You may want to have a snack with your cat, but before doing so, you need to know which foods are toxic to cats. Many foods that humans eat are toxic to cats. Oil and similar products in food consumed by humans are for humans, it is not appropriate for animals to consume such food. Also, any mineral or vitamin provided by food consumed by humans may exceed the needs of a cat fed a balanced diet.
What foods are harmful to cats?
Alcohol: Beverages and foods containing alcohol cause problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory problems, coma and death in pets.
Doughs containing yeast: Yeast dough can cause gas in your cat’s digestive tract. This can cause stomach bloating and even twisting. These are deadly problems. But baked bread is safe for healthy cats.
Chocolate: Because chocolate contains substances called methylxanthines, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures and death in pets. Methylxanthine differs between chocolate types. Of these, those with cocoa powder are the most dangerous, while those with white chocolate are the least dangerous.
Coffee: Just like chocolate, coffee contains methylxanthine. For this reason, it has the effects listed above.
Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and grapefruit contain citric acid and essential oils that can cause problems for cats. All stems, leaves, bark, fruits and seeds should be avoided. Small amounts only cause stomach upset, but large amounts cause diarrhoea, vomiting and central nervous system depression.
Coconut milk and meat: Fresh coconut milk and meat cause digestive problems in pets, while small amounts do not cause serious harm. Because coconut water contains high potassium, it is not safe for pets. However, coconut oil can be used for some cat skin problems. A veterinarian should be consulted before using holistically.
Dairy: Feeding cats dairy products can cause digestive issues as many cats are lactose intolerant and cannot process dairy products properly. Dairy products should be avoided, and a veterinarian should be consulted about the use of a lactose-free option.
Grapes or raisins: The exact reason why these foods are toxic to pets is not known. However, feeding with grapes and raisins is known to cause kidney failure.
Hazelnut: Many types of nuts, including almonds and walnuts, cause digestive problems and pancreatitis in cats due to the oils in them. Macadamia nuts are also toxic to pets.
Raw eggs: Raw eggs are contaminated with salmonella bacteria. It causes vomiting, diarrhea and fever. In addition, raw eggs contain the enzyme avidin, which prevents cats from absorbing biotin, which is important for skin and fur health.
Raw or undercooked meat: Similar to raw eggs, raw or undercooked meat is contaminated with salmonella and E. coli bacteria. The Clinical Nutrition Service reports that gastrointestinal symptoms occur in pets that consume raw meat-based foods.
Raw fish: Just like raw meat and eggs, raw fish carries bacteria that cause food poisoning.
Salt: Too much salt and salty foods can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and death in pets.
Some vegetables and herbs: Vegetables such as onions, garlic, leeks cause stomach and intestinal problems and damage to red blood cells. Pets should be kept away from foods containing these vegetables and herbs.
Xylitol: Products such as xylitol, chewing gum and candy cause vomiting, lethargy and liver diseases in pets.
What should you do when your cat eats something poisonous?
If you know or suspect that your cat has eaten a food from the above list, be sure to contact your veterinarian. Do not wait for your cat to show any signs of illness to do this.