Dangerous Foods for Cats: What to Avoid

Cats should avoid certain foods as they can be toxic or harmful to their health. Here is a list of foods cats should not eat:

1. Chocolate

• Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats.
• Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.

2. Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Shallots

• Contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, causing anemia.
• Cooked, raw, or powdered forms are dangerous.

3. Grapes and Raisins

• Can cause kidney failure in some cats.
• Even small amounts can be harmful.

4. Alcohol

• Even tiny amounts can cause poisoning, leading to vomiting, liver damage, and coma.

5. Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

• Caffeine overstimulates the nervous system, causing restlessness, rapid breathing, and heart palpitations.

6. Raw Meat, Fish, and Eggs

• Risk of bacterial infections (Salmonella, E. coli).
• Raw fish can cause a thiamine deficiency, leading to neurological issues.

7. Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, etc.)

• Many adult cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest lactose.
• Can lead to upset stomachs and diarrhea.

8. Bones

• Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking or digestive tract injuries.

9. Tuna (in excess)

• Tuna lacks essential nutrients and contains mercury, which can be harmful in large quantities.
• Occasional tuna is fine, but it should not replace a balanced diet.

10. Fat Trimmings and Greasy Foods

• High-fat foods can cause pancreatitis and digestive upset.

11. Xylitol (Sugar Substitute)

• Found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some peanut butter.
• While primarily toxic to dogs, xylitol may harm cats as well.

12. Raw Dough with Yeast

• Yeast can expand in the stomach, leading to bloating or alcohol poisoning.

13. Dog Food

• Lacks the essential nutrients cats need, such as taurine, which is critical for heart and vision health.

14. Citrus Fruits

• The citric acid and essential oils can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and central nervous system depression.

15. Avocado

• Contains persin, which can be mildly toxic to cats.
• It can also be a choking hazard due to its pit.

Always feed your cat a diet designed for their species. If you’re unsure whether a food is safe, consult your veterinarian. Avoid giving "human food" as treats unless it's vet-approved (e.g., plain cooked chicken).