Mangoes are a delicious and nutritious fruit that are enjoyed by many people around the world, particular in warmer climate and tropical countries where the fruit grows.
Personally, I am a total sucker for mango with yogurt in the morning as part of my breakfast (and I also love mango salsa as a side dish). I am also a huge fan of dried mango, and would eat it every day if I could – although the cost is certainly prohibitive.
But can Bengal cats also enjoy this tropical treat? Maybe your Bengal has shown interest in some mango you are eating, or somebody else has suggested you let your cat have a taste as a special treat.
Can Bengal cats eat mango, or is it dangerous/unsafe for them? In this article, we are going to take a look.
In A Hurry? Here’s What You Need To Know:
- Bengal cats can safely eat mango (with skin and pit/stone removed)
- However, it should be a very occasional treat at most, and only in small quantities
- Your Bengal doesn’t need mango to survive – cats are carnivores
- Mango has quite a lot of naturally-occurring sugar, which isn’t great for your Bengal
- Mango is high in fiber and could cause digestive problems as well
Your Bengal Cat Needs Meat – Not Mango
First, it’s important to understand that cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that is primarily made up of animal protein. Compare this to an animal like the dog, which is basically a walking, woofing garbage disposal unit that can live on just about anything.
In general, it is best to stick to a nutritionally balanced commercial cat food that is formulated specifically for their nutritional needs. While cats (including Bengals) can technically eat other types of food, including fruits and vegetables, these should not make up a significant part of their diet.
Is Mango Safe For Bengal Cats To Eat?
With that said, mangoes are generally considered to be safe for cats to eat in small amounts. Mangoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients can be beneficial for cats in small amounts, but it is important to keep in mind that cats do not have the same nutritional needs as humans.
There are a few precautions to consider if you decide to give your cat mango. First, make sure to remove the skin and pit of the mango before feeding it to your cat. The skin and pit of a mango contain a substance called urushiol, which can cause an allergic reaction in some animals. It is also a good idea to chop the mango into small pieces, as large chunks can be difficult for your cat to chew and swallow. Providing smaller pieces of mango will also make it easier to restrict the intake of mango (remember that this should only be a very occasional treat and in small quantities).
Another important consideration is that too much mango can cause digestive issues in cats. Like with any new food, it is a good idea to introduce mango to your cat’s diet slowly and in small amounts. This will help you to determine if your cat tolerates mango well and to ensure that they do not experience any digestive issues.
Recap – Can Bengal Cats Eat Mango?
In conclusion, while Bengal cats can technically eat mango, it is important to keep in mind that this fruit should not be a significant part of their diet. Your Bengal cat doesn’t need mango (or any fruit, for that matter) in their diet, and it is probably too sugary for them. You might also find that giving your Bengal cat mango causing gastrointestinal upset.
If you do decide to give your cat mango as a treat, make sure to remove the skin and pit and to introduce it slowly and in small amounts.
It is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your cat’s diet. As always, if you notice any strange reaction, vomiting, unusual behaviour etc, then you should immediately discontinue feeding mango as a treat to your Bengal cat.
You might also like to check out my complete guide to what Bengal cats can and cannot eat, as well as learn more about the best foods for Bengal cats.
