Can dogs or cats eat salt?

Salt: it's in almost everything we eat, but what about our cats? Is a sprinkle of sodium chloride in their diet a good idea or a no-go? Turns out, a tiny bit is okay, but the emphasis should be on "tiny".

Salt isn't the enemy; it helps regulate things like blood pressure and fluid balance in your cat's body. But here's the kicker: Too much salt can be a problem. We're talking dehydration and kidney stress, which are definitely not on the "good times" list for your cat.

Let's remember, cats are meat-lovers at heart. They get most of what they need from their protein-packed meals, so there's no need to jazz it up with extra salt or salty treats like chips.

So, the bottom line? A little salt won't hurt, but keep it minimal and always check with your vet first. Your cat's diet should be balanced and meat-centric, not a salt fest.

If your cat consumes too much salt and shows signs of illness such as lethargy, excessive thirst, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.