What can't you feed a cat?

What can't you feed a cat? - briefly

Cats should not be fed chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, or raw meat as these items can be toxic and harmful to their health. Additionally, avoid giving cats dairy products like milk or cheese, as many cats are lactose intolerant.

What can't you feed a cat? - in detail

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. While it might be tempting to share human food with your feline companion, many common foods and substances are toxic or harmful to cats. Here's a detailed list of what you shouldn't feed your cat:

1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and even death in cats.

2. Grapes and Raisins: These contain an unknown toxin that can lead to kidney failure in cats. Even small amounts can be dangerous.

3. Onions and Garlic: Both are part of the Allium family and can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia in cats. Symptoms may not appear immediately, but prolonged exposure can be harmful.

4. Raw Fish: While some people feed their cats raw fish for protein, it can lead to a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine is essential for cats, and a deficiency can cause neurological problems. Cooking the fish destroys the enzyme that breaks down thiamine.

5. Bones: Especially small bones like chicken or fish bones can pose a choking hazard or cause internal damage if swallowed whole. Always ensure bones are large enough to avoid these risks.

6. Dairy Products: Many cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy products properly. Consuming dairy can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.

7. Raw Eggs: While the occasional raw egg won't likely cause harm, regular consumption can lead to biotin deficiency. Biotin is essential for skin health, and a deficiency can cause dryness and irritation. Cooking eggs destroys the enzyme that breaks down biotin.

8. Macadamia Nuts: These contain an unknown toxin that can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and increased body temperature in cats.

9. Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to cats, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, and in severe cases, coma or death.

10. Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid heartbeat, muscle tremors, and even death in cats.

11. Xylitol: Commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy, xylitol can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, causing weakness, lethargy, and seizures in cats.

12. Avocado: While the flesh of avocados is generally safe for cats, the pit, skin, and leaves contain persin, which can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Additionally, the pit poses a choking hazard or risk of internal obstruction.

13. Raw Meat: While many cats enjoy raw meat, it carries the risk of bacterial contamination, such as salmonella or E. coli, which can cause food poisoning in both cats and humans handling the meat. Always ensure any raw meat is from a reliable source and properly handled.

14. Human Medications: Many human medications are toxic to cats, including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and certain prescription drugs. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your cat.

In summary, while it might be tempting to share human food with your cat, many common foods and substances can be harmful or even toxic. Sticking to a balanced, high-quality cat food will help ensure your feline companion stays healthy and happy. If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and guidance.