What foods are forbidden for cats? - briefly
Cats should not consume chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, or raw fish. These foods can be toxic and cause various health issues in cats.
What foods are forbidden for cats? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. While it may be tempting to offer human food to our feline friends, many common foods can be harmful or even toxic to them. Here is a detailed list of foods that cats should avoid:
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Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and in severe cases, death.
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Onions and Garlic: These contain thiosulfates that can damage a cat's red blood cells and lead to anemia. Even small amounts can be dangerous. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include lethargy, weakness, and pale gums.
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Grapes and Raisins: Although the exact substance causing toxicity is unknown, both grapes and raisins are highly toxic to cats. They can lead to kidney failure, which may result in death if not treated promptly.
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Raw Fish: While some cat foods include fish as an ingredient, raw fish can be dangerous due to the enzyme thiaminase, which breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1). A deficiency of thiamine can cause neurological problems in cats. Additionally, raw fish may contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
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Raw Meat: Although cats are carnivores, raw meat can pose risks from bacterial contamination such as Salmonella or E. coli. It's best to cook meat thoroughly before offering it to your cat.
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Dairy Products: Many cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Consuming dairy can lead to stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea.
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Macadamia Nuts: These are highly toxic to cats and can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, ataxia (loss of coordination), and increased body temperature. The exact substance causing the toxicity is unknown, but even small amounts can be dangerous.
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Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause internal damage. Raw bones are generally safer but should still be given with caution to avoid digestive upset.
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Avocado: While the flesh of avocados is generally considered safe, the pit, skin, and leaves contain persin, which can be toxic to cats. Additionally, the pit poses a choking hazard or could cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed.
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Raw Eggs: Raw eggs may contain Salmonella or E. coli bacteria, which can make your cat sick. Cooked eggs are generally safe and can even be beneficial as a source of protein.
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Xylitol: This sugar substitute is found in many products, including gum, candy, and baked goods. It's highly toxic to cats and can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, and even death.
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Salt: Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning in cats, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, seizures or coma.
If you suspect your cat has ingested any of these foods, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and potentially urgent care. Always ensure that human food is kept out of reach from cats and opt for a balanced, high-quality cat food to meet their nutritional needs.