Cats do not eat voraciously and even dislike some food items. However, it does not follow that cats would never eat human food if the opportunity presents itself.
Since there is so much misunderstanding regarding cats, many people unintentionally feed them what they believe to be wholesome and delectable, but it could really upset the cat’s gut or even worse. Mostly this is not a significant concern, and many foods will not harm the cat in the long run when consumed in moderation.
However, cats have a different metabolic activity from other animals. As a result, certain food that is acceptable for humans may cause serious risks to cats. Knowing which foods should not be on your pet’s plate will help you ensure they live healthy lives.
1. Chocolate
You probably have heard that chocolate is toxic for cats. Theobromine present in chocolates is hazardous to the majority of animals.
Methylxanthines are also found in chocolates. If consumed by a cat, this compound can result in nausea, muscle tremors, an increased core temperature, irregular heartbeat, seizures, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and extreme thirst.
Also, do not offer anything that contains chocolate components like puddings, white chocolate, and cocoa powder. Although it is likely that cats will not be overly delighted to eat chocolate, you should not be too relaxed about it.
2. Caffeine
Avoid letting your cat consume any food items that contain caffeine, as it could lead to agitation and restlessness. These include baked products, espresso, caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, black and green tea, drinks, and others.
3. Onions and Garlic
A cat’s red blood cells can be damaged or destroyed by garlic, onions, and other food additives, including shallots, chives, and scallions. N-propyl disulfide, a chemical, is responsible for this. Your cat will become susceptible to anemia if its red blood cell count drops.
4. Tuna
Tuna does not provide your cat with the nutrition it requires. Eating tuna excessively can result in mercury toxicity, which can harm the nervous system leading to loss of coordination and control and trouble walking. Additionally, canned tuna has high amounts of sodium, which could seriously damage your cat’s kidneys and cause dehydration.
5. Tomatoes and Potatoes
If cooked, cats can eat potatoes and tomatoes. However, do not feed them raw potatoes and tomatoes. Consuming raw potatoes and tomatoes can result in cats having gastrointestinal problems.
Also, be very cautious with unripe potatoes. Cooked or not, cats should never consume unripe potatoes. Consuming unripe potatoes has been linked to cats developing heart problems, paralysis, and hallucinations. For guidance on how to feed your cat appropriately, you can take help from websites like catfoodpoint.com.
6. Dairy Products
Some pictures are more evocative of the word “cat” than a bunch of them congregating around a milk saucer. These images could convey the effects of stomach issues and diarrhea if they were more truthful.
Cats cannot handle the lactose in dairy products, notwithstanding the stereotype. This implies that any dairy product from cattle or even other cats can result in intestinal problems.
7. Raisins, Currants, and Grapes
These well-known fruits can lead to kidney failure in cats, but their potential harm is yet unknown. However, avoiding giving your cat grapes, raisins and currants is best. Try to keep them out of the cat’s reach because the risk of them developing acute kidney failure is simply too substantial.
8. Raw Meat
Giving your cat uncooked meat to simulate what they might consume in the wild can be alluring. However, just because wild cats can eat raw meat does not indicate that it will also be healthy for your cat.
Raw or undercooked meat can have parasites like Toxoplasma and tapeworms and dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. Some of these bacteria can even be antibiotic-resistant.
9. Bones
Small bones, such as those found in chickens, turkeys, and other birds, have the potential to shatter and seriously harm cats’ mouths and digestive systems. Therefore make sure your cats do not consume them.
10. Mushrooms
Another food item that must be avoided is mushrooms, which carry hazardous substances for cats. These compounds can potentially harm bodily systems and even cause death in cats. While you may not give your cat mushrooms purposefully, numerous human diets contain them, so you should be cautious about it.
Wrapping Up
Make sure you remember these ten foods you should never give to your cat. Do not assume that a cat is the best judge of what to consume or not. As a responsible pet owner, give your cat the healthiest diet to ensure that he remains healthy and active.
