Should You Allow Your Cat To Catch & Eat Bugs?

Most of us are disgusted by bugs and insects, but cats seem to love them. Don't be surprised if your cat starts chasing bugs or eating them. But why is this happening? Is it okay for cats to eat bugs?

In the wild, bugs are considered part of the cat's diet, and usually, all cats will hunt them and eat them. This will not apply to domesticated cats since they don't need to eat bugs because of their nutritional value, but rather they will chase them and possibly eat them because of fun.

Here is everything you need to know about your cat and different bugs.

Do cats eat bugs?

Yes – cats can eat bugs. Every cat is different, and while for some, bugs will not be of much interest, others will gladly hunt them and eat them. There is nothing wrong with this behavior; if your cat does it, you are not alone.

cat in grass

Why do cats eat bugs?

There could be many reasons your cat could start to hunt and eat the bugs, but the most obvious and common is because they are hunters. This is written in their genes, and many cats lot to hunt, even domesticated ones.

You might think that hunting alone will give the cat all the satisfaction, but in reality, for them to be completely happy and satisfied, they must finish the hunting process – meaning they will have to eat the bug.

Don't be surprised if your cat is hunting; catch a bug with her mouth and spit it out. There is nothing wrong is this behavior also.

Hunting will provide them with enough daily activities, and you can be sure that your cat will not show any behavioral problems after hunting.

Is it safe for my cat to eat bugs?

Most usually, bugs found around your house will be safe for your cat to play with and even eat. You should, however, know all the bugs that can potentially harm your cat to prevent any health-related issues.

cat

What are safe bugs to eat?

Bugs can come into our home regularly, most of which will be harmless to your cat. Some of them include

Butterflies
Months
Flies
Roaches
Crickets
Grasshoppers
Beetles

If you notice your cat close to any of these bugs, you have nothing to worry about since they will not be able to harm your cat. Although it may seem disgusting to you that your cat is eating some of them, there is nothing strange in that behavior from your cat's perspective.

cat

What are dangerous bugs to eat?

As with anything, there are always certain dangers, and the same applies to some of the bugs your cat could potentially come into contact with. It is best to know them all to protect your cat and not allow her to go near them.

Potentially dangerous bugs for your cat include: