Can cats have dough? - briefly
Cats should not consume dough. The raw dough contains yeast, which can expand in your cat's stomach and cause serious health issues like bloating or even a life-threatening condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus.
Can cats have dough? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. Their digestive systems are designed to process and derive nutrients from animal proteins and fats. Introducing bread or dough into a cat's diet can have several adverse effects.
Firstly, cats lack the necessary enzymes to properly break down carbohydrates found in bread. While humans produce amylase in their saliva to begin the process of carbohydrate digestion, cats do not. This means that when a cat consumes dough, it passes through their system mostly undigested, leading to potential issues such as gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea.
Secondly, raw dough poses an additional risk due to the presence of yeast. When ingested, the yeast in raw dough can continue to ferment in the cat's stomach, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide. This process can lead to a dangerous condition known as alcohol poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, disorientation, weakness, and in severe cases, even coma or death.
Moreover, the consumption of dough can also lead to a life-threatening condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), often referred to as bloat. This occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and causing the stomach to expand rapidly. GDV is an emergency situation that requires immediate veterinary attention.
In conclusion, it is strongly advised not to feed cats bread or dough due to their inability to digest carbohydrates effectively and the potential risks associated with raw dough, including alcohol poisoning and GDV. Sticking to a balanced, protein-rich diet is essential for maintaining a cat's health and wellbeing. If you suspect your cat has ingested any amount of dough, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian promptly for guidance and potential treatment.