Cantaloupe or Cucumis melo, also known as sweet melon, rockmelon or spanspek is a type of melon whose common types are the European and North American cantaloupe.
Can cats have cantaloupe?
Yes. Cats can eat cantaloupe but in moderation or in small amounts as a treat. It is safe, i.e., it is not poisonous or toxic to cats, dogs or even horses, states ASPCA. This is the same case for watermelon.
Besides being safe, many cats love cantaloupe and this has been attributed to its aroma which comes from amino acid volatiles. As Feline Nutrition puts it, it “smells like meat” and they are not able to detect sweet things like humans so they will just eat it thinking it is a kind of meat.
Looking at its nutritional profile, it has some valuable nutrients including carbs, fiber, vitamins, minerals and small amounts of fats and proteins (amino acids).
Your cats will benefit from minerals such as calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and sodium as well as vitamin A, C, K, folate, vitamin B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, choline, and pantothenic acid.
However, being nutritive or felines liking it does not mean it is good for them. This is why we noted that it should be fed in moderation.
Furthermore, on giving more amount to your dogs or cats, Vetstreet.com warns against it saying, “don’t let either animal eat so much of it that it takes the space of foods with more species-specific nutrition, or that it contributes to excess weight.”
Additionally, when preparing cantaloupe for cats, remember to peel its skin off, remove seeds and slice it into treat size pieces to make eating much easier.
Their skin is hard to digest while their seeds may result in blockages since they are indigestible.
Finally, if after eating this fruit, your kitties show symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach problems or vomit, you should stop giving it to them. Some kitties may also show other signs of allergies.
Conclusion
While considering the various fruits, vegetables, and plant food materials to give your kitties, do not forget that unlike dogs, they are strict carnivores in need of diets high in proteins, moderate fats while carbs should be low.