If you’re a cat lover, you’ve probably given your pet at least one human food treat. After all, cats love to eat just about anything, right?
If you’re a cat lover, you’ve probably given your pet at least one human food treat. After all, cats love to eat just about anything, right?
Well, not exactly. Some human foods are toxic to cats.
Raw Seafood
Raw seafood, incredibly raw fish, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning and even death. It’s also possible for cats to get a parasitic infection called anisakiasis if they ingest raw fish or squid. Anisakiasis can be harmful without treatment.
Dairy Products
Cats are not meant to eat dairy products because they are carnivores. In addition, Adult cats are lactose intolerant because they do not have the enzyme necessary to break down the dairy sugars (lactose) in milk. Ingesting too much lactose can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even dehydration.
Citrus Foods
These fruits can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. If ingested in large quantities, citrus fruits can cause nervous system problems such as seizures.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs contain a protein called avidin, which binds to biotin and makes it unavailable to the cat. This can lead to skin problems, hair loss, and even seizures.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which is toxic to cats. Ingesting large amounts of chocolate can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems, and seizures.
Raisins and Grapes
Raisings and grapes can cause kidney failure in cats. Ingesting even a small amount can be harmful. So, the next time your cat begs for a bite of your sandwich or an ice cream cone, remember that these human foods are poisonous to cats.
Nuts
Many nuts, including almonds and walnuts, are toxic to cats. Ingesting even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis.
Alcohol
Alcohol is toxic to cats and can cause liver damage, coma, and even death. So the next time you have a party, make sure your cat stays away from the booze to avoid getting you into the temptation of giving it a sip.
Caffeine
Caffeine can cause nervousness, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in cats. So the next time you want to share your coffee with your cat or offer a caffeinated drink like tea or soda pop instead of water, it’s best not to give them one since caffeine is considered toxic for cats.
Bones from Fish, Poultry, or other Meat Sources
Bones from fish and poultry can splinter inside the cat’s digestive system. This causes internal bleeding and even death if untreated. It is never safe for cats to eat any bone.
Candy and Gum
Xylitol is a common sweetener in gum and candy. Although it’s not toxic to humans, ingesting even a small amount of xylitol can cause the cat’s blood sugar levels to drop and lead them into a coma or death if untreated.
Dog Food
Dog food is not a substitute for cat food. Dog food contains more protein and less fat than what cats need. It’s best to give your cat the right kind of nutrition with a proper diet instead.
Coconut
Coconut can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. Avoid making your cats uncomfortable by giving the cat any form of coconut products, whether coconut oil, water, or flesh.
Human Vitamins & Supplements
Human vitamins and supplements are not meant for cats, as they contain higher levels of certain nutrients, which could lead to toxicity if ingested by your pet. Stick to cat-specific vitamins and supplements to ensure that your cat gets the right kind of nutrients.
Bananas
Bananas are not toxic to cats, but they can cause an upset stomach and diarrhea if eaten in large quantities.
Oatmeal
Grains in oatmeal are hard to ingest and digest, leading to an upset stomach or even pancreatitis in cats.
Cats are obligate carnivores, and as such, they should not eat foods that are not meat-based, specially meant for cats. While some people think it’s okay to give their cats small amounts of human food as a treat, this can be dangerous for them.
Human foods are not nutritionally balanced for cats and can cause health problems down the road. If you want to give your cat a special treat, there are plenty of other cat foods and treats available that will be better for their health.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.