How to Safely Feed Malunggay to Cats

Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) is widely known for its multiple health benefits for humans. But did you know it could also be good for your pets? The nutrient-dense superfood can boost their immune system, support bone health, fight cellular damage, support healthy digestion, and help ward off diseases.

Although Malunggay is safe for cats, it should be introduced to their diet carefully to maximize its benefits and avoid potential risks. Here’s a guide to giving malunggay safely to your cat.

Steps to Safely Feed Malunggay to Cats

Moringa oleifera or malunggay is safe for cats. However, it’s important to follow these steps to avoid potential side effects:

1. Consult with your veterinarian

Even though malunggay is generally safe, every cat has unique dietary needs. Before introducing it to your cat’s meals, consult with a veterinarian. Cats are sensitive to changes in their diet, and even natural supplements can interact with existing medical conditions. 

A veterinary consultation will assess your cat’s health, age, and nutritional requirements. You’ll be able to know if malunggay is safe for your cat, especially if your cat is pregnant, nursing, or has underlying issues like kidney disease or diabetes. 

2. Choose the right form of malunggay

Not all malunggay products are safe for cats. Choose malunggay specifically made for pets, so your cat gets the nutritional benefits effectively. Here are the best malunggay products for pets:

• Moringa powder - This is the most popular form of malunggay for pets. Convenient and versatile, moringa powder can be sprinkled on their usual cat food or mixed into homemade treats.  Start with a small amount, around ⅛ teaspoon per day. Look for organic, food-grade powders without additives, preservatives, or fillers. 

• Cat food enriched with moringa - Pre-formulated cat food containing malunggay is a safe and easy option. Purr Delight Tuna with Moringa blends the superfood into wet cat food. It’s the only brand in the Philippines combining malunggay with high-quality tuna to create a healthy, affordable meal for cats.

• Malunggay capsules or pet supplements - You can also choose pet-specific supplements with malunggay as a key ingredient. Open the capsule and sprinkle the powder onto your cat’s food, following the manufacturer’s dosage to prevent overdosing.

• Malunggay leaves - Fresh malunggay leaves are affordable and may even cost you nothing if you have a malunggay tree in your garden. Separate the leaves from the stalks before blanching them to make them easier for your cat to digest. Avoid feeding your cat raw leaves, which are fibrous and can lead to stomach upset. 

• Homemade treats with malunggay - Get creative and use moringa powder or malunggay leaves to make healthy cat treats. HubPages shares this quick and easy moringa cat treats recipe. You can substitute the moringa flakes and cat food pate with Purr Delight Tuna with Moringa. If baking isn’t your thing, buy ready-to-eat moringa cat treats from pet-friendly brands like Whole Pet Kitchen or Kyuubites.

3. Observe your cat’s reaction

Most cats tolerate Moringa well. But to be sure, monitor your cat for positive or negative reactions.

• Positive reactions - increased energy, shinier coat, and improved appetite
• Negative reactions - vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or refusal to eat

If your cat shows any adverse reactions, discontinue malunggay immediately and consult your veterinarian.

Malunggay Products Not Suitable for Pets

While malunggay is safe for pets, some moringa products aren’t suitable for them due to potential added ingredients or improper formulation. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Malunggay tea or capsules for humans

Human-grade tea bags or capsules may contain additional herbs, flavorings, or medicinal substances unsafe for cats. Toxic ingredients may include garlic, onion, and certain spices. Some medicinal compounds can also interact negatively with your cat’s system.

2. Malunggay roots and bark

Malunggay leaves are safe for cats, but the plant’s roots and bark aren’t. These parts contain alkaloids, which are toxic and can cause nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. Only use leaves or powder sourced from reputable suppliers.

3. Malunggay products with additives, fillers, and preservatives

Always check the ingredients list first. Low quality malunggay powders may include fillers such as rice flour, starch, or additives. Commercially available malunggay products, especially those intended for human consumption may contain sweeteners, flavorings, or preservatives unsafe for cats. Examples of toxic ingredients are artificial sweeteners like xylitol and flavor enhancers. 

4. Non-food grade or industrial products

Not all malunggay products are suitable for human and pet consumption. These products, such as fertilizers or skin care items, are processed for industrial, cosmetic, or agricultural use. For instance, fertilizer-grade malunggay powders contain chemicals or contaminants. Avoid these entirely.

Why Give Malunggay to Cats

Malunggay leaves are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they boost your cat’s well-being. Here are some benefits of malunggay for cats:

• Immune support - Malunggay contains high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron, which strengthen your cat’s immune system. If you want your cat to fend off illnesses and recover more quickly from infections, add a healthy dose of malunggay to their diet.

• Bone health - Aging cats will especially benefit from the calcium in malunggay. Moringa can support strong bones and teeth. Pregnant and nursing cats also need extra calcium for their health and their kitten’s development.

• Antioxidant power - Malunggay contains the flavonoid quercetin, which fights cellular damage caused by free radicals. Giving your cats malunggay helps them maintain their vitality and fight age-related diseases.

• Digestive aid - Fiber in malunggay supports healthy digestion. If your cat is prone to digestive issues, try adding moringa to their cat food.

Choose Safe Malunggay Products for Cats

Adding moringa to your cat’s diet is one of the ways to keep them healthy. However, not all malunggay products can be given safely to cats. Always choose food-grade products without fillers, preservatives, or additives. Also, make sure to only use malunggay leaves and not the bark or roots, which are toxic to pets. 

To give your cat a healthy dose of malunggay daily, choose Purr Delight Tuna with Moringa. Purr Delight is made from one hundred percent pure tuna and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Best of all, it’s approved by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), so you can be assured you’re feeding your beloved companion with safe and healthy malunggay for cats.

Let your pet experience the health benefits of the best wet cat food with malunggay. Buy Purr Delight Tuna and Moringa from Mo and Bear.