What can and cannot be given to cats from human food? - briefly
Cats, being obligate carnivores, have specific dietary needs that differ significantly from humans. Certain human foods can be harmful or even toxic to cats, while others can be safely incorporated into their diet in moderation.
It is crucial to avoid giving cats the following foods:
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats.
- Onions and garlic: Contain thiosulfates and disulfides, which can damage cats' red blood cells.
- Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure in cats.
- Macadamia nuts: Can lead to weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia.
- Raw eggs and meat: May contain bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli and can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma, and even death.
- Raw fish: Feeding raw fish to your cat on a regular basis can result in a thiamine deficiency, which can lead to neurological problems.
- Milk and dairy products: Many cats are lactose intolerant and can experience digestive upset if they consume dairy products.
- Raw potatoes: Contain solanine, which is toxic to cats.
Safe human foods for cats, when given in small amounts, include:
- Cooked chicken or turkey, without bones, skin, or seasoning, is a great source of protein.
- Cooked eggs can provide essential amino acids.
- Small amounts of cooked carrots can be a healthy treat.
- A small amount of cooked pumpkin can aid in digestion.
- Blueberries and strawberries are safe in small quantities and provide antioxidants.
- Small pieces of cooked fish, such as salmon or tuna, can be beneficial, but ensure they are boneless and cooked without seasoning.
What can and cannot be given to cats from human food? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. However, many cat owners wonder which human foods are safe to share with their feline companions and which should be avoided. It is crucial to understand that while some human foods can be beneficial, others can be highly toxic to cats.
Safe human foods for cats include small amounts of cooked chicken, turkey, and beef. These lean proteins can be a healthy addition to a cat's diet, provided they are boneless and unseasoned. Fish, such as salmon and tuna, can also be given occasionally, but it is important to ensure they are cooked and free from bones. Cooked eggs are another safe option, as they are a good source of protein and amino acids.
Certain fruits and vegetables can be offered to cats in moderation. Small pieces of cooked carrots, green beans, and pumpkin can provide fiber and essential nutrients. However, it is crucial to avoid giving cats grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and chives, as these are toxic and can cause severe health issues, including kidney failure and anemia.
Dairy products should be given with caution. While small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt or cottage cheese can be tolerated by some cats, many are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive upset. It is best to avoid milk and other dairy products to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol are strictly off-limits for cats. These substances contain toxins that can be fatal to felines. Chocolate, in particular, contains theobromine and caffeine, which cats cannot metabolize effectively, leading to heart problems and seizures. Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma, and even death.
Nuts, especially macadamia nuts, should be avoided as they can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in cats. Raw potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants from the nightshade family contain solanine, a compound that is toxic to cats and can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weakness, and confusion.
Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products, is extremely dangerous for cats. Ingesting even small amounts can lead to a rapid and severe drop in blood sugar, resulting in weakness, lack of coordination, collapse, and even death. It is essential to keep all products containing xylitol out of reach of cats.
In summary, while some human foods can be safely shared with cats, it is vital to exercise caution and moderation. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new foods to a cat's diet to ensure their safety and well-being. Providing a balanced and species-appropriate diet is the best way to maintain a cat's health and longevity.