What can't sterilized cats eat?

What can't sterilized cats eat? - briefly

Sterilized cats should avoid raw fish and meat due to potential bacterial risks such as Salmonella and Listeria. Additionally, they should not consume chocolate or raisins, which are toxic to cats.

What can't sterilized cats eat? - in detail

Sterilized cats, like all felines, have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure their overall health and well-being. While sterilization does not significantly alter a cat's nutritional requirements, certain foods should be avoided or limited to prevent potential health issues.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to process and derive nutrients from animal-based proteins. Therefore, any diet for a sterilized cat should be rich in high-quality protein sources such as meat, poultry, or fish. However, there are several types of food that sterilized cats should avoid:

1. Raw Fish: While small amounts of cooked fish can be part of a balanced diet, raw fish is generally not recommended for cats. Raw fish contains an enzyme called thiaminase, which can break down thiamine (vitamin B1), leading to a deficiency that may cause neurological symptoms in cats.

2. Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to cats. Ingestion of chocolate can result in restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, or even death in severe cases.

3. Grapes and Raisins: These fruits contain a toxin that can cause kidney failure in cats. Even small amounts can be dangerous, leading to vomiting, lethargy, and in some cases, acute renal failure.

4. Onions and Garlic: Both onions and garlic are part of the Allium family and contain compounds that can damage a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts over time can be harmful, so it is best to avoid these altogether.

5. Dairy Products: While some cats may tolerate small amounts of dairy, many are lactose intolerant and cannot digest lactose efficiently. Consumption of dairy products can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in sensitive cats.

6. Bones: Cooked bones, especially poultry bones, can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause internal damage if ingested by cats. Raw bones can also be dangerous as they may fracture teeth or cause digestive upset.

7. Salt: Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning in cats, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in severe cases. It is best to avoid giving cats salty foods like potato chips or pretzels.

8. Macadamia Nuts: These nuts contain a toxin that can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and increased body temperature in cats. Although the exact mechanism of toxicity is not fully understood, it is best to keep macadamia nuts out of reach from cats.

9. High-Fat Foods: Sterilized cats are prone to weight gain due to reduced metabolic rate and increased appetite. Therefore, high-fat foods should be limited or avoided to prevent obesity and related health issues such as diabetes and joint problems.

10. Human Medications: Many human medications are toxic to cats, including over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. It is crucial to keep all medications out of reach from pets and consult a veterinarian before giving any medication to a cat.

In conclusion, while sterilized cats may have specific dietary needs due to their altered metabolism, avoiding the foods mentioned above can help maintain their overall health and prevent potential health issues. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your sterilized cat based on its individual needs and health status.