Can cats eat dog food? We’ve answered this question in a previous post as well as the question about what foods are dangerous for cats. In this piece, we’re addressing the pressing matter of the human foods that feline pets can safely eat. Read on to find out!
Eggs
Can cats eat eggs? Yes! It’s a fantastic source of protein, which is a very necessary nutrient in feline diets. In the wild, kitties are known to poach eggs from bird nests and feast on them.
However, veterinarians recommend feeding your cat cooked egg, whether hard boiled or scrambled. Raw eggs, although more nutritious, also comes with health risks, such as E. coli or salmonella infections. To be on the safe side with indoor cats, feed them cooked versions of this poultry staple.
Apples
Can cats eat apples? Yes, but only after removing the seeds, stems, and leaves from the fruit. The seeds contain poison called cyanide which can be problematic for your pet even with a small dose. Wash the fruit very well after taking out the aforementioned parts and before offering small pieces to your feline friend.
Avoid giving too many apple pieces as they can cause an upset tummy. To be on the safe side, you may just give apple pieces as treats every now and then.
Bacon
Can cats eat bacon? Yes, but not every day. Whilst meat is a staple in the diet of an obligate carnivore like felines, cold cuts or processed meats should be given at a minimum. The high sodium content may trigger high blood pressure, obesity, or even salt poisoning in cats. It can also lead to obesity. As such, give bacon as a rare treat.
Bananas
Can cats eat bananas? Yes, they can. However, considering cats cannot taste sweets and thus cannot savour the sugary sweet taste, you can forgo giving this fruit altogether. It is high in sugar, which may lead to obesity. Plus, cats cannot digest sugar the way humans can and don’t need as much fibre as dogs and people.
Bread
Can cats eat bread? Yes, but only in moderate portions. Just make sure the bread is not made with garlic or raisin, both of which are toxic for felines. Also, keep raw dough out of a kitty’s reach as it is not safe.
Although not all cats like it, the ones that do eat bread find the yeasty flavour appealing. This explains why there are treats or medications for felines that are yeast-flavoured.
Broccoli
Can cats eat broccoli? Yes, including green beans and asparagus. To be on the safe side, steam these greens first. Broccoli is particularly rich in antioxidants and fibre. It’s great to feed you kitty when she is feeling constipated.
Canned Tuna
Most feline pets love fish, but can cats eat canned tuna? Yes, but only in small amounts and as an occasional treat. The canned tuna should be the ‘chunky light tuna in water’ kind. It should not have garlic or onions, which are toxic for cats.
Even ‘straight’ tuna should not be fed often or regularly to your furry friend. That’s because it has unsaturated fat and even contains mercury, which is unsafe for pets.
Carrots
Can cats eat carrots? Definitely! It is a great low-calorie snack for felines, especially those that are overweight. Just feed in moderate amounts as cats are unable to digest it as humans can. The carrots should be cooked and chopped very finely or grated to be easily digested.
Chicken
Can cats eat chicken? Cooked chicken or other types of poultry are actually the best choice of meat for felines. That’s because these are lean meats and are easier to digest.
Can cats eat chicken bones? Yes, but these should be offered raw. Cooked ones are dangerous as the softened pieces are likely to break into splinters. These small, sharp pieces can injure your pet’s intestines and stomach, which may lead to fatal results.
Ham and Pork
Can cats eat ham? It depends on the type you wish to feed your furry friend. The ones that have high sodium levels (typically the cheaper ones) are not safe. Cats cannot tolerate too much salt in their system. Fresh cuts of ham are better, though. This should also be fed occasionally and in small amounts.
Can cats eat pork? Yes, but in moderate portions to prevent obesity and blood circulation problems. That’s because domestic felines are not as active as wild cats and thus need less calories. The pork should be served occasionally and cooked to kill off parasites.
Potato
Can cats eat potatoes? Cooked potatoes are safe for cats and may be mixed into your pet’s dry food occasionally. However, avoid giving this raw as it still contains a chemical that is toxic for felines.
Wait—Can Cats Eat Cheese or Chocolate?
Cats generally cannot tolerate dairy products as they are lactose intolerant. However, some kitties can ingest very small amounts of cheese without problems. If you must give some to your pet, do so as a rare treat and in very small quantities. You may test your cat’s tolerance by giving him a tiny piece. However, to be safe, avoid giving cheese altogether.
Can cats eat chocolate? Felines typically do not crave for chocolate or eat it voluntarily. Owners should not offer chocolates to kitties because this treat has theobromine, which is toxic for them.
If you want to learn more tips, check out more cat care posts!
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