Human Foods That Are Toxic to Cats

One of the most important aspects of being a responsible cat owner is providing your cat with a healthy diet, one that delivers all the nutrients your cat needs to live a long and healthy life. This usually comes in the form of a well-balanced, nutritional cat food that is formulated especially for the dietary needs of a cat or kitten. However, some cat owners see no harm in allowing their fluff ball to partake in the family mealtime, providing them with scraps of foods from their plates. This type of consistent indulgence could lead to long-term health issues resulting from poor nutrition, not to mention that a number of very common human foods are toxic to cats, causing anything from an upset stomach, to a much more serious illness and even death. An occasional treat from the table should be fine as long as it is safe for your cat to consume.

Here is a list of some common foods that you should keep away from your cat and in most cases your dog as well. This list is not exhaustive; there are just too many toxic foods to include all of them in this article. If you don't see a specific food on this list, don't assume that it safe for your cat. If you are not certain about the safety of an item that your cat has consumed, please consult your veterinarian.

Alcohol - If you really care for your cat, do not under any circumstance give it alcohol. If you want to see your cat tipsy, try some catnip. Alcohol can not only cause intoxication and intestinal distress, it can also cause more serious issues including respiratory distress and even death.

Avocado- Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin, and while safe for humans, is dangerous for domestic animals. Persin is found in all parts of the avocado, and ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory distress and in some cases, a buildup of fluid around the heart which can result in death.

Chocolate- In addition to caffeine, chocolate contains the alkaloid theobromine. Theobromine can be toxic or lethal to domestic animals, because animals metabolize theobromine more slowly than humans, affecting the heart, kidneys and central nervous system. Theobromine poisoning can result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Advanced symptoms include cardiac arrhythmias and seizures.

Coffee & Tea - Any item or beverage that contains caffeine can be dangerous to cats and dogs. When ingested, numerous symptoms could manifest including, hyperactivity, vomiting, elevated heart rate, hypertension, abnormal heart beat, tremors, hyperthermia, seizures, and possible death may occur.

Grapes and Raisins (all types) - Still unknown is the exact chemical or circumstance that make grapes and raisins toxic, however what is known is that domestic animals that ingest either will likely experience renal failure, and possible death.

Macadamia nuts - The toxic element in macadamia nuts is unknown, as is the exact amount that is needed to cause a reaction. Symptoms usually develop within 12 hours after ingestion. The most common presenting sign is weakness and inability to walk, especially in the hind legs. Other signs include: vomiting, staggering gait, depression, tremors and elevated body temperature.

Milk - Some might find this surprising, since cats are so often associated with milk. While milk will probably not kill your cat, some cats are lactose intolerant, and will develop stomach distress after drinking cow's milk. If you would like to give your cat milk, there are some milk products available at pet stores which are especially formulated for cats.

Mushrooms- Since there are a variety of poisonous mushrooms lurking about, it is advisable not to offer mushrooms to your pet just to be on the safe side.

Onion and Garlic - Onions and garlic belong to the allium species. Consuming the blubs, stems, or flowers of the allium plants or products made from them can trigger changes in red blood cells, causing a serious illness called Heinz body anemia. Any form of onions or garlic, powdered or cooked, can be dangerous to your pet.

Potatoes -The green parts and eyes of potatoes contain solanine glycosides, which have fungicidal and pesticidal properties. If ingested, symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest.

Tuna - Some cat owners believe that they are providing their cat with a healthy meal of tuna; however, tuna produced for human consumption can be dangerous for cats if eaten on a regular basis. Tuna does not provide a cat with all the essential nutrients its needs, which can result in malnutrition. In addition, if fed on a regular basis, a diet of tuna can lead to Steatitis also known as Yellow Fat Disease. It is OK to offer tuna on occasions as a treat, but a steady diet can be dangerous.

Again, this list contains only a few of the more commons foods that are bad for your cat. You should always feed your cat a well-balanced nutritional cat food, and if you would like to offer a treat every now and then, make sure that it is safe for your cat to consume. It is always best to check with your veterinarian as to the best cat food, and the safest and healthiest treats to give your cat.