Can Cats Eat Corn? Here's What A Vet Thinks🌽

     Because they are innate hunters, cats would prefer to consume meat on their own as their main food source. However, when you read this, you might be wondering, do cats actually eat corn? Although the solution is straightforward, there are a few things you should be aware of first.

     Learn more about giving your cat corn without risk.

Corn in Cat Food

     When you go cat food shopping, you might discover that maize is a common ingredient in many commercial products. Although maize and other grains have been referred to as "fillers" by some media outlets, the corn that is included in cat food is processed to make it easier for your cat to digest and to give it with nutrients. It's a healthy way to get your fill of protein, important fatty acids like linoleic acid, and carbohydrates. Scientific data does not support the notion that grains, such as corn, in cat food are harmful to cats.

     However, remember that your cat has to eat just meat. You should never feed a vegan diet to your cat. While maize might be a part of your cat's diet, it shouldn't be the primary component.

     Since your cat is an obligate carnivore, it must consume meat in order to obtain its necessary nutrients. Actually, cats need certain nutrients that are only found in animal products, such as taurine. Your cat does not have to avoid grains just because it is an obligatory carnivore. It implies that the majority of your cat's diet should consist of meat because it is necessary.

How to Feed Corn to Cats

     Regularly giving your cat maize isn't the best treat you could give them because cats are obligate carnivores. As a matter of fact, commercial cat diet corn is far more likely to provide health benefits to a cat than home-cooked corn.

     Your cat should only get a few kernels of cooked corn at a time if you wish to offer it to them as a treat. While corn is generally good when given infrequently, it should not be given to your cat as a regular treat. If your cat suffers from a chronic illness such as diabetes or has dietary sensitivities, you must obtain your veterinarian's approval before adding butter or spices to their food.


     Cats should not eat corn cobs or corn husks. Both items can lead to a gastrointestinal blockage, which may necessitate emergency surgery.

Potential Risks and Concerns

     While most cats will be totally fine after eating a few kernels of corn, there are some risks to be aware of. 

     Vomiting and diarrhea: Because your cat's gastrointestinal tract is designed for meat eating, he or she may have difficulty digesting corn. If you feed your cat corn, it may pass whole kernels in its poo. Some cats experience vomiting and diarrhea. Corn cobs and husks can induce gastrointestinal blockages, which frequently necessitate surgical intervention.

     Developing food allergies: Cats might grow allergic to corn over time. Cats' most common food allergies are to fish, poultry, dairy, and beef. Most cats' food allergies emerge as skin irritation and itching.

     Obesity: Because corn contains starch, eating too much of it can increase your risk of becoming obese. With more than half of cats in the United States deemed fat, this is not a concern to be taken lightly! Obesity raises the likelihood of chronic health disorders such as diabetes and arthritis, as well as shortening a cat's lifespan.

     Food poisoning: Cats who consume corn should only eat plain, unsalted, unbuttered maize. Added substances, such as garlic, might be harmful to cats. Butter and oils can cause gastrointestinal issues and contribute to obesity.
Exacerbation of existing health conditions: If your cat has a chronic health condition, ensure that maize is approved before giving it to him.

Alternatives to Corn for Cats

If you’d like to feed your cat human foods as a treat, consider these alternatives:

• Plain, cooked, lean meat like chicken or turkey
• Plain, cooked fish like salmon
• Cooked eggs
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Pumpkin
• Strawberries
• Steamed broccoli
• Cooked sweet potatoes
• Cooked peas

     Before feeding your cat human foods, consult with your veterinarian. Keep in mind that treats should not account for more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric consumption.

     Instead of giving your cat corn as a treat, consider commercial cat treats, which are designed exclusively for cats.

The Bottom Line on Corn for Cats

     Corn is a safe ingredient in commercial cat foods, and it’s safe as a treat for most cats when given sparingly. The best way to ensure your cat’s nutrition needs are met, whether you’re giving corn as a treat or skipping it, is to provide a balanced meat-based diet formulated for cats.