'People Foods' That are Unsafe for Cats

Just as with dogs, there are many “people foods” that are dangerous to feline health. Many people assume that if their cat will eat it, it must be safe. Unfortunately, this simply isn’t true, as some cats will eat anything simply as a survival instinct. (Author’s note: this is true, I’ve seen my rescue cat eat paper.)

Foods That are Dangerous to Cats

There are many, many different foods that are not safe for feline consumption. Fortunately, many of the foods that are dangerous to cats are also dangerous to dogs; making it easier to remember for multiple-pet homes; though keep in mind there are some minor differences.

Foods that are dangerous to cats include:

• Alcohol; which can cause intoxication, coma or death.
• Baby food; which may contain onion powder, which is toxic to cats.
• Canned tuna; which surprisingly, can cause malnutrition. Over time, it may also cause vitamin deficiencies and mercury poisoning.
• Caffeine; found in products such as coffee, chocolate and tea, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and damage to the feline heart or nervous system.
• Fats; such as steak trimmings and other meat trimmings, can cause pancreatitis.
• Fish; when fed as a main source of food, can cause malnutrition and vitamin B deficiency, loss of appetite, seizures and death.
• Liver; can cause vitamin A toxicity, bone issues such as deformed bones, abnormal bone growth on the spine or elbow and osteoporosis. Vitamin A toxicity may also cause death.
• Macadamia nuts; damage to the digestive system, nervous system and muscular system.
• Milk, dairy products; as many cats are lactose intolerant, so milk and dairy may cause diarrhea and temporary illness.
• Raw eggs; may cause salmonella poisoning or skin and fur issues.
• Raw, uncooked meats; may cause vomiting and diarrhea from salmonella poisoning, E. coli poisoning, as well as neurological damage, convulsions or coma.
• Salt
• Sugar; may contribute to poor oral health, diabetes and feline obesity.
• Yeast doughs; which can expand and rupture the intestines or stomach.
• Xylitol; an artificial sweetner that can cause hypoglycemia, vomiting, loss of coordination, lethargy, seizures and liver failure.

Fruits That are Dangerous to Cats

• Apricots; whose pits, leaves and stems contain cyanide.
• Cherries
• Grapes and raisins; which can cause kidney failure.
• Grapefruit
• Lemons
• Limes
• Oranges
• Persimmons; which can cause obstruction, intestinal infections and discomfort.
• Plums; pits, leaves and stems contain cyanide.
• Rhubarb; can cause damage to multiple systems including the urinary, nervous and digestive systems.

Vegetables That are Dangerous to Cats

• Broccoli
• Chives; can cause severe anemia in felines. Signs of anemia include loss of appetite, weight loss, increased sleep and weakness.
• Garlic; can cause anemia.
• Mushrooms; can cause shock and death.
• Onions; either raw, cooked or in powder form, which can cause issues similar to those caused by garlic and chives.
• Potatoes
• Tomatoes

Foods That are Safe for Cats

Cats are carnivores, so in all seriousness, most fruits and vegetables should be avoided because their systems are incapable of processing them properly. However, there are many other safe alternatives that can occasionally be given to felines without any worry. This includes:

• CatSip; a milk product with added enzymes formulated specially for cats. A safer alternative than pasteurized milk.
• Fresh deli meats; without added preservatives or flavoring (such as onion powder).
• Fully cooked brown rice.
• Fully cooked meats and fish; on an occasional basis.
• Whole milk; which contains more fat and less lactose, making it a safer alternative than skim milk or 2 percent.