Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter? 7 Shocking Facts Every Maine Coon Owner Must Know

When you see your cat’s curious eyes fixed on your peanut butter jar, you can’t help but wonder: can cats eat peanut butter? 

That little moment of inquisitive one-upmanship, with possibly a touch of guilt on your part, can pull at your heartstrings, invigorating an urge to share a little of your favorite goodie with your furry friend 

Hey, they are family, right?

And who doesn’t want to spoil an adorable companion? 

But truly, beneath that innocent impulse lies a longer question about their health and safety. Caring for a cat means protecting them from risks, even when it comes to something as simple as a dollop of peanut butter.

What Makes Maine Coon Cat Diets Special? 

Maine Coons are big and sturdy cats. They have thick and luxuriously lovely coats and are very active. Maine Coons are strictly carnivores, just like every other cat in existence. 

Maine Coons, similar to all cats, are obligate carnivores. Their bodies are designed to derive nutrients from live animal meat, not from raw or processed plant or human foods. 

Cats’ bodies and digestive systems are not made for sugar, salt, or the fat-laden foods we enjoy.

Important Facts:

• Maine Coons require animal protein of high quality in order to build muscle and obtain energy.

• Maine Coons require certain amino acids that come only from meat, such as taurine.

• Maine Coons don’t metabolize carbohydrates or fats as efficiently as we do. 

What’s in Peanut Butter?

Peanut butter seems to be fairly harmless, but when it comes to cats eating peanut butter, what really matters is what’s in the jar.

Typical Ingredients:

• Peanuts (raw or roasted)
• Vegetable oils (e.g., palm oil, soybean oil)
• Salt
• Sugar and/or honey
• And sometimes, artificial sweeteners such as xylitol.

Why This Matters:

Xylitol: This sweetener is incredibly toxic to cats. Even a small quantity may lead to vomiting, loss of coordination, or seizures. 

Salt and Sugar: Both can upset your cat’s stomach and lead to health complications in the long run.

Fat content: Peanut butter has a high fat content. Cats don’t digest fats as easily, and they can gain weight from peanut butter.

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Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter Safely?

As for the query, “Is peanut butter safe for cats to eat?” The response is not a simple yes or no; it depends on several key factors. 

Peanut butter is not toxic to cats if there are no harmful elements such as xylitol, a sweetener that causes serious medical issues, even in a small amount, but this does not mean that peanut butter is safe or healthy to feed regularly. 

Cats have very different dietary requirements from humans. Their bodies are designed to break down meat, not the excessive fat, salt, and sometimes sugar present in peanut butter. 

Even a small amount may be harsh on their digestive tract and lead to an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

When Is It Safe?

• Just a tiny amount
• If it’s unsalted and xylitol-free
• As a rare treat, not a regular snack

When Is It Dangerous?

• If it has chocolate or xylitol.
• If your cat eats a lot.
• If your cat has allergies or an irritable stomach issue.

Why Is Peanut Butter Riskier for Maine Coons?

You may think, since they are a big cat, that Maine Coons can tolerate bigger amounts of peanut butter better than smaller breeds of cats. That is actually untrue. Peanut butter holds more risk for Maine Coons.

Here are the four reasons why Maine Coon cats should not eat peanut butter:

1. Obesity:

Maine Coons are already big cats, and the added calories from peanut butter can be a source of unexpected weight gain. You may not notice the added weight until it is too late! Obesity in cats can lead to diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease. It is a serious issue. 

2. Choking Hazard:

Peanut butter does not have the same texture as regular treats, plus it’s sticky! It can become sticky and lodged into your Maine Coons mouth, throat, and/or esophagus. Your cat may struggle to swallow and even choke! 

3. Allergic Reactions:

Maine Coons can be allergic to peanuts just like humans can. Some signs to look out for: itching, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing!    

4. Digestive Upset:

Cats can end up eating too much peanut butter and ultimately can end up with diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. Cats are not built to digest peanut butter like humans.

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Are There Any Benefits to Cats Eating Peanut Butter?

We need to be clear: there is no nutritional benefit for cats to eat peanut butter. It is high in fat and calories but not high in the nutrients cats need. When cats eat peanut butter, they are just getting “empty calories”. 

This can lead to a few negatives:

• Less interest in their normal food

• Weight gain over time

• Increased chance of health issues, such as diabetes and liver problems

Why Do Some Maine Coons Want Peanut Butter?

Cats are curious animals in general, and Maine Coons can be particularly intelligent and food driven. The scent of peanut butter is strong and inviting, which can attract your cat. 

Some cats simply eat peanut butter because they see you eat it, and they want to partake. Some may be exploring their exploration of new smells or textures.

It’s always good to be cautious: giving your cat “people food” can lead to begging, substance theft, and picky eating habits.

What Are Safer Treats for Maine Coon Cats?

If you’d like to spoil your Maine Coon, there’s plenty of other good options that are safe and healthy besides peanut butter.

Try These Instead:

• Freeze-dried meat treats (chicken, turkey, or salmon)

• Small pieces of cooked, unseasoned chicken or fish

• Catnip toys and cat grass for fun and variety

• Puzzle feeders filled with their regular kibble

These are commercially made for cats, so they will not upset a cat’s stomach or have any other serious health implications.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats Peanut Butter?

Accidents happen sometimes! If your Maine Coon does happen to eat peanut butter here is what to do:

• Check the Ingredients: make sure there are no xylitol, chocolate, or any other dangerous additives.

• Monitor for Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, swelling, etc.

• Call your Vet: If you have noted any unusual symptoms or if your cat has eaten a substantial amount, call your vet immediately.

• Emergency Signs: If they have difficulty breathing, collapse, seizure, or have severely vomited, then take them to the vet immediately.

Final Thoughts: Should Maine Coon Cats Eat Peanut Butter?

In conclusion, cats will eat peanut butter if they can steal it or if you give it to them. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. 

While the occasional, tiny, xylitol-free peanut butter treat isn’t toxic, it isn’t great for them, either, and could ultimately do more harm than good. Maine Coon cats, like all breeds, should stick to treats meant specifically for cats.

If you want your Maine Coon to have a lengthy and happy life, avoid the peanut butter and find treats that are safe, healthy, and made specifically for them. And if you’re unsure what your cat can eat, your best option is to talk to your veterinarian.

Give your Maine Coon the love, care, and treats that are right for them!

References:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29430681/
2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/44586707_Effects_of_peanut_processing_on_body_weight_and_fasting_plasma_lipids
3. https://catcareclinicbellevue.com/potential-choking-hazards-for-your-cat/
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1323893015001185