Why can't cats eat avocado? - briefly
Avocados contain persin, a toxin harmful to cats, which can cause digestive issues, respiratory distress, or even heart failure. Additionally, the high fat content in avocados may lead to pancreatitis in felines.
Why can't cats eat avocado? - in detail
Cats should not consume avocado due to the presence of a substance called persin, which is toxic to them. Persin is a natural fungicidal compound found in the avocado fruit, its leaves, and the bark of the avocado tree. While persin is generally harmless to humans, it can cause severe health issues in cats, including gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, and even more serious complications such as respiratory difficulties or heart damage in extreme cases. Additionally, avocados are high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis in cats, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. The large pit of the avocado also poses a choking hazard or risk of intestinal obstruction if ingested. Given these risks, it is essential to keep avocados and avocado-based products away from cats to ensure their safety and well-being.