can cats eat potatoes

Cats can eat potatoes occasionally, but only if they are peeled, cooked (such as roasted or boiled), and served plain without any fats, spices, salt, or seasonings. Raw potatoes, potato skins, and any green spots or parts of the potato plant are toxic to cats due to the presence of solanine, a poisonous substance. Potatoes are not necessary in a cat's diet since cats are obligate carnivores needing animal protein, and potatoes provide mainly carbohydrates which cats do not digest well. Therefore, potatoes should only be an occasional treat in very small amounts, and it's best to consult a vet before feeding potatoes to cats. Feeding potatoes with added salt, oil, or spices like French fries or potato chips is not safe for cats and should be avoided. Common side effects of improper consumption include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and gastrointestinal upset.