What to Feed and Not Feed Your Cat

Let’s face it - cats can be super picky eaters! Sometimes they turn up their noses at perfectly good food, while other times they seem obsessed with whatever you’re eating. But here’s the thing: cats are actually pretty particular about their diet for a reason. Their bodies are designed to thrive on very specific types of food, and some human foods can be downright dangerous for them.

Foods That Can Harm Your Cat

Tuna - Yes, Really!

While tuna might seem like a healthy treat, feeding it regularly can lead to malnutrition. Cats can even get addicted to tuna! And here’s something scary - too much tuna can cause mercury poisoning. That can of tuna sitting by the sink? Your cat sees it as an open dinner invitation.

Onions, Garlic, and Chives

These common kitchen ingredients are super toxic to cats. They can destroy red blood cells and cause anemia. Even onion powder in baby food can be harmful. Garlic is especially bad news - it’s five times more potent than onions. Whether raw, cooked, or powdered, keep all forms away from your cat.

Milk and Dairy Products

Here’s a surprise: most cats are lactose intolerant. Just like some humans who can’t digest milk, cats’ digestive systems aren’t equipped to handle dairy foods. Giving your cat milk or cheese might seem cute, but it usually ends in diarrhea and discomfort.

Alcohol

This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating: alcohol is extremely dangerous for cats. Just two teaspoons of whiskey could put a small cat into a coma, and one more teaspoon could be fatal. The stronger the drink, the worse the symptoms.

Grapes and Raisins

These seemingly harmless fruits are actually very dangerous for cats. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Watch for vomiting and hyperactivity if your cat gets into grapes or raisins. Some cats show no immediate effects, but it’s better to keep these completely out of reach.

Caffeine

Like chocolate, caffeine is toxic to cats. Watch out for coffee beans, tea bags, energy drinks, and even some medications that contain caffeine. There’s no antidote for caffeine poisoning, which can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart problems, and muscle tremors.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains something called theobromine, which cats can’t process. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous types. Eating chocolate can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, seizures, and even death. While most cats won’t eat it voluntarily, they might if encouraged by owners who think they’re giving a treat.

Fat Trimmings and Bones

Those tempting fat scraps from meat and bones aren’t safe for your cat. Fat can cause vomiting and diarrhea, while bones can lead to choking hazards or splinter inside your cat’s digestive system.

Raw Eggs and Meat

Raw eggs can give your cat salmonella or E. coli, just like humans. Raw meat and fish carry similar risks, plus raw fish contains an enzyme that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine), which cats absolutely need. Without enough thiamine, cats can develop serious neurological problems.

Dog Food

While an occasional bite won’t hurt, dog food shouldn’t replace your cat’s regular meals. Cat food is specially formulated with higher protein levels and specific vitamins that dogs don’t need. Feeding your cat dog food long-term can lead to severe malnutrition.

Liver

Small amounts of liver are fine, but too much can cause vitamin A toxicity. This serious condition affects bones and can lead to deformities, bone growths, and even death.

Treats

Just like humans, cats can become overweight if they eat too many treats. This can lead to obesity and diabetes. Keep treats small and infrequent.

Yeast Dough

Uncooked bread dough might seem harmless, but it expands inside your cat’s stomach and can cause severe pain. As it rises, it produces alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning.

Human Medications

Keep all medications safely out of reach. Many human medicines, especially pain relievers containing acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be deadly for cats. Never give your cat human medicine unless specifically directed by your vet.

What Cats Should Be Eating

Cats are natural meat-eaters (carnivores), so they need plenty of protein from animal sources. Here’s what’s safe:

• Commercial cat food (consult with your vet to choose the right kind) (See our recommendations here)
• Occasional small portions of cooked, boneless beef
• Small amounts of plain brown rice as an occasional treat

Emergency Tips

If you suspect your cat has eaten something toxic:

1. Stay calm but act fast
2. Try to figure out exactly what and how much your cat ate
3. Call your vet immediately
4. Keep emergency contact numbers handy
5. Never wait to see if symptoms develop - some toxins work quickly

Remember: Prevention is the best medicine. Keep toxic foods and substances safely stored away, and stick to feeding your cat food specifically formulated for cats. Your furry friend will thank you!