Sharing is Caring: What Human Foods Can Cats Eat?
Human foods cats can eat, like chicken, tuna, and yogurt, and learn which foods, like chocolate and onions, to avoid for your cat’s safety and health. Are you considering sharing your food with your cat? It’s important to know what’s safe. This guide will tell you what “human foods” cats can eat and what they should avoid.
What is “Human Food”?
Cats don’t need special, man-made food. In the wild, they eat prey. But it’s challenging to copy that diet perfectly at home. Most people feed their cats food that pet food companies make. Still, many foods that people eat are safe for cats.
Important: These foods are treats only. They should not be more than 10–15% of your cat’s daily food.
Foods Your Cat Can Eat
Here are some common foods that are generally safe for cats:
Chicken
Chicken is a wonderful treat for cats. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- No Seasoning: Make sure the chicken is plain.
- No Bones: Cooked bones are dangerous for cats.
Tuna
Canned tuna can be a healthy treat. It has omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your cat. Keep these points in mind:
- Water-Packed: Choose tuna in water, not oil.
- Not Too Much: Fish should not be the central part of your cat’s diet. There are concerns about toxins and heavy metals.
Sardines
Canned sardines are another excellent choice. They are full of nutrients.
- Water-Packed: Look for sardines packed in water. Many have oil and seasonings.
Eggs
Eggs are a healthy treat for cats.
- Cooked: Cook the eggs fully.
- No Seasoning: Do not add any oils or seasonings.
- Small Amount: Give your cat a teaspoon to a tablespoon of cooked egg. Hard-boiled eggs are a tasty option.
Yogurt
Most adult cats can’t digest milk well. But yogurt can be a beneficial choice for some cats.
- Live Cultures: Choose yogurt with live, active cultures. These bacteria help break down lactose.
- Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt is best.
- Probiotics: Yogurt has probiotics. These can help your cat’s digestion.
Always check with your vet before adding new foods to your cat’s diet.
Foods Your Cat Should Not Eat
Some foods are dangerous for cats. Here are some to avoid:
Chocolate
Chocolate is harmful to cats. It has caffeine and theobromine. These can cause serious health problems. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate.
If your cat eats chocolate, call the Pet Poison Control Helpline at (855) 764-7661 or your vet. Note that the Pet Poison Control Helpline will charge a fee.
Grapes and Raisins
It’s not fully known if grapes and raisins are toxic to cats. But, they can cause kidney failure in dogs. It’s best to avoid them.
Avoid giving your cat alcohol and yeast dough.
Do not give your cat alcohol. This also includes raw dough. The yeast in raw dough can make alcohol in your cat’s body.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are toxic to cats. They can cause a type of anemia (hemolytic anemia). Even a small amount can be dangerous. Concentrated forms, like garlic powder, are even more toxic.
Raw Fish
Raw fish can be risky. Some raw fish has an enzyme that destroys thiamine, an essential B vitamin. Eating raw fish regularly can cause health problems. Cooked fish is a better choice.
Remember: This is not a complete list. If you’re not sure if a food is safe, don’t give it to your cat.
Conclusion
Sharing food with your cat can be fun. Just be sure to choose safe and healthy options. Always talk to your vet if you have questions.