Humans love to feed cats a bite of their tasty meals. But have you ever thought that if human food is safe for your furry buddy or will they upset their delicate digestive system. Well, the good news for all the cat parents is that certain human foods are safe for cats, while some are not. This guide explains what human foods cats can eat and what foods they must never be given.
16 Human Foods Cats Can Eat
Cooked Fish & Fish Oil
Offering your cat cooked fish such as salmon provides a dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for their coat and overall health. Ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked and free from bones; fish oil can also be added to their regular food in moderation for skin and joint health.
Cooked Lean Meats
Cats can enjoy cooked lean meats like chicken, beef, and turkey, as these are rich in protein and essential amino acids. Always serve these meats thoroughly cooked and without any added seasonings or sauces to avoid any potential health issues.
Rice
A small serving of cooked rice can help settle a cat’s stomach and provide a source of carbohydrates. It should be plain, without any butter, spices, or seasonings, which could harm your cat.
Oatmeal
Plain, cooked oatmeal can be a healthy addition to a cat’s diet, providing an alternative source of grain and fiber. However, it should be given in small amounts and never with additives like sugar or milk.
Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and can be safely given to cats if they’re cooked thoroughly to eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses. Avoid oils, butter, or seasoning during preparation.
Bread
While not nutritionally rich for cats, plain, cooked bread is non-toxic and can be offered as an occasional treat. Make sure it’s free from harmful toppings or spreads like garlic or chocolate.
Steamed Broccoli
Offering steamed broccoli can add fiber and vitamins to your cat’s diet. Ensure it’s properly cooked to aid digestion and cut into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers can serve as a crunchy, hydrating treat for cats. They should be peeled and offered in small amounts to prevent digestive upset.
Carrots
Carrots should be cooked to soften them and then cut into small pieces to be safely consumed by cats. They provide beta-carotene, vitamins, and fiber.
Peas
Fresh or frozen peas can be a healthy treat for cats, offering protein, fiber, and vitamins. Ensure they are plain and not mixed with sauces or seasonings.
Spinach
Spinach can be a nutrient-rich treat for cats, but only in small amounts and for those without a history of calcium oxalate bladder stones, as spinach contains oxalates.
Pumpkin
A small amount of plain, cooked pumpkin can aid a cat’s digestion due to its high fiber content. Ensure it’s without any added sugar or spices typically found in pumpkin pie fillings.
Bananas
Bananas are safe for cats in moderation due to their sugar content. Offer small pieces of banana as a treat, avoiding the peel, which is difficult to digest.
Watermelon
Watermelon can be a refreshing, hydrating treat, but seeds and rind should be removed to prevent any risk of intestinal blockage or choking.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a low-calorie treat rich in antioxidants and vitamins. They can be offered fresh or frozen in moderation as a small, healthy snack.
Apples
Small, peeled apple slices can be a good source of vitamins for cats. Ensure all seeds, which contain harmful cyanide, are removed and only offer the flesh of the fruit.
Also Read: Can Humans Eat Cat Food?
Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Cat
Dairy Products
While cats may like the taste of milk or cheese, most adult cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they can’t properly digest dairy. Consumption can lead to gastrointestinal upset including diarrhea and stomach pain. The myth of cats needing milk is widespread, but in reality, water is the best hydration for them.
Onions and Garlic
These common kitchen ingredients can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells in cats, leading to anemia. This toxicity can occur with raw, cooked, or powdered forms of onion and garlic. Even small amounts can be harmful, so they should be completely avoided.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are particularly dangerous.
Nuts
Certain nuts, such as macadamias, are toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors. Even non-toxic nuts are high in fats, which can lead to obesity and gastrointestinal upset, as well as pancreatitis in high quantities.
Grapes
Grapes and their dried counterparts, raisins, can cause kidney failure in cats. The exact substance that causes the toxicity is unknown, but the effects can be severe, even fatal, so it’s important to keep grapes and raisins out of reach.
Seeds
Some seeds, like apple seeds, contain compounds that can release cyanide when digested. Other seeds may not be toxic but can cause intestinal blockages if not chewed properly, so it’s best to keep all seeds away from cats.
Caffeine Containing Foods
Caffeine is extremely dangerous to cats and can lead to stimulant effects such as rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors. Found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks, even small amounts can be dangerous.
Xylitol Containing Foods
Xylitol is a sweetener often found in sugar-free products like gum and candy. It can cause a rapid release of insulin in cats, leading to hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination.
Anything with Cooked Bones
Cooked bones can splinter and cause obstruction or lacerations of the digestive system. They can also pose a choking hazard. It’s safer to avoid giving cats any kind of bones, especially those that are cooked.
Raw Dough
Eating raw dough made with yeast can be dangerous for cats. The dough can expand in their stomach, causing bloating or gastrointestinal blockages. Additionally, yeast fermentation can produce alcohol, which is toxic to cats.
Popcorn
While the popcorn itself isn’t toxic, the hard, un-popped kernels can pose a choking hazard and can cause intestinal obstructions if ingested. Additionally, the butter and salt commonly found on popcorn can upset a cat’s stomach.
Raw Fish & Meats
Raw fish and meat can contain bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, leading to food poisoning. Certain raw fish can also deplete vitamin B1, causing serious neurological symptoms in cats.
Alcohol
Even in very small amounts, alcohol can be poisonous to cats, leading to potentially fatal ethanol poisoning. Symptoms can include vomiting, disorientation, difficulty breathing, and seizures. It should never be offered to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to feed human food to cats?
Introduce human food to your cat as a small part of their diet, ensuring it is safe for feline consumption and served in a clean dish. Avoid fatty, spicy, or seasoned foods, and always start with tiny amounts to gauge their reaction. It’s best to consult a veterinarian for personalized advice on dietary changes.
How much human food can I feed my cat?
Human food should be given sparingly to cats, ideally not exceeding 10% of their total daily caloric intake to prevent nutritional imbalances. The majority of their diet should be high-quality commercial cat food formulated to meet all their nutritional needs.
How to check if human food is disturbing my cat?
Monitor your cat for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite after eating human food. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue the food immediately and consult a vet. It’s also important to observe for any signs of allergies or skin reactions.
What human foods can kittens eat?
Kittens can safely consume small amounts of cooked lean meats, cooked fish, and scrambled eggs. However, their digestive systems are sensitive, and their main diet should be specially formulated kitten food high in protein and energy to support growth and development. Always consult a vet before introducing new foods to a kitten’s diet.
Why is my cat suddenly eating human food?
Your cat may be suddenly eating human food due to curiosity, a change in taste preferences, or not being fully satisfied with their regular diet. It’s important to ensure they are receiving a balanced diet suitable for their nutritional needs.