Can cats have salted seeds? - briefly
No, cats should not have salted seeds. The high sodium content can lead to health issues such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in cats, which are particularly sensitive to excessive salt intake.
Can cats have salted seeds? - in detail
Cats should not consume salted seeds due to several reasons. Firstly, cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet primarily consists of meat. Their digestive systems are designed to process high-protein diets, and they do not require or benefit from consuming plants like seeds. Secondly, salt is toxic to cats in large amounts. Cats have a low tolerance for sodium, and excessive intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death in severe cases. Additionally, seeds can pose a choking hazard or cause obstructions in the digestive tract if swallowed whole. Lastly, some seeds may contain compounds that are harmful to cats, such as cyanide in apple seeds or pits from certain fruits. In summary, it is best to avoid giving salted seeds to cats to prevent potential health issues.