Cats are curious creatures and love to explore and sample anything they come across, including plants. Clover is a common plant that many people have in their homes. It is popularly known for its distinctive three-leaf shape and is often associated with luck. However, many pet parents often wonder if clover is safe for their furry friends.
Can cats eat clover? The answer is yes, but with a caveat. Cats can only eat certain clover species as some types are toxic. While some clover species are safe for cats, others are toxic, but all clovers have the potential to cause adverse effects in cats when ingested in large enough amounts. We’ll take a deeper look at cats and clover so you can understand which types are safe and which ones can harm your furry friend.
What Is Clover?
Clovers (Trifolium) are members of the legume family. They are commonly found in gardens, lawns, and wild meadows. They’re rich in antioxidants and are used in traditional medicine to treat inflammation of the joints and cough. Clovers are also used in many agricultural systems as food for grazing animals or processed into animal feed, known as fodder. While clovers are generally non-toxic to humans, they can have varying effects on cats depending on the species and the quantity ingested.
Types Of Clover
There are approximately 250 species of clovers found throughout the world, but only a few have been researched and considered safe for human consumption. Here’s an overview of the common types of clovers and their relevance to feline health:
White Clover (Trifolium repens)
White clover is the most common type of clover. It is characterized by white flowers and creeping growth, mostly used in lawns and pastures. White clover contains low levels of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. It is generally safe when consumed in small quantities, but in large quantities, it may cause mild toxicity, with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
Red clover is easily recognized by its purple-red flowers, and it is commonly used as a cover crop and in herbal medicine. Similar to white clover, red clover also contains cyanogenic glycosides. While it is safe when ingested in small amounts, it can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed excessively.
Crimson Clover (Trifolium incarnatum)
It is commonly known for its striking crimson flowers and is often grown as forage or for soil improvement.
It can be compared to white and red clover because they share similar compounds. Generally safe in small amounts, and ingestion in large quantities may lead to gastrointestinal distress.
Alsike Clover (Trifolium hybridum)
Alsike clover is a hybrid species with pinkish-white flowers commonly found in pastures and fields.
It is generally toxic to cats, so it is recommended that cats are prevented from consuming it as it can cause serious health issues.
Can Cats Eat Clover?
Cats can eat small amounts of clover occasionally, but it’s not recommended as a regular part of their diet. While small amounts of common clovers like white or red are generally safe, they contain cyanogenic glycosides, which may cause mild toxicity if ingested in large quantities.
Nutritional Benefits Of Clover For Cats
Vitamin Content
Clover contains essential vitamins and minerals that can contribute to a cat’s overall nutrient intake.
Digestive Aid
In small amounts, the fiber in clover can aid in digestion. However, consuming large quantities should be discouraged as it might upset your cat’s stomach.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Clover has anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for cats as they help reduce inflammation, which is a common underlying factor in many chronic conditions like arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. These compounds promote better joint mobility, improved digestion, and overall comfort by reducing inflammation.
Risks Associated with Clover for Cats
Gastrointestinal Issues
Consuming large amounts of clover can lead to digestive issues in cats. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhea.
Allergic Reactions
Although not common, some cats might exhibit allergic reactions to clover with symptoms such as skin irritation, itching, or more severe allergic responses.
Clover Toxicity in Cats
Some clover species (including shamrock clover) contain calcium oxalates. Once ingested, calcium oxalates bind to calcium in your cat’s bloodstream, which eventually ends up as crystals in your cat’s urinary tract. The crystals can result in a kidney infection or bladder stones.
Signs of Clover Toxicity
- Pain, especially in the abdomen
- Lack of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Tremors / Seizures
- In severe cases, kidney failure.
What Types of Clover Are Hazardous for Cats?
Shamrocks (the “good luck” plant), also known as clover or wood sorrel, are toxic to cats. As part of the Oxalis family, shamrock has calcium oxalate that can be toxic to cats, even in small amounts. These compounds are found in every portion of the plant. If your cat ingests shamrock clover, it’s essential to act quickly and contact a vet immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clover poisonous to cats?
Some species of clover are highly toxic, while certain types are mildly toxic. However, all clovers can cause mild issues if eaten in large amounts. Certain types, like white and red clover, contain compounds that may upset a cat’s stomach, leading to symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. While small nibbles are unlikely to cause harm, it’s best to prevent cats from eating clover to avoid potential discomfort or toxicity.
Can cats eat shamrock plants?
Shamrock plants are not safe for cats to eat, as they contain oxalates, which can be toxic when ingested. Consuming these plants may cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or even kidney damage in severe cases. It’s crucial to keep shamrock plants out of reach and provide cat-safe alternatives for your pet to nibble on.
Can cats eat micro clover?
Cats can nibble on micro clover occasionally, but it is not recommended as part of their diet. Microclovers contain compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. While small amounts are unlikely to cause serious harm, it’s better to provide your cat with safe alternatives like cat grass.
Is white clover safe for cats?
White clover is only safe for cats in small amounts. It contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release small amounts of cyanide when metabolized, potentially leading to mild toxicity when ingested in large amounts. So, it is generally not recommended.
Is red clover toxic to cats?
Red clover is similar to white clover. It is only safe in small amounts. Large amounts can cause mild toxicity. So, it is generally not recommended.
Can cats eat clover sprouts?
Cats can eat clover sprouts in small amounts, but they are not an ideal snack. While clover sprouts contain some nutrients, they may cause mild stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if eaten in large quantities. Since cats are obligate carnivores, offering treats specifically designed for their dietary needs is better.
Final Thoughts
While cats can occasionally eat small amounts of white and red clover without severe harm, it is generally not recommended. Clover contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, especially if consumed in large amounts. To ensure your cat’s safety and well-being, limiting their access to clover and providing a diet tailored to their carnivorous nutritional needs is best.
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