Your cat may relish a tin of tuna or a saucer of milk, but it won't thank you for the resulting tummy ache or worse. Foods that are dangerous to cats are often fed to them with hazardous consequences. Keep your cat safely away from the following foods and help to preserve their nine lives.
Milk
Treating your cat or kitten to a saucer of cow's milk can actually cause severe stomach upset. Cats lack the enzyme that is required to break down the sugar in cow's milk, and this intolerance can bring on diarrhea and vomiting. Lactose free milk that is safe for cats is available from several pet food manufacturers.
Tuna
Feeding cats tuna is the most common cause of Steatitis or Yellow Fat Disease, a painful inflammatory condition caused by a diet high in unsaturated fatty acids. Tuna flavoured commercial cat foods are fine.
Chocolate, Cocoa and Coffee
Don't let your cat lick the chocolate icing off the cake. The cocoa in chocolate contains a form of methylated xanthine which is extremely dangerous to cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning can occur up to 36 hours after ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination and seizures.
Similar to chocolate, the methylated xanthine in caffeine can seriously affect your cat's central nervous system and cause severe cardiac symptoms. Coffee and coffee grounds should be stored securely out of your cat's reach.
Onions
Onions and garlic both contain a compound called thiosulphate which is toxic to cats and can result in weakness and difficulty breathing due to damage to the red blood cells. Be wary or raw or cooked onion in prepared foods, and onion powder which is often added to products such as baby food as a flavour enhancer.
Ham and Other Fatty Meats
The high fat content in ham, bacon and other fatty meats can cause stomache ache and pancreatitis, a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed causing pain and symptoms such as fever, vomiting and collapse. Do the right thing and give them a safe and healthy treat instead.
Bones
Be wary when giving any kinds of bones to your cat. While it may be good for their teeth, bones can splinter causing lacerations to the stomach and intestines. They have also been known to get stuck in the throat or digestive system, sometimes requiring surgery. Dry cat food should be sufficient to keep your cat's teeth clean. If you're concerned, seek advice from your veterinarian.
Macadamia Nuts
While your cat may not be inclined to chewing on a macadamia nut, it does often love macadamia nut butter which contains a compound that is toxic to cats. Signs of poisoning include muscle tremors, weakness and paralysis. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact your vet immediately.
Raw Fish
Cats that are regularly fed raw fish often develop a serious thiamine deficiency which leads to a loss of appetite, seizures and further complications. Play it safe and keep your sushi to yourself.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs contain an enzyme that decreases the absorption of the vitamin biotin, which can cause your cat to lose fur and develop skin and problems. Even as a treat, raw eggs can pose a Salmonella poisoning risk to your cat, so dispose of any unused eggs and shells safely.
Large Amounts of Liver and Cod Liver Oil
A little bit of liver can be a great treat for your cat, but too much can cause Vitamin A toxicosis with serious and irreversible results. Feed with caution and only as an occasional supplement to a balanced cat food.
Remember that a quality commercial cat food is always going to be the safest way to ensure your cat has a balanced diet and remains in good health. Ask your veterinarian about any foods you are considering giving your cat as a treat, and keep any dangerous foods safely out of reach. You'll have a happy, healthy cat to thank you for it.
See also Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs
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