53 Human Foods Cats Can and Can’t Eat

Over the years, I have often heard a question from many friends who also have cats: Can cats eat human food? My cat is always begging for food from my plats! So, is it safe for me to share my dinner with her? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t that straightforward!

Some human foods are safe for cats, while others are toxic and extremely dangerous. Nevertheless, if it is not continuous, it is OK for your cat to eat most food we eat. For example, a delicious piece of meat that is well-cooked and deboned, or a banana that we can serve in small pieces for dessert, is as good for cats as it is for us.

However, we need to pay attention to some limitations and rules. Otherwise, our cat might face many health problems, especially food poisoning. We put the life of our cat at risk without even realizing it.

Of course, new questions arise when asking the above question: If cats can eat only some of the foods we consume, what human foods can I give my cat? Can cats eat fruits or vegetables? And which human foods are dangerous for my cat?

We will look at the answers to all of these questions together in this article. We also discuss what we can do for our cats to have a proper and balanced diet, so they can have the happiest and healthiest life possible!

List of Human Foods Cats Can and Cannot Eat

Below is an essential list of some human foods cats can and cannot eat. I go into more detail below, discussing why each item is safe or unsafe for your cat. But if you’re looking for a quick answer, use this list as a guide:

Foods Cats Can Eat

• Meat and chicken (cooked, deboned)
• Fish (boiled, deboned/fillet)
• Tuna fish (occasionally, one tbs.)
• Egg (boiled/scrambled)
• Ham, bacon (in small amounts and cooked)
• Shrimp (cooked)
• Carrot
• Broccoli (occasionally, one tbs., large amounts can cause constipation)
• Green beans
• Potatoes
• Cauliflower (boiled/cooked, small pieces)
• Spinach (rarely, large amounts can cause stone formation in urinary tracts)
• Celery
• Lettuce
• Blueberries
• Cranberries
• Pineapple (high sugar content/moderate)
• Apple (peeled, remove seeds completely, apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous to cats)
• Pear (peeled, remove seeds completely, seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous to cats)
• Peach (occasionally, peeled, high sugar content, hard to digest)
• Avocado (only its pulp, skin, leaves, and its seed contain persin, which is poisonous to some animals)
• Strawberries
• Banana (limited amount, not recommended for cats who are overweight and have poor digestive systems)
• Watermelon (high sugar content/moderate)
• Raspberries (contains xylitol/moderate)
• Cucumber
• Tomatoes (small amounts, peeled, leaves removed as they contain solanine which is toxic for cats)
• Pumpkin
• Cinnamon (moderate)
• Olives (remove seeds)
• Air-popped popcorn (moderate)
• Whole grains and cereals (occasionally)
• Bread (occasionally, not over-toasted)
• Peanut butter (occasionally, one tbs.)
• Rice (small amounts, unprocessed black rice)

Foods Cats Cannot Eat

• Raw eggs, raw meat, raw chicken, raw fish, (except BARF diet)
• Meat, chicken, or fish (that have not been deboned)
• Processed meat (such as hot dogs and beef jerky)
• Milk (cats should not drink milk)
• Cheese (adult cats cannot digest the lactose)
• Ice cream (high sugar content, contains lactose, maybe one tablespoon)
• Onion (contains thiosulphate, poisonous to cats and dogs)
• Garlic (contains thiosulphate, poisonous to cats and dogs)
• Chives (contains thiosulphate, poisonous to cats and dogs)
• Orange (contains psoralens, poisonous to cats)
• Citrus fruits (acidic/lime, lemon, grapefruit, etc., contains psoralens, limonene, linalool, poisonous to cats)
• Cherries (contains cyanide, poisonous to cats)
• Plums (contains cyanide, poisonous to cats)
• Grapes (not recommended)
• Raisins (not recommended)
• Chips (high fat, high salt, not good for you too)
• Mushrooms (not recommended to be consumed in any form)
• Packaged popcorn
• Chocolate (contains theobromine which can cause poisoning)
• Almonds (high-fat content)
• Nuts (high-fat content)

What Human Foods Can Cats Safely Eat?

As you’ve just learned from this list above, if you want to share your food with your cat, you’re in luck! Cats can’t eat hot dogs, and cats can’t eat beef jerky, but there are plenty of other foods you can enjoy together.

Unprocessed meat and fish are obvious examples. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need high amounts of animal protein in their diet. However, cats can also safely consume eggs, vegetables, fruits, and other items.

Nevertheless, other than the meat and fish group, the foods on this list do not contain enough ingredients to make up the main meal of your cat’s daily diet. But since some of these foods are rich in vitamins, iron, oil, or calcium, they can be added to your cat’s food appropriately or sometimes given as treats or snacks.

Therefore, you should never use these foods as a replacement for regular cat food! Yet a little of these in moderation is perfectly safe and an enjoyable sharing experience for you and your furry friend. Here is how you can add some common human foods to your cat’s diet in a healthy manner.

Meat, Fish, Seafood

As mentioned, cats need animal protein for survival! Meat, fish, and seafood are some of the best options for sharing food with your cat. However, not all meat or fish products are safe. Below is some cat-friendly options ideal for sharing.

1. Meat

YES: BOILED, BARBEQUED, OR OVEN-BAKED.

Meat, rich in animal protein and amino acids, contains many vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients. It is the primary food source for cats, who are carnivorous by nature.

The healthiest choices for your cat are types of meat that are boiled. If you cook the meat in a barbecue or an oven, ensure it is cooked thoroughly so all possible bacteria and viruses are dead. As a cooking method, frying should not be chosen since it contains a lot of fat.

The meat should also be plain and without a sauce. Cats actually cannot taste spicy foods at all, but the spices can interfere with digestion. Likewise, salt or other flavorings could cause issues for your cat. Bones also pose a choking hazard, so only feed your cat meat that is deboned and safe.

You can chop the meat into 1-2 cm cubes for your cat to eat easily. You can give cooked meat to your cat as the main dish or mix it with her dry food. But remember, fresh meat does go off quickly! You must throw any uneaten meat away to stop your cat from throwing up after eating gone-off meat.

2. Fish

YES: BOILED, NO BONES.

Like meat, fish contains high amounts of essential proteins and amino acids that benefit cats. Fish is also high in valuable vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids for your cat. Instead of farm-raised, fresh-caught ones, such as salmon, tilefish, and herrings, should be preferred.

You can serve your cat the fish boiled and cut it into small pieces. However, the skeleton and bones of the fish should be picked out very carefully. These can act as a choking hazard, which is extremely dangerous for your cat!

It is also best to avoid putting any sauce or seasoning on the fish. Any additional flavor that appeals to your taste could harm your cat’s digestive system. You might find your cat throwing up food but acting normal or suffering from watery stools. In worst cases, seasonings can even be toxic!

3. Eggs

YES: BOILED OR SCRAMBLED.

Eggs are another rich source of protein. As they are an animal products, they contain many essential amino acids. However, eggs should be served either boiled or scrambled. Raw eggs carry the risk of certain bacteria and viruses, such as Salmonella and E. Coli. Therefore, do not feed your cat raw eggs.

Also, the yolks of eggs are high in fat and cholesterol. A small amount of these fats benefits cats – all animals need some fats as part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, excessively feeding your cat eggs could contribute to weight gain. For this reason, they’re best fed in moderation.

4. Ham and Bacon

YES: COOKED, SMALL AMOUNTS, OCCASIONALLY.

As meats, ham and bacon can be a part of your cat’s diet. However, they contain high amounts of salt and fat. Therefore, they could be given in small amounts every now and then as a treat or snack. Too much can contribute to weight gain or, in worst cases, sodium poisoning.

To feed your cat bacon or ham, it must be thoroughly cooked and cut into 1-2 cm pieces. Ensure you remove any trimmings from the ham that could contain additional flavorings as well, as these may cause stomach upset.

5. Shrimp

YES: BOILED OR COOKED.

Cats are big fans of seafood in general, and shrimp is no exception! This food is also perfectly safe for cats. It contains high levels of calcium, phosphorus, and protein. These nutrients make shrimp good for blood circulation, heart health, and especially the health of the fur and skin of old cats.

It is also rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, so it is an ideal food source for cats with allergies. It is often a component of cat food for sensitive stomachs and is great for settling stomach upset.

Therefore, shrimp can occasionally be added to cats’ meals, either boiled or cooked, or it can be given as a delicious snack. However, it is not a staple in the daily diet and should only be fed in moderation.

Vegetables

Cats don’t have enough enzymes to digest vegetable proteins. However, they can eat some vegetables in appropriate amounts so long as they don’t consume them constantly. In fact, some vitamins and minerals in plants may be particularly good for overweight cats’ diets due to their high water content, low fat content, and low calories.

The best way to serve your cat veggies depends on the vegetables in question. Some vegetables can be consumed in their raw form; others can be given steamed or boiled, even mashed and added to your cat’s food. Here are some examples of appropriate vegetables and their serving suggestions:

6. Carrot

YES: PEELED.

Carrots are safe for cats to eat and contain many essential vitamins and minerals. The beta carotene it contains is very good for your cat’s eyes and fur. Besides, fresh carrots also protect your cat’s dental health.

A snack can be prepared by peeling a fresh carrot and cutting it into one or two sticks wide. Always hand feed these carrot sticks to your cat. Carrots are hard; if your cat bites off too much, it might choke. You might also see your cat throwing up undigested food – yuck!

7. Green Beans

YES: ALL TYPES!

Green beans are an excellent supplement food, especially for overweight cats. They are rich in protein and iron but low in calories. This makes them a highly nutritious vegetable without risking potential weight gain.

But remember, cats don’t have the enzymes to digest vegetables, so feed these as a supplement. From time to time, you can add a tablespoon of beans to your cat’s meal. Raw, cooked, or frozen – all are safe and healthy for your furry friend to enjoy.

8. Celery

YES: AS TREATS OR SNACKS.

Celery, another snack high in water content, can be given to overweight cats with controlled diet plans as treats or snacks.

It has a high-water content, so it helps cats that have piled on the pounds feel fuller for longer. This can help to discourage cats from eating more than they need to. Over time, this aids weight loss.

9. Lettuce

YES: SMALL PIECES, IN MODERATION.

Lettuce is another cat-friendly human food. However, lettuce should be washed exceptionally well like all the fresh vegetables you give your cat. There might be dangerous bacteria and viruses lurking on the leaves! Wash these off, and you can share your salad with your kitty.

Also, ensure you cut any lettuce you need your cat into small pieces, never exceeding a handful. Too much lettuce can cause your cat stomach upset, and it might be that your cat has runny poop all the time!

Fruits

It is OK for cats to eat most fruits. However, it should not be forgotten that fruits have a higher sugar content than vegetables. If your cat is overweight, it is vital to pay attention to the sugar ratios and amounts in the fruits you will give her as a snack or reward.

In addition, the fruits should be washed very well, the parts with thicker skin should be peeled off, and seeds should be removed if there are any. With this in mind, here are some fruits that cats can eat:

10. Blueberries

YES: WASHED, IN MODERATION.

Blueberries are a wonderful fruit you can give in small amounts as a treat or snack to cheer your cat up. Take a few washed blueberries and see if your cat enjoys the taste.

If your cat likes the taste, they’re actually a great addition to their diet. Blueberries are considered a superfood! They protect cell and tissue health and reduce the risk of infection in the urinary tract. They also contain vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

11. Cranberries

YES: RAW, DRY, OR COOKED.

You can give your cat a few raw, dry, or cooked cranberries. However, I would not recommend giving them to your cat in sauce or juice form because the high amount of sugar will be bad for her stomach.

Like blueberries, cranberries are full of antioxidants and help promote good urinary health. I’m sure many of you have heard that drinking cranberry juice is a good treatment for UTIs in people. This incredible fruit has similar benefits in cats, helping to support the urinary system. Cranberries are also rich in vitamin C, fiber, and magnesium.

12. Pineapple

YES: A SMALL AMOUNT.

Pineapple is another human food cats can eat. It benefits the digestive and immune systems thanks to its rich vitamin and mineral complex, especially its high levels of zinc.

However, its high sugar content should not be ignored. After peeling off the skin and the hard parts, you can give a small amount of pineapple in small pieces. You don’t want to spike your cat’s blood sugar levels though, so always feed pineapple to your furry friend in moderation.

13. Strawberries

YES: IN MODERATION.

Strawberries are another human food you can feed your cat. You can add raw or pureed strawberries to help strengthen your furry friend’s immune system. They provide an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and antioxidants.

Yet, despite these valuable nutrients, strawberries can only be consumed in moderation. Therefore, the benefits to your cat’s overall health are not particularly noticeable.

14. Watermelon

YES: SMALL AMOUNT.

Watermelon, which is more than 90% water, positively affects the water balance in your cat’s body. Cats are notoriously poor drinkers and are often inadequately hydrated. Therefore, sharing a few watermelon cubes with your cat can help improve their fluid levels.

Watermelon also contains vitamins A, B, C, and potassium, which positively affect the immune system. However, don’t forget to peel off the hard outer skin before feeding watermelon to your cat. Keeping in mind its sugar content, give small amounts every now and then.

15. Raspberries

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, OCCASIONALLY.

Raspberries, with their high fiber content and low sugar, are anti-inflammatory and an ideal treat, especially for older cats.

But let me remind you: raspberries contain xylitol, which experts do not recommend because of the possible harm to dogs; this natural sweetener causes liver damage in dogs. Although there is no clear research into how this substance affects cats, it is expected to have a similar effect.

However, the amount of xylitol in raspberries is negligible. Provided that it is not very often, you can treat your cat with half a handful of raspberries now and then.

16. Cucumber

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, OCCASIONALLY.

Cucumber is another light snack. This refreshing human food contains vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, and a high amount of water. Combined, these nutrients help keep the weight of your cat in check.

It can be given twice a week by peeling and cutting it into thin strips. Cucumbers are safe and non-toxic, but many cats don’t like the taste. Therefore, getting your cat to eat cucumber might be a bit of a challenge!

17. Pumpkin

YES. COOKED, SKIN REMOVED.

Pumpkin is a versatile fruit that you can prepare in many forms. The easiest way to feed pumpkin to your cat is to add 2-3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree if your kitty’s dinner. If purchasing tinned pumpkin puree, ensure you are buying plain puree without added sugar.

You can alternatively make your own pumpkin puree or feed your cat a few cubes of boiled pumpkin – just make sure the stem and skin are always removed. The seeds are fine; toasting some of these in the oven is another great nutrient-dense treat!

Thanks to pumpkins’ high fiber content, it is possible to give boiled pumpkin as a puree when your cat has constipation or diarrhea problems. Whenever my cat’s poop smells so bad, I add a few tablespoons of this nutritious fruit for a natural remedy.

Other Cat-Friendly Human Foods

Meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, and fruit can become part of your cat’s healthy diet. However, there are some miscellaneous human foods you can also feed your cat as a treat. Here are a few popular options:

18. Cinnamon

YES: SMALL AMOUNT.

Cats have a good sense of smell, and cinnamon is among the smells cats hate! This spice has a pungent odor that overwhelms most cats’ sensitive noses. However, some cats don’t mind the smell at all.

If your cat is impartial to the smell of cinnamon, it might steal some cinnamon (powder or stick) from the kitchen. Thankfully, there is no harm unless eaten in massive amounts.

19. Olives

YES.

Isoprenoids and pimentos are natural chemicals found in olives. Like catnip, they emit strong scents that attract the cat. Therefore, it isn’t uncommon to see cats try and sneak olives from their humans’ plates!

Green or black, olives are harmless for cats and can be enjoyed in moderation. However, there are no known benefits of eating them either.

20. Air-Popped Popcorn

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, OCCASIONALLY.

Popcorn contains vitamin B, iron, and fiber and can be a safe human food to share with your cat. However, the way it is prepared is important. Choose air-popped popcorn if you want to serve your little friend as a snack.

Also, it should not exceed a handful. Feeding your cat more than a bit of popcorn at a time can be difficult for them to digest.

21. Whole Grains and Cereals

YES: OCCASIONALLY.

Unlike humans, cats do not need carbohydrates in their diet; animal proteins are the primary source for the healthy functioning of their bodies. But sometimes, unrefined whole grains, oats, or cereals can be suitable for cats in terms of vitamins, iron, and fiber intake.

Check the packaging of whatever cat food you’re using, and you’ll likely see grains on the ingredients list. These proteins are included for their digestive benefits, so it is safe to feed some to your cat. But rather than being a major part of the actual diet plan, it should stay as the occasional little snack option.

22. Bread

YES: BAKED BREAD, SMALL AMOUNTS.

Raw dough can cause digestive problems for cats, but a slice of baked bread that is cut into small pieces might be a snack to cheer your cat up. However, avoid the parts that are over-toasted as they might damage your cat’s throat.

And remember – carbohydrates are a non-essential nutrient for cats. Bread is non-toxic and can be consumed safely, but only in moderation.

23. Peanut Butter

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, OCCASIONALLY.

Peanut butter is another human food that cats can enjoy. You can give between a teaspoon to a tablespoon as a snack but do not go overboard. It cannot be part of your cat’s daily diet, and you must only ever feed a small amount of peanut butter at once.

Although it is a rich source of protein, peanut butter has a high amount of fat and carbohydrate content that cats cannot digest well. I recommend you be careful, especially when giving peanut butter to cats that are not very active or that are overweight.

24. Rice

YES: BOILED, BLACK RICE.

Unprocessed black rice can be boiled and given in small amounts to your furry friend. White rice should not be preferred because it does not benefit your cat’s health. However, if you only have white rice, this won’t cause any health issues for your cat when fed in moderation.

What Human Foods Can Cats Not Eat?

While many human foods are safe for cats, some common foods can poison your cat. Even tiny amounts of these substances can have catastrophic effects, including comas, seizures, and death.

Others may harm your cat’s health in the medium and long term, leading to severe illnesses if consumed continuously and in large quantities. Obesity, nerve system problems, infections, urinary and bladder tract problems, kidney disease, and liver damage are some of them.

Therefore, even if it does not directly lead to poisoning, it would be better to keep your cat completely away from some human food in terms of her life span and quality. Below are some dangerous examples you should never feed your cat.

Meat and Seafood

Although protein makes up the bulk of cats’ diets, some types of meat and fish are unsuitable for feline consumption. Cooked, unseasoned, boneless meat is safe and highly nutritious, but the below types of meat and seafood must be avoided.

25. Raw Protein Sources

NO: RAW EGGS, MEAT, CHICKEN, OR FISH.

Raw foods that are not kept under proper conditions spoil very quickly and produce bacteria. Therefore, raw protein sources carry a risk of potentially fatal amounts of bacteria and viruses. The most well-known of these are Salmonella and E. Coli.

In addition, the raw meat group may contain a high percentage of fat. This can lead to pancreatitis. However, some animal lovers follow raw nutrition plans recommended by some experts for their cats. I wouldn’t recommend this without guidance and approval from your vet.

26. Small Bones

NO: BONES FROM MEAT OR FISH.

A delicious and healthy meal of meat or fish you cook for your cat can quickly become a nightmare if the bones aren’t removed. You can end up at the vet because of a small piece of bone. Small pieces of bone can get stuck in your cat’s esophagus. This can also cause serious damage to the stomach and intestinal system during digestion.

Make sure to remove all the small pieces of bones to remove this choking hazard. The one exception is boiled or baked coarse bones, which your cat can manage to remove from the meat. These coarse bones are also good for your cat’s teeth and help remove tartar.

27. Milk

NO: NO FOR ADULT AND OLDER CATS.

When cats transition from breast milk to solid food, the enzymes that digest lactose in milk and dairy products begin to decrease and disappear in the vast majority. Therefore, adult cats cannot digest milk.

A wide range of problems can occur, ranging from allergic reactions to poisoning, digestive issues, urinary problems, and liver damage. Vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are the most common health problems in cats who drink milk. If this happens, contact your vet immediately.

28. Cheese

NO: NO FOR ADULT AND OLDER CATS.

Cheese is made from milk and contains lactose. As I mentioned above, most adult cats cannot digest the lactose in milk and dairy products. Therefore, you should avoid adding cheese to your cat’s diet.

Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite can be seen in a cat eating cheese. Even if you do not encounter any problems at first, you can cause serious damage to your cat’s digestive system in a relatively short amount of time if you constantly feed her with large amounts of cheese or other milk products.

29. Ice Cream

NO: IF YOU MUST, ONE TEASPOON.

The fact that cats have lactose intolerance and the high sugar content in ice cream puts ice cream on the dangerous foods list!

Gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea can occur in cats that eat ice cream. On the other hand, some experts point out that giving between one teaspoon and one tablespoon of ice cream per day does not cause any significant damage to the cat. Nevertheless, approach with caution!

Vegetables

30. Onion, Garlic & Chives

NO: POISONOUS TO CATS.

Another group of poisonous human food for cats is the plants in the onion family. All kinds of onions and garlic, either raw or cooked, even those that are used powdered or in the sauce are life-threatening to your cat. Chives also belong to this family, and you should never feed them to your feline.

The thiosulphate they contain is poisonous to cats and dogs. It causes the destruction of red blood cells in your cat’s body and leads to hemolytic anemia, which causes poisoning.

31. Mushrooms

NO: POISONOUS.

Mushrooms are too dangerous for cats! All mushrooms contain amanita, which creates toxic effects, and some mushrooms contain muscarine. Therefore, even edible varieties should never be included in the diet of your little friend as they have poisonous impact on cats.

One of the biggest dangers of these substances is that they show signs of poisoning in 6-24 hours after digestion. This reduces the chances of early intervention. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning include skin discoloration, vomiting, diarrhea, and an increased heart rate.

Fruits

32. Citrus Fruits

NO: LIME, LEMON, GRAPEFRUIT, OR ORANGES.

It is better to keep your cat away from acidic fruits. The acid ratio in the fruits negatively affects your cat’s digestion and damages their stomach. Thankfully, cats will help you out on your mission to keep citrus fruits far from your cat – the strong citrus smell is a natural cat repellent that most cats hate.

33. Cherries

NO: POISONOUS.

The seeds, stems, leaves, and fruit of the cherries contain cyanide which is poisonous to cats. Never give this fruit to your cat under any circumstances. If your cat does accidentally ingest any cherries, call your vet and keep a close eye on any symptoms.

34. Plums

NO: POISONOUS.

Plums are poisonous because their skin, leaves, seeds, and the fruit itself contains cyanide. I would advise against giving plums to your cat and seek veterinary advice if your kitty consumes large amounts.

35. Grapes & Raisins

NO: IT COULD CAUSE KIDNEY DAMAGE.

Grapes and raisins are not recommended for cats as they cause serious kidney damage in dogs. The same kidney problems are thought to arise in cats. Although it is not known precisely which ingredient is causing this damage, there is no need to put your cat’s health at risk.

Other Unsafe Human Foods for Cats

There are miscellaneous human foods that are unsafe for cats. Some of these are many people’s favorite foods, such as chips and chocolate. Yet despite tasting delicious to us, the below foods are unsafe for your furry friend to eat:

36. Chips

NO: HIGH SALT AND FAT CONTENT.

Chips are not a healthy human food due to their high fat and salt content. This also makes chips among the most dangerous human foods for cats. Kitties that eat lots of potato chips are more likely to be obese or develop sodium ion poisoning. The latter can be life-threatening, so chips are a huge no-no!

You can easily give her boiled or mashed potatoes instead. Keeping your cat away from chips is necessary for both weight control and a healthily functioning digestive system.

37. Microwaved Popcorn

NO: CONTAINS HARMFUL ADDITIVES.

Packaged popcorn contains additives and preservatives which are harmful to your cat. It weakens the digestive system, leading to diarrhea and constipation.

Air-popped popcorn, which you can prepare at home, does not contain any additives, so it can be given as a snack occasionally.

38. Chocolate

NO: POISONOUS.

Chocolate is a beloved human food that should definitely be avoided by cats. Chocolate contains theobromine which can cause poisoning, serious heart problems, contractions and muscle tremors and seizures in cats.

This compound is found in all chocolate bars, so no type of chocolate is okay for your cat. This includes dark and sugar-free chocolates. Also, don’t forget that chocolate contains caffeine, which is also harmful to your cat.

39. Almond and Nuts

NO: HIGH FAT CONTENT.

Almonds and other nuts are not poisonous, but the high-fat content in can damage your cat’s digestive system. Fat is an essential part of cats’ diets, but they should eat this macronutrient in moderation.  As mentioned, protein needs to be the primary dietary component.

Cats that eat almonds and walnuts regularly or too much often suffer from vomiting and diarrhea. Pancreatitis is an issue in the medium and long term, whereas too much fat can contribute to weight gain over the long term.

40. Raw Dough

NO: SWELLS IN THE STOMACH.

Although a piece of baked dough is a nice snack for your cat, raw dough can have very dangerous consequences. After having been eaten by your cat, the fermented dough begins to swell in the stomach. Depending on the amount she eats, it might cause fatal risks by covering her entire stomach.

41. Xylitol

NO: HARMFUL IN DOGS.

Xylitol is a sweetener used in all sugar-free human foods that contain artificial sweeteners. It is used especially in chewing gums in large, but also naturally occurs in some fruits like raspberries.

Xylitol is not proved to be harmful to cats, it is still not recommended in the diet of our little friends as it is proven to be harmful to dogs.

What Human Foods Cat Cats Sometimes Eat?

I have discussed some human foods cats can eat, and some human foods cat cannot eat. However, some foods don’t fall into either category exactly – their safe consumption is situation-dependent.

Here is a look at a few examples and when they are safe vs. unsafe.

42. Tuna fish

YES: ONLY IN WATER OR CAT-SPECIFIC TINS.

Whenever I open a can of tuna for myself in the kitchen, my cat meows and runs from the other end of the house! Cats who dislike tuna fish are rare, and I’m sure your kitty responds like mine.

However, canned tuna for humans is insufficient. The tuna fish of often soaked in oil, and the ratio of unsaturated fats is very high. Therefore, I advise you to not be so generous when giving your cat canned tuna originally prepared for humans and only ever feed tuna in spring water.

Tinned tuna intended for felines is a good alternative for cats that love tuna. Amino acids such as vitamins, minerals, and taurine added to wet or dry prepared tuna foods provide a balanced diet for your cat.

43. Broccoli

YES: BOILED IN A SMALL AMOUNT, BUT EXCESS CAN CAUSE CONSTIPATION.

As a rich source of vitamins, broccoli is likely to cause constipation when consumed excessively. Every once in a while, you can boil it and add it to the food in small pieces. However, ensure to never exceed a few tablespoons.

44. Spinach

YES: BUT NOT FOR CATS WITH KIDNEY PROBLEMS.

The calcium oxalates in spinach can cause stone formation in urinary tracts. Therefore, spinach should never be given to cats with digestive tract issues or kidney problems. It can exacerbate the conditions and worsen their symptoms.

However, if you have a healthy cat, you can add this green leafy vegetable in small amounts to boost the nutrients in your cat’s diet. It contains almost every vitamin and mineral there is! If feeding spinach to your cat, always cut it into small pieces and never exceed a handful.

45. Potato

YES: COOKED ONLY, RAW POTATOES CONTAIN TOXIC SOLANINE.

Most cats love the taste of potatoes. Some ready-made cat foods even contain potatoes! They’re rich in vitamin C, vitamin B, and potassium. But remember, raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxic alkaloid. Solanine, which is extremely dangerous for your cat, disappears while cooking.

However, potatoes that have been peeled, boiled, and cooked with no sauce or seasoning can be added to your cat’s meal from time to time in an amount not exceeding a handful. You can also add mashed potatoes to your cat’s food, but make sure you’ve not added any salt or dairy products.

46. Corn

YES: SMALL AMOUNT.

Although not poisonous in general, corn does not suit the biology of cats. A few pieces of corn that you can offer fresh will not harm your cat. But corn, which is consumed in large quantities and found in low-quality cat foods, can damage your cat’s digestive system and stomach.

Stay away from this type of food for this reason. And if you are going to give your cat a little bit of corn, choose those that are boiled or cooked without using spices, sauce, and oil.

47. Banana

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, CONTAINS HIGH AMOUNTS OF SUGAR.

You can give a limited amount of banana to your cat. The potassium it contains is useful for her heart and kidneys. But unfortunately, this fruit that cats are a big fan of, contains high amounts of sugar.

Therefore, bananas are not recommended for cats who are overweight and have poor digestive systems.

48. Peach

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, CONTAINS HIGH AMOUNTS OF SUGAR.

There is no issue with giving your cat small amounts of peach if the fruit is peeled. However, if consumed too much, it can damage the stomach and cause diarrhea due to its high sugar content which is hard to digest.

49. Tomato

YES: PEELED ONLY, THE SKIN CONTAINS TOXIC SOLANINE.

You can only give your cat tomato that is peeled and cut into small pieces. The green leaves and the skin of tomatoes contain solanine which is a substance toxic to cats, but a peeled tomato does not contain this toxic compound.

If you want to add some tomatoes to your cat’s meal or if tomatoes will be one of the ingredients when preparing her food, make sure that it is a small amount and completely peeled!

50. Apple

YES: BUT APPLE SEEDS CONTAIN TOXIC CYANIDE.

You would assume apple, which has a lower sugar content than most other fruits, is safer for cats. Indeed, apples be a good choice for healthy bones and tissues thanks to their high fiber and vitamin content.

However, apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous to your cat. As such, apples should only be given after peeling off their skin and completely removing the seeds in their cores. Do not forget to wash them well.

51. Pear

YES: BUT PEAR SEEDS CONTAIN TOXIC CYANIDE.

Although it is high in sugar, pears contain vitamins and fiber that protect your cat against cancer and infections. But pear can be given to cats after washing and removing the middle part which contains the seeds. Like apples, pear seeds contain cyanide which is poisonous to cats.

52. Avocado

YES: BUT THE SKIN, LEAVES, AND ITS SEED CONTAIN PERSIN.

Avocado skin, leaves, and seeds (in short, all the parts of the avocado excluding its pulp) contain persin. This substance is a known toxin in some animals such as birds, rabbits, and goats. 

Although there is no clear evidence that avocados are poisonous for cats, it may be a better idea not to consume too much. They can possibly cause poisoning, as well as serious damage to the heart, liver, and digestive system.

On the other hand, avocado pulp can be peeled and fed safely to cats. However, it must only be given in very small quantities as it contains high amounts of fat.

53. Yogurt

YES: SMALL AMOUNT, OCCASIONALLY.

Various milk products ranging from cheese to ice cream are considered dangerous for cats since most adult cats do not have the necessary enzymes that break down the lactose in milk and dairy products. Therefore, they cannot be digested. Some cats even develop allergies to milk products.

Although not proven by research, some experts claim that yogurt should be added to cats’ diets if it does not exceed the amount of a water glass. This is generally not enough to cause digestive issues but is good for the intestinal flora since it contains probiotics.

Types of Ready-Made Food for Cats

You don’t need to add human food to your cat’s diet. Most of the dry and wet cat food that is on the supermarket shelves has all the essential nutrients required for a cat; adding human food is purely at your discretion.

Nevertheless, how well-balanced your cat’s diet depends on the exact nutrient profile of the cat food in question. Dry and wet food have their advantages and disadvantages, which you can find more about these below.

Dry Cat Food

Dried cat food is cooked in pressure and produced with various flavors (meat, fish, chicken, vegetables, etc.) and content and sold in packages of different weights.

• Pros: Suitable for all age groups, contains all necessary nutrients, cheaper.
• Cons: Contains additives, high-fat content, no water.

Dry food has all the necessary nutrients your cat needs. You often don’t need to add anything extra to your cat’s diet.

Kibble also comes in multiple flavors. Even if you have a picky cat, one of the dry food varieties will attract your cat’s attention. Dry foods also have a variety suitable for all age groups of cats (kittens, adults, and elderly cats), as well as very weak or overweight cats with digestive problems.

However, sometimes oil is sprayed on the dry food during its production to increase your cat’s appetite and enhance the food’s flavor, which unfortunately means some additives have been used. Oil is also a type of fat. High-fat content in a cat’s diet can lead to digestive problems and liver damage, obesity being a primary example.

Badly pressed dry food can cause blockage in the urinary tract of the cat, which can lead to important health problems such as FLUTD (Lower Urinary Tract Disease). Even quality dry food can cause similar problems if not taken with enough water, especially in cats that are not very active.

As their name suggests these foods are dried, so you need to ensure your cat drinks plenty of water. However, because they are dry, they last longer than wet foods and homemade foods. Because they are solid, they also contribute to the development and health of your cat’s teeth and gums.

Nevertheless, this factor is not beneficial to all cats. Older cats may have weak teeth and even lose some of them over time. For this reason, although dry foods may appeal to your elderly cat, they can often have difficulty eating them due to dental and gum problems, leading to weight loss.

Wet Cat Food

Wet cat foods have a higher water content and are sold in cans or pouches. Some are prepared as semi-moist and often by adding vegetable protein. These semi-moist foods contain less water than canned wet food.

• Pros: Contains all necessary nutrients, includes water.
• Cons: Short shelf life after opening, expensive.

Wet food, similar to dry food, is prepared with a wide range of flavors and meets all of your cat’s nutritional needs (minerals, vitamins, and protein) in one product when given in the right amounts.

Despite having a taste that will appeal to your cat’s appetite, it is not a great idea to give wet foods regularly as they will not benefit the health and development of teeth and gums due to their soft textures.

Wet food in airless boxes does not last very long after they are opened. If it stays in your cat’s food bowl for a long time, the texture changes, it dries out, and loses your cat’s attention. It might even spoil and make your cat sick! Therefore, it should be consumed in a short time. The opened packages should be consumed within 24 hours.

Considerations When Choosing Ready-Made Cat Foods

Commercial cat food – both wet and dry – are specially formulated to tend to your cat’s nutritional needs. But as you’ve just learned, there are pros and cons of both types. A blend of both types provides the most balanced option.

However, there are additional considerations when choosing the best food for your cat. Below are some factors to consider:

• Pay Attention to the “Complementary” Label: Almost all readymade cat foods offer all the ingredients required for a cat’s nutrition, but some are made to be given in addition to other foods for a more balanced and adequate diet. Such foods are labeled as “complementary” and they are not an adequate meal Always review the labels and content information on the packages when buying cat food.
• Choose Quality Cat Foods: Protein is the main ingredient in all good cat foods. However, some protein is of much better quality than others. Always choose foods made using real animal protein instead of meat by-products. Quality foods also don’t contain any fillers and are high on vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Discard Empty Cans Carefully: I recommend you shut the garbage bag tight by squeezing it so that nothing can enter it while throwing the can of wet food. These food boxes thrown in the trash are taken out of the garbage bags by street animals due to the smell they produce. This can cause harm to these animals. Always crush the tins and boxes before throwing them away to reduce this risk.

Homemade Human Foods for Cats

Cats will be happy to share the beef you cooked for your evening meal with you! Cats cannot easily say no to a slice of well-cooked meat, chicken, or fish, even though they love readymade foods that dazzle with a variety of flavors. Therefore, you might want to make homemade cat food using some of the human foods I listed as “safe for cats” further up this article.

Pros and Cons of Homemade Human Foods for Cats

Human foods are a great option to diversify your cat’s diet, regulate her appetite, and prevent her from sticking to certain cat foods while rejecting others. As long as you choose foods that are safe for cats, your furry friend will love the diversity!

However, unlike readymade cat foods, almost none of the human foods safe for cats contains all the vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other micronutrients necessary for her health. For example, taurine is an essential amino acid for your cat and found in meat protein that loses its effect in the cooking process. As such, you may need to give your cat regular supplements of taurine.

Too much or too little dietary calcium is another common issue in a homemade diet. If the amount of calcium in the meat you give is insufficient, your cat’s bones may weaken, or if there is an excess amount of calcium this may cause calcification in the spine and joints.

In short, a portion of home-cooked human food or a snack on its own is not the best choice for a healthy and balanced diet for your cat. However, having a portion of food cooked for your cat means that you have full information about its content. This is a good way to keep preservatives, excessive salt, or sugar out of your cat’s diet, which may be harmful to her.

Homemade foods require cat owners to take time out of their busy daily routines. Considering the practicality and the completeness of readymade foods, the time spent cooking food at home may not always be very efficient.

If you give human food by cooking, you may also need to check the ingredients you use one by one. For example, cats cannot eat onions and garlic, regardless of whether they are raw or cooked. Some compounds in them, such as thiosulphate, have a poisonous effect in cats as well as in dogs.

The use of these foods even in powdered form will damage your cat’s stomach and cause very serious destruction (hemolytic anemia) in her red blood cells during digestion. Therefore, having onion or garlic in the ingredients of a meat dish you prepare for your cat can be fatal rather than beneficial.

In addition, if a food normally suitable for your cat is not consumed fresh, it will soon lose its taste and texture and will repel her. A portion of homemade human food that remains in your cat’s food bowl for a few hours may spoil and cause food poisoning.

Raw Foods for Cats (BARF)

Some experts point out that domestic cats, who are biologically carnivorous are entirely fit for feeding on foods with raw and animal protein like their ancestors.

Cat owners, who follow the diet Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, shortly called BARF, or the “Bones and Raw Food” diet, plan the diet of their cats around certain foods that can be consumed completely raw.

Today, you can easily find frozen or freeze-dried BARF products in markets. These products are prepared with additional ingredients to contain all the vitamins, minerals, and protein amino acids your cat needs. Therefore, I would advise you to be careful. The product should be examined in terms of whether these ingredients are in proper proportions or if it contains preservatives.

What is the Content of the Barf Diet for Cats?

All kinds of big and small cattle, chickens, rabbits, etc. (poultry), and raw muscles and organ meat of fish. Large, one-piece raw bones (ground bones) and whole raw eggs.

Some micronutrients that are not present or insufficient in the content of the raw meat, are added to your cat’s diet as a supplement under the supervision of your vet. Cat owners who want to feed their cats with raw food can switch to the BARF diet from the 6th month with additional food supplements.

Pros and Cons of Raw Foods for Cats

In the BARF diet, cats are not exposed to the negative aspects of human food made at home or readymade food (high fat, sugar, etc., reduced amount of taurine in meat cooked at high temperatures); thus, the risk of obesity and diabetes decreases. Their appearance (coat, skin, etc.) is enhanced, and their teeth and gums can develop much better.

Because cats have a more acidic digestive system that is shorter in length compared to ours, they digest raw food easier and faster. Nevertheless, some experts against this kind of nutrition have highlighted the possibility of bacteria and viruses in raw meat and eggs, and the risk increases when they are not stored properly. Salmonella and E. Coli are among the most known.

Therefore, the risk of infections increases, affecting not only the cat but also the people who feed her. Cat owners who want to feed their cats in accordance with the BARF diet and prepare their food at home must take precautions against serious infection risks.

It is essential raw food bought for your cat is frozen and the melted pieces are not frozen again. Also, your cat should be given food on a surface that can be easily cleaned and is in an isolated area. As soon as the container is emptied, all the materials should be washed thoroughly using gloves.

It should be ensured that your own food and your cat’s food do not come into contact with each other. Especially in families with young children, children should stay away from the cat’s food or her food containers.

What Your Cat Must Have in Her Ideal Diet Plan?

• Vitamins (A/B complex/D/E/K): Vitamin A, especially, is vital for cell development in your cat’s body. Since a cat’s body cannot produce vitamin A, it is needed much more than the other vitamins.
• Protein and Amino Acids: Meat, the main food source of cats, provides all the protein cats need. Meat group (meat, fish, chicken) must be present in the diet of a cat. The protein in meat also contains an important amino acid that cats can’t produce on their own: Taurine. Taurine is vital for the development and repair of body tissues and for the hormonal system along with other amino acids such as niacin. Lack of taurine in a cat can lead to serious health problems in many organs, especially the eye and heart.
• Micronutrients (Calcium, Phosphorus, Iodine, Selenium): All micronutrients, especially Calcium, are very important for a cat’s bone development and dental health. They are also effective in the healthy functioning of her hormonal system and metabolism. Although a high amount of intake is not required, the lack of any micronutrient in a cat’s diet can lead to significant health problems.
• Fiber: Lack of fiber in a cat’s diet can lead to many problems in the digestive system, constipation being an important one. Cooked vegetables and grains contain high levels of fiber. However, too much fiber can also be problematic. Fiber holds onto water and can turn your cat’s stools watery. Finding the perfect balance is crucial for good digestive health.
• Fats: Fats are an extremely important source of energy in maintaining the health of a cat. Fats are generally obtained from meat, though some human foods such as nuts and avocados also contain this macronutrient. Make sure you don’t feed your cat too much fat, though. Over time, eating a high fat diet can cause weight gain and obesity. These are two risk factors for several diseases, including heart conditions and diabetes,
• Water: Water is vital for your cat as well. Cats eating only dry food will need even more water. As the name suggests, dry foods contain the lowest possible levels of water and therefore, if it is not taken with enough water, it may cause problems such as stone formation in the urinary tract. Make sure your cat’s water bowl is filled with freshwater by checking it daily in the morning and evening. In the meantime, if you live in a big house, you can put a water bowl in more than one place.

Are There Any Differences Between the Feeding of Stray Cats and Domestic Cats?

NO.

Theoretically, whether it is a stray cat or a domestic cat, the food types and nutrients that cats need for healthy eating do not change.

However, in practice, a stray cat cannot be fed like a home cat given her conditions (weather changes, shelter problem, difficulty finding food, and unhealthy options, etc.) and also if she is deprived of the care and protection of animal lovers or shelters (catteries).

Sometimes stray cats, under the watch of animal lovers, may find dry food and freshwater.

But most of them evaluate all the options they can find using their hunter instincts. Leftover food and trash maybe their food option for the day as well as small reptiles and mice.

Of course, this bad, unbalanced and often insufficient nutrition not only increases the health problems of stray cats but can sometimes lead to poisoning and death.

I would still like to share a little observation with you;

Cat Poisoning

Stray cats who are born under unsanitary conditions and can somehow still survive can become more immune to poisoning or starving for longer periods compared to home cats.

Cat Poisoning Symptoms

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive water consumption
• Cough
• Loss of direction
• Excess saliva
• Shortness in breath
• Chills
• Fever
• Swelling of the skin or abdomen
• Yellowing of the skin

A cat can get poisoning from eating a certain food, as well as chemical cleaners, pesticides or some houseplants (lilies, cyclamen, etc.) in your home.

It will be useful to organize your kitchen as well as your home environment so as not to put your little friend at risk. The symptoms, some of which I have listed below, may be the harbinger of other diseases. However, if you notice one or more of these symptoms, I recommend that you go to your vet immediately, whether or not you suspect poisoning.

Whatever the problem is, being proactive makes it easier to diagnose and start the treatment faster.

What Should I Do?

• Timing is very valuable in poisoning. Because the sooner the poisonous substance is prevented from spreading throughout the body, the easier it is for your cat to recover.
• Contact your vet immediately after checking the content of your cat’s vomit, the condition of his stool, and whether there is any blood in it.
• If you notice any suspicious material in or near your cat’s food such as a foreign body, plant, medicine box, chemical cleaning agent, etc. transfer this information to your vet.
• Do not attempt to intervene yourself. Wrap your cat in a towel with her head left outside and deliver her to the vet as soon as possible.

Treatment

Your vet may order some tests (blood, urine, etc.) or x-rays to find the source of the poisoning.

Intravenous fluid therapy, muscle relaxants to control potential tremors, and the appropriate medication will control your cat’s condition and guide the healing process. If the correct diagnosis and treatment can be provided quickly, the poisoned cat will recover in a few days and return to her former daily routine.

Some Measures That Can Be Taken at Home Against Poisoning

• Do not let anyone else feed your cat outside of your watch!
• If you are preparing food for your cat at home, it may be useful to prepare a list of human food that can be dangerous and put it in a visible place in your kitchen.
• Canned wet food spoils very quickly. Store in a refrigerator after opening the can and consume it within 1 month.
• Be sure to tightly close the packages of semi-moist readymade food after each use.
• Do not keep Homemade and Wet readymade cat food in the food container for hours even if your cat is not finished with them. They dry quickly and can spoil very easily.
• Wash your cat’s food container and water bowl separately from your own dishes and dry them well.
• Do not place the food and water containers near her litterbox.
• When you are not in your kitchen, avoid keeping food that may be harmful to your cat in an easily accessible spot.
• Keep your trash can shut off and out of reach from your cat.
• Keep medicines that may be toxic to your cat, plants, cleaning agents containing chemicals, and pesticides in areas that your cat cannot reach.

Why Do Cats Eat Grass?

Cat’s digestive systems cannot produce enough enzymes to break down the protein in plants and digest fiber. However, every once in a while, you can see your cat vomiting after tearing away the leaves of a plant in the house or the grass in the garden to chew on them.

A cat cannot digest plants, but eating some grass will not harm her unless it is too often and in excess amounts. In fact, sometimes, it is considered to be good for cats.

Experts do not always agree on the reasons why a cat eats grass. However, information centers around some theories. Here are some of them:

• Plants, especially those with dark green leaves, contain folic acid, similar to the protein in meat. Folic acid also helps the digestion of some amino acids. A cat can sometimes eat grass for folic acid intake.
• Cats swallow a lot of their hair while cleaning themselves, accumulating as lumps in the stomach that cannot pass through the digestive system and cause blockages. Undigested fibers in the grass can create a certain lubricant effect on the intestinal tract that helps in vomiting the lumps of hair.
• Your cat may have swallowed a foreign body, or a small rodent, such as a mouse, at home or outside. Large pieces that are hard to swallow or digest may have caused problems in her digestive system. The cat, who instinctively wants to get rid of this mass, may resort to eating grass in order to vomit.
• She may be experiencing a major problem with her digestive system.

When is It Dangerous for Your Cat to Eat Grass, and What Can You Do?

• If your cat eats and vomits grass several times during the day, and if this situation lasts more than a day, I recommend you consult your vet. She may be experiencing a serious digestive problem or disease.
• You may need to be even more careful if you have a cat that goes out, or if you are growing plants at home that are poisonous to your cats, such as daffodils or cyclamen. It is better to put such plants out of your cat’s reach.
• Your cat may be poisoned if she tries to eat from plants grown in soil containing pesticides.
• The simplest measures to take in this regard are planting grass in a flower pot and regularly taking care of your garden for your curious cat who wants to get rid of the hair lumps that she occasionally swallows at home. You can also add cat-friendly wheat and oat seeds to the pots you will prepare for your cat.

I have devoted the last part of my article to some frequently asked questions by most animal lovers and cat owners. I think that the answers to such questions are quite useful and some contain very entertaining information.

Can Cats Eat Catnip?

YES, THEY CAN.

Catnip is a flowering plant from the peppermint family belonging to the bush group, which has the Latin name of Nepeta Cataria. Contrary to popular belief, it is not considered an addictive drug. But it produces a substance that affects the areas that regulate movement and emotions in the brain.

This substance found in the microscopic bulbs on the leaves, stems, and flowers is called nepetalactone, and when the bulbs rupture, this chemical is released into the air.

Cats’ nose is extremely sensitive to the scent released by nepetalactone. This smell is connected to the receptors in the nose and transmitted to the neurons in the brain. And it affects the areas of the brain that regulate behavior.

A cat that sniffs, chews, eats, or just plays and rolls over a part of catnip can suddenly show unusual behaviors. She can suddenly become very active and energetic when calm just a minute before, or she can become very still shortly after being very animate.

In some studies, it has been observed that the effect of Catnip, which is effective in 70-80% of cats, does not change and causes the same behavior each time.

Catnip, which does not create this effect in kittens, becomes effective shortly after the cat is three months old. It does not have any proven harm, on the contrary, it will also be a good opportunity for your cat to exercise if you put some catnip in her toys or on some parts of her playground to cheer her up.

While the stems of these bushes, which stray cats can easily find in open areas, do not create the same effect, the chemicals in their leaves and flowers are effective. You can give your cat catnips, which you can buy fresh or dry, up to one tablespoon per day.

By the way, if your cat does not react to catnip when it smells it for the first time, she will not care for it anytime soon, if she immediately likes it, she will cheer up every other time.

Can Cats Eat Dog Food?

NO.

Similar to the food prepared for cats, there are also readymade foods prepared in wet and dry forms for dogs. And sometimes, my friends who own both cats and dogs wonder if they can give dog food to their cats.

Dog food is produced according to a dog’s nutritional needs, and cat-dog diets differ in content. The amount of protein in dog food is insufficient for an adult cat. Do not give your cat dog food!

Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Foods?

NO.

Unlike dog food, readymade foods for kittens contain a very high amount of protein for an adult cat. This might damage your cat’s kidneys.

Can Humans Eat Cat Foods?

TRY IT!

It is joyous that cats can share some, if not all, human food with us. What if we, instead of thinking ‘What should I eat?’ in front of the refrigerator at night, sneak in the food closet of our little friend?

I must confess that many years ago I tasted dry cat food and promised myself that it would never happen again! For me, it was a terrible experience, like chewing on a tiny piece of wood covered in salt.

Moreover, the intense aroma that made my cat lose herself when it was time for her to eat left a bad taste in my mouth. Also, the taste did not feel close to the content written on the package (I think it was chicken with vegetables).

Yes, if we put aside this experience, if a person tastes cat food, it does not put her in danger. Of course, unless you eat a big bowl of it! Although most cat food seems suitable for human consumption in terms of its low carbohydrate and high fiber content, its content was created according to the needs of your cat’s body, not your own.

Long-term consumption can cause insufficient nutrition and negative effects on the human digestive system. But if you are as curious as your little friend, you can try it once to see what it tastes like!

CONCLUSION

In this article, I tried to share with you the most current information about what kinds of diet options cats have, what kind of human foods they can eat, and what foods they should avoid.

It seems that ready-made foods are promising for a more proper diet, but supplementing them with human foods, is both ideal for adding variety to your cat’s diet and for more adequate and balanced meals.

On the other hand, human food alone does not contain ingredients to meet your cat’s needs. In addition, it should be learned well what may be beneficial for your cat and what can cause a poisonous effect on her body.

Raw nutrition is another option that I still don’t feel very close to due to its potential dangers.

In short, we can make many combinations for our furry little roommates. Getting suggestions from our vet, we can prepare wonderful menus keeping her food taste in mind.

Not fat or weak, but fit; not sick or unhappy but healthy and joyful. Living with a friend like this will also affect us positively in many ways.