When it comes to the health of your feline friend, all you want to make sure is he get the right kind of food for the benefit of his nutritional needs.
Some foods which are right for humans can be a possible danger for both cats and dogs because their metabolism is different from us. Some cats may experience mild digestive issues while others can have severe effects and even lead to death.
We understand how much you value your cats since they are already a member of your family, spoiling them too much to their meals might not always be the right thing to do.
Many of our foods are seem tasty for them but can be deadly if ingested. Even though how much you are convinced to share your food with your friend, your cat should not be given human food unless it is recommended by your vet.
The following are the lists of foods that can be dangerous to your cats and should not be fed either it is intentionally or unintentionally.
List of Foods: Can Your Cats Eat That? All You Need to Know
Foods That Your Cat Should Not Eat
Lists of Foods That Are Dangerous to Your cats and Why They Are Harmful?
Can Cats Eat Onions and Garlic?
Both onions and garlic can cause damage to the red blood cells and often lead to anemia in cats. The sulfoxides and disulfides are the main chemicals here that destroy the red blood cells. An affected red blood cell loses their ability to carry oxygen in the body.
Cooking onions and garlic don’t reduce the potential risk of toxicity. Powdered onions, fresh or cooked can also be found in baby food which is sometimes given to the cat especially when they are sick. So make sure to read the labels before giving this type of food to your feline friend.
The level of poisoning can be determined by the size of the dose ingested. However, loss of appetite and lethargy can be an early sign of toxic reaction. The sooner you assess food poisoning in cats, the better the chance you’ll save them. So, if you notice any strange reactions, do not hesitate to take them to the vet.
Garlic is also a component of onion and it is very dangerous to your cats as well. As a matter of fact, it can be more dangerous than onions since the toxic substances are more condensed. Some may ask what if the food contains a little amount of garlic and onion? It is best to completely remove this kind of food to your cat.
Can Cats Eat Grapes?
Raisins are indeed healthy snack for human but not for cats. A small number of raisins can cause sudden kidney failure both for cats and dogs.
Pet owners’ must avoid giving this as a treat. It is still unknown what kind of substance that is causing the toxicity. If your cats accidentally ingest it, signs usually appear within 24 hours. Vomiting is usually seen within 12 hours after the ingestion. Other signs to watch for are
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Decreased urine output
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain
- Death
Cats that have underlying kidney disease are more at risk of raisins and grape toxicity.
Can Cats Eat Macadamia Nuts? NO!
Macadamia nuts are very popular and healthy snacks for humans but can be poisonous to cats. They are often found in chocolates and candies The reason why macadamia nuts are dangerous to cats are not yet clear but the toxicity occurs within 12 hours accompanied with weakness in the hind limb, vomiting, unable to control movements, fever, abdominal pain, tremors, stiffness, and pale gums.
In some cases, the toxicity subsides without any treatment within 24 to 48 hours but cat monitoring is highly suggested.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate?
Can cats eat chocolates? The answer is no. Chocolates are even more toxic to cats compared to dogs. Since cats are not usually exposed to human foods like dogs, chocolate poisoning is less common and talked about.
Chocolate has a chemical compound called theobromine which is toxic to both cats and dogs. It also contains caffeine which can be found in tea, soft drinks, and coffee.
Theobromine has no bromine and known to be an alkaloid which can be found naturally in plants.
This substance can cause a reaction in the body for some reasons:
- Tachycardia
- Low blood pressure
- It serves as a diuretic that increases fluid loss
- Affects the nervous system
- Smooth muscles are relaxed
The human body can digest theobromine but not for cats. This is the reason why we enjoy chocolates without suffering from possible consequences. The substance from this food can stay in the cat’s bloodstream for about 24 hours after ingestion and since the body cannot metabolize it, the toxic reaction starts and in a worse scenario, it automatically leads to death.
Signs and Symptoms of Chocolate Toxicity in Cats
There are several symptoms to watch for once your cat ingested a lot of chocolates. These are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Fever
- Fast breathing
- Abnormal heart rate
- Lethargy
- Tremors or muscle shaking
- Coma
- Heart attack
- Weakness
- Seizures
If you think your cat has eaten some amount of this food, the best thing you can do is call your vet immediately.
Can Cats Eat Ham?
Processed food like ham and bacon are very popular among humans. Although they are not completely healthy, they are still appreciated because of the taste. Since your cat is a carnivore, it may seem like it’s a good idea to give them meat products like ham.
But the question is, can cats eat ham? The answer is no. Are these products should be kept away from our felines? Yes!
Hams are not okay to be feed in cats. Pork is safe for cats but not ham and bacon. Both contains a high amount of sodium which is not ideal for cats. If you are to give them pork, make it sure to cook it very well at a temperature of 140 F.
You might be thinking a small slice of ham will be okay, but no. It’s best not to give even a small piece of ham.
Can Cats Eat Avocado? No Way!
Avocados contain a substance called persin especially those types of Guatemalan avocado. It is known to cause toxicity in cats and dogs, birds, and horses. A regular avocado can be mildly toxic unless ingested in a large amount of content.
A healthy adult cat will not die from eating avocado but can experience diarrhea, stomach update and vomiting. Kittens and old cats with health issues are highly potential at risk.
If your cat exhibit difficulty swallowing and breathing accompanied with a high fever and increased heartbeat, call emergency treatment right away. The skin of avocados can also be dangerous to cats once ingested.
To avoid yourself from worrying, limit or completely remove the access of avocado for your cat. Implement extra caution when it comes to other animals as well especially for birds and horse.
Can Cats Eat Citrus?
The leaves, fruit and seeds, and oils of citrus plants consist of different amount of citric acid which can cause irritation and possible central nervous system depression if ingested in particular amounts. Small ingestion may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and vomiting.
While excessive citrus intake may cause severe reactions. The truth is, cats are likely to avoid citrus food on their own so there is nothing to worry about.
Can I Give My Cat Milk and Dairy?
We all know cats love milk and dairy products but are they safe? It may be quite surprising to know that most cats are lactose intolerant. It means that they cannot easily metabolize milk sugar and dairy products causing them a stomach upset, dehydration, and diarrhea.
It’s true that cats love milk but milk it is not good food for them.
Can Cats Eat Raw Meat?
The main reason why raw meat and raw eggs should not be given is due to bacterial and parasites contamination which can be a life-threatening situation for them. Many pet owners do not realize that bones can also become contaminated with disease-causing bacteria.
All meats have bacteria on it but a high amount of bacterial presence can cause illnesses. These common types of pathogens are E.coli, listeria, salmonella, and campylobacter.
Cats only have a short gastrointestinal tract so this means the meats pass through the intestines faster. Another thing is that cats’ have high levels of acids in their stomach which can break down the protein and kills the bacteria.
However, there will always be a possible risk of bacterial contamination. It is best to give them cooked meat but never give cooked bones and cooked chicken bones for it causes destruction in the stomach walls. Wings and chicken necks can be a great treat thus helping it improve dental hygiene.
What Do Cats Eat? Surely Not Xylitol!
According to some studies, Xylitol is dangerous not only to cats but to all types of animals. In cats, it can stimulate a sudden release of insulin leading to low blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. Once your cat ingested a product that consists of xylitol, symptoms may appear such as vomiting, lethargy, seizures, lack of movement, and coma.
Those that swallowed higher doses may result in liver damage and death. The signs of liver failure may appear 1 to 2 days after the ingestion accompanied with vomiting. You may need to watch for black tarry stool, jaundice, and clotting problems.
Ingestion of sugar-free chewing gum is one of the common causes of emergency cases in vet. The initiation of xylitol as an alternative to sugar in some grocery stores has increased the rate of potential toxicity. Although it is completely safe for humans, it can be risky for cats and dogs.
It is important for pet owners to understand that a simple sweet cookie or cupcake can actually kill their pets.
Can My Cats Drink Alcohol? No!
Alcohol is not food for cats and dogs and should never be given to them. These involve liquor, wine, beer whiskey, and any type of alcoholic beverage. Just like the human, cats can also have the same effect on their brain and liver.
The only difference is that; you can immediately see the effect on them than us. As a matter of fact, a small amount of alcohol can cause coma to your friend and possibly lead to severe cases. The higher the amount of alcohol is taken, the worse the symptoms may appear.
Below are the common manifestations of alcohol poisoning:
- Confusion
- Discomfort
- Behavioral changes
- Depression
- Constant urination around the house
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of consciousness
Can Cats Eat Chicken Bones?
You just finished your dinner and you have leftover bones. Your cat looks at you.
Should you give your cat these bones? They would eat them in the wild, right? Can cats eat chicken bones?
Before throwing your cat a chicken bone, let’s take a look at the benefits and the dangers.
A Bit About Chicken Bones
There are various sized bones out there and bones from various parts of the animal’s body. Consider smaller bones such as chicken wings, ribs, and necks or Cornish hen. Bones are rich in minerals, including calcium, and provide a good tooth and gum workout to eat.
Animals in the wild know the benefits of the bones and eat regularly. People are being encouraged to make bone broth for all the minerals.
A warning about bones: they can splinter easily and can have sharp edges. They may get lodged in your cat’s digestive tract if not consumed properly or if the wrong bone is fed.
What Do Chicken Bones Contain?
Bones offer a great source of minerals; including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. To function and be absorbed properly magnesium, boron, copper, molybdenum, potassium, sulfur, zinc, and vitamins A, B6, D and E, must accompany calcium. This is why supplements may not work properly for a cat.
Things To Consider About Chicken Bones…and Cats
Bones, especially from chicken and turkey, can splinter and possibly become stuck in a cat’s throat. Bones also have sharp edges that can block or pierce a cat’s intestines during digestion.Bones should be raw, as they do not splinter as often as cooked ones do. Raw bones also contain calcium phosphate, which is important to keep in a ratio with the calcium your cat consumes.
A bone may pass through the digestive system without causing any problems, but if it does get stuck, it may not be apparent for a few days. Surgery will likely be needed to correct the blockage. It’s important to keep a close eye on your cat for a few days after eating bones.
If your cat vomits, has diarrhea, has no interest in eating or your cat’s stomach appears swollen, then you should immediately call your vet.
Bones are not only full of good nutrients – they also give your cat good dental hygiene by massaging the gums and making the cat use its side teeth to eat. Chewing is good to prevent tartar and plaque buildup.
So, Can Cats Eat Chicken Bones?
The experts are divided on this answer, but with proper care, your cat can be thrown a bone.
If you want to feed your cat’s bones for the abundant minerals and dental benefits, consult your vet first. It’s best to start your cat on bones when it is young or a kitten. If the cat doesn’t chew properly, the chewing action may actually damage its teeth.
Watch the size of bone you give your cat. Chicken wings, ribs, or neck or are recommended for size. Also, do not cook the bones as they may splinter easier.
The most important thing: always supervise your cat when eating bones and watch for signs of blockage a few days later.
Foods That Cats Can Eat in Moderation
Can Cats Cheese? Sure. In Moderation
Cheese is a good source of protein and most cats love it! The question is, can cats eat cheese? The answer is yes; cats can eat cheese. Although it causes a mild stomach upset, it won’t hurt them seriously.
However, if a lot of cheese has been consumed, your cat could have bad digestive issues. Too much cheese can also lead to weight gain which is not recommended.
Why Should it Be Eaten in Moderation?
The only reason why cheese should be eaten in moderation is because it is made up of milk which is difficult for cats to digest. As mentioned earlier in this article, their digestive system is sensitive to dairy products that usually causes diarrhea and vomiting. You don’t want your cat to experience such things.
How much Cheese is safe for your cat?
If you feel like giving them a cheese, make sure to provide only a small portion and check first how their stomach reacts to it. Cut the cheese into small pieces. Limit also the amount of yogurt and sour cream if you desire to give them these treats. Low lactose types of cheese and milk are something you would love to try.
Benefits of Cheese?
If your cat is able to metabolize the cheese, it’s a good thing! Cheese is rich in protein. Just don’t overfeed as much as possible. It can be a tasty treat for them.
Can Cats Eat Strawberries?
Can cats eat strawberries? Yes, they can without any possible health problems. Select a fresh and washed strawberries. Cut them in small portion so they can eat it properly. Be careful with the types of strawberry-flavored foods for it may not be an ideal treat for them. Limit the number of strawberries so your cat can enjoy this delicious snacks.
Why Should Eat Strawberries in Moderation?
The only concern here is not to overfeed your furry friend with strawberries. Don’t worry because it is not toxic for them but too much consumed of this food might cause digestive issues due to the sugar content.
Moderation is important. Feed only in a small amount at a time. Offer it occasionally as a reward but never include it in his daily diet.
How much strawberry is safe for your cat?
To prevent possible stomach problems and diarrhea, limit the strawberry intake. It is also important for pet owners to understand that cats must be taken away from the strawberry plants because it might give them allergic reactions. Cut the strawberries into small pieces to help them digest it properly and avoid stomach sensitivities.
The benefit of Strawberries in Cats?
Even though cats can eat strawberries, the health benefit it can give is only a little. Protein is necessary for their diet and strawberries cannot be able to provide that. Although strawberries are rich in antioxidant ingredients, your friend may still need to eat a lot before achieving this benefit.
Antioxidants are very useful that kills free radicals inside the body. We all know that these free radicals can cause severe destruction to the cells which a to several types of diseases.
Moreover, antioxidants are used to fight cancer cells. Although it cannot prevent the development of cancer or even cure it, giving your cat an antioxidant type of food like strawberries can help lessen the risk of developing such illness.
Can Cats Eat Yogurt? In Moderation
Do not be surprised if your cats can eat yogurt. It is one of the few dairy products that your friend can eat without any harm.
So to answer the question whether your cat can eat yogurt? Yes, they can as long as they follow the following restrictions:
- The yogurt must be plain and should have probiotics in it.
- It should not consist of artificial sweeteners or anything sweet added to it.
- Yogurt must be given in moderation.
- Do not include it in their daily diet but it is best to give only as a treat in a small volume.
Why Should it Be Eaten in Moderation?
It should be taken in moderation because yogurt is still a dairy product. There are types of yogurts that have added sweetened flavors that will surely upset their stomach. Make sure to only provide plain yogurts.
It can be a real health benefit to your cat since it is loaded with vitamins that maintain red blood cells and keep the nervous system healthy and functional.
How much Yogurt is Safe for Your Cat?
It is best to give yogurts in a small amount since we are avoiding flavored varieties in this food. Yogurts that are flavored usually have added additives that can be bad for your cat’s overall health.
The benefit of Yogurts in Cats?
Yogurt has been part of healthy diet for cats and is recommended by most vets because of the benefit of live bacteria in this food that makes it beneficial in their tummies. These bacteria help improve their immune system promoting a healthier life and easy digestion.
This is because of the intestinal flora that the bacteria help to enrich. Also, it is rich in probiotics making their digestive system function properly by having a good bowel movement. Plain yogurt can improve your cat’s diarrhea and it is ideal to give them about 5ml of yogurt before mealtime is suffering from such condition.
Moreover, the bacteria from this food can help cat’s digestive issues due to swallowed hairball. A sensitive stomach that causes vomiting will also be treated with a small portion of yogurt.
Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter? Is it Too Sticky?
Can cats eat peanut butter? Since it is not considered to be harmful, it should not be included in their regular diet. However, it can be given as a treat and they will surely love the taste.
Give them some peanut butter and see if they truly enjoy it. Just make sure to keep it in moderation. Too much peanut butter may cause them diarrhea and vomiting because of sugar. Watch out only for the possibility of getting it stuck in their mouth which may lead to possible choking.
Reasons Peanut Butter Should Be Eaten in Moderation
Peanut butter has a lot of fats which makes them at risk to obesity and carbohydrates which can be a cause of diabetes.
If this type of food is given on a regular basis, it could have a negative effect on their overall health. Also, peanut butter can be stuck to the walls of your cat’s mouth which can be hardly removed and later can lead to choking. This is the reason why the consumption of this food must be limited to them.
How much Peanut Butter is Safe for Your Cat?
Give only a small amount of peanut butter following the suggestions below:
- The amount of this food must not more than a half teaspoon
- Do not repeat for more than once a week
- Select the type of peanut butter that is plain and does not consist of added additives, no sugar, salt, sodium and oil as much as possible.
The benefit of Peanut Butter in Cats?
There are not much health benefits of peanut butter in cats. As a matter of fact, it is rich in fats and salts which can be the reason why it should be given in moderation.
Can Cats Eat Bread?
Do you think cats can eat bread? Yes, it’s safe for cats to eat but only in moderation. Most cats love the taste of bread so there is a high possibility that your furry friend would love it! However, it is important to understand that not all types of bread are safe.
Those that are flavored with raisin and garlic are not allowed for felines due to its toxicity effect. So choose only the ones that are plain and safe. Do not offer raw bread dough for it may cause a serious health effect.
Reasons Bread Should Be Eaten in Moderation.
Bread is perfect for your cat as a treat! It should be given in moderation because it is rich in carbohydrates. Cats do not need to consume carbohydrates in order to survive because they are carnivorous. Complex carbohydrates can lead to obesity in felines and also implies to us, humans.
We all know that obesity causes unnecessary health complications like diabetes, arthritis and sometimes can result to death. We don’t want this to happen to your fur friend, so if you wish to share your bread with them, make sure to give only in moderation.
The Amount of Bread Your Cats Can Eat
The daily caloric intake of your cat should not be more than 15% average of human food. Cats with stomach upset can have a reaction to any type of food once consumed.
If you give bread and observe vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, this practice must be stopped, and talk to your vet about this condition.
The benefit of Bread in Cats?
Bread has no health benefit to cats but they can eat a small amount of it without worrying about possible health reactions. A bread that is rich in fiber improves bowel movement which can be beneficial but the effect is very little with cats.
What Can Cats Eat?
There are human foods that are safe for cats. On the other hand, it is ideal to use them only as a treat but should not use as a substitute in their regular diet.
Can Cats Eat Banana? Any Benefits?
Bananas are rich in nutrients and a wonderful diet for humans. What about felines? Can cats eat bananas?Yes, they can.
In fact, bananas are not included in toxic food for cats so they are safe for your friend to eat. However, keep it in moderation and do not use it as a part of a regular diet. It is important to keep them healthy at all times.
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas have health benefits in humans in different ways but not for cats. Bananas have a natural source of sugar which can be bad for your cat if consumed a lot.
The cat’s metabolism may not be able to absorb sugar the way our bodies are. These sugars can stay in your cat’s body and later may cause health issues such as obesity and diabetes.
Nutritional Content in Bananas
Banana is one of those wonderful foods and indeed full of nutrition. It is rich in potassium which is about 400mg and helps avoid muscle cramps after a heavy exercise.
It is also a great source of fiber, sugars and vitamins. In addition, they are very tasty.
Can Cats Eat Rice? Yes, but in Moderation
Can cats eat rice? Yes, they can eat but not uncooked rice. Keep it in moderation to help them improve their digestion and provides the energy they need every day. You should keep in mind that rice cannot be used as a regular diet and must be given occasionally.
If possible, it should be fed under the recommendation of your vet especially if your friend is recovering from diseases or surgical procedures.
Health Benefits of Rice
Rice does not consist of a lot of vitamins and minerals but can have good benefits to your cat:
- Rice has enough amount of carbohydrates which will give them energy to play and keep them active all day.
- It has a fiber that helps in digestion making the bowel movement easier.
- Rice is also easy for them to digest but there is still a possibility of constipation once consumed in a large amount.
- During stomach upset, some vet may require owners to feed their cats with rice because it helps treat diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems.
Rice alone is not enough to maintain the health of your feline friend. You must still stick to the right food formula created for them.
Nutritional Content in Rice
Rice is only a plain carbohydrates and some cats are not attracted to it. Protein is more appealing to them and this is the reason why they must be fed with chicken and beef instead of full grains.
Can Cats Eat Salmon?
Salmon is healthy and good for humans as well as for cats. It is rich in fatty acids (Omega 3) and Omega 6 which help protect against possible illnesses. Although it’s healthy, salmon cannot be used as a substitute for their diet but can be given as a treat.
It also contains Vitamin B6, B12, and protein.
Health Benefits of Salmon
The health benefit of salmon is keeping your feline’s skin healthy at all times. It helps the joints stay in shape. Compare to saturated fats, the fats that can be found in salmon known as polyunsaturated fats will not block into the arteries and cause any possible problems related to saturated fats. The Omega 3 can improve brain development and overall well-being.
Nutritional Content in Salmon
Salmon is healthy food for humans and a great source of omega 3, essential vitamins, and protein.
Can Cats Eat Fish?
Ever since you were a child watching cartoons, it has always been shown that cats love to eat fish. You see the cats watching the pet fish in his tank and plotting to catch its dinner in the cartoon. It’s nature’s way, right? Cats eat fish, simple as that!
Cats are born predators and love to chase small, moving objects, so it’s natural that they should eat fish. But, is this really true, or do we just think cats should eat fish?
Let’s check the facts and set the record straight.
A Bit About Fish
Experts have told us that fish is an excellent source of protein and Omega 3s for our bodies and our diets. There are plenty of fish in the sea so to speak, so we have a wide variety of selections when determining which to eat. Along with a variety of fish available, there are several preparations – raw like sushi, fried like fish and chips, grilled, baked, etc.
The list goes on and on.
What about our furry feline friends? Should they enjoy the fish and are there any restrictions to consider?
What Does Fish Contain?
Fish provides excellent nutritional value with large amounts of protein and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and D. Protein is easily digestible. However, fish also contains a lot of iodine and other chemicals such as mercury and magnesium.
Things To Consider About Fish…and Cats
Many people are probably not aware that fish is a highly allergenic food for felines. Cats that eat allergenic foods over and over can end up with lung inflammation leading to asthma.
Fish fed in high amounts can also lead to thiamine (a form of Vitamin B) deficiency, which can cause loss of appetite, seizures, and even death.
Cats are not meant to consume large amounts of iodine, which can lead to hyperthyroidism. There’s also been a link established between pop-top cans or canned cat food and hyperthyroidism.
Let’s not forget the magnesium content in fish has been linked to urinary tract diseases in cats. A diet overloaded with the mineral magnesium can trigger magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals in your cat. Crystals are a big problem for many cats.
You think your cat craves fish? Cats have a tendency to become addicted to any protein they consume exclusively, like fish and chicken.
So, Can Cats Eat Fish?
Fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to your pet’s well being. If you supplement your pet’s diet with fish, you should consider sardines packed in water. Sardines don’t live long enough to absorb and store toxins in their bodies.
Feeding wild caught salmon in rotation with other proteins is also an excellent way to get those Omega 3s.
Be sure to limit any fish-based commercial pet food, as there may be more added ingredients that could be harmful to your cat.
Like any other ingredient, fish should be given as part of a balanced diet. There is evidence that fish does have good vitamins for your cat when fed in moderation.
Can Cats Eat Tuna?
Tuna has become a common food for humans, whether as a quick, filling snack out of a can or part of a larger meal. As much as cats love fish, they may show an affinity for tuna that outmatches even the hungriest human.
With so many tuna-flavored cat foods and treats out there, it’s reasonable to think that giving your cat some tuna would provide a healthy, beneficial meal, but is it really something cats should consume?
A Bit About Tuna
Tuna first gained popularity during the First World War, when soldiers overseas required convenient, portable food that could sustain them during the war. Canned tuna became the food of choice, and by 1954, the United States was the largest tuna market in the world.
Tuna are typically caught in warm water and shipped frozen to factories, where they undergo processing and canning techniques before being sent off to the marketplace.
What Does Tuna Contain?
Most brands of tuna typically add salt, canola oil, and vegetable broth to increase the depth of flavor, but all tuna contains the same nutrients. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week, and tuna can help your fish intake and provide several benefits for your body.
Tuna is packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins, all of which promote good health and well-being for humans. For cats, it may not be the same.
Things To Consider About Tuna…And Cats
As well all know, cats can be very picky eaters, but they are often drawn to tuna because of their love of fish.
Cat diets can be quite simple, as they don’t require a huge variety of different foods to maintain good health. Just lots of protein-rich, meat-based product. Consuming tuna on a regular basis can help humans, but it provides little nutritional benefit for cats. The additional salt, oil, and broth are not things that your cat needs and could also lead to health issues such as steatitis, an inflammation of your cat’s body fat.
Though not harmful to humans, canned tuna also contains mercury that, if built up over time, can eventually lead to mercury poisoning due to your cat’s smaller body size and inability for their body to cope.
Some symptoms of mercury poisoning include:
- Unable to stand or walk
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appretite
- Poor color
- Abdominal pain
Verdict – Can Cats Eat Tuna?
Cats can eat a small amount of tuna as a treat but follow recommended guidelines. Feeding tuna to your cat regularly may cause health problems later on.
Keep in mind, tuna-based cat foods and treats are designed for feline consumption. Canned tuna contains fatty oils and nutrients for humans, but tuna-based cat food is created to provide a healthy amount of protein while keeping mercury intake at a safe level. It’s important to vary your cat’s food to achieve the optimum nutritional value and overall meal enjoyment, but tuna-based cat food isn’t harmful.
Just like most food meant for humans, it’s best to be cautious before feeding your cat too much tuna.
Can Cats Eat Eggs?
Cats can eat eggs in a little amount but raw eggs should not be given because of possible bacterial infection that could result in food poisoning.
Health Benefits of Eggs
Others believe that eggs help improve the coat of felines since it contains several vitamins, minerals and amino acids which are beneficial to their health. Eggs can be a great food supplement to their diet if given in moderation.
Nutritional Content in Eggs
Cook egg is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and protein. So make sure to cook them very well before giving it as a snack. Some owners only feed them the white part because it is rich in amino acids and proteins.
It is also known to have a less amount of fats, phosphorus, and cholesterol. The protein that can be found in eggs is easily digestible which makes it an ideal food source. In fact, dried eggs can also be found in pet food ingredients.
Can Cats Eat Broccoli?
Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, cantaloupe, sprouts, and green beans are safe for cats. They are somewhat similar to cat-friendly grass. It is one of the reasons why some cats are attracted to them and even crave for it.
Although it is good to give them vegetables, keep it in moderation and it should not be a part of their daily diet.
Health Benefits of Broccoli
- It lowers cholesterol – Broccoli is known to lower cholesterol levels. Offering them this kind of food as a treat can be beneficial in their health without any problems.
- Encourage good digestion – It is known to help with the digestive process since it is rich in fiber content, it promotes good bowel movement. It is a good thing to reduce constipation if they are suffering from this condition.
Nutritional Content in Broccoli
Broccoli is full of antioxidant properties. It helps remove free radicals from your cat’s body and prevent the formation of cancer cells.
Can Cats Eat Quinoa?
Before we answer this important question, we need to understand a little bit more about quinoa.
A Bit About Quinoa
Over the past few years, Quinoa (pronounced: Keen-Wah) has become increasingly popular in Europe and the USA. Eating quinoa has a number of benefits, partly because it is extremely high in fiber as well as being gluten-free.
Obviously humans far and wide enjoy eating quinoa on a daily basis, but can cats eat quinoa? Before we can answer this question, let’s have a look inside quinoa to see what it is made up of.
What Does Quinoa Contain?
Quinoa has some awesome content, including:
- Protein – contains all 9 essential amino acids, which helps to build muscle.
- Magnesium – magnesium is great for reducing a cat’s blood pressure.
- Fiber – great for maintaining your cat’s glucose levels and excellent for the intestines.
- Manganese and Copper – lots of antioxidants which will help your cat fight cancer.
In short, everything about quinoa is healthy. That is why it is known as a “complete protein”. This means that quinoa contains all of the amino acids required to maintain a healthy diet – whether you are a cat or a human!
Things To Consider About Quinoa
When cooked, quinoa is light, fluffy, and has a unique flavor that some cats really enjoy. Quinoa is also excellent for diabetic cats – the low glycemic index supports an even blood sugar level. I have come across plenty of cat owners who incorporate quinoa into their cat’s diets. It is also frequently used in commercial cat foods as well as treats. It is worth mentioning that quinoa should only be given to your cat, once it has been cooked. Uncooked quinoa has been known to cause stomach upsets.
So, Can Cats Eat Quinoa?
Yes. They can. I like mixing quinoa into Giles’ dinners with some protein (lamb, poultry, rabbit, fish etc.) CatBeGood has a couple of great recipes that use quinoa in small amounts. I have also tried a great recipe by My Pawsitively Pets, which is very simple to make.
It is important to remember that cats are carnivores, so it is best to mix quinoa with other ingredients. As always, visit our best cat food list for up to date information on the best brands to be feeding your furry friend!
Can Cats Eat Catnip?
If you own a cat, you have seen how your cat reacts when catnip is in the vicinity. He or she gets a whiff and instantly reacts – rolling, twisting, rubbing, and in general going just a bit crazy. Your cat is really, really happy when catnip is in the room.
But if just smelling catnip stimulates cats so much, what happens if they eat it. Do they go extra crazy? Do they get sick? Is it even safe?
A Bit About Catnip
Catnip is an herb native to Asia, Europe, and Africa which eventually made its way to Canada and America. It’s a member of the mint family, related to spearmint and peppermint, and it has a long medicinal history for people. Cats have such an obvious reaction to it because of essential oil in the plant called nepetalactone. It is in the leaves and stem of the plant, and cats can pick up even trace amounts of it – one part to a billion parts air.
What Does Catnip Contain?
Nepetalactone is the main ingredient in catnip that causes a crazy reaction. It can turn even the most relaxed cats into a ball of happiness with energy to spare. A cat’s “high” from catnip usually lasts about 10 minutes or so. Once the effects completely wear off in about two hours, a cat can have the same reaction to catnip again. A cat’s reaction to catnip is hereditary – it shows up in about 50 percent of cats.
Things To Consider About Catnip…and Cats
Many cats react so much to catnip that they take nibble every now and then. This isn’t necessarily because they like the taste of catnip – by biting into the plant, they can release more of the nepetalactone.
You might think eating catnip intensifies a cat’s reaction to it, but it’s more common for the opposite to happen – the cat becomes more laid back and sedated. If the cat does become even more over-excited when he eats it, you should probably not let him continue eating it.
In moderation, eating catnip is harmless for cats. If, however, they eat too much – or if they have a sensitive stomach – they can get sick and have vomiting and diarrhea. This is unlikely to happen, but even if it does, it is not serious and should clear up over time.
So, Can Cats Eat Catnip?
Our answer is yes, cats can indeed safely eat catnip. If your cat enjoys having a few bites of dried catnip, think about getting him his/her own fresh catnip plant, which will offer him something new to chew on. The fresh leaves will release lots of nepetalactone when your cat nibbles on them, which will keep him/her happy. They might even stick their face in it and paw the leaves, which can provide some good entertainment.
Many pet stores sell fresh catnip plants, which you can keep in a pot. One warning – don’t plant catnip near your garden because it can grow out of control just like a weed.
How to Treat Food Poisoning in Cats?
Despite cats are being picky about the food they eat, they are still at risk to potential food poisoning. All cases of this incidence are life-threatening and it needs immediate veterinary action if your feline consumed human foods that are not safe for them.
Since cats are very curious animals, they are often prone to this case than dogs. Remember that food poisoning can also be accidental without the owners knowing it.
What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?
There are different symptoms of food poisoning. Many of these symptoms can also manifest other health issues so food poisoning is hard to diagnose. If the problem is serious and the symptoms occur for a long period of time, it is highly suggested to visit your vet.
Symptoms of food poisoning can include the following changes in appetite such as:
- Overeating or eating less
- Over drinking or drinking less
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Too much production of saliva
- Stomach pain
- Coughing
- Loss of appetite
- Increase anxiety
- Skin rashes
- Tremors or muscle twitching
- Loss of coordination
- Fever
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases
How to Treat Food Poisoning in Cats?
If you suspect that your feline has been poisoned, call a veterinarian help immediately. If possible, bring along with you a sample of the poison. The treatment will be rendered depends on the cause of this condition which may include:
- Induce vomiting may be implemented to avoid further absorption of the poison in the body
- The vet may need to pump your cat’s stomach if possible
- Activated charcoal is known to absorb the remaining poison in the body
- During seizures, an anti-seizure medication is given to control the symptoms
- Diazepam is likely to administer if muscle tremors are still occurring
- To treat dehydration and control the increase levels of acid in the blood, fluid therapy may be given. It also helps to remove any amount of poison left in the body.
- Ethanol is given to avoid antifreeze poisoning.
- If the symptoms are mild, sometimes your vet may instruct you to give your cat some water for several hours and include a bland diet like a cottage cheese and a rice to improve his stomach. If the symptoms still exist, call your vet as soon as possible.
- If skin rashes appear, wash it with light soap or shampoo and warm water. If this issue occurs after eating a certain type of food, try changing the brand to check if the problem resolves.
How to Avoid Food Poisoning in Cats?
If you are using commercial cat food to feed your feline friend, be careful in selecting the right type of food that has bad ingredients on it. If your cat is hesitant to take the food he has always love, don’t force him.
Check the date of expiration and try a different set of can food. You can also change a different brand to see if he will eat it or not.
Seek advice from your vet on what type of cat food is necessary for them. Keep informed about the possible danger of other pet types of food.
To be able to prevent the incidence of food poisoning, keep all human foods that are toxic from them away from their sight. This is also implied to certain plants inside your house or in your garden that can be poisonous to them. Don’t let your cat get near of these places or take these plants away.
Keep your cat indoors all the time which lessen the risk of attaining food poisoning incidence.
Food poisoning is likely hard to diagnose because the symptoms are minimal and there are a lot of related illnesses that can be associated with it. If your cat has experience diarrhea and vomiting and shows other unnecessary changes, inform your vet about it.
3 Best Safe Homemade Food Recipes for Cats
Preparing some homemade recipes for your beloved friend can be a special treat for him especially when you use their favorite main dishes such as chicken, fish, and beef.
The best thing about these recipes is that you don’t need to be a professional chef to create these special cuisines. All you need is a little bit of your time and a few basic ingredients which can be found most of the time in your kitchen.
The homemade food recipes can give your cat the love and care he deserves while providing delicious meals without so much added additives and harmful constituents.
The preparation doesn’t need to be expensive but you can use these recipes below to reward your friend for good behavior like allowing you to keep his teeth clean and treats for new skills learned. It is also a great way to create bonding and show how much you love them.
1. Homemade Salmon and Oat Cat Treats by Joy The Baker
Salmon fish is a great source of fish oil which is healthy and tasty as well! You can try this treat and see if your cat will love it. It might become one of his favorite snacks.
While salmon is a bit expensive than any other type of fish, it is indeed full of nutrition. You can add this to your homemade recipes created only for your beloved friend.
The best thing about this treat is that all recipes are healthy and cats will definitely love them! These cookies are made up of pink salmon, oats, eggs, olive oil, and dried catnips. As a matter of fact, salmon and oats are found in Purina Beyond cat food.
Olive oil use in this recipe can improve your cat’s digestion, treat constipation and hairballs. Moreover, oats are a good source of iron which is essential in maintaining your cat’s blood health and encourage proper functions of enzymes.
These cookies can be a great way to learn to make out of oats for your friend. They are nutritious, crunchy, and tasty.
2. Better Than Grass Salad by Thomas Holbrook
If you have no fresh grass planted in your home, homemade salad is a good alternative that you can feed your cat. This menu can satisfy their cravings about wanting to eat something leafy and green. Prepare a glass or wooden serving bowl for this recipe.
Mix all together with the veggies, sweet potatoes, fresh carrots, baby leaves of spinach, catnip, and zucchini. This could be the best way to satisfy your cat’s taste for anything green.
Zucchini is a great ingredient to mix because it consists of essential nutrients like magnesium, folate, and potassium. You can also add some alfalfa greens. This is only optional.
It is also a good source of fiber, Vitamin K, and protein. Do not forget to always provide some fresh veggies for homemade preparation.
3. Mix of Tuna and Chicken Liver for Delicious Meal by Kelly Roper
Most cats love chicken and fish. This homemade recipe is simple and definitely enjoy by your friend. Chicken and tuna is something worth trying for especially if your cat is a little picky about the meal for that day. This recipe might encourage him to eat.
Cooked the chicken very well and boiled some carrots. Mix all together with the chicken, tuna oil, boiled carrots in a large bowl. Blend the ingredients properly and serve.
Leftovers must be refrigerated for 3 days. This recipe takes only about 15-30 minutes to prepare.
Keep a Balance Diet
Creating special treats and meals for them is quite easy and anyone can definitely do it. However, it’s necessary to make sure that your cat receives the nutritional need he deserves.
The best way to maintain it is to feed them only high-quality cat food on a regular basis. Give them only homemade food recipes once or twice a week. He would surely love the food variation thus making your cat happy and healthy.
Conclusion
Prevention is Always a Better Than Cure
Most cases of human food poisoning in cats are accidental. In this case, some of them may find and chew unnecessary food on the floor or steal it on the table.
The best way to prevent this from happening is always to keep all food in closed cabinets or put it in a place where your cat cannot easily access it. During the holiday season, this scenario is commonly difficult when more foods like chocolates and other human foods are around the table.
During these times, proper awareness can help avoid your cats from finding and eating these harmful cuisines.
Another thing is that some cases of food poisoning happen when cats are given human food that includes harmful ingredients it. Approximately, human food must not be given to your feline friend unless it is recommended by your vet.
Teach your children as well not to give can dies, chocolates, and gums to your cats.
In the case of emergency when your feline eats something that he should not, inform your vet about it as soon as possible or call Animal Poison Control.