Cats and other pets require a balanced diet for healthy growth. Feeding your cat human food may not only be harmful to their digestive health, but cause allergies or even lead to diseases that may later lead to death if not treated (i.e., obesity or diabetes). Feeding your cat certain human foods may lead to pet toxicity and in worst cases, fatality.
Let’s take a deeper look at some of the toxic human foods for cats:
1. Chocolate
This is a harmful type of food to both cats and dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine which results in toxicity in cats. This substance is usually in high concentration in unsweetened, dark chocolate. It’s worth noting that this type of food also contains high caffeine levels. It escalates toxicity levels and may lead to death if not treated. Dismal amounts can cause great harm, more so in small cats. If your cat has accidentally consumed any sugary products, it’s advisable to seek the services of a vet.
2. Grapes and raisins
These foods have fatal effects on both cats and dogs. Dogs have a high chance of suffering from kidney failure while cats will have an escalated toxicity. Some of the toxicity symptoms associated with grapes include: diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, escalated water intake and vomiting, among others. It is thus highly advisable never to feed your cat grapes and raisins.
3. Onions and garlic
Onions contain propyl disulfide. This substance is fatal since it destroys red blood cells in cats. As an aftermath, the cat will suffer from Heinz body anemia which may later lead to death if not treated. Garlic also contains propyl disulfide though in fewer quantities. Garlic will also make your cat suffer from abdomen-related diseases.
4. Raw eggs and raw meat and bones
Raw eggs may lead to food poisoning in your cat. This will be a result of bacteria such as salmonella contained in the eggs. Avidin, a protein substance in raw eggs may also interfere with the absorption of vitamins and this may lead to skin problems. Raw meat may also lead to food poisoning due to the high bacteria levels present. Raw fish also contains an enzyme that mitigates thiamine which is a vital B vitamin needed by cats. The absence of thiamine may result in a coma or even convulsions. You shouldn’t feed your cat with bones since it may damage the cat’s digestive system.
5. Caffeine
Large quantities of these products may also be dangerous for cats. It may lead to food poisoning. Some of the effects include heart palpitations, rapid breathing, and also muscle tremors. Energy drinks for instance Red Bull may cause similar effects.
It is advisable to feed your cat healthy food and treat, specifically designed for feline diets that will enhance growth and development. The best cat treats and cat food can either be wet canned or dry bagged varieties. Dry treats usually have a high percentage of carbohydrates compared to wet food so look for an option that’s high in protein vs. carb fillers (i.e., rice or corn).
Feeding your cat with the right diet will play a key role in enhancing healthy growth. Avoid giving your cat the potentially toxic human foods highlighted above. You should take your cat to a vet immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested one of these foods.
