Is Human Food Safe for Cats?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their nutritional requirements are primarily met through a diet consisting of animal-based proteins and fats. While human food can provide some essential nutrients, it is generally not recommended to feed cats a diet consisting entirely of human food, as it may lack the balanced nutrition they require.
According to Dr. Lisa Pierson, a renowned veterinary nutritionist at the University of California, Davis, “While occasional treats from the table may not pose an immediate health risk, feeding cats a diet consisting primarily of human food can lead to nutritional imbalances and potential health issues over time.”
Dr. Pierson explains that cats have specific nutritional needs that are often not met by human food alone. These include:
- Taurine: An essential amino acid required for healthy heart function, vision, and reproduction in cats. Taurine deficiency can lead to serious health problems, such as blindness and heart disease.
- Vitamin A: Cats cannot convert beta-carotene from plant sources into vitamin A, so they require preformed vitamin A from animal sources.
- Arachidonic acid: An essential fatty acid crucial for healthy skin, coat, and reproductive functions in cats.
- Protein: Cats require a higher proportion of protein in their diet compared to many other animals, and the protein should be of high biological value, typically from animal sources.
While some human foods can provide some of these essential nutrients, relying solely on human food for a cat’s diet can lead to deficiencies or imbalances over time.
Dr. Karen Becker, a renowned veterinarian and proponent of holistic pet care, notes, “While an occasional bite of cooked, unseasoned chicken or a small piece of plain, boiled fish may not harm your cat, it is important to understand that a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being.”
Can We Feed Human Food to Cats Without Worry?
While occasional treats from the table may not pose an immediate health risk for most cats, it is generally not recommended to feed cats a diet consisting primarily of human food without proper guidance and supervision from a veterinarian or animal nutritionist.
Dr. Renee Streeter, a veterinary nutritionist at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, emphasizes, “While some human foods can be safe for cats in moderation, it is essential to understand that a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being.”
Feeding cats a diet consisting primarily of human food can lead to nutritional imbalances and potential health issues over time. Cats have specific nutritional requirements that may not be met by human food alone, including taurine, vitamin A, arachidonic acid, and high-quality animal-based proteins.
Dr. Streeter warns, “Feeding cats an unbalanced diet can lead to a variety of health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, urinary tract issues, and even nutritional deficiencies that can cause severe health consequences.”
Additionally, some human foods can be toxic or harmful to cats, such as onions, garlic, chocolate, alcohol, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), and certain bones that can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Dr. Joseph Bartges, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, advises, “While occasional treats from the table may not harm your cat, it is essential to understand that their nutritional needs are unique, and a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being.”
List of What Human Food Can Cats Eat
While it is generally not recommended to feed cats a diet consisting primarily of human food, there are some human foods that can be offered as occasional treats or supplements to a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet. However, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist before introducing any new foods to your cat’s diet, as individual nutritional needs and health concerns may vary.
1. Cooked, Unseasoned Chicken or Turkey:
Cooked, unseasoned chicken or turkey can be a safe and nutritious treat for cats in moderation. These lean proteins are an excellent source of high-quality animal-based protein, which is essential for cats’ overall health and well-being.
Dr. Cailin Heinze, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at Tufts University, explains, “Cooked, unseasoned chicken or turkey can be a great source of lean protein for cats. However, it is essential to remove all bones, skin, and visible fat, as these can cause digestive issues or even obstruction in some cases.”
When introducing cooked chicken or turkey to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to ensure that it is unseasoned and free from any added oils, spices, or seasonings, as these can be harmful to cats. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
2. Cooked, Unseasoned Fish:
Cooked, unseasoned fish can be a nutritious treat for cats in moderation. Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cats’ skin, coat, and overall health.
Dr. Maryanne Murphy, a feline veterinarian and nutritionist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, advises, “Cooked, unseasoned fish, such as salmon, tuna, or cod, can be a healthy treat for cats in moderation. However, it is essential to remove any bones, as they can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries.”
When introducing cooked fish to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to ensure that it is unseasoned and free from any added oils, spices, or seasonings, as these can be harmful to cats. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
3. Plain, Low-Fat Yogurt or Cottage Cheese:
Plain, low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese can be a safe and nutritious treat for cats in moderation. These dairy products are a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian and pet wellness expert at the PetMD Editorial Advisory Board, notes, “Plain, low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese can be a healthy treat for cats in moderation. However, it is essential to choose products that are low in sugar and free from any added flavors or sweeteners, as these can be harmful to cats.”
When introducing plain, low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to start with small portions and monitor your cat’s reaction, as some cats may have trouble digesting dairy products. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
4. Cooked, Plain Vegetables:
Cooked, plain vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes, can be a safe and nutritious treat for cats in moderation. These vegetables are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Dr. Marty Becker, a renowned veterinarian and author of “The Healing Power of Pets,” explains, “Cooked, plain vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes, can be a healthy treat for cats in moderation. However, it is essential to ensure that the vegetables are cooked until soft and free from any added seasonings or oils, as these can be harmful to cats.”
When introducing cooked, plain vegetables to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to start with small portions and monitor your cat’s reaction, as some cats may have trouble digesting certain vegetables. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
5. Cooked, Plain Grains :
Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, advises, “Cooked, plain grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, can be a safe treat for cats in moderation. However, it is essential to ensure that the grains are cooked thoroughly and free from any added seasonings or oils, as these can be harmful to cats.”
When introducing cooked, plain grains to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to start with small portions and monitor your cat’s reaction, as some cats may have trouble digesting certain grains. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Dr. Shmalberg adds, “While grains can provide some nutritional value, it is important to remember that cats are obligate carnivores and require a diet primarily consisting of high-quality animal-based proteins and fats. Grains should be considered an occasional treat and should not replace a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet.”
6. Cooked, Unseasoned Eggs:
Cooked, unseasoned eggs can be a safe and nutritious treat for cats in moderation. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Dr. Lori Huston, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, notes, “Cooked, unseasoned eggs can be a healthy treat for cats in moderation. However, it is essential to ensure that the eggs are cooked thoroughly and free from any added seasonings or oils, as these can be harmful to cats.”
When introducing cooked, unseasoned eggs to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to start with small portions and monitor your cat’s reaction, as some cats may be allergic or intolerant to eggs. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Dr. Huston adds, “While eggs can provide some nutritional value, it is important to remember that cats are obligate carnivores and require a diet primarily consisting of high-quality animal-based proteins and fats. Eggs should be considered an occasional treat and should not replace a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet.”
7. Cooked, Unseasoned Lean Meat (Beef, Pork, or Lamb):
Cooked, unseasoned lean meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb, can be a safe and nutritious treat for cats in moderation. These lean meats are an excellent source of high-quality animal-based protein, which is essential for cats’ overall health and well-being.
Dr. Kathryn Michel, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, explains, “Cooked, unseasoned lean meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb, can be a great source of high-quality protein for cats. However, it is essential to remove all visible fat and ensure that the meat is free from any added seasonings or oils, as these can be harmful to cats.”
When introducing cooked, unseasoned lean meat to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to start with small portions and monitor your cat’s reaction, as some cats may have trouble digesting certain types of meat. Additionally, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and not overfeed your cat, as excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Dr. Michel adds, “While lean meat can provide some nutritional value, it is important to remember that cats are obligate carnivores and require a balanced diet that includes other essential nutrients, such as taurine, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid. Lean meat should be considered an occasional treat and should not replace a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet.”
Human Foods that are of Great Danger for Cats
While some human foods can be safe for cats to consume in moderation, there are several foods that can be toxic or harmful to cats and should be avoided altogether. These foods can cause severe health issues, including digestive problems, kidney or liver damage, neurological issues, and even death in some cases.
1. Onions and Garlic:
Onions and garlic, including powdered or dried forms, can be toxic to cats. These vegetables contain compounds called disulfides and thiosulphates, which can damage red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia in cats.
Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, warns, “Ingestion of onions or garlic, even in small amounts, can lead to severe anemia in cats, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is crucial to keep these vegetables away from cats at all times.”
2. Chocolate:
Chocolate contains methylxanthines, such as theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to cats. The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of these compounds, and the greater the risk of toxicity.
Dr. Ahna Brutlag, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at the Pet Poison Helpline, explains, “Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, and in severe cases, seizures and even death in cats. It is essential to keep all forms of chocolate, including baked goods containing chocolate, away from cats.”
3. Alcohol:
Alcohol can be extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Ingestion of alcohol can cause respiratory depression, coordination problems, and even coma or death in severe cases.
Dr. Tina Wismer, a medical director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, advises, “Alcohol should never be given to cats, as it can cause severe and potentially life-threatening issues. Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to cats, so it is crucial to keep all alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol away from them.”
4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener):
Xylitol, a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gums, candies, and baked goods, can be highly toxic to cats. Ingestion of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and in severe cases, liver damage.
Dr. Renee Rucinsky, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at the Pet Poison Helpline, warns, “Xylitol is extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Ingestion can cause severe hypoglycemia, seizures, and potentially life-threatening liver damage. It is crucial to keep all products containing xylitol away from cats.”
5. Grapes and Raisins:
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood. Even small amounts can be toxic, and the risk applies to all types of grapes and raisins.
Dr. Ahna Brutlag notes, “While the exact reason is not known, grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in cats, even in small amounts. It is best to avoid feeding these fruits to cats altogether and to keep them out of their reach.”
6. Bones (Cooked or Raw):
Cooked or raw bones can pose a significant risk to cats, as they can splinter and cause obstructions or punctures in the digestive tract, leading to severe injuries or even life-threatening complications.
Dr. Lori Teller advises, “While bones may seem like a natural treat for cats, they can be extremely dangerous. Cooked bones can splinter and cause obstructions or punctures, while raw bones can also pose a risk of bacterial contamination. It is best to avoid feeding bones to cats altogether and opt for safer, approved treats instead.”
Tips to Provide Human Food to Cats
While it is generally not recommended to feed cats a diet consisting primarily of human food, there may be occasions where you wish to offer your feline friend a special treat or supplement their balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet with small amounts of human food. In such cases, it is essential to follow these tips to ensure your cat’s safety and well-being:
1. Consult with a Veterinarian or Animal Nutritionist:
Before introducing any new human foods to your cat’s diet, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a board-certified animal nutritionist. They can provide guidance on safe and appropriate human foods based on your cat’s specific dietary needs, health condition, and any potential allergies or intolerances.
Dr. Kathryn Michel, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, emphasizes, “Every cat is unique, and their dietary needs may vary based on factors such as age, breed, activity level, and health status.
2. Introduce New Foods Gradually:
When introducing new human foods to your cat’s diet, it is essential to do so gradually and in small amounts. This allows you to monitor your cat’s reaction and ensure that they do not experience any adverse effects, such as digestive issues or allergic reactions.
Dr. Lori Huston, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, recommends, “Start with a small portion, no more than a teaspoon or two, and observe your cat for any signs of discomfort or digestive upset. If your cat tolerates the new food well, you can slowly increase the portion size over time.”
3. Choose Appropriate Portions:
While occasional human food treats may be acceptable, it is crucial to keep portion sizes in check. Cats have relatively small stomachs and high energy requirements, so overfeeding them with human foods can lead to obesity, digestive issues, and other health problems.
Dr. Renee Streeter, a veterinary nutritionist at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, advises, “Human food treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. It’s essential to account for these treats and adjust your cat’s regular diet accordingly to maintain a balanced and appropriate caloric intake.”
4. Avoid Seasonings, Oils, and Additives:
Many human foods contain seasonings, oils, and additives that can be harmful to cats. When offering human food to your cat, it is crucial to choose plain, unseasoned options without any added salt, spices, herbs, oils, or other flavorings.
Dr. Cailin Heinze, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at Tufts University, warns, “Seasonings, oils, and additives commonly found in human foods can be toxic or cause digestive issues in cats. Always opt for plain, unseasoned foods and avoid anything with added flavorings or preservatives.”
5. Ensure Proper Cooking and Handling:
If you are offering cooked human foods to your cat, it is essential to ensure that they are cooked thoroughly and handled properly to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Cats can be susceptible to bacteria and pathogens found in undercooked or mishandled foods.
Dr. Marty Becker, a renowned veterinarian and author of “The Healing Power of Pets,” advises, “When cooking human foods for your cat, ensure that they are cooked to a safe internal temperature and handled with proper food safety practices. Avoid feeding raw or undercooked meats, as they can harbor harmful bacteria.”
6. Offer Hydration:
Some human foods, such as cooked grains or vegetables, may be lower in moisture content than a cat’s regular diet. When offering these types of treats, it is essential to provide your cat with fresh water to ensure proper hydration.
Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, notes, “Cats can be prone to dehydration, especially when consuming drier foods. Make sure to offer fresh water whenever you provide human food treats to your cat, and encourage them to drink regularly.”
Final Thoughts
Feeding cats a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. While occasional human food treats may be acceptable in moderation, it is crucial to approach this practice with caution and guidance from a veterinarian or animal nutritionist.
Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian and pet wellness expert at the PetMD Editorial Advisory Board, emphasizes, “While the occasional human food treat may seem harmless, it is important to remember that cats have unique nutritional requirements that cannot be met by human foods alone. A balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet should always be the foundation of your cat’s nutrition.”
Dr. Maryanne Murphy, a feline veterinarian and nutritionist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, adds, “Feeding cats a diet consisting primarily of human foods can lead to nutritional imbalances, deficiencies, and potential health issues over time. It is crucial to prioritize a balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet formulated specifically for cats’ unique needs.”
In conclusion, while some human foods can be offered as occasional treats or supplements, it is essential to do so with caution, moderation, and guidance from a veterinary professional. A balanced, complete, and species-appropriate diet should always be the primary source of nutrition for your feline companion, ensuring their overall health, well-being, and longevity.
