It’s no secret that cats are always eager to give in to their cravings and join us at the dinner table. But as much as we’d like to share our snacks with our furry friends, it’s important to remember that while some human foods may appear harmless, they can be extremely toxic to cats.
To keep your feline friend safe and healthy, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the list of dangerous items so you know which foods should be avoided at all costs—and what will constitute a treat for both you and your kitty!
What are the eight toxic foods for cats?
As much as cats love to explore our kitchens, it is important to be aware of the eight toxic foods that can lead to their ill health. Allium species including garlic, onions, scallions, and leeks are dangerous for cats as they can impact their red blood cells.
Grains and legumes like green beans and string beans should be avoided due to their high levels of phosphorus which can cause bladder irritation. Avocadoes are another offender for cats because of the person chemicals found within the fruit which could damage their tissue cells.
Alcohol should also be kept away from felines as even small amounts could lead to serious neurological issues while chocolate presents a similar hazard due to its high caffeine component. Lastly, salty snacks like chips and pretzels can cause dehydration or sodium ion poisoning in cats.
Keeping these potentially hazardous foods out of reach or off-limits from your feline pal is a must in order to keep them safe and healthy.
What fruits and vegetables are toxic to cats?
Many of the fruits and vegetables that humans enjoy as part of a balanced diet can be dangerous or even toxic to cats. Grapes, raisins, and onions are particularly hazardous as they can attack the red blood cells of felines, leading to anemia.
The leaves and stems of rhubarb contain high levels of oxalates which block calcium absorption, leading to kidney failure if ingested by a cat. Garlic and chives can cause gastroenteritis in cats, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.
Fortunately for our feline companions, most fruits and vegetables are safe for cats; however, it is always wise to avoid feeding them human food whenever possible.
What foods can cats eat and not eat?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they rely on certain nutrients only found in meat-based proteins. Consequently, food like vegetables and grains that are solely or mostly based on carbohydrates won’t cut it when it comes to a cat’s diet.
That said, a few healthy supplements of certain vegetables and fruits can add nutrient variety. In general, wet food is the safest choice for cats as dry foods often contain ingredients that are bad for cats such as sugars from corn syrup. It’s best to avoid things like onions and garlic which can make cats sick.
If your cat has trouble eating more than wet food, small amounts of cooked lean meats like chicken breasts or salmon must be given without any seasoning or sauces that might contain unhealthy additives. All this considered, most owners agree that the healthiest thing for cats is to stick with natural premium wet cat food options whenever possible.
Can a cat eat ice cream?
As cute and cuddly as cats may be, it is important to remember that they have dietary needs different than ours. Ice cream may seem like a sweet treat for humans, but it is not meant to be part of a cat’s diet.
Unfortunately, cats cannot safely digest many of the ingredients that make up ice cream, such as the high concentration of dairy and added sugars, which can lead to digestive issues and even further complications if eaten in large amounts.
While spending a day at the beach eating some delicious ice cream sounds like a perfect day for us humans, our furry feline friends will have to admire it from afar!
Can I feed my cat sardines?
Many people are curious whether sardines are a suitable food option for cats. Cats actually can benefit from being fed sardines, as these small fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for skin and coat health.
However, it’s important to note that feeding your cat sardines should be done in moderation, as the bones within the fish can be a choking hazard if consumed whole. A better solution may be to use canned boneless sardines packed in oil or water.
If you decide to feed your cat fresh sardines, make sure to fully debone them before giving them to your furry friend.
It’s A Wrap
We hope that now you understand why so many toxic foods are harmful to cats, how they can be avoided, and what to do if an incident actually occurs. Cats can be notorious for exploring the world through their mouths and even the most careful cat owners sometimes find themselves in an emergency situation.
To reduce potential risks to your cat’s health, always consult your veterinarian before introducing anything new into their diet, and try to keep harmful foods away from your furry friend at all costs.
Keep information about potentially dangerous substances like onions, garlic, and chocolate handy— not only can it save time in case of a crisis, but educating yourself and your family members as well can go a long way in keeping your pet healthy and safe.
