Safe foods and Toxic foods for pet cats

Safe foods and Toxic foods for pet cats: An ultimate Guide

As a responsible cat owner, you must know that cats have inquisitive nature. You should know that all human foods aren’t safe for cats. Sometimes, cat owners wanna feed their feline companion their own food. So, before feeding cats, you must have proper knowledge of which foods are safe for cats.

Dietary needs

Cats are carnivorous. They like animal-based protein. Compared to other animals, they have different dietary needs. Their diet should consist of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. So, let’s explore some safe foods for cats.

List of Safe foods and Toxic foods for pet cats

List of Safe Foods for Cats

Vegetables

• Asparagus

Cooked asparagus is safe for cats. Your cat might enjoy a small amount of asparagus. Asparagus has a high alkaline profile. If your cat has urinary problems, you should skip feeding this.

• Broccoli

Broccoli is considered a non-toxic food for cats. You should feed this item as a rare treat. You should also provide them in small quantities.

• Carrots

Carrots are high in fiber. They are incredibly nutrient-dense. Like other vegetables, you should feed this item as a rare treat. You should avoid feeding raw carrots.

• Green beans

Green beans are also one of the safe foods for cats. If your cats suffer from obesity, green beans can be a good snack option for cats. You should introduce these foods slowly. You should feed your cat fresh and organic beans.

• Peas

Peas contain both protein and carbohydrates. These can be a fun treat for your feline companions. But, you should feed these foods in moderation.

• Pumpkin

Pure pumpkin is safe for cats. Spiced and seasoned pumpkin isn’t safe for them.

• Spinach

Naturally, cats like leafy greens. Spinach contains some beneficial vitamins for cats. If your cats have any kidney or bladder problems, avoid feeding spinach to cats.

Fruits

• Apples

Apples are safe for cats. Before feeding, make sure that the apples are organic and skinless. You shouldn’t let them eat apple seeds. Because apple seeds are toxic to cats.

• Bananas

Bananas aren’t toxic for cats. As they are high in fiber, they are difficult to digest. A large amount of potassium and sugar is found in bananas. So, you should offer bananas in small quantities.

• Blackberries

Blackberries are extraordinarily rich in fiber. Another benefit is that they include vitamins A, C, E, and K. you should feed blackberries in small quantities and as a treat.

• Blueberries

Blueberries are safe for cats. They are rich in antioxidants which are beneficial for cats. The water and fiber content in blueberries are safe for cats. You should offer these items occasionally.

• Raspberries

Raspberries have an excessive amount of fiber and little sugar. You should offer these foods occasionally.

• Honeydew

According to ASPCA honeydew is not toxic to cats. You should consider offering it to your feline friends occasionally. It is not only rich in Vitamins A and C but also rich in fiber.

• Watermelon

Seedless watermelon is ok for cats. Most cats enjoy eating watermelon. If your cats suffer from dehydration, you can offer watermelon to your cats. If your cat has a diabetic issue, you can skip this.

Whole grains

• Brown rice

Generally, rice is offered to dogs who are suffering from diarrhea. This approach is advantageous for cats as well. Cooked brown rice is okay for cats. As rice is constipating, offer it with your vet’s oversight.

• Barley

Barley is a great digestive grain for cats. Cats like to eat barley. Barley is rich in active enzymes. It can keep your cats coat and skin healthy. If your cat suffers from digestive problems, you can feed them this item.

• Corn

In pet food, corn is often used. It is okay when it is cooked and ground. Many pet food suppliers in both dog and cat foods use corn as filler. Some cats like to eat small pieces of corn chips occasionally.

• Millet

Your cat will receive some fat and protein via millet. It is considered a healthy alternative to most of the pet food elements. Commercial cat and dog foods might include cooked millet.

• Oatmeal

Cats enjoy oatmeal the most. You can offer it to your cat as you prepare it for yourself. Don’t add salt, milk, or butter to it. You can offer it in moderation occasionally.

• Wheat

Wheat is considered one of the staple foods in cats’ diets. Wheat also offers some important nutrients.

• Meat

Cats are carnivores. You may feed your cat some meat items like fish, red meat, and white meat. Make sure the meats are properly cooked. If you feed uncooked meat and fish, your cats may suffer from salmonella and E. coli.

Fish: salmon, herring, tuna, whitefish, trout, and mackerel.

White and red meat: beef, turkey, chicken, pheasant, pork, and duck (occasionally).

• Eggs

Eggs can be beneficial for your feline friends. Before feeding, make sure that all eggs are cooked. If you want to feed eggs to your cats, feed them in small quantities.

List of toxic foods for cats I A complete guideline.

Although cats are picky eaters, sometimes they eat some toxic foods. When they see you eating, they will beg for food you eat. Some foods may be safe for them, but some foods are poisonous. As a responsible cat owner, it’s important to be aware of the foods that are toxic to your feline companions. They have different dietary needs than humans or even dogs. Some human food items can be harmful to them. In this article, you will get a list of some toxic foods for cats.

If you are going to adopt a cat in your home, or already have a cat in your home, this article is just for you.

List of toxic foods for cats

• Green Tomatoes and Raw Potatoes

Green tomatoes and raw potatoes aren’t safe for cats. These foods contain deadly nightshade, and a poisonous alkaloid called Glycoalkaloid Solanine. This alkaloid can cause gastrointestinal problems. Ripe tomatoes in small amounts can be safe and will not do any harm to your cat.

• Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are totally toxic to your cat. Grapes and raisins carry tartaric acid. This can cause many problems like vomiting, abdominal illness, and digestive problems.

• Avocado

As avocado is safe and nutritious for humans, it is harmful and toxic for cats. A substance named Persin is found in the leaves, seeds, and fruit of Avocados. If you let your cats eat these items, your cat may suffer from some diseases like diarrhea and vomiting.

• Onions, Garlic, & Related Root Vegetables

Some root vegetables like garlic, onion, scallions, and shallots can cause problems to the red blood cells of cats. Your cat may suffer from anemia. These foods can be poisonous for your feline friends. Your cat can also suffer from some diseases like weakness, lack of appetite, and orange to dark red color urine. If you notice one of the symptoms in your cat, you must take your cat to a vet hospital immediately.

• Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts

Macadamia and walnuts are dangerous not only for dogs but also for cats. Your dogs or cats may suffer from some problems like depression, vomiting, weakness, or hyperthermia if you feed your pet friends these foods. If your feline friends eat these items, take them immediately to a vet clinic. If it is impossible to take them to a vet clinic, call a veterinarian to discuss the matter.

• Caffeine

Caffeine is injurious not only for cats but also for dogs. So don’t feed them coffee, tea, or energy drinks. These foods contain caffeine. The intensity of damage depends on the quantity of they consume. Caffeine can cause tremors, diarrhea, heart arrhythmia, or vomiting.  If your cats digest these items, you will notice the effects within 30 minutes. After noticing these symptoms, take your feline friends to a veterinarian.

• Wild animals

Although the cat is a predator, Wild animals aren’t safe for cats. It’s important to keep your feline friends indoors so they can’t prey or eat wild animals. Wild animals can be so poisonous to them. Some animals like mice, rats, lizards, and toads can carry nasty parasites. If your cats digest these animals or insects, they will be affected badly.

• Dairy products

Dairy products such as milk, sweets, cheese, or yogurt contain Lacoste. Cats can’t tolerate lactose that is found in dairy products. Your feline friends will beg for these items when they notice you eating these. These food items can cause abdominal problems and diarrhea.

• Bones

Cats might like to eat beef or other bones, but don’t let them eat these items. Although this food is not toxic for them, this can cause fractures in the tooth. This can be painful for them and can cause infection at the tooth’s root.

• Raw meats, fish, and eggs

Raw meat, fish, and egg can contain some bacteria. These food items can lead to salmonella or E. coli poisoning. Your cats also may suffer from vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea. So, it’s important to wash your hands properly after cooking. Keep these raw foods away from your cats. You can feed your cat cooked eggs and fish.

• Raw yeast dough

Yeast and raw dough aren’t suitable for your cats. You should also prevent your cats from eating food items that are made from yeast. Dough produces carbon dioxide and alcohol in the gastrointestinal tract and can increase in size and your cat might need surgery to get rid of it. Your cat may suffer from some health problems like diarrhea, vomiting, disorientation, and tremors. This can also lead your cat to death.

• Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener and is dangerous for your favorite cats and dogs. It might be found in snacks, baked goods, candy, gum, peanut butter, or yogurt. It can cause hypoglycemia and then lead to liver failure. If you notice that your cat digests one of these foods, contact a vet immediately.

Conclusion

Providing safe and appropriate foods to cats’ diet can be a good way to show love and care. Before providing foods to your cats, you can discuss with your veterinarian. As a responsible cat owner, you should ensure you feline companions’ well-being. It is vital to understand the concept of toxic foods for cats in order to protect them from potential danger. If we have proper knowledge on Safe foods and Toxic foods for pet cats, we will be able to create a safe and sound environment for your beloved friends.

FAQs

• Can I give raw fish to my domesticated cat?

It is best to avoid feeding raw fish to cats.

• Is it safe to give milk to cats?

No.

• Are there any fruits I should avoid feeding my cat?

Yes. Cats suffer from poisoning by raisins and grapes. You should avoid feeding these fruits to your cats.

• Can I share my salad with my cat?

As some vegetables are safe, raw vegetables aren’t safe for them. Cooked vegetables are safe for them.

• How can I tell if my cat enjoyed the treat I gave her?

You can consider their behavior. If your cats enjoy their foods, they will be active, playful, and enthusiastic.

• Is cooked garlic toxic to cats?

Yes

• Is potato vine poisonous to cats?

Cooked potatoes aren’t toxic to cat, but raw potatoes are toxic to them.

• Is dragon fruit toxic to cats?

No.

• Is sugar harmful for cats?

Yes

• Is chocolate toxic to cats?

Yes

Sources:

1. Featured Images is designed by Freepik
2. hillspet.com,
3. aspca.org,
4. webmd.com,
5. petmd.com,
6. aspcapetinsurance.com