Can Cats Eat Black Beans?

Black beans are a common part of our diet. Whether in burritos, soup, or even in brownies, their importance cannot be undermined. It is normal to throw some beans to your curious kitty during dinner to keep it away from your soup. In a real sense, can cats eat black beans? Can their digestion handle that heavy kick?

Fresh, naturally cooked black beans are nontoxic to your cat. Being non-toxic does not mean they are an excellent choice or commendable for regular feline meals. Canned black beans are a no-go zone. They contain preservatives that are high in sodium. They are, therefore, unhealthy for cats.

Specific concerns with black beans

Cats can only benefit a little from feeding on black beans. They are not biologically built to break down and absorb minerals from plants. Another problem is that the carbohydrate content in black beans is difficult to break down and can cause stomach discomfort.

Beans are also notorious for excessive gas. Excessive gas is painful for cats. High consumption of carbohydrates has been linked with obesity. Canned black beans are even more dangerous. They have a high concentration of sodium and may lead to salt poisoning.

The signs of salt poisoning to look out for are: 

• ∙ Extreme thirst
• ∙ Loss of appetite
• ∙ Change in the cat’s behavior
• ∙ Tremors or seizure

If your furball displays these symptoms, give it a lot of water immediately, and observe its progress. If the symptoms persist, rush to the veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Can cats eat black beans? Yes, they can. However, a few black beans are harmless to your kitty if they are adequately cooked without salt to eliminate the risk of salt poisoning. Limit the servings to rare treats and a few beans if you must satisfy your cat’s curiosity.