Food Items You Should Avoid Feeding Your Cat

Cats may be curious about what’s on your plate, but not all human foods are safe for them. As obligate carnivores, cats have unique nutritional needs, and certain foods can be harmful, or even toxic, if ingested. Responsible feeding means knowing what not to share.

1. Onions, Garlic, and Chives

These contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts, whether raw, cooked, powdered, or in sauces, can be dangerous. Symptoms may include lethargy, weakness, or pale gums.

2. Chocolate and Caffeine

Chocolate contains theobromine, and both chocolate and caffeinated drinks overstimulate a cat’s nervous system. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, or even death in severe cases. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are particularly toxic.

3. Grapes and Raisins

Though the exact toxin isn’t fully understood, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Even a small handful can trigger vomiting, lethargy, and reduced appetite.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol has a rapid, severe impact on a cat’s liver and brain. Just a spoonful of beer, wine, or liquor can cause vomiting, disorientation, or respiratory distress. Never allow your cat to lick alcoholic beverages or food cooked in alcohol.

5. Raw Dough and Yeast

When ingested, raw yeast dough can expand inside a cat’s stomach, causing bloating and painful gas. Fermentation can also produce alcohol, compounding toxicity risks.

6. Bones and Fat Trimmings

Cooked bones can splinter, leading to choking, digestive blockages, or internal injury. Excess fat from meats can cause gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis.

7. Dairy Products

Many adult cats are lactose intolerant. Milk, cheese, and cream can lead to diarrhea, bloating, and discomfort. Cats don’t need cow’s milk; it’s a myth that it’s good for them.

8. Raw Fish and Meat

Raw fish may contain thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1), leading to neurological issues. Raw meats can harbor bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to both cats and humans.

9. Dog Food

Although not toxic, dog food often lacks essential nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and sufficient protein levels that cats require. Feeding your dog regular dog food can cause malnutrition.

10. Artificial Sweeteners (Xylitol)

Commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods, xylitol can cause insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar). Symptoms include weakness, tremors, or collapse.

Safe Alternatives

Instead of sharing table scraps, treat your cat with:

• Cooked lean chicken or fish (boneless, skinless)

• Freeze-dried meat treats

• Vet-approved cat treats

• Special broths or wet food designed for cats

Final Thoughts

Cats thrive on a balanced diet specifically formulated for their needs. While it may be tempting to share your meals, many human foods can cause severe harm. To keep your feline healthy and happy, stick to species-appropriate cat food and treats designed with their digestive system in mind.