Why can't cats have tomatoes? - briefly
Cats should not consume tomatoes because they contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to felines. Even small amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, and in severe cases, lead to organ damage.
Why can't cats have tomatoes? - in detail
Cats should not consume tomatoes due to their inherent toxicity to felines. Tomatoes contain solanine and tomatine, which are alkaloids found in the nightshade family of plants. While these compounds are generally safe for humans in moderate amounts, they can be highly detrimental to cats.
Solanine is particularly problematic because it interferes with the functioning of a cat's nervous system and can cause gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms of solanine poisoning in cats may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, confusion, slow heart rate, and even seizures in severe cases. The consumption of tomatoes can lead to significant health issues for cats, making it crucial for pet owners to avoid feeding them any part of the tomato plant.
Furthermore, the green parts of the tomato plant, including the stems and leaves, are especially toxic due to their higher concentration of solanine and tomatine. Even small amounts can cause adverse reactions in cats. Therefore, it is essential to keep tomato plants out of reach of cats to prevent accidental ingestion.
In summary, the presence of solanine and tomatine in tomatoes makes them dangerous for cats. These alkaloids can disrupt a cat's nervous system and cause gastrointestinal issues, potentially leading to severe health complications. Pet owners should ensure that their cats do not consume any part of the tomato plant to maintain their pets' well-being.