As pet owners, it is quite common to question whether human delicacies such as Ruffles can be given to cats. While it could be innocent enough to ask why one cannot snack with their feline, the truth is that cats have a lot of specific dietary needs that should always be fulfilled, if not, it could be bad to their health.
What Are Ruffles?
Ruffles are the types of chips that are good once you begin tasting them, I mean every chip in this world is loved but these are something different. Ruffles are chips which have a lot of flavor and are made up of potatoes, vegetable oil, salt and other spices. Ruffles are pretty often used in most households due to how tasty they are. While people love the chips and can never get enough of them, what they don’t know is how detrimental it is for cats.
Can Cats Eat Ruffles?
In brief, no—cats should not eat Ruffles. These chips are not appropriate for cats due to their composition and their nutritional value. Ruffles chips do not fit into the dietary needs of a cat because it is very different from that of a human’s. There are many bad substances in the ingredients of Ruffles which will lead to several demerits in the health of a cat, therefore they are not suitable for cats.
Ingredients Breakdown
Potatoes
The main ingredient of Ruffles is potatoes which provide little to no nutritional value for cats and could be considered a high-carb food. However, we know that cats are obligate carnivores, this means, they primarily depend on protein and fats. Forcing your cat to eat potatoes can induce gastric disorders as cats do not have the digestive enzymes to properly break down high carb content. It is clearly evident that potatoes are safe for cats but they’re definitely not needed nor useful in its diet.
Vegetable Oil
Ruffles are prepared using vegetable oil which poses a problem for cats. Oils are not good for cats as they can irritate the digestive system causing vomiting and diarrhea. Moreover, such oils are also considered high fat and if consumed on an everyday basis can lead to obesity. For such reasons it is important to not give cats any form of food which has a lot of vegetable oil or is fried with it.
Salt
Ruffles aren’t good for cats because they contain too much sodium. Sodium poisoning may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss. The body of a cat is not meant to consume high amounts of salt and thus every effort should be made to not give them salty snacks such as Ruffles.
Seasonings
Due to the addition of various seasonings on the Ruffles, they are available in many different flavors. Common seasonings like garlic and onion powder are poisonous for cats. They can be harmful to red blood cells. Even small quantities of these substances can be harmful so it is recommended to not give your cat any flavor added human food.
Potential Risks of Feeding Ruffles to Cats
Immediate Effects
Gastrointestinal Upset
Cats can start to show gastrointestinal distress after eating Ruffles. The chips have a lot of fat and salt which causes symptoms vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. When this happens, it is best to give your cat a lot of water and watch out for signs of dehydration or other symptoms. If the symptoms don’t subside contacting a veterinarian is highly recommended.Â
Allergic Reactions
Ruffles can be a risk to your cats as it has allergens that can cause allergic reactions. Signs of such reactions include swelling and itching while in some cases, there is difficulty in breathing as well. In case, you think that your feline friend is undergoing an allergic reaction, you should seek professional help immediately. In such cases, and in general, your vet can suggest ways through which you can control allergies and avoid them in future as well.
Long-Term Health Risks
Obesity
Ruffles have a high fat content which may contribute to weight gain and obesity in cats. This in turn could lead to emaciated heart or joint problems, diabetes, or other health issues. A cat owner’s responsibility is to ensure that the pet lives a healthy life and one way to do this is to avoid such fatty snacks while providing a healthy diet for your furry friend.
Toxicity from Additives
Ruffles are said to contain artificial flavors and preservatives that are harmful not only to cats but to many animals. These additives not only are of health concern but also are linked to changes in behavior, various digestion problems and more. It is never a good idea to give non-natural foods to your cat.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Ruffles
Immediate Actions
If your cat happens to eat Ruffles, don’t panic. Get rid of any leftover chips and provide them with clean water. Watch your cat closely for any bad reactions, including vomiting, diarrhea, or behavior changes. If you see anything that worries you, or in case your cat has eaten a lot, reach out to your vet for help.
Alternative Treats for Cats
Healthy Store-Bought Treats
There are many healthy and delicious store-bought goodies for your cats. These treats are designed for cats and include useful ingredients without any dangerous components. The best treats can be selected by searching for reviews and asking your pet’s doctor.
Healthy Human Foods Safe for Cats
Moderation is the keyword while feeding cats non-pet food. Non pet foods like chicken, tuna, pea or even cooked pumpkin can serve to be a good snack or a meal for the cat when prepared properly. However, ensure all these foods are offered in plain form without any spices or additional ingredients.
