Cats are adorable creatures that are easy to take care of, but their diet is something that needs to be taken seriously. As pet owners, we must be aware of the foods that our feline friends should not eat. Feeding your cat the wrong type of food could lead to serious health issues and, in some cases, be fatal. In this article, we will cover the foods that cats should avoid eating.
As a responsible pet owner, it is important to be aware of what foods are safe for your cat to eat, as well as which ones to avoid. There are certain foods that can be harmful or even poisonous to cats if ingested. In this topic, we will discuss what cats should not eat in order to ensure the health and wellness of your furry friend.
The Danger of Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate and caffeine are two things that most humans cannot live without, but they can be fatal to cats. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine that is toxic to cats. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures. Caffeine, on the other hand, can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscles tremors. It is best to keep your cat away from these substances at all times.
Milk and Dairy Products
Most people believe that cats love milk, but the truth is that adult cats are lactose intolerant. They lack the enzymes needed to digest lactose, which is the sugar found in milk. Feeding your cat milk or dairy products can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other digestive problems. If you want to give your cat a treat, it is best to stick to cat food or treats specifically made for them.
Foods That Contain Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are two ingredients that can be found in many human foods, but they should never be given to cats. Both of these foods contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Some of the symptoms of anemia include lethargy, breathing difficulties, and pale gums. If you suspect that your cat has ingested garlic or onions, take them to the vet immediately.
Raisins and Grapes
Raisins and grapes are two fruits that should never be given to cats. They contain a substance that can damage the cat’s kidneys and cause renal failure. Symptoms of renal failure include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect that your cat has ingested raisins or grapes, take them to the vet immediately.
Raw Eggs and Fish
Raw eggs and fish can contain a type of bacteria called Salmonella, which can make cats sick. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Raw fish can also contain an enzyme that destroys vitamin B1, which is essential for a cat’s health. If you want to feed your cat eggs or fish, it is best to cook them thoroughly first.
Tuna
Tuna is another food that should be avoided when it comes to feeding cats. While cats love the taste of tuna, it should not be given to them regularly. Tuna is high in mercury, which can cause mercury poisoning in cats. It can also cause an imbalance in a cat’s diet, leading to malnutrition. If you want to give your cat tuna, it is best to do so in moderation and as a treat.
Bones
Bones can be dangerous for cats as they can break and splinter, causing injury to their mouths and digestive tract. Bones can also cause choking hazards, and in some cases, they can get stuck in a cat’s throat or intestine, leading to serious medical issues. It is best to avoid giving your cat bones and to stick to foods that are easy to digest.
Alcohol
Alcohol is toxic to cats, and even a small amount can be fatal. Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even coma. It is essential to keep alcoholic beverages out of reach of cats and to avoid giving them any food or treats that contain alcohol.
Medications
Medications that are safe for humans are not always safe for cats. Some human medications can be toxic to cats, even in small doses. It is essential to keep all medications out of reach of cats, and to only give them medication that has been prescribed by a veterinarian.
FAQs for what cats should not eat
What are some human foods that are harmful to cats?
There are several human foods that are harmful to cats, including chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic, avocado, and grapes/raisins. These foods can cause various health problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, anemia, kidney failure, and seizures.
Are there any specific types of fish that cats should not eat?
Not all types of fish are safe for cats to eat. Tuna and salmon might seem like perfectly healthy options, but they contain high levels of mercury and can lead to mercury poisoning if consumed regularly. Smaller fish like sardines, anchovies, and mackerel are better choices as they contain fewer toxins and provide beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids.
Can cats consume dairy products?
While cats love milk and other dairy products, it’s not recommended to feed them to your feline friend. Most cats become lactose intolerant as they age, so consuming these products can lead to digestive problems like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. If you want to treat your cat to a dairy-based treat, look for lactose-free options made specifically for cats.
Is it safe for cats to eat bones?
While it’s common to see dogs eating bones, it’s not recommended for cats. Bones can splinter and get stuck in their throat, which can cause choking, vomiting, or even death. Additionally, some bones can also break their teeth, causing pain and discomfort.
Can cats consume plants?
Certain plants can be toxic to cats, and it’s essential to know what plants are safe to have around your feline friend. Common toxic plants include lilies, azaleas, daffodils, and tulips, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even kidney failure. Before bringing a new plant into your home, ensure that it’s cat-friendly.
In summary, cats should not consume human foods like chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, avocado, and grapes/raisins. They should avoid tuna and salmon due to high levels of mercury. It’s best to avoid giving them dairy products and bones, and certain plants can be toxic and should not be consumed by cats. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your cat’s diet or health.
