Foods Your Cat Should Never Eat

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Keeping your cat safe involves being aware of the foods that can harm them. Always ensure that your cat’s diet is appropriate for their species and avoid giving them human foods that could be toxic. If you suspect your cat has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Cats are known for their curious nature, often leading them to explore and sometimes consume foods that are not safe for them. Understanding which foods are harmful to cats is crucial for their health and well-being. Here are some foods that your cat should never eat:

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues such as heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or seizures. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are particularly dangerous due to their higher concentrations of these toxic substances.

Onions and Garlic

Onions, garlic, and other members of the allium family can cause gastrointestinal upset and damage to red blood cells in cats, leading to anemia. Both raw and cooked forms are harmful, and even small amounts can be toxic.

Alcohol

Alcohol has a much stronger effect on cats than on humans. Even a small amount can lead to ethanol poisoning, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and in severe cases, coma or death.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in cats. The exact substance that causes this reaction is unknown, but even small amounts can be harmful. Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Caffeine

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain medications. It can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors in cats. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

Dairy Products

While many cats are attracted to milk and other dairy products, they are often lactose intolerant. Consuming dairy can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and stomach cramps.

Raw Meat and Fish

Raw meat and fish can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. Additionally, raw fish contains an enzyme that destroys thiamine, an essential B vitamin for cats, leading to neurological issues.

Bones

Bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and cause choking or serious damage to your cat’s digestive tract. They can also lead to blockages or tears in the intestines.

Dog Food

While not immediately toxic, dog food is not nutritionally adequate for cats. Cats require specific nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, which are not present in sufficient amounts in dog food.