A Trader Joe’s store just opened in town, and it’s kind of a big deal. Everyone from other parts of the country was advising what foods to buy there, and one of the ones we had recommended was their almond butter. So the head peep braved the parking lot, which was more chaotic than the Disney World parking lots this time of year, to buy some almond butter (and other stuff, too), and she was excited to try it on some toast. Of course, if any peeps are eating something, Ashton has to try it, too.
And she did, stealing a big bite of toast with almond butter on it when the head peep was reading something on the computer.
The problem is that almonds can be toxic for cats. The ASPCA advises against feeding almonds because of their high fat quantities, which can potentially produce pancreatitis, as well as general gastrointestinal upset and vomiting.
More alarming is that bitter almonds (which are not generally available in the US) contain cyanogenic glycosides. These naturally-occurring plant compounds can break down in pets’ stomachs and release hydrogen cyanide, which is toxic to both animals and humans.
So for her own safety, Ashton isn’t going to be getting any more almond butter, and it’s only going to be eaten under supervision. No distracted eating when almonds are involved!
Almonds in Bowl image courtesy I_Nneska on Flickr creative commons
References
Cyanide, University of Sydney Centre for Veterinary Education
Almonds, ASPCA Poison Control Center
