What Not to Feed Your Cat

Your cat probably loves to steal bites of chicken or turkey from you. While it may not hurt to feed your cat a small piece of chicken or turkey occasionally, there are many human foods that are toxic to your cat. Please check out the following list to learn which foods never to feed your cat:

Chocolate

Most cats won't eat chocolate, but that doesn't mean you should try to feed it to your cat or leave it out unattended. Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that is toxic to cats. Unsweetened baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the most toxic to cats because they contain significant amounts of theobromine. Signs that your cat has ingested chocolate include vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, seizures or tremors. The ingestion of chocolate can even be fatal to your cat.

Grapes and Raisins

Ingestion of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure or even death in cats. Early signs of kidney complications may include hyperactivity and vomiting.

Onions, Chives, and Garlic

Onions break down red blood cells, which may lead to anemia in cats if ingested. Garlic and chives can lead to gastrointestinal upset when ingested.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sweetener used in many products like baked goods, toothpaste, candy, and gum. When it's ingested, xylitol can cause a cat's body to increase its insulin circulation, which can lead to a drop in blood sugar. This drop can then result in liver failure. Signs that your cat has ingested xylitol include lethargy, vomiting, loss of coordination and seizures. Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure may occur within a few days of xylitol ingestion.

Fat Trimmings and Bones

Fat from meat, either cooked or uncooked, can cause pancreatitis in cats. Cats can choke on bones, and if a bone splinters, it can cause lacerations or an intestinal blockage.

Raw Eggs

Raw eggs may contain salmonella or E. coli. Raw eggs also contain an enzyme that interferes with the absorption of the B vitamin biotin. Inadequate absorption of biotin can lead to skin and coat problems.

Liver

Liver is good for your cat in small portions, but feeding your cat too much liver can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Signs of vitamin A toxicity include bone deformities, osteoporosis and bone growths on the spine or elbows. If it's not addressed, vitamin A toxicity can even be fatal.

Milk

Most adult cats are actually lactose intolerant. Ingestion of milk or other dairy products can result in gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Dog Food

If your cat accidentally ingests dog food, it shouldn't cause any harm. However, you should not feed your cat dog food on a regular basis. Dog food is formulated for dogs, who have different nutritional needs than cats. Cats who eat dog food on a regular basis will suffer from malnutrition.

There are many foods you shouldn't feed your cats. There are also many things you should feed your cat on a consistent basis. A high-quality cat food will ensure your cat get all the vitamins and nutrients needed for great health.

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