When it comes to your cat’s diet, you want to make sure they have the best food for their nutritional needs. From time to time, you may be tempted to give them some of your leftovers as a special treat, but keep in mind that certain foods can be poisonous to your beloved feline. Here’s a look at some foods to avoid when it comes to mealtime.
Onions and Garlic
Yes, these are staples in many of our kitchens, however they are also wildly toxic to cats. Both garlic and onions contain a substance called thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats. Regularly feeding even a small amount of garlic or onion can cause a fatal build up over time, so keep these out of your cat’s reach when cooking.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener that’s often used in sugar-free gum and other artificially sweetened products. This sweetener is dangerously toxic to most animals including cats (so much so it is often used as poison for rodents). If you suspect your cat has eaten any products containing xylitol, contact your vet right away.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is poisonous to cats. Some types of chocolate contain more theobromine than others. Be especially careful of accidentally feeding your cat milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or baking chocolate as well as cocoa powder. Make sure to keep your sweet stash in a place your cat cannot reach!
Coffee
It should come as no surprise that caffeine is toxic to your cat, as both caffeine and theobromine are quite similar. So just like chocolate it is recommended to make sure that caffeinated beverages (including soft drink, tea, and some supplements) and coffee grounds are kept well out of reach of your cat at all times.
Alcohol
Alcohol poisoning is unfortunately all too common in pets, as your curious cat may be all too eager to take a sip of an unattended glass should the opportunity arise. This of course holds true for most fermented products that may contain traces of alcohol.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins in small amounts will make your cat ill and in some cases can even cause kidney failure. If your cat ingests grapes or raisins they may show any of the following symptoms: lethargy, diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased urination and a reduced appetite. Although the exact causes for this reaction are currently undocumented, the safest option is to make sure these items are out of reach for your cat or kitten.
Raw Meat and Raw Fish
Raw meat is another food item to avoid feeding your cat. Raw meats can contain dangerous bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, both of which can make your cat sick. These bacteria can cause lethargy, diarrhea and vomiting or in extreme cases even be fatal. Feeding your cat raw meat also comes with added risks not just for your cat but for you and other members of your household who may also be exposed to the bacteria.
Raw Eggs
Cooked eggs are a perfectly healthy food for a cat, however when served raw they can have unforeseen consequences. Similar to raw meat, raw eggs can carry dangerous bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. Additionally raw eggs contain avidin, a protein that interferes with the absorption of biotin which is a vitamin essential for maintaining a healthy skin and coat. So if eggs are your cat’s thing, make sure to serve them well-cooked.
One of the things that makes cats such wonderful pets is their natural curiosity, however this also means that it is especially important to make sure they don’t accidently get into dangerous foods that could make them sick.
Stick with pet food products that have a clear ingredients list. Applaws products contain only the best ingredients, so you can be sure your cat will keep coming back for more!
