Sugar in cat food: How harmful is it for cats?
Can cats eat sugar? Why that's not a good idea
Cats: Pure carnivores
Historically, cats had little need for sugar. Scientists analyzing the nutritional composition of mice found that they contain only small amounts of carbohydrates in the form of simple and complex sugars . The vast majority of a mouse's diet consists of protein, fat, and water.
Cats are obligate carnivores by nature, as are tigers, lions, and many other species. Unlike dogs , which are omnivores , a cat's diet consists almost entirely of meat.
Cats cannot taste sugar.
Our cats have between 400 and 500 taste receptors on the top of their tongues. Unfortunately, they cannot perceive sweetness . These receptors primarily help cats recognize fresh meat . This allows them to distinguish between fresh and spoiled meat in the wild.
Cats are also very sensitive to bitterness , which helps them avoid ingesting potentially harmful substances. Their umami receptors also explain why our feline friends enjoy both chicken and fish so much.
Cats cannot digest sugar well.
Our beloved cats are physiologically unable to process sugar. Unfortunately, their saliva does not contain amylase . This is an enzyme that breaks down starch and sugar in food into smaller molecules that the body can more easily absorb.
Cats are obligate carnivores and therefore lack the enzymes to process large amounts of carbohydrates. Consequently, excessive sugar intake cannot be effectively metabolized by cats and is easily converted into fat .
How does sugar harm the health of cats?
While sugar can provide cats with quick energy, it can also cause a number of health problems. First, excessive sugar intake can lead to obesity . This is because cats' bodies are not very efficient at metabolizing the sugar in cat food. As a result, they store the sugar as fat, causing weight gain. This makes the cat less agile and increases the risk of heart disease and joint problems .
Cats have short intestines and, as mentioned earlier, no amylase in their saliva or intestines. This undigested sugar passes quickly through the intestines and causes problems such as indigestion, bloating, or diarrhea.
Long-term consumption of sugary foods can also lead to diabetes, just like in humans. If cats eat too much sugar, it can lead to insulin resistance, which in turn can trigger diabetes. This disease can become chronic in cats, requiring lifelong treatment. The disease can severely impact a cat's quality of life.
Furthermore, sugar has a negative impact on cats' dental health . Too much sugar can lead to the formation of plaque and tartar , which in turn can cause gingivitis and other dental problems.
What should be included in healthy cat food?
Now you know why cats should avoid sugar when choosing cat food. Of course, in addition to sugar, cats should also avoid gluten, starch, colorings, gelatin, and preservatives.
A nutritious cat food should be based on high-quality animal protein . The right amount of fat and clean water are also important factors for a cat's health.
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Thank you for reading this far – it really means a lot to us! We hope you found something useful and maybe your cat is already looking forward to a little something extra. See you soon and lots of purrs!
By the way
Many cat owners pay close attention to the ingredients in their cat's main food , but often forget about treats .
Snacks often contain sugar, grains and artificial additives that can be harmful to health in the long run.
Anyone who truly wants to feed their cat a completely healthy diet should also rely on natural ingredients here:
Hypoallergenic treats without additives – naturally from RumbleBox. Perfect as a reward, during training, or simply as a snack.
Over 2,500 cats have already switched to healthy snacks!
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Schleck & Snack Taster Box for Carnivores
composition
Description
Schleck & Snack Try-Out Box: THE PERFECT START FOR NEW CAT PARENTS
Our Try-Out Box was specially developed for first-time buyers: It contains 3 delicious Schleckies flavors (2 pouches each) as well as 1 pouch of Chicken Breast and 1 pouch of Chicken Cubes as freeze-dried snacks.
This combination brings together our most popular products and covers all important everyday situations – whether as a reward, for training, to help with medication administration, or to boost appetite. Perfect for finding out what your cat truly loves.
WHY THIS TRY-OUT BOX IS PERFECT FOR GETTING STARTED
- Popular bestsellers combined: Schleckies + freeze-dried snacks in one box – ideal for testing different textures and flavors.
- Suitable for all everyday situations: Whether it's a daily reward, training, or a food topping – everything in one box.
- Natural & healthy: No sugar, grains, artificial colors, or preservatives – only high-quality ingredients.
- High acceptance: Perfect for picky cats thanks to the creamy texture and intense meat flavor.
- Ideal for first-time buyers: Get to know our most popular products and find your cat's favorite.
THE PRODUCTS IN DETAIL
1. Schleckies (3 flavors - Chicken, Tuna, Salmon, 2 pouches each) – Creamy indulgence for every day
Our Schleckies consist of a high meat content and are particularly fine and creamy. Enriched with important nutrients like taurine, they support your cat's well-being.
- Premium quality: High-quality meat with up to 70% meat content and over 12% crude protein – for the highest standard in creamy snacks.
- No additives: No sugar, no grains, no binders, no artificial colors or preservatives – only natural ingredients.
- Nutrient-rich: Fresh eggs, fish oil, and taurine promote eyesight, a shiny coat, and a strong immune system.
- Tender texture: A gentle high-speed grinding process (up to 210,000 rpm) creates a particularly fine and creamy consistency.
- Diverse options: Whether chicken, salmon, or tuna – the Ultimate Sparbox offers variety and enjoyment.
2. Freeze-dried Chicken Breast – 100% pure meat
Our chicken breast is gently freeze-dried to preserve nutrients and natural flavor. A high-quality snack for health-conscious cat owners.
- 100% natural: Pure meat without additives
- Rich in protein: Supports muscles and vitality
- Ideal as a reward: Particularly aromatic and popular
- Well-tolerated: Also suitable for sensitive cats
3. Freeze-dried Chicken Cubes – Perfect for Training & Rewards
The small cubes are ideal for frequent, small rewards in everyday life – e.g., during training or for positive reinforcement.
- Practical size: Perfect for training and quick rewards
- Intense flavor: Promotes attention and motivation
- Versatile use: As a snack, topping, or on the go
- Pure recipe: No grains, sugar, or additives
PERFECT FOR THESE EVERYDAY SITUATIONS
- Daily reward: For good behavior or small successes
- Training & education: Playfully supports positive behavior
- Medication administration: Less stress through tasty distraction
- Appetite stimulation: Ideal for picky cats or when they have little hunger
- Strengthening the bond: More shared moments with your cat
