Can Cats Eat Quail Eggs – What To Know

Cats are predatory by nature and love to find new protein-rich foods to enjoy. But just because a cat is interested in a food doesn’t mean they should be eating it. If you find your cat pawing through the garbage or begging for scraps at the dinner table, you’ll want to make sure they’re only eating safe things to consume.

So, can cats eat quail eggs?

Cats can eat quail eggs, but there are precautions to take. You’ll want to limit the amount that they eat and only serve them cooked, but they can make a great occasional treat for your furry companion.

Read on to learn more about quail eggs and other general guidelines on what to feed your cat.

What are quail eggs?

Quail eggs look like small, spotted chicken eggs. They are growing in popularity in the food world as they provide a fun alternative to the eggs we commonly consume. They are packed with nutrients for their small size, but this doesn’t mean they should be part of a cat’s regular diet.

Quail eggs are not pasteurized, which means they haven’t been heated to kill any harmful bacteria that can be found on the shell. This can make it dangerous to eat raw, even for humans. You should avoid feeding raw quail eggs and shells to your cat.

Can cats eat quail?

Yes, cats can eat quail. Quail is an excellent addition to a cat’s diet. This small bird is a natural prey for the hunting cat. Out in the wild, cats will eat the entire quail – feathers and all. But most of us don’t want to see the results of a successful hunt, so it’s more common to bring one in that’s ready to be consumed.

Some suppliers will sell the full (dead) bird so your cat can still have the overall experience, but it’s easier to prepare if it’s just the meat.

If it’s your cat’s first time consuming quail, you can introduce it in small quantities. Many owners will choose to put a little bit on top of their cat’s usual food supply. However, if your cat isn’t currently on a raw food diet, this one may be best to avoid. Quail is considered an intermediate to an advanced form of raw food. And with all cuts of meat, any seasoning or herbs should be avoided entirely, as that’s likely to upset your cat’s stomach.

Can I crack an egg in my cat’s food?

It’s best to avoid giving your cat raw eggs. The inside of eggs can be a tasty and enticing treat for cats, and the yolk can provide some decent nutrition. However, a significant risk of contamination makes this practice too risky. Food poisoning can cause significant illnesses in cats, and raw eggs are a significant source of the harmful E. Coli bacteria. That’s why most humans opt to avoid eating raw eggs – it’s just not worth the risk.

If you’re worried your cat ate raw egg, here are some food poisoning symptoms to watch out for:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drinking more water than usual
• Disorientation

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, so it’s always good to call your veterinarian as soon as you notice your cat behaving differently. They will be able to advise you on the next steps to bring your cat back to health. You may need to take them in for an examination and get medicine.

Can cats eat hard boiled eggs?

Yes, cats can eat hard boiled eggs. You should always consult your vet before introducing any new foods to your cat. If you get the go-ahead, then you can start by giving your cat small amounts of hard-boiled, poached, or scrambled eggs.

Avoid using any kind of oil, though, as that can be too much fat for a cat to safely consume. The best way to prepare eggs for your kitty is to boil them and serve them that way. This helps to avoid any harmful additives and eliminates most of the risks associated with feeding your cat raw egg.

Do not season the eggs, though, as any kind of seasoning or spices can cause stomach distress in your cat. You should monitor your furry friend for any signs of stomach discomfort after they try the eggs. However, eggs should be considered a treat or dessert and not the main component of a cat’s diet. Eggs don’t have all of the nutrients a cat needs, even though they provide a good source of protein.

How much egg can I feed my cat?

Cats can eat eggs up to two times per week, but it should never be an entire egg at once. You can prepare a simple, boiled egg with no additives and give them a small amount while you eat or dispose of the rest. If you don’t feel comfortable with that level of waste, then it’s probably best to avoid giving your cat any eggs.

They aren’t a necessary part of a cat’s diet and can ultimately cause more harm than good. The fat and cholesterol content of eggs can lead to obesity or even pancreatitis if served in too large of quantities.

You can also feed your cat part of the egg’s shell. An eggshell contains a lot of calcium, which is an essential nutrient for bones and ligaments – even in cats! If you decide to try this, be sure to grind up the shell in a very fine powder and sprinkle it over your cat’s regular food once or twice a week. 

Things to consider

Quail eggs can be a safe addition to your cat’s diet but should only be used sparingly and never raw. It likely isn’t worth it to purchase quail eggs for your cat, as they won’t last as long as it’ll take for your cat to get through them. If you happen to come across a couple and want to see if your cat likes it, then feel free to boil them up and try. Always make sure you consult your vet before introducing a new food, though, and be sure to monitor your cat for any signs of illness.