What shouldn't be given to house cats? - briefly
House cats should not be given chocolate, onions, garlic, or raw fish. These items are toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues.
What shouldn't be given to house cats? - in detail
House cats, while generally hardy, can be sensitive to certain foods and substances that may seem harmless to humans. It is crucial for cat owners to be aware of these potential hazards to ensure their pets' health and well-being.
One of the most common yet dangerous substances to cats is chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and in severe cases, death. Therefore, it is essential to keep chocolates out of reach of cats.
Grapes and raisins are another example of seemingly innocuous foods that can be harmful to cats. Although the exact toxic substance in grapes and raisins is unknown, they can cause kidney failure in cats. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. It is best to avoid feeding these fruits to your cat altogether.
Onions and garlic are part of the Allium family, which is toxic to cats. These foods contain thiosulfates and disulfides that can damage red blood cells in cats, leading to anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, elevated heart rate, and collapse. Even small amounts can be dangerous, so it is advisable to exclude these from your cat's diet.
Raw fish, particularly raw salmon, can be harmful to cats due to the presence of a thiaminase enzyme that breaks down thiamine (Vitamin B1). A deficiency in thiamine can cause neurological issues such as seizures, brain damage, and even death. Additionally, raw fish may contain bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can also be harmful to cats.
Dairy products should also be avoided for most cats. While some cats may tolerate small amounts of dairy, many are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose. Consuming dairy products can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Bones from fish or poultry should not be given to cats either. These bones are brittle and can splinter when chewed or swallowed, posing a risk of choking, internal damage, or obstruction in the digestive tract. It is safer to provide cats with appropriate cat-specific treats or toys designed for safe play and chewing.
Lastly, human medications should never be given to cats without explicit veterinary instruction. Common over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are highly toxic to cats and can cause severe damage to their liver and kidneys. Always consult your vet before administering any medication to your cat.
In conclusion, it is essential for cat owners to be mindful of the foods and substances that could potentially harm their pets. By avoiding these hazards, you can help ensure a long and healthy life for your feline companion.