If you’re a cat lover, then you know how finicky your feline can be, and how frustrating that can be for you. However, sometimes a cat’s finickiness actually prevents them from eating the wrong foods, foods that can make him sick. And, while you love to spoil your cat with treats and snacks, it’s best not to indulge them.
Some foods that we think are safe and may even be healthy to humans are not so for your cat. Here is a list of food to steer clear of when it comes to your cat.
Milk or dairy – Most cats are lactose intolerant. Just a small amount of dairy will likely send your kitty running to the litter box.
Raw fish – Raw fish can cause gastrointestinal upset. Raw fish has thiaminase, which can break down an essential B-vitamin called thiamine. If your cat has a deficiency in thiamine, eating raw fish may cause neurological problems.
Bones – Bone can splinter and rip the inside of kitty’s mouth, and they can also block and tear her intestinal tract.
Onions and garlic – Whether they’re cooked, raw or in powder form, there is a component found in onions and garlic which can damage cats’ red blood cells.
Chocolate – Cats can’t really taste sweets, but if they’re hungry enough, they may try a bit of chocolate. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine which is highly toxic to animals. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea and heart attacks. Even the smallest morsel of chocolate can kill your cat.
Raw eggs – Feeding your kitty raw eggs may expose them to salmonella and parasites, which could inflame their pancreas. Additionally, raw egg whites contain avidin, an enzyme that causes a decreased ability to absorb biotin, which is a B-vitamin.
Grapes and raisins – No one is exactly sure what it is about grapes that causes harm your pet, but even a small amount of grapes or raisins can be toxic and cause kidney failure in your cat.
Canned tuna – Your cat can become addicted to tuna if she eats it everyday and does not eat any other food, and while tuna may be ok in moderation, the high concentration of mercury can lead to neurological disorders over time, and it can lead to a depletion of vitamin E.
You can also choose to make your own cat food, but make sure to do your research as to which ingredients are safe to include, and in what concentrations. If you wish to go this route, talking to a holistic vet would be a great way to get started.
Your cat only needs about 200 to 250 calories a day. Experts say that the biggest problem these days is obesity. Pet owners are overfeeding their cats, and it is causing them to have the same obesity-related illnesses as people.
So, do your kitty a favor lay off the treats and “people food.” They don’t need it and it’s often bad for them. Whatever you do, be sure to avoid feeding your feline the above-listed eight ingredients, and avoid leaving them out where they can be snatched by curious claws.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/7-foods-you-should-never-feed-your-cat
http://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/nine-foods-you-shouldnt-feed-your-cat