Which foods are poisonous to cats?

Cats are curious and independent and will often explore the world around them, including the food you leave unattended. While it may be tempting to share your snacks or meals with your feline friend, it's important to remember that not all human foods are safe for cats. In fact, some can be downright toxic and cause serious health problems or even death.
Knowing which foods are bad for cats can help protect your pet from accidental poisoning. Here's a comprehensive guide to the foods you should keep out of your cat's reach.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures and death. Dark chocolate and unsweetened chocolate are particularly dangerous due to their high theobromine content.

2. Onions and garlic

Onions, garlic, and other members of the allium family (including leeks and chives) contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in cats and cause anemia. Even powdered forms of these foods can be dangerous. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning include lethargy, weakness, decreased appetite, and pale mucous membranes.

3. Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins, even in small amounts, can cause sudden kidney failure in cats. The exact substance in grapes that is toxic to cats is still unknown, but it is clear that these fruits should be avoided completely. Symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased urine output.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can be highly toxic to cats, even in small amounts. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and in severe cases, coma or death. This includes alcohol found in beverages, foods, and even certain household products.

5. Caffeine

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks and even some medications. Like chocolate, caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors and seizures in cats. It is best to keep all products containing caffeine out of your cat's reach.

6. Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and some brands of peanut butter. While harmless to humans, xylitol can cause rapid insulin release in cats, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, and even death.

7. Raw dough

Raw yeast dough can expand in a cat's stomach, causing severe pain and potentially leading to a life-threatening condition called gastric torsion (GDV). In addition, the fermentation process produces alcohol, which increases the risk.

8. Raw eggs, meat and fish

While some pet owners advocate raw diets, raw eggs, meat and fish can pose significant risks to cats. Raw eggs can contain salmonella or E. coli, and they also contain avidin, an enzyme that interferes with the absorption of biotin, leading to skin and coat problems. Raw fish can contain parasites and thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys thiamine, a B vitamin important to cats.

9. Dairy products

Despite the common image of cats drinking milk, many cats are lactose intolerant. Eating dairy products can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea and stomach cramps. Although a small amount of dairy may not be life-threatening, it's best to avoid giving your cat dairy products altogether.

10. Bones and fat residues

Cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages or tears in a cat's digestive system, while leftover fat can lead to pancreatitis. It's important not to give your cat leftovers that contain bones or excessive fat.

How to protect your cat

1. Keep human food out of their reach: Store food safely in cupboards or the refrigerator. Be careful when eating and don't leave food unattended where your cat can reach it.
2. Educate your family: Make sure everyone in your household, including guests, knows which foods are dangerous for your cat to avoid accidental feeding.
3. Provide cat-safe treats: Offer your cat treats made specifically for them. These treats are formulated to be safe and nutritionally appropriate for cats.
4. Be prepared for emergencies: Have the number of your veterinarian or pet poison control center handy. If you suspect your cat has ingested something poisonous, seek professional help immediately.

While it may be tempting to share your favorite foods with your feline pet, it's important to be aware of the dangers some foods pose to cats. Knowing which foods are toxic will help keep your pet safe and healthy and help them live a long, happy life by your side. When in doubt, it's always best to stick to a diet specifically designed for cats and consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods.