Why don't cats eat burdock? - briefly
Cats generally avoid eating burdock due to its bitter taste and the presence of tannins, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Additionally, the prickly nature of burdock leaves makes it unappealing for cats to consume.
Why don't cats eat burdock? - in detail
Cats, known for their finicky eating habits, generally avoid consuming burdock due to several reasons. Firstly, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should primarily consist of meat. Burdock, being a plant, does not provide the necessary nutrients that cats require, such as taurine and arachidonic acid, which are essential for their health. Additionally, burdock contains compounds like tannins and lignins, which can be toxic to cats in large amounts. These compounds can interfere with a cat's digestive system, leading to discomfort or even serious health issues. Furthermore, the rough texture of burdock leaves and stems can pose a choking hazard or cause internal blockages if ingested by cats. Therefore, it is not recommended to feed burdock to cats as part of their diet.