What Are the Benefits of Brewer's Yeast for Cats?

Brewer's yeast is beneficial to cats because it is a good source of proteins, B vitamins, amino acids, chromium, phosphorous, zinc, iron and many trace elements. The yeast is also used to control fleas and promote healthy skin and coats. The correct dosage of brewer's yeast for cats is one teaspoon each day. Owners should discontinue using the yeast if allergic reactions appear in cats.

  1. Flea Control

    • The benefits of brewer's yeast for cats includes flea control. Some cats can get an allergic reaction or infection from fleas. Brewer's yeast is a natural, non-toxic remedy for fleas that works from the inside out. Your cat should be given a teaspoon of brewer's yeast every day to control fleas; the yeast can be mixed into cat food to disguise its taste. When your cat eats the yeast, an unpleasant odor forms inside the animal's body and repels fleas.

    Source of B Vitamins

    • Brewer's yeast provides cats a good source of B vitamins. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "the B-complex vitamins in brewer's yeast include B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid) and H or B7 (biotin)." B vitamin complexes break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates, which provide your cat energy. In addition, B vitamins can support your cat's nervous system, aid digestion and keep his coat, eyes, skin and liver in healthy condition.

    Helps Resist Infection

    • Brewer's yeast also helps cats resist infection. Feeding your cat a teaspoon of the yeast each day prevents unwanted bacteria from forming and spreading in his body. Brewer's yeast makes your cat's immune systems stronger and able to stop infections.

    Regulates Sugar in Diabetic Cats

    • The benefits of brewer's yeast for cats includes regulating sugar levels in diabetic cats. Brewer's yeast has a good source of chromium, which stabilizes blood sugar and improves glucose tolerance in cats.

    Possibly Lowers Cholesterol

    • Brewer's yeast possibly lowers bad cholesterol in cats. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "[a] few studies suggest that brewer's yeast may help lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol levels in the blood and raise HDL ('good') cholesterol levels." However, researchers are unsure if the effect on cat's cholesterol is from the chromium that is present in brewer's yeast or from another substance.