What can't you feed cats? - briefly
Cats should not be fed chocolate, onions, garlic, raisins, grapes, and raw fish due to their toxicity or potential health risks. These foods can cause serious issues such as kidney failure, anemia, or even death in cats.
What can't you feed cats? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. However, there are several foods that can be harmful or even toxic to cats. It is crucial for cat owners to be aware of these items to ensure their feline companions' health and safety.
Firstly, chocolate is highly toxic to cats due to the presence of theobromine and caffeine. These substances can cause restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and even death in severe cases. Additionally, onions, garlic, and chives contain thiosulfates, which can damage a cat's red blood cells and lead to anemia.
Grapes and raisins are also dangerous for cats. The exact substance causing toxicity is unknown, but ingestion of these fruits can result in kidney failure. Avocados, while not highly toxic, contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. Moreover, the pit poses a choking hazard or could cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed.
Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources should never be given to cats. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage, while raw bones may carry bacteria that can lead to food poisoning. Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, are not suitable for most adult cats as they lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose, which can result in digestive upset.
Alcohol is extremely toxic to cats and should be avoided at all costs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coma, and even death. Raw fish, particularly tuna, can lead to a thiamine deficiency in cats, which can result in neurological symptoms such as seizures.
Macadamia nuts are known to be toxic to dogs, but their effects on cats are not well-documented. However, it is best to avoid feeding them to cats due to the potential risk of gastrointestinal upset or other adverse reactions. Furthermore, raw meat and eggs can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning in cats.
Lastly, human medications should never be given to cats without veterinary approval. Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs are toxic to cats, including pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as antidepressants.
In conclusion, cat owners must be vigilant about the foods they offer their pets to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances. If a cat ingests any potentially toxic food or substance, immediate veterinary attention is crucial to ensure prompt and appropriate treatment.