What should sterilized cats not eat? - briefly
Sterilized cats should avoid raw meat and fish due to potential bacterial contamination, as well as grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and chocolate, which can be toxic to felines.
What should sterilized cats not eat? - in detail
Sterilized cats, similar to their non-sterilized counterparts, have specific dietary needs and restrictions to ensure optimal health and wellbeing. It is crucial for cat owners to be aware of what foods are harmful or unsuitable for their pets. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the foods that sterilized cats should avoid.
One of the primary concerns for sterilized cats is weight management. The hormonal changes following sterilization can lead to an increased appetite and decreased metabolism, which can result in obesity if not properly managed. Therefore, it is essential to monitor a sterilized cat's diet closely and avoid foods that are high in calories but low in nutritional value. Foods such as table scraps, human snacks, and treats designed for dogs should be strictly avoided. These foods can contribute to weight gain and may contain ingredients that are toxic or harmful to cats.
Chocolate is one of the most well-known foods that cats should never consume. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which are highly toxic to cats and can cause seizures, heart problems, and even death. Additionally, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, and chives are all highly toxic to cats and should be kept out of reach. These foods can damage a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
Dairy products are another category of food that sterilized cats should avoid. Many cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme needed to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Consumption of dairy can result in stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Although some cats may tolerate small amounts of lactose-free dairy products, it is generally best to avoid them altogether.
Raw fish, particularly raw salmon, can be harmful to cats due to its high concentration of an enzyme called thiaminase. This enzyme breaks down thiamine (Vitamin B1), which is essential for a cat's nervous system and brain function. Prolonged consumption of raw fish can lead to a thiamine deficiency, resulting in neurological symptoms such as seizures, ataxia, and even death. Cooked fish, on the other hand, is generally safe for cats in small amounts as a treat or occasional addition to their diet.
Bones from cooked meat are also hazardous to sterilized cats. These bones can splinter and cause choking, internal blockages, or puncture wounds in the cat's digestive tract. It is crucial to ensure that any meat given to a cat is boneless and cooked thoroughly to avoid these risks.
Lastly, certain human medications should be kept away from sterilized cats. Medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen are highly toxic to cats and can cause severe damage to their liver and kidneys. Additionally, some essential oils, particularly those containing phenols such as tea tree oil, can be harmful if ingested by a cat.
In summary, sterilized cats have specific dietary needs and restrictions that owners should adhere to for the wellbeing of their pets. By avoiding foods such as chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, chives, dairy products, raw fish, bones from cooked meat, table scraps, human snacks, dog treats, and certain medications and essential oils, owners can help ensure that their sterilized cats maintain a healthy weight and avoid potential health risks. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian regarding any specific dietary concerns or questions related to a sterilized cat's nutrition.