Is Moringa Toxic to Cats?

Humans have long recognized moringa (malunggay) as a miracle food supplement. But is moringa also safe for cats? The short answer to this question is yes! Moringa benefits your feline companion in many ways.

However, you should consider quality, source, and dosage when choosing the best moringa brand for pets. If you’ve been curious about this so-called “Miracle Tree” and how it might affect your cat’s health, read on.

Is Moringa Safe for Cats?  

Moringa, specifically Moringa oleifera, is generally safe for cats as long as you give the appropriate amount. Moringa offers many health benefits for both humans and animals. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows that Moringa extract can protect the liver, lower cholesterol levels, and cure viral infections and other parasitic and bacterial diseases.

But as with any supplement, it’s important to consult your veterinarian first. Ask about the right dosage and tell them about your pet’s medical history. Feeding cats excessive amounts of moringa can cause digestive upset. Also, some parts of the plant, specifically the roots and bark, may be toxic. To be safe, choose trusted Moringa powder brands or moringa-enriched cat food.

5 Benefits of Moringa for Cats

Good quality moringa offers several advantages to your furry companions:

1. Loaded with vital nutrients

Moringa leaves provide cats with important nutrients. They contain higher levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron compared to many common fruits and vegetables. Your cat’s immune system, bone health, and overall well-being need these nutrients. Of course, a balanced diet can typically meet these needs, but malunggay for cats offers an extra boost. Is your pet aging or sick? Then try adding moringa to their diet!

2. Natural antioxidant power

Moringa is known to be rich in flavonoids. But why is this particularly important? Flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, found in malunggay, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They fight against cellular damage, lower the risk of age-related diseases, and potentially reduce the likelihood of cancer.

3. Supports bone and blood health

The high calcium and iron content in Moringa leaf extracts improves your cats’ bone and blood health. Calcium strengthens bones and improves their structure. Meanwhile, iron helps produce healthy blood cells. These minerals are especially important for pregnant or nursing cats. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can take a toll on mama cats, and the extra nutrients help support their health and their kittens’ development.

4. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects

Compounds in moringa, like N-benzylethyl thioformate, have been found to fight different microbes and fungi. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows that Moringa extracts are effective against bacteria that cause infections and help combat fungi. Moringa’s natural properties can also soothe inflammation from allergies and minor injuries.

5. Affordable and accessible

Let’s face it. Pet supplements and other medicines for cats can get crazy expensive. It’s not unusual to scroll through a pet website but end up not buying anything. Thankfully, Moringa is one of the few budget-friendly and widely available pet supplements that can truly help your pet become happier and healthier.

How to Safely Add Moringa to Your Cat’s Diet

Moringa isn’t toxic to cats, but how much moringa should you feed them? Here are some tips to introduce this superfood to your pet:

Follow your vet’s recommendation.

First things first, don’t feed your cat over-the-counter supplements without consulting your veterinarian. While moringa is safe for cats, your vet might not recommend it if your cat has an underlying disease. Determining the right dosage for your cat’s size, age, and health also becomes simpler after a simple vet visit.

Choose high-quality products.

Numerous stores offer Moringa supplements for cats. You can get moringa powder from an online store, even without a vet prescription. However, we recommend choosing organic, food-grade moringa powder. Avoid products with additives or questionable sourcing.

Follow the recommended dosage.

Once you’ve chosen the best moringa for cats, read the instructions in the packaging. Usually, moringa powder brands tell you to give a small pinch or ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon a day for small pets. Moringa dosage for cats depends on your pet’s size and the brand, so read the package carefully.

What Are the Side Effects of Using Moringa for Cats?

Moringa, as you have seen, offers an impressive list of benefits. However, it also has potential drawbacks when you don’t give the right dosage or choose low-quality products. Watch out for:

• Digestive upset - Cats are sensitive to changes in their diet. Large amounts can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, or an upset tummy. Introduce moringa slowly by adding small amounts to their food. 
• Toxicity - Moringa leaves are known to be safe in moderation. However, some parts of the plant, such as the roots and bark contain compounds that could be harmful to your pet.
• Allergic reactions - It’s rare for cats to have an adverse reaction to moringa but still possible. Look out for symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Once you notice these signs, stop using Moringa and bring your cat to the vet.

Buy the Best Moringa for Cats

If you ask us, the best moringa for cats should be high-quality, proudly Philippine-made, and guaranteed safe by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI). You can enjoy these all these benefits from Purr Delight, the first Moringa-enhanced cat food in the country. 

Purr Delight is cat-approved and packed with nutrients. Aside from Moringa, it’s packed with omega-3, vitamin c, vitamin D2, vitamin D3, calcium, iron, and potassium sodium. Moreover, it’s made with real tuna and red meat, ensuring that your cat enjoys his daily serving of animal protein.

You can grab a can of Purr Delight from the following online and physical stores:

• Mo and Bear
• Iskaparate 
• Shopwise Supermarkets
• Mitsukoshi Fresh
• Dough & Grocer Alabang

Moringa isn’t a substitute for a balanced diet, but the best wet cat food enriched with Moringa can give them the nutrients they need.