Cilantro, coriander, dhania, Chinese parsley, or Coriandrum sativum is a common herb and spice used across the world in many different cuisines, including the Italian, Mexican, and Indian cuisines.
Some of the dishes where you can use it include meats, rice, vegetables, salads, stews, soups, as well as in juices.
Often described as having a tart, lime, or lemon taste or flavor, coriander fresh or dry leaves are used as a culinary herb. On the other hand, its crushed seeds that have a lemony citrus flavor and the roots praised for their more intense flavor are used as spices.
A small percentage of people have reported it to taste soapy, and some people may be allergic to this culinary herb/spice just like they would be to any other food.
Is cilantro safe for cats?
If safety is your main concern, you should know that cilantro is safe to cats, i.e., it is not toxic or poisonous to kitties, dogs, or even horses.
Additionally, raw coriander leaves contain carbohydrates, small amounts of proteins and fats, vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, C, E, K as well as calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, sodium, and potassium.
If you intend to give your cat cilantro, give them only a small amount. These pets are strict carnivores, unable to digest plant material effectively.
Therefore, they will not effectively utilize the various nutrients that these herbs have. We see no reason for insisting on this giving your kitties coriander.
However, if you insist on giving your kitties coriander, give them a small amount with a nutritionally balanced commercial cat food. Both cooked and raw coriander leaves are safe together. Remember, treats should never replace the normal diets you feed your kitties.
Some cats may like this herb, while others will not. Do not force them to eat it, especially the raw ones as they may not like its taste and aroma. There are other better treats you can give your feline friend, including catnip crumbles, tuna, chewy bars, kitty delights, and so on.
Finally, mote that excessive amounts of Coriandrum sativum may cause stomach upsets, gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. Also, some kitties may be allergic to this culinary herb.
Conclusion
As meat-eaters, ensure your cats have enough amount of proteins and fats. Their carbohydrate requirement is much lower, and they are not able to digest plant material well since their digestive system is quite short, and they lack the necessary enzymes.