We all know that cats are curious creatures. They like to explore their surroundings and try new things. So it’s no surprise that some people have wondered whether cats can eat roaches.
The short answer is: no, cats should not eat roaches. Roaches can be poisonous to cats and can make them very sick. If you think your cat has eaten a roach, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
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What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are insects of the order Blattodea, which also includes termites. About 30 cockroach species out of 4,600 are associated with human habitats. About four species are well known as pests. The cockroaches are an ancient group, dating back at least as far as the Carboniferous period, some 320 million years ago.
Cockroaches live in a wide range of environments around the world. Tropical cockroaches are often much bigger than temperate species, and, contrary to popular belief, extinct cockroach relatives and ‘roachoids’ such as the Carboniferous Archimylacris and the Permian Apthoroblattina were not as large as the biggest modern species. The longest cockroach on record was a specimen of Megaloblatta longipennis captured in rainforests of Colombia that measured nearly 8 inches (20 cm).
Cockroaches have proven difficult to control at times. Cockroaches emit pheromones that allow them to communicate chemically with one another; some insecticide sprays disrupt these chemical signals and prevent proper communication between roaches, effectively disrupting their social structure and preventing them from reproducing.
What do cockroaches eat?
Diet is important to a cockroach’s survival. Most roaches are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders that eat any food source they can find. Some species of roaches are more specialized in their diets. For example, the Cuban cockroach (Blatella cubensis) is attracted to light and sweet things like fruits and flowers. Cockroaches usually only eat as much as they need to survive and will not gorge themselves on food like some animals do.
Are cockroaches harmful to cats?
While cockroaches are not harmful to cats, they can be a nuisance. If you think your cat has been snacking on cockroaches, watch for signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you see these signs, contact your veterinarian.
How can I get rid of cockroaches?
There are a variety of ways to get rid of cockroaches, including using Traps, Baits, Insecticides, and Residual Sprays.
How can I prevent cockroaches?
The best way to prevent cockroaches is to keep your home clean. Roaches are attracted to food and water, so they will often enter homes through open doors or windows in search of a meal. To keep them out, make sure all food is properly stored and dispose of garbage regularly. You can also try using roach traps or baits to lure them into a lethal trap.
