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It can be pretty much impossible to say no to your cat. When they’re sadly eyeing your cereal bowl from afar, denying them a tiny lick or two of milk seems like downright abuse.
Generally, sharing a little of what you’re having won’t harm your kitty. As I discussed in my previous post, “Human Foods That You Can Safely Feed Your Cat,” some human foods are totally safe for felines, as long as they are offered as an occasional treat and not as a replacement for cat food.
Other human foods, however, can be seriously harmful or even poisonous to cats. Here are some foods that you should avoid feeding your kitty altogether:
Onions and chives
Even a small amount of onions and chives can damage your cat’s red blood cells and can cause anemia.
Dairy
As cats grow into adulthood, their digestive systems become less and less tolerant of milk products. A few licks every now and then probably won’t harm them, but contrary to popular belief, adult cats should not be fed milk (especially the milk from another species) as an everyday meal.
Chocolate
As much as you’re enjoying that Cadbury bar, it’s probably not a good idea to offer any to your kitty. Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which is highly toxic to both cats and dogs. Luckily, cats don’t taste sweetness, so after a couple sniffs, they will most likely not be interested in your chocolate anyway.
Caffeine
Caffeine, like chocolate, can be fatally poisonous to cats. The smallest dose of tea, coffee, soda, or any other caffeinated food or beverage can cause vomiting, hypertension, seizures, an elevated heart rate, or death.
Grapes and raisins
Due to an unknown toxin in grapes, both grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in cats.
Avocados
Avocados might be a delicious, healthy, and versatile food for humans, but in cats, they can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Raw meat
While plain, cooked meat is generally fine to feed to your kitty, raw meat can cause food poisoning, as it does in humans. You wouldn’t want to get salmonella after eating an undercooked burger, so chances are your kitty wouldn’t either!
Yeast dough
Unbaked bread dough is highly toxic to cats. The stomach’s warm, moist environment causes the dough to expand, causing noticeable bloating. This can lead to gastric-dilatation volvulus (GDV), which is also called a “twisted stomach.”
Macadamia nuts
It’s probably best to keep macadamia nuts out of your kitty’s reach. This type of nut can cause lethargy, vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors in cats. Some other types of nuts, such as walnuts, can also be toxic to felines.
Salty foods
If I let him, my cat would probably eat a whole bag of tortilla chips. Unfortunately, however, salty snacks such as chips, pretzels, and popcorn can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures, elevated body temperatures, and even death.
If your cat has consumed any of these foods and is showing signs such as weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, seizure, restlessness, or a distended stomach, it is recommended that you take them to the vet immediately to prevent these symptoms from worsening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats eat tortilla chips?
No, tortilla chips are considered salty foods and can be harmful to cats. It is best to avoid feeding them to your feline friend.What should I do if my cat has eaten tortilla chips?
If your cat has consumed tortilla chips and is showing signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is recommended to contact your veterinarian for guidance.Are there any safe human foods that cats can eat?
Yes, there are several human foods that cats can safely consume in small quantities, such as cooked chicken or fish. However, it’s important to research and consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your cat’s diet.How can I ensure my cat’s diet is balanced and nutritious?
Feeding your cat a high-quality, commercially prepared cat food that meets their nutritional needs is the best way to ensure they are getting the right balance of nutrients. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to share your favorite snacks with your furry friend, it’s essential to be mindful of what foods are safe for cats and which can be harmful or toxic. Cats have unique dietary requirements, and their digestive systems may not tolerate certain human foods well. Stick to a balanced cat food diet and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about what to feed your cat. Remember, keeping your fur baby healthy and happy is a top priority!