Turmeric (turmeric root or Indian Saffron) is a perennial herbaceous plant, botanically known as Curcuma longa, whose roots (rhizome) are used as a culinary herb. It belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, and is native to South Asia and India.
This spice with a mustard-like, earthly aroma with a savory flavor that is slightly bitter is a popular ingredient in ingredients in many Asian cuisines and gives curry its yellow color.
In humans, turmeric is praised for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to the various phytochemicals it has, most importantly curcumin (gives it the yellow color).
Also, curcumin may help prevent or manage cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. Also, it helps manage depression, delays aging, improve brain function, among many other roles. What about cats? Can they eat turmeric, or is it toxic and poisonous?
Is it safe or poisonous?
Turmeric is safe for cats, i.e., it is not poisonous or toxic or poisonous. However, turmeric powder or its products should be fed as a supplement in small quantities and not part of their diet or even treat.
The are many turmeric extract products for cats available, and NVA (nhvnaturalpetproducts.com), which they say has several benefits that include the following:
- Reduces pain (has natural pain-relieving properties)
- Will promote liver functioning
- It may support arthritic felines
- It has anti-inflammatory properties that will help reduce joint inflammation
- It’s good for a healthy heart and circulation functions
Additionally, Authenticapets.com adds the following benefits of this spice:
- Fight against microbes and help in wound healing
- Prevent the buildup of toxins in the liver and pancreas
- Help with diarrhea
- Prevent worms
- Help with IBS issues
- Good for cognitive health
That is not all. For those who have concerns about health and benefits, according to Turmericlife.com, turmeric is recommended for “animals to help control inflammation and pain in itchy skin conditions like allergies, atopy, arthritis, infections, age degeneration, and various cancers.”
It is safe for reptiles, sheep, cattle, horses, dogs, ducks, crocodiles, cats, alpacas, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, chicken, and other animals.
All these points out the fact that this culinary spice is not only safe but also healthy and beneficial to your furry friends.
Turmeric curcumin supplements
If you want your feline or even dog to benefit from turmeric’s principal active ingredient in turmeric as well as two more very important curcuminoids, consider buying Dr. Mercola, Curcumin, for Cats and Dogs, 4.30 oz $29.97 Amazon free of GMOs, gluten, or soy. It has highly bioavailable curcumin, thanks to the MicroActive technology used that creates micro-particles that will help protect curcumin that is vulnerable to gastric pH conditions.
This supplement will support immunity, digestive health, inflammatory and ensure comfortable and very flexible joint movements
Another fantastic product is the Powerful PET Hip & Joint – with Organic Turmeric is a good choice for your cat and dog. $20.87, Amazon will offer all the benefits and include strengthening and boosting immunity.
Finally, the Amazing Turmeric for Dogs Curcumin Pet Antioxidant, Eliminates Joint Pain Inflammation is another great brand for dogs and suitable for cats.