Last Updated on February 17, 2024 by Fumipets
Purr-fectly Safe: A Guide to Human Foods Your Cat Can Enjoy
Curiosity often gets the better of our feline friends, leading them to investigate the tempting aromas wafting from our plates. While it’s generally advised to stick to a cat’s specialized diet, there are certain human foods that can be safely shared with our feline companions. Understanding which human foods are safe for cats is essential for promoting their well-being and ensuring they enjoy a varied and enriching diet.
In this guide, we’ll explore some human foods that are not only safe but can also be a healthy addition to your cat’s menu.
Human Foods Your Cat Can Enjoy
You adore your cat and consider her a member of the family, so it’s only natural that you want to feed her the foods you enjoy. While cats can eat a variety of human foods, consider them as treats rather than a complete diet to keep them healthy.
Baby Food
Your cat can eat almost any type of baby food as long as it doesn’t contain anything toxic, but the meats will most likely be her favourite. Plain meat, meat mixed with vegetables, and toddler meat sticks that resemble miniature hot dogs are all favourites of cats. If your cat is sick, baby foods are especially useful because you may be able to entice her with them when she won’t eat anything else. Check the label to make sure the food doesn’t contain onion powder or minced onions, as these can be harmful to your cat.
Meat
All types of lean meats, including chicken, boneless fish, liver, and beef, are safe for your cat to eat. While some people recommend feeding your cat raw or partially cooked meat, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that all meat and meat products be cooked. It’s also a good idea to cut up the meat into small pieces so that your cat doesn’t choke.
Produce
Cats can join you in the garden or share the produce you bring home from the weekly farmer’s market. While not all cats will eat raw vegetables, some will, and the majority will eat them when combined with other foods, particularly meat. Green beans, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots are good to feed her. Bananas, apples, and baked potatoes are also good for your cat.
Other Yummies
If your cat would eat it, little portions of cooked spaghetti, bread, and unsalted pretzels may be introduced to her diet. Some cats like to eat these items alone, while others prefer them blended with meat or meat juice to add taste. These bland foods can help bulk up your cat’s other people-food treats, but don’t overdo it to the point where she isn’t getting a balanced diet.
Toxic Foods
Some foods, no matter how tasty they may seem to you, should never be given to a cat. They’ll make your cat sick at the very least, and certain foods may even kill her. Chocolate, wine, avocados, onions, and raisins are among them. If you bake, don’t give your cat the dough because the yeast can cause her intestines to rupture. Give her nothing you’re not sure about, and if she eats anything she shouldn’t, get her to the vet right away.
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Questions & Answers:
Can cats eat fish, and if so, which types are safe?
Yes, cats can eat fish, and it can be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Stick to cooked fish like salmon or tuna. Avoid raw fish and those with added seasonings or high levels of mercury.
Is it safe for cats to consume dairy products?
While many cats are lactose intolerant, some can tolerate small amounts of certain dairy products. Offer small portions of plain, unsweetened yogurt or cheese as an occasional treat. Monitor your cat for any signs of digestive discomfort.
Can cats eat fruits and vegetables?
Yes, some fruits and vegetables are safe for cats in moderation. Offer small, bite-sized pieces of cat-friendly options like blueberries, watermelon, or cooked vegetables. Always remove pits, seeds, and any toxic parts before sharing.
Are there any benefits to giving cats meat other than cat food?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they thrive on a diet primarily composed of meat. Lean, cooked meats like chicken or turkey can be given to provide extra protein. However, these should complement their balanced cat food diet.
Can cats eat eggs, and how should they be prepared?
Yes, cats can eat eggs. Cooked eggs offer a good source of protein. Scrambled or boiled eggs without any added seasonings are safe for cats. Avoid using oil or butter, and ensure the eggs are thoroughly cooked to prevent any risk of salmonella.
