Many cat lovers may ask, “Doc, can cats eat human food?” The reality is, several items deemed harmless to humans could be perilous to cats. Certain edibles can induce toxic reactions in cats, even with minuscule amounts, potentially escalating to life-threatening situations. Furthermore, the flavorings prevalent in human victuals can exert additional stress on a cat’s system. Cat caregivers should especially steer clear of offering their feline companions the subsequent foods that could imperil their well-being.
It’s our duty as responsible cat parents to know these dangers. So, here’s the lowdown on 11 items that might seem harmless but are actually a big no-no for our feline friends. Stay aware, keep your kitty safe!
Contents
1. Green onions, onions, and chives
These veggies might seem harmless, but they’re a big no-no for cats. They mess with the cat’s blood cells, causing issues like anemia, diarrhea, and even fever. It’s not just a matter of a little bit – even tiny amounts can be harmful.
2. Chicken bones and fish bones
Watch out for the dangers hidden in your kitchen waste! The pointed tips of chicken bones and fish bones pose a threat to your cat’s throat and digestive system. They can get stuck or, worse, perforate the digestive tract. When tossing out kitchen scraps, especially these, always use a covered trash bin. This simple step safeguards your feline friends, preventing accidental ingestion and potential harm.
3. Chocolate
Indulging in chocolate might seem tempting, but it conceals a dark side. Loaded with theobromine and caffeine, an overdose spells acute poisoning for cats. The aftermath? Digestive turmoil, nerve disturbances, and heart irregularities. In dire situations, it’s a deadly culprit. Stay vigilant; a cat’s life hangs in the balance.
4. Liver
Feeding cats chicken liver over time can deplete calcium levels, causing mobility problems. Moreover, its high vitamin A content, if consumed excessively, disrupts proper bone growth in felines.
5. Grapes
Grapes, especially their skins, pose a severe threat, potentially causing kidney failure in cats. The peril extends to raisins as well, making them a danger to our feline companions.
6. Squid, octopus, shrimp, crabs, and shellfish.
Over time, indulging in these eats obstructs a cat’s vitamin B1 absorption, causing a deficiency. This deficit triggers decreased appetite, bouts of vomiting, spasms, shaky steps, and potentially, paralysis in their hind legs. Specifically, raw fish varieties such as trout, cod, flounder, and carp exacerbate this vitamin B1 hindrance, potentially resulting in paralysis. Thus, it’s unwise to serve these raw to our feline companions.
7. Dried small fish, seaweed, and bonito flakes.
In the feline health domain, minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus play a vital role in urinary stone formation. Cats are fond of dried small fish, seaweed, and bonito flakes, rich in these minerals. However, a note of caution: moderation is crucial. Excessive indulgence in these treats can pave the way for urinary stones, causing discomfort to our cherished feline companions. Additionally, seemingly innocuous greens like spinach and burdock pose a concealed threat – oxalate. An excess of these can swiftly lead to urinary stones in cats, emphasizing the necessity of portion control for their well-being.
8. Coffee, black tea, and green tea
Coffee, black tea, and green tea come loaded with caffeine. If your inquisitive feline happens to partake, anticipate episodes of diarrhea, vomiting, heightened urination, and possible irregularities in heart and nervous system functions.
9. Milk
In movies, we often see cats happily lapping up milk, creating a popular but misguided notion. The reality is, most cats become lactose intolerant after just 2 months. Offering them regular milk spells trouble, resulting in unpleasant bouts of watery diarrhea.
Now, you might argue, ‘But my cat seems fine after a milk treat!’ It might be mere luck. Cats indulging in milk regularly eventually lose their thirst for water. This innocent habit could pave the way for severe kidney issues down the line. Beware of the milk bowl—it might not be the harmless delight it appears to be.
10. Alcoholic beverages
When cats consume alcohol, it swiftly enters their bloodstream. Excessive intake wreaks havoc on their brain and cells, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, breathing issues, and nervous system chaos. In dire situations, cats may slip into a coma or worse, lose their lives. These symptoms manifest within 30-60 minutes post-ingestion, emphasizing the peril even a small dose poses. Hence, cats should never encounter any alcoholic beverages. Safety first, always.
11. Indoor potted plants
Indoor potted plants might seem harmless, but not all of them are kitty-friendly. Some can upset your cat’s tummy or, in worst cases, lead to poisoning. So, to keep your feline companion safe and sound, make sure those potted plants are placed out of its curious reach! If you’re considering providing some natural nibbles, opt for cat-friendly grass varieties. You can easily find their seeds in pet stores for convenient home planting. It might surprise you, but there are more than 700 plants that could pose a threat to your beloved cat. Here’s a heads-up on a few common potted plants you might have in your own home.
Lily Flowers
Lily flowers spell trouble for cats, and every part of the plant, particularly the roots, presents a risk. Ingesting these flowers can lead to symptoms like vomiting, excessive drooling, changes in behavior and appetite, culminating in kidney failure within 72 hours.
Lily of the Valley
Any part of the valley lily ingested by a cat is highly toxic, especially the roots. Consumption can induce vomiting, excessive drooling, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in cats. It might even lead to a slowed heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures, or sudden demise may follow.
Golden pothos and ivy
Golden pothos and ivy carry dangers for cats. Ingesting leaves and stems can cause issues like oral mucosa irritation, inflammation, and pain. Additionally, symptoms such as increased salivation, difficulty in swallowing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and potential kidney and neurological problems may arise.
Azalea
Every part is toxic for cats. Ingestion can result in persistent vomiting, with a risk of aspiration pneumonia. Neurological symptoms like seizures and overall weakness may also manifest.
Bracken Fern
Every part is toxic for cats, especially the seeds. After ingestion, cats may rapidly experience severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, coordination loss, unconsciousness, or seizures, ultimately leading to death due to liver failure.
Christmas Poinsettia
If cats consume the stem or leaves, it can cause intense mouth pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Final Thoughts
In our quest to nurture our beloved furballs, grasping their dietary boundaries is crucial. Cats, inherently curious, may venture into foods that spell trouble, causing unforeseen health issues. Staying watchful and securing toxic items can craft a secure haven for our cats. Always remember, a bit of awareness can profoundly impact the welfare of our treasured feline pals. Cheers to content and lively cats, flourishing in spaces devoid of perilous allurements.
Certainly, we also recommend a guide on selecting the right food for your beloved Maine Coon on our website, ensuring their optimal nutrition and well-being.
