While feeding your cat “people food” in small amounts can be a treat, certain foods are definitely hazardous and should be avoided. Here are the six no-no foods for cats and why they are so dangerous.
1. Onions and garlic
Garlic and onions contain chemicals that can damage red blood cells in cats as well as dogs. Make sure you read the label on anything you feed your cat, fresh, cooked, or powdered garlic and/or onions can be dangerous even in small doses.
2. Uncooked eggs
Raw eggs may expose your cat to salmonella or lead to an inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis). Cooked eggs are safe but only occasionally and in small amounts.
3. Bones
Bones can splinter, causing a cat to choke as well as block the intestinal tract. If a bone becomes an intestinal obstruction, it is an emergency situation and may require surgery.
4. Fat trimmed from meat
Feeding this fat to your cat can lead to gastrointestinal upset and even pancreatitis.
5. Caffeine
Caffeine can cause problems such as an increased heart rate and agitation. Keep your cat away from coffee, soda, tea, and chocolate.
6. Milk
Although some cats love milk, they can’t always digest it without problems. That’s because a cat becomes somewhat lactose intolerant once it reaches adulthood. Giving your cat milk may make him sick and could also contribute to obesity.
On occasion, it is okay to give your cat a little canned tuna or a small amount of cheese. But keep in mind that a 10-pound cat usually needs only 180 to 200 calories each day, so limit treats to about 18 to 20 calories of his daily diet.
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