easy access to tomato plants. They are at a higher risk of poisoning due to their increased likelihood of eating the plants out of curiosity.
Diagnosis of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats
If your cat got sick or had a stomach upset after eating the tomato, you find out something is wrong in her litter box. You might look for some evidence if she ate from a tomato plant. If that is the case, take a sample from your tomato plant with you. And go to the vet to confirm a diagnosis without any further delay. If your cat is in pain or drooling, the vet will examine her mouth and lips. They will look for irritation. The vet will also take a blood sample. Which allows her to examine a complete blood count and a chemistry panel. They may also decide to collect a urine sample. Which allows them to test your cat’s kidney function. If your cat ate a large amount of your tomato plant. The vet may decide to run an ECG to test your cat’s heart function. Fecal and vomitus samples may also help the vet narrow down the exact toxin that is making your cat sick.
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Treatment of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats
Your cat will get the proper treatment from your vet. The treatments your cat will get will be based on his symptoms. The vet will give support to your cat until she begins to improve her condition. If she ate a large amount of tomato plant The vet will induce vomiting by using a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide. Once that process is done.
The vet will neutralize any remaining toxins with the help of activated charcoal. If your cat has become dehydrated, The vet will give her electrolyte and fluid replacements with intravenous solutions. Your cat’s breathing may be depressed. Then, supplemental oxygen will be necessary. If she is experiencing cardiac symptoms, Then, the vet may prescribe a vasopressor to correct this issue. A large ingestion of tomato plants can also lead to convulsions in your cat. If this happens, then your cat could receive diazepam.
Recovery of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats
Taking your cat to the vet after she has eaten any part of your tomato plant is the most important thing to do. Even in the condition of eating only a small part of the plant. After all of the toxins are out of her system, She should make a full recovery. It may be difficult for you to keep your cat away from vegetable plants that you grow for your family. If you can’t stop your cat from reaching the plants, Then, you may need to keep your cat indoors 24/7.
It will take time for her to adjust to it. She will be safer and happier living indoors. You must make her adjustment to living indoors easier by buying cat-friendly plants and cat grasses. Which you can grow from a small kit. Once these have sprouted, Place them in different areas of your house for your cat to nibble on. That way, your cat will be happy, and you will feel safe around your cat. If your cat is not feeling well after doing all these and does not feel like staying indoors, You must take some advice from your vet, consult about it, and give bread.
You May Also read: Can Cats Eat Raw Egg
Cats May Be Allergic to Tomatoes
Some cats may have an allergy to tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes are safe for cats. They are generally considered safe for cat consumption. This doesn’t mean that your pet isn’t allergic to fruit and vegetables.
How do you tell that your cat has a tomato allergy? You should keep an eye on your cats if you find the following signs:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Irritability
- Nausea
Benefits of Eating Tomatoes in Cats
Tomatoes are rich in water and fiber. So, they are beneficial to your cat’s digestion. In case your cat is being slowed down with constipation. Then, it isn’t a bad idea to feed her some cooked tomatoes.
The good thing is the high water and fiber content of tomatoes. They can help in sweeping out the colon of your cat. And also, improving her digestion in the process.
But, aside from that, cats don’t really get any health benefits from eating tomatoes. Their bodies are designed to get protein from meat sources (e.g., other animal meat).
Cat’s lack the sufficient enzymes needed to digest carbohydrates (that are found in plant sources) in their digestive system, just like tomatoes in particular. Cats don’t have the carbohydrate-digesting enzyme called amylase that is present in human saliva.
So, your cat could eat ripe tomatoes. And she will feel full afterward But she won’t be getting any health benefits out of it.
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Can Cats Eat Ripe Tomatoes
These foods are members of the Solanaceae family. They include many plants, like Deadly Nightshade, and contain a bitter they have a poisonous alkaloid called Glycoalkaloid Solanine. That can cause violent lower gastrointestinal symptoms.
The leaves and stems are particularly toxic. Tomatoes in pet foods are ripe, similar to popcorn and marshmallows. They should cause no concern because they appear in relatively small amounts. Ripe tomatoes are safe for cats. They could eat it.
Can cats eat red tomatoes? You could give your cat fresh, ripe, and red tomatoes sometime. You can also cook them and add them to your cat’s meal. Cooked tomatoes are good. Adding some chopped tomatoes to your cat’s meal will liven up the dish. This will boost your cats’ vitamin intake in a natural way. You may even choose to use tomato puree and mix it with your cats’ kibble, which serves as a nice treat. But stay away from cherry tomatoes and unripe tomatoes. They cause severe gastrointestinal upset. They are toxic to cats.
Can Cats Eat Tomato Soup
You might be worried and ask, “My cat ate tomato soup, What should I do now?” There is nothing to worry about. Cats love to eat meat soup. You can add some tomatoes to the soup. But, in a moderate amount and not on a regular basis, there is no problem giving tomato soup to cats. You could also give her tomato soup. but not on a daily basis.
Can Cats Eat Tomato Juice
Tomatoes are safe. They are not toxic to cats. So, if your cat wants to taste some tomato juice, There is no problem sharing some tomato juice with your cat. But make sure you do not give them too much of it. Keep it in moderation and not every day. For the same reason, if you have a question like “If can cats eat tomato paste“, You can share it with your cat.
Can Cats Eat Tomato Sauce
Sometimes we share some foods with our feline friend, and that might include tomato sauce. You might say that my cat ate tomato sauce. Should I be worried? Let’s get clear on it. Onions, garlic, and too much salt are toxic to cats. If the sauce contains these ingredients, like lettuce Then, You should keep tomato sauce away from your cats’ reach. If you realize your cat ate some tomato sauce, which has a high amount of garlic and onions, You should consult with your vet immediately. Onions and garlic can develop Heinz body anemia in cats. The substance in this food destroys the cat’s red blood cells. If you are giving any kind of baby food to your cat, check the label to see if there is any onion contained in it before giving it.
But your cat can eat homemade tomato sauce without the ingredients like garlic and onions. And keep the salt to a minimal amount. If you are sharing French fries with tomatoes, just go easy on her. Too much salt is as bad for cats as it is for humans. This could cause extreme thrust and sodium poisoning. Signs include vomiting and diarrhea in cats.
So, Do Your Cat Eat Tomato
You have a question like, “Do cats eat tomatoes?” This kind of question might come to your mind once. Because cats are carnivorous. They live on meal-based nutrition. By the way, one of my cats likes to splash water on her stomach. She also eats anything we give her. She eats my dog’s food. And cats eat what they like. It completely depends on cats. All cats are different in nature, and they eat different things. Some cats eat cheese and peas.
Can Cats Eat Sardines In Tomato sauce?
Obviously, yes. Your cats can eat sardines and tomatoes. Either they are in sunflower oil, soybean oil, or tomato sauce. They could eat it. If your cat requires an additional source of extra omega-3 fatty acids in her diet, The Sardines is a great source for it.
Conclusion
So, can I give my cat a tomato? Yes, of course. You can give your cat tomatoes if she likes them. Do not feed your cats too many tomatoes every day. Give them once in a while, in a small amount. Do not let your cat get close to the green parts of the tomato plant, like the leaves and stems.
However, tomatoes do not provide any health benefits to our furry cats. It would be wise to use it as a treat rather than making it a part of her daily diet. I hope this article helps you find all your questions related to “Can cats eat tomatoes?”
Here, Cute Fur Baby Eats Tomato
Kristen is a cat parent. Love to keep my cats happy always and playful. Also, It became my passion to help another cat owner with caring tips for their cats and kittens. Stay tuned with my personal blog to know more caring tips, review of cat food and feeding guides. I’d love to know about your cat. If you something to share with about your cat. I will be happy to read.
Thanks a lot for the article post.Much thanks again. Fantastic.
TKs you share. My cat loves tomatoess too
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this website before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyhow, I’m definitely delighted I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!
Thanks for the information. I have a cat that will battle to get to anything with a tomato base on it. Spaghetti, pizza, goulash, etc. She is crazy for it. I keep her from eating anything that has the typical pet unfriendlies like salt, garlic and onion, but it is nice to know I can share some things with her without hurting her. One less thing to worry about and she approves of your site.
MOST vets will say the opposite, that cats should not eat tomatoes, not the fruit, plant, leaves or juice as they contain solanine which can be very harmful to a cat.
yes but after reading our article, u can clear ur doubts