In this blog we often discuss dogs, dangers to dogs, dog poop, and other issues related to dogs. In today’s post we are going to talk about cats. Certain foods are dangerous or deadly to dogs, but cats are sensitive too. Foods that pose no danger to humans are often deadly to cats. If not deadly, they can cause digestive issues such as loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. These are the foods that your cat should avoid:
ALCOHOL
Cats, like humans, are capable of drinking too much alcohol, causing them to appear drunk. In cats however, liver damage and brain damage occur quickly after a cat consumes alcohol. Just one tablespoon of alcohol can easily put an adult can into a coma. Any more than a tablespoon will kill a cat.
CHOCOLATE
Chocolate is deadly to cats because of the element theobromine. Theobromine is found in all types of chocolate but is most concentrated in chocolates with low amounts of sugar, including dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Chocolate consumption in cats could lead to an irregular heartbeat, muscle tremors or even seizures. Contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect your cat has consumed chocolate.
COFFEE, TEA AND ENERGY DRINKS
Drinks containing large amounts of caffeine may cause your cat to become restless and agitated. You may also notice rapid or heavy breathing in your cat, heart palpitations or tremors.
DAIRY PRODUCTS
Cats are lactose intolerant, even more so when they grow into adult cats. Giving your cat milk may cause symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting.
FATTY FOODS, RAW MEAT, FISH AND EGGS
Foods that are raw are often contaminated with Salmonella or E. coli. Don’t add these foods to your cats’ diet without consulting a veterinarian. It’s best to feed your cat a high quality cat food unless told otherwise. Foods contaminated with Salmonella or E. coli cause digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. Feeding your cat too much fat can cause pancreatitis.
GRAPES AND RAISINS
Cats are not likely to consume grapes or raisins but these foods have been known to cause kidney failure in dogs. It’s best not to feed them to your cat in order to avoid possible illness in your feline friend.
ONIONS AND GARLIC
When consumed in small amounts, garlic will not harm your cat. Consumed in large quantities however, both garlic and onions may cause an upset stomach in your cat. Onions eaten on a regular basis may also cause anemia.
TUNA
When tuna is turned into cat food, it is perfectly fine for your cat to consume. Tuna in a can, for human consumption, however, is something completely different. When tuna is put in cans for humans, it can often cause steatitis. Steatitis is a painful condtion caused by an inflammation of your cats’ body fat.
XYLITOL
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener used in sugar-free chewing gum. There are no reported cases of cats becoming ill after consuming xylitol but in dogs it changes their level of glucose, causing it to drop. Liver failure may also occur.
If you suspect your cat has consumed any of the above ingredients, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian immediately. The sooner you seek treatment for your cat, the more likely you are to save his or her life. In many cases, consuming a small amount of these foods poses no danger to your cat. If consumed in large amounts, however, your cat could be at serious risk for health issues. If you’re not able to reach your veterinarian, call your nearest emergency veterinary clinic in order for your cat to be seen.
Cats are best kept on a diet of high quality cat food. Treats are allowed, but only in moderation. It’s best to avoid poisoning all together by not allowing your cat to consume any of the above listed foods. A good rule to remember is that if you won’t eat it, don’t give it your cat.
Thank you to pets.webmd.com for help in writing this post. See their website for more information on keeping your pet happy and healthy for life.
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