It’s during the holidays that we all want to give our pets some treats form the table. Most pet parents know that table scraps aren’t exactly good for our pets to eat, but we still indulge them every once in a while. However, there can be more dangerous side effects from human food than just a stomach ache. Sometimes our food can actually be deadly to our cats. In fact, there are several foods that you should never feed your cat.
The top 5 foods to avoid feeding your cat
- Raw eggs or meat
Did you know that your cat can get salmonella and E. Coli just like us? If you feed your cat raw eggs or meat they have just as big of a chance of getting seriously sick. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.
- Chocolate & Caffeine
We know that chocolate is deadly to dogs, but did you know that it can also be fatal for your cat too? The substance found in chocolate, methylxanthine, is toxic to cats as well. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, high body temperature, abnormal heart rhythm, muscle tremors, abdominal discomfort, increased thirst and seizures. Methylxanthines are also in caffeinated beverages, so make sure to not share your coffee or tea with your cat.
- Milk & Dairy
This may seem counterintuitive because cats and milk seem to always go hand in hand. However, the lactose in the milk can actually cause more harm than good. They have a hard time digesting our milk and are only exposed to lactose from their mother. That means that their digestive systems can’t hand the reintroduction of lactose. This can give them upset stomachs and diarrhea.
- Grapes & Raisins
Both of these are extremely dangerous to cats. Even a small amount can make your cat very sick. In fact, it can lead to rapid kidney failure. It doesn’t even take a whole day after eating a grape or raisin to see signs of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased urination and lethargy.
- Dog Food
You cat may not get sick immediately after eating dog food, but it’s not giving them the nutrients that need for a healthy life. Dogs and cats need completely different vitamins and minerals. Make sure to give your cat and dog their own specific food that is recommended by your vet.
We love our cats and often we forget that there are food dangers to them as well as our dogs. Keeping them happy and healthy will ensure that you will get kitty snuggles and lap time for years to come.
