15 COMMON HUMAN FOODS THAT CAN BE TOXIC TO CATS
As a cat owner, it's important to be aware of which human foods are toxic to your feline companion. While some foods are harmless or even beneficial for cats, others can be deadly, causing anything from mild digestive upset to severe illness or even death. Here are 15 common human foods that are toxic to cats:
1. CHOCOLATE
Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in cats. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains, making dark chocolate the most dangerous for cats.
2. ONIONS & GARLIC
Onions and garlic contain compounds called thiosulphates, which can damage a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts of onion or garlic can be toxic to cats, and prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues.
3. GRAPES AND RAISINS
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity in cats can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
4. AVOCADO
Avocado contains a toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. While the flesh of the avocado is not as toxic as the pit or skin, it's best to avoid feeding avocado to cats altogether.
5. ALCOHOL
Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, and even coma or death. Cats are more sensitive to alcohol than humans, and even a small amount can have serious consequences.
6. CAFFEINE
Caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures in cats. It's found in many common human foods and beverages, including coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks.
7. MACADAMIA NUTS:
Macadamia nuts can cause lethargy, vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors in cats. The exact mechanism of macadamia nut toxicity in cats is not well understood, but it's best to avoid feeding them to your feline companion.
8. COOKED BONES
Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious damage to a cat's digestive system, including blockages or tears in the intestines. It's best to avoid feeding any type of bones to cats, as they can pose a serious risk.
9. MILK & DAIRY PRODUCTS
While cats love the taste of milk, they often can't digest lactose, leading to digestive upset and diarrhea. While small amounts of dairy products are usually okay for cats to consume, it's best to avoid feeding them in large quantities.
10. FAT TRIMMINGS & BONES
Excess fat can cause digestive upset and lead to pancreatitis, while bones can splinter and cause serious digestive issues. It's best to avoid feeding any type of fatty or bone-containing foods to cats.
11. RAW EGGS & RAW MEAT
Raw eggs and raw meat can contain bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in cats. It's best to thoroughly cook all meat and eggs before feeding them to cats.
12. XYLITOL
Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum and other products. It can cause insulin release and lead to hypoglycemia, seizures, and liver failure in cats. Even small amounts of xylitol can be toxic to cats, so it's important to keep products containing xylitol out of their reach.
13. TUNA
While a small amount of tuna is okay for cats to eat, excessive amounts can cause mercury poisoning. Tuna also lacks essential nutrients that cats need to maintain their health.
14. SALT
Excessive amounts of salt can cause dehydration, diarrhea, and even death in cats.
15. YEAST DOUGH Yeast dough can expand in a cat's stomach, causing gas and bloating. In severe cases, it can cause the stomach to twist, leading to a life-threatening condition known as gastric dilatation-volvulus.
As a cat owner, it's important to keep these foods out of your cat's reach and to never intentionally feed them to your cat. If you suspect your cat has ingested any of these toxic foods, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early treatment can make all the difference in the outcome!
ASPCA POISON CONTROL NUMBER: (888) 426-4435