Did you know that there are a number of human foods that are dangerous for cats to eat? While most people are aware that chocolate and onions can be toxic to their pets, there are many other food items that pet owners should be cautious of. In this post, we will explore some of the most harmful human foods for cats. Keep these in mind next time you’re cooking and make sure to keep your kitty safe!
Poisonous/Dangerous Foods That You Should Never Feed to Your Cat
Cats are generally known for being finicky eaters, but that doesn’t mean they won’t try to sample your food from time to time. Unfortunately, many of the foods we enjoy on a regular basis can be dangerous or even poisonous for our feline friends. Here are some of the most harmful human foods for cats that you should never feed them:
Learn More: 10 Household Items That Are Dangerous to Your Cat
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to cats. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats, and larger amounts can lead to more serious problems such as seizures and heart attacks. If your cat has eaten any amount of chocolate, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells in cats and cause anemia. Cats are particularly sensitive to onions, so even small amounts can be harmful. If your cat has eaten any onions or garlic, call your vet right away.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins contain substances that can cause kidney damage in cats. Even a small amount can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, so it’s important to keep your cat away from grapes and raisins altogether. If your cat has eaten any grapes or raisins, call your veterinarian immediately.
Read More: Can Cats Have Raw Eggs?
Coffee, Tea, and Caffeine
Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages contain caffeine, which is toxic to cats. Symptoms of caffeine toxicity include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart arrhythmias, and tremors. If your cat has consumed any coffee, tea, or other caffeinated beverage, seek veterinary care immediately.
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause liver damage and low blood sugar in cats. Symptoms of alcohol toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and difficulty walking. If your cat has consumed any alcohol, call your veterinarian immediately.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs may contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning in cats. They also contain an enzyme that can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B, which can lead to deficiencies. If your cat eats raw eggs on a regular basis, it’s important to have them checked by a vet to make sure they’re not developing any health problems.
Learn More: Can Cats Eat Dog Food?
Raw Fish
Raw fish may contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning in cats. It may also contain parasites that can infect your cat. If your cat eats raw fish, it’s important to have them checked by a vet and to cook the fish thoroughly before feeding it to them.
Read More: Can Cats Eat Salami?
Dairy Products
Many cats are lactose intolerant and can’t digest dairy products properly. Eating dairy products can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in cats. If your cat enjoys eating cheese or drinking milk, make sure to choose a lactose-free variety.
Fat Trimmings and Bones
Fat trimmings and bones can cause pancreatitis in cats. Fat trimmings can also block the intestines, which can be life-threatening. If your cat eats fat trimmings or bones, call your veterinarian immediately.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is used as a sweetener in many products, including gum, candy, and some peanut butter brands. It can cause low blood sugar and liver damage in cats. If your cat has eaten anything containing xylitol, call your veterinarian immediately.
Read More: Can Cats Eat Pasta?
Avocados
Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. The fruit, leaves, and seeds of avocados are all poisonous to cats, so it’s important to keep them away from this fruit altogether.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can cause weakness, paralysis, and even death in cats. If your cat has eaten any macadamia nuts, call your veterinarian immediately.
Raw Meat
Raw meat may contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning in cats. It may also contain parasites that can infect your cat. If your cat eats raw meat, it’s important to have them checked by a vet and to cook the meat thoroughly before feeding it to them.
All About Cats in Our Detailed Guide Here: The Ultimate Guide To Cat healthcare
Candy
Candy can be a choking hazard for cats and can also cause tooth decay. If your cat eats candy, make sure to monitor them closely and call your veterinarian if they start showing any signs of illness.
Salt
Salt can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration in cats. Eating too much salt can also lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening. If your cat has eaten anything salty, call your veterinarian immediately.
Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can rise and expand in the stomach, causing pain and potentially leading to serious health problems. If your cat has eaten yeast dough, call your veterinarian immediately.
These are just some of the most harmful human foods for cats. Be sure to keep these in mind when cooking or snacking around your kitty! If you think your cat has ingested any of these foods, call your vet right away.
Read More: Can Cats Eat Dog Food?
