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French fries, who doesn’t love them? Well, there are probably some people who don’t. But many people enjoy eating French fries! Chances are if your cat sees you eating this yummy side dish, she may want some too! Your fur baby may beg for some fries, or she may help herself! But what happens if a cat eats French fries?
Has your cat eaten some French fries? Are you worried the French fries will make her sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about French fries and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
What are French Fries?
French fries are made from potatoes that have been made into long, even strips. The potato strips are deep-fried and served hot. Some people prefer crispy fries, while others prefer soft French fries.
You can buy fries at a restaurant or fast-food place. They’re also commercially prepared and sold at the grocery store to make at home. Some people prefer to have homemade fries!
While French fries are considered safe for humans (in moderation), what about cats? Can French fries make a cat sick?
French Fries & Cats
Unfortunately, French fries are not good for cats to eat. Fries are full of calories and carbohydrates, which can make a cat gain weight or become obese. And French fries provide no valuable nutrients for cats.
In addition, raw pieces of fries can be toxic to a cat. Raw potatoes contain toxic alkaloids that can cause GI problems, heart issues, and even brain problems.
Finally, fries are usually full of salt, and some also are covered with garlic or onion powder. Garlic and onions are extremely toxic to cats.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of French Fry Ingestion in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat has eaten raw French fries:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Coughing/gagging
- Lethargy
- Difficulty walking
- Different sized pupils
- Muscle tremors
- Convulsions
- Stiffness of limbs
- Seizures
If you notice these symptoms in your cat, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of French Fries Ingestion in Cats
Treatment depends on the vet’s diagnosis. If your cat is diagnosed with poisoning from raw potatoes, the vet may try to induce vomiting and use activated charcoal. They may also give your fur baby an IV with fluids and to administer medications.
The vet will treat any other symptoms as they arise.
The prognosis is best for cats who receive prompt medical treatment after eating French fries. If your cat loves fries, it’s best to keep these out of her reach. That can be hard, but you’ll both be happier for it!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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