Things Cats Cannot Eat
Cats have specific dietary needs, and some human foods can be harmful or even toxic to them. Here are some common foods that should never be given to cats:
1. Onions, Garlic, and Chives
All forms of onion, garlic, and chives—whether raw, cooked, or powdered can damage a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts can cause severe illness over time.
DANGER
Toxic Effect: Hemolytic anemia
Source: PDSA - Onion and Garlic Poisoning in Cats
2. Chocolate
Chocolate contains substances called theobromine and caffeine, which are highly toxic to cats. These can cause abnormal heart rhythms, muscle tremors, and even seizures.
DANGER
Toxic Effect: Heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, seizures
Source: Brookhaven Vets - Is Chocolate Dangerous For Cats
3. Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can cause severe health issues in cats, such as vomiting, disorientation, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, coma or death.
DANGER
Toxic Effect: Respiratory distress, coma
Source: Vetster - Alcohol Poisoning in Cats
4. Grapes and Raisins
Although the exact substance in grapes and raisins that harms cats is unknown, these fruits can cause kidney failure, leading to symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and increased urination.
DANGER
Toxic Effect: Kidney failure
Source: Joii Pet Care - Grape and Raisin Poisoning in Cats
5. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some peanut butters. While it is primarily dangerous to dogs, it can also cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage in cats.
WARNING
Toxic Effect: Hypoglycemia, liver failure
Source: PureForm Pet Health - Xylitol Poisoning
6. Raw Eggs and Fish
Raw eggs can contain bacteria like Salmonella, and raw fish can destroy thiamine, an essential B-vitamin, leading to neurological issues in cats.
WARNING
Toxic Effect: Neurological issues due to thiamine deficiency
Source: PetMD - Can Cats Eat Eggs?
7. Dairy Products
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot properly digest dairy products like milk and cheese. Consuming these can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and cramps.
WARNING
Toxic Effect: Digestive upset (diarrhea, cramps)
Source: James Wellbeloved - Can cats have dairy?
Conclusion
Many common human foods are dangerous for cats, and it’s important to be aware of what’s safe and what’s not. If your cat consumes any of these harmful foods, contact your veterinarian immediately.
References
PDSA. (n.d.). Onion and Garlic Poisoning in Cats. Retrieved from https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/other-veterinary-advice/onion-and-garlic-poisoning-in-cats
Brookhaven Vets. (2022, June 15). Is Chocolate Dangerous For Cats? Retrieved from https://www.brookhavenanimalhosp.com/site/blog/2022/06/15/is-chocolate-dangerous-for-cats
Vetster. (n.d.). Alcohol Poisoning in Cats. Retrieved from https://vetster.com/en/conditions/cat/alcohol-poisoning
Joii Pet Care. (n.d.). Grape and Raisin Poisoning in Cats. Retrieved from https://www.joiipetcare.com/health-conditions/cat/grape-and-raisin-poisoning/
PureForm Pet Health. (n.d.). Xylitol Poisoning. Retrieved from https://pureformpethealth.com/blogs/pureform-pet-care/xylitol-poisoning-dogs-cats
PetMD. (n.d.). Can Cats Eat Eggs? Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-eggs
James Wellbeloved. (n.d.). Can cats have dairy? Retrieved from https://wellbeloved.com/blogs/caring-for-cats/can-cats-have-dairy