Potatoes are a common staple in human diets, but when it comes to our furry friends—cats and dogs—there is often confusion about whether potatoes are safe or beneficial.
Potatoes and Cats: Are They Safe?
As mentioned in the article “Can Cats Eat Potatoes?” written by veterinarian Sandra C. Mitchell on PetMD, properly prepared potatoes are not toxic to cats. However, raw potatoes, potato skins, and all parts of the potato plant contain solanine, a toxin harmful to cats. Therefore, only plain, cooked potatoes without any seasoning should be given in small amounts. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet primarily requires animal protein, and carbohydrates like potatoes are not essential for them. Still, small servings of cooked potatoes can be a safe occasional treat.
Potatoes and Dogs: Nutritional Benefits and Risks
Regarding dogs, the article “Can Dogs Eat Potatoes? Benefits, Risks, and Feeding Tips” on PetMD explains that plain, cooked potatoes (boiled or baked without butter, salt, or seasoning) are generally safe for dogs. Potatoes provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can support digestive health. However, fried potatoes or those prepared with additives can cause gastrointestinal upset or more severe conditions like pancreatitis. Sweet potatoes, in particular, are highly recommended for dogs due to their rich vitamin A content and fiber, promoting healthy skin, coat, and digestion.
Homemade Potato Recipes for Cats and Dogs
To safely incorporate potatoes into your pet’s diet, here are two vet-approved homemade recipes—one for cats and one for dogs.
Cat-Friendly Potato and Chicken Delight
Inspired by the “7 Best Vet-Approved Homemade Cat Food Recipes” from Priceless Pets, this recipe balances protein and a small amount of carbohydrate from potatoes.
Ingredients:
1 cup boiled chicken breast, shredded
1/4 cup cooked potato, mashed (plain, no seasoning)
1/4 cup cooked carrots, mashed
1/4 teaspoon fish oil (for omega-3 fatty acids)
Instructions:
1. Boil the chicken breast until fully cooked, then shred it finely.
2. Boil the potato until soft, peel, and mash it without any seasoning.
3. Cook carrots until tender and mash them.
4. Mix all ingredients thoroughly and add fish oil.
5. Let the mixture cool before serving a small portion to your cat.
This recipe provides essential protein while including a small amount of potato for fiber and energy, suitable as an occasional meal.
Dog-Friendly Sweet Potato and Chicken Stew
Based on the nutritious guide from Houndsy, sweet potatoes are a fantastic ingredient for homemade dog food, rich in vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients:
2 cups diced chicken breast
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup diced carrots
1/2 cup cooked brown rice (optional for extra fiber)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Boil or steam the sweet potato cubes until tender.
2. Cook the chicken breast thoroughly and dice into bite-sized pieces.
3. Steam the carrots until soft.
4. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sweet potatoes, carrots, and cooked brown rice.
5. Drizzle olive oil and mix well.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
This recipe is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and lean protein, making it a wholesome meal for dogs. Avoid adding salt or seasoning to keep it safe and healthy.
Potatoes, when properly cooked and served plain, can be a safe and nutritious addition to both cats’ and dogs’ diets in moderation. Cats require primarily protein but can enjoy small amounts of cooked potatoes occasionally. Dogs benefit more from potatoes, especially sweet potatoes, due to their fiber and vitamin content. Always avoid raw potatoes, skins, and any seasoning or additives that can be harmful. Homemade recipes like the ones provided offer a balanced way to introduce potatoes safely into your pet’s meals.
By following expert advice and recipes, pet owners can confidently include potatoes in their pets’ diets without compromising their health.
About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 18 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.
