Can Cats Eat Natto? A Complete Guide

AOA to all the cat lovers and pet enthusiasts out there! Today, we’re diving into a unique topic that might have left you scratching your head at some point – can cats eat Natto? Yes, that’s right, Natto!

This traditional Japanese dish, known for its strong taste, sticky texture, and rich nutritional profile, has intrigued many cat owners worldwide. Is it safe for our furry little friends? Or is it a big no-no?

Just like with any people’s food, it’s essential to know how it could impact our cute kitty friends before we let them have a taste. So, get ready as we solve the puzzle of cats and Natto in this easy-to-follow guide. Please stick with us, and let’s discover this together!

What is Natto?

Natto is a typical food from Japan that’s made by letting soybeans ferment. It’s known for its powerful smell, sticky feel, and a special taste that may take some getting used to. Making Natto involves soaking soybeans, boiling them, and fermenting them with a bacterium known as Bacillus subtilis. The process of fermenting makes Natto special and boosts its nutritional goodness.

Natto contains good stuff like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It has a lot of Vitamin K2 and B2, as well as iron and zinc. Moreover, the fermentation process also produces a unique enzyme known as nattokinase, which is believed to have potential health benefits.

Do Cats Like Natto?

Whether cats like Natto or not largely depends on individual preferences, just as humans do. Some cats might be intrigued by its unique smell and taste, while others might turn their noses at the pungent aroma.

It is important to remember that cats, unlike humans, rely more on their sense of smell than their sense of taste while deciding whether they like food. So, Natto’s strong smell could be a major draw or a complete turn-off for your feline friend. If you’re giving your cat a new type of food, start with a little to see how they react.

Can Cats Eat Natto Safely?

Cats can have Natto, but they usually don’t eat it. As carnivores, cats typically need a diet rich in meats, but Natto isn’t harmful. It’s packed with nutrients, and the unique enzyme nattokinase could potentially have health benefits.

Just keep in mind, only feed your cat a little Natto and don’t use it instead of their regular food. Always consult your vet before introducing new food into your cat’s meals.

The Potential Health Benefits Of Natto To Cats

The potential health benefits of Natto for cats are discussed below.

1. Rich in Protein

Natto serves as an additional protein source for your cat. Proteins are critical for cats as they are key building blocks for body tissues and act as enzymes and hormones. Proteins also help maintain and repair body tissues, promoting muscle growth and providing energy.

2. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

Natto contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K2 and Vitamin B2, which are crucial for your cat’s overall health. Vitamin K2 plays a critical role in bone health and blood clotting. Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, assists in energy production and supports eye health and skin conditions.

3. Dietary Fiber for Healthy Digestion

Natto contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion by adding bulk to the food. This ensures regular bowel movements and alleviates digestive conditions such as constipation.

4. Supports Cardiovascular Health

Natto has a special thing called nattokinase. This can assist in keeping your heart in good shape by preventing the accumulation of blood clots. Although cats are not typically prone to heart disease, a heart-healthy diet can still contribute to their overall well-being.

5. Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat

Due to its nutrient profile, Natto can support the health of your cat’s skin and coat. A diet rich in essential nutrients can help maintain a shiny coat while keeping the skin healthy.

6. Boosts Immune System

The vitamins and minerals in Natto, such as iron and zinc, can support the cat’s immune system, helping them fight off disease and maintain their health.

7. Low in Fat

Natto has very little fat, so it’s a great snack choice for cats, especially for those who need to keep their weight in check or have special food needs.

8. Contributes to Bone Health

Vitamin K2 present in Natto is known for its role in maintaining bone health, potentially contributing to the overall bone health of your cat.

9. Helps in Weight Management

Natto’s high protein and low-fat content can help manage your cat’s weight. Protein promotes satiety, preventing overeating, while low fat ensures your cat gets a healthy treat.

10. Natural and Preservative-Free

Natto is a natural food, free from artificial additives and preservatives, which is ideal for cats, as they have a biological preference for fresh, natural foods. The absence of artificial additives makes Natto a healthier choice for your cat.

The Potential Health Risks Of Overfeeding Natto To Cats

The Potential Health Risks of overfeeding Natto to cats are discussed below.

1. Allergic Reactions

Like humans, cats can have allergic reactions to certain foods, and Natto could be one of them. Signs of an allergic reaction can include excessive itching, skin inflammation, or digestive issues. If your cat shows symptoms after consuming Natto, seek immediate veterinary care.

2. Digestive Upset

While dietary fiber found in Natto can improve digestion, too much can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation in cats. Cats with a carnivorous digestive system might struggle to process high amounts of plant-based fibers.

3. Nutrient Imbalance

Cats require a diet rich in animal proteins. Overconsumption of Natto can lead to a nutrient imbalance as it’s not a complete source of essential amino acids for cats, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies over time.

4. Soy Intolerance

Some cats might have a soy intolerance, which can cause gastrointestinal issues, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Since Natto is made from soybeans, it could provoke these symptoms.

5. Weight Gain

Even though Natto is low in fat, it still contains calories. Overfeeding any food, including Natto, can contribute to unnecessary weight gain in cats, leading to obesity and related health issues.

6. Potential Toxin Exposure

While usually safe, some commercial Natto could be contaminated with mycotoxins during fermentation. Mycotoxins may risk cats’ health, causing symptoms from vomiting and diarrhea to severe issues like liver damage.

7. Disruption in Normal Diet

Too much Natto could disrupt the regular diet of cats. If a cat fills up on Natto, they might eat less of their nutritionally complete cat food, potentially leading to deficiencies in critical nutrients.

8. Choking Hazard

Although rare, an overeager cat could choke on Natto’s sticky texture. Always supervise your cat when introducing new foods.

9. Unpalatability

Cats are often picky eaters and might find Natto’s strong smell and taste that could be more appealing. Forcing a cat to eat something they dislike can cause stress and behavioral issues.

10. Interactions with Medications

If your cat is on any medication, particularly blood thinners, the nattokinase in Natto could increase the risk of bleeding. Always consult your vet before introducing new food if your cat is on medication.

How Do You Make Your Cat-Friendly Natto?

Steps you should follow to make Natto Cat-Friendly.

Step 1: Purchase Good Quality Natto

When buying Natto for your cat, ensure that it’s of high quality and free from harmful additives or preservatives. Some brands may also add sauces or condiments that can harm cats, so make sure you’re buying plain Natto.

Step 2: Prepare a Small Serving

Cats have small stomachs and don’t require large portions. Prepare a small serving of Natto, ensuring it’s appropriate for your cat’s diet.

Step 3: Allow Natto to Reach Room Temperature

Before serving the Natto, allow it to reach room temperature. This can help improve its palatability for cats, as they prefer food similar to the temperature of their prey in the wild.

Step 4: Introduce Natto Gradually

Start by offering a small amount of Natto to your cat. If they show interest, gradually increase the portion over time. This slow introduction lets your cat get used to the new food, decreasing the risk of digestive upset.

Step 5: Monitor Your Cat’s Reaction

After feeding Natto to your cat, monitor their reaction closely. Look for any signs of allergic reactions or digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue feeding Natto and consult your vet.

Step 6: Balance Natto with Other Foods

Balancing Natto with other foods in your cat’s diet is important to avoid nutrient imbalance. Remember, Natto should be an occasional treat, not a staple in your cat’s diet. Always ensure your cat gets a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients.

Step 7: Consult Your Vet

Lastly, before introducing any new food into your cat’s diet, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet. They can provide advice tailored to your cat’s health needs and dietary requirements.

How Can You Stop Cats From Overeating Natto?

Steps you should follow to stop your cat from overeating NattoNatto.

Step 1: Regulating the Portion Size

Preventing overeating begins with regulating the portion size of Natto you serve to your cat. As cats have small stomachs, they don’t require large portions. Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues and even obesity. It’s crucial to establish a proper feeding schedule and follow it religiously.

Step 2: Slow Introduction of Natto

A gradual introduction of Natto into your cat’s diet can allow their digestive system to adjust to this new food. Start with minimal Natto, and observe your cat’s reaction.

Step 3: Monitoring Eating Habits

Keep a close eye on your cat’s eating habits. If they begin to show an unusual interest in Natto, to the point of neglecting their regular food, it can be a sign of potential overheating.

Step 4: Balanced Diet

Ensuring that your cat has a balanced diet is vital. Natto should be an occasional treat, not a staple in your cat’s diet. Therefore, balancing Natto with other nutritious foods can prevent over-reliance on and overeating of Natto.

Step 5: Consultation with Vet

If your cat starts showing signs of overeating or experiencing health issues related to its diet, a consultation with your vet is necessary. Your vet can provide tailored advice based on your cat’s health needs and dietary requirements, which can help you maintain a healthy diet for your cat.

Step 6: Create a Distraction-Free Eating Environment

Creating a distraction-free eating environment can help prevent overeating. Cats can sometimes overeat due to stress or distractions. A calm and peaceful meal environment can help your cat focus on eating steadily, preventing overeating.

Step 7: Regular Exercise

Regular exercise helps control your cat’s weight, aids digestion, and prevents overeating. Encourage your cat to engage in physical activities by providing them with toys or playing with them regularly. Ensuring an active lifestyle can assist your cat in maintaining a healthy weight and prevent overeating of any food, including Natto.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Natto is unique in the culinary world, its place in your cat’s diet should be carefully considered. As a fermented soy product rich in protein and nattokinase, it can provide some health benefits but also brings potential risks and complications, including allergic reactions, gastrointestinal distress, and nutrient imbalance.

If you introduce Natto to Nattoat’s diet, it’s crucial to do so gradually, monitor their reaction, and always prioritize a balanced diet. Remember, Natto should serve as an occasional treat, not a dietary staple.

Lastly, and most importantly, always consult your vet when introducing new foods to your cat’s diet to ensure it aligns with their health needs and dietary requirements.

FAQs

Who Cannot Eat Natto?

Cats on anticoagulant medication or with soy allergies should not eat Natto.

Is Natto Bad For Kidneys?

Natto, when consumed in moderation, is not typically harmful to kidneys. However, excessive consumption can cause issues. Always consult your vet.

Can Cats Eat Natto Every Day?

No, cats should not eat Natto every day. It should be an occasional treat.

Why Do I Feel Dizzy After Eating Natto?

Feeling dizzy after eating Natto may be an adverse reaction. Consult a healthcare professional.

Can Natto Cause Weight Loss?

No, Natto alone does not cause weight loss. It should be part of a balanced diet and exercise routine.