Introduction
Cats can eat and drink a variety of things. But can cats drink Gatorade? Yes, indeed, they can consume it but only in moderate quantity. It can be harmful to your pet if it drinks it a lot or regularly.
It is also important not to give your cat Gatorade frequently. Just like humans and other pets, cats also require plenty of fluids. Water is the best and healthiest liquid for your pet. But in case of extreme dehydration, you can give it Gatorade but just a few sips.
If you are worried about giving Gatorade to your pet cat, continue reading to learn some vital details.
What is Gatorade?
Gatorade is a beverage especially developed for athletes. However, anyone can consume it sometimes, including pets. Researchers created this drink to replenish fluids after strenuous exercises.
It not only rehydrates the body but provides essential electrolytes lost during vigorous physical activities.
Main Ingredients in Gatorade
The beverage contains several substances, including
- Water
- Sugar
- Salt
- Sodium Citrate
- Monopotassium Phosphate
- Dextrose
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavor
- Yellow 5
- Gum Arabic
- Glycerol Ester of Rosin
Can Cats Drink Gatorade?
Yes, your cat can drink the energy drink. But you must not give a whole bottle at once. Nor should you give your pet the undiluted variety. Since the beverage contains sugar and other ingredients, it would be best to mix it with water.
The correct ratio of Gatorade to water would be 25/75. For instance, if you pour 5 ml Gatorade, you should include 15ml water in the mixture. Another reason for not giving the pure variety is that your pet may not like the flavor. Hence, mixing with water is the best option.
When Should You Give Gatorade to Your Cat?
In the earlier sections, we learned that cats could consume Gatorade. But it doesn’t mean that you should give it to your pet every day. Just as we humans, cats also get sick and dehydrated. It can happen when they have diarrhea and vomiting.
It is best to take your pet to the vet for further assessment. However, you can give some Gatorade (25%) mixed with water (75%) when your cat has loose bowel motion and continuously vomiting. The energy drink can help your pet rehydrate and receive the essential nutrients.
If you want to feed your pet with an undiluted drink, use a syringe and give it a tiny amount at a time. But you must also provide some water after feeding the drink. Gatorade can help your cat get back the fluids and electrolytes, but it may not cure the other issues. So, you should take your pet to the vet if other problems persist.
Is Gatorade Safe For Your Pet Cat?
The energy drink is safe for your pet as long as you feed it with just a few sips or mixed with water at a 25%/75% ratio. You should, however, keep in mind to provide it only when it has diarrhea or is extremely tired after a lengthy physical activity.
Gatorade contains a high quantity of salt and sugar, which are bad for pets. Hence, if your pet frequently consumes the drink, it may suffer from more health issues.
Can Gatorade Harm Your Cat?
It can harm your pet if you give high doses of Gatorade. But it is pretty safe if you follow the tips and ratio. During diarrhea and dehydration, small quantities along with water can be of great help. It will strengthen your pet and also rehydrate it.
Best Fluids For Cats
Water is the best fluid to keep your pet healthy and hydrated. You can also feed milk sometimes but see that your cat is lactose tolerant.
While Gatorade is safe within a certain amount, it is not a water replacement. As stated several times, give it only when sick and dehydrated.
Since it contains a high dose of sugar and salt, frequent consumption can disrupt your cat’s bodily functions.
Which Type of Gatorade is Not Suitable For Your Cat?
There are various types of Gatorade beverages available on the market. However, not all are healthy for cats. Blue Gatorade is one of those varieties you must not give to your pet. However, Gatorade Zero is a safe choice in small quantities or along with water.
Is There Any Alternative For Gatorade?
Water is the best option, but you can make electrolyte water at home. Simply pour water and add some sugar and sprinkle of water and mix them well together. You can place it in your pet’s bowl and another bowl with water alongside. Your cat will feel much better when it consumes the mixture.
Another option is a readymade electrolyte fluid meant for infants. There are several varieties, and they contain small amounts of any ingredients. Hence, these will be suitable for your pet too.
Final Thoughts
Gatorade is safe for cats in small amounts. But you must not make it a habit to give your pet. It can be quite harmful in the long run. Give tiny amounts only when it is ill and losing a considerable quantity of fluids.
Normally, always give it water because it is the healthiest and ideal fluid for all living beings. Whenever you give Gatorade to your pet, always follow the 25%/75%, with water being the higher dose.