As a cat owner, sharing your favorite foods with your feline companion can be tempting. You might often wonder, “What foods can cats eat?” and “Is it safe for them to eat human food?”. The answer, like with many things concerning our whiskered friends, is nuanced and depends greatly on the specific food in question. While some human foods are perfectly safe and even beneficial for cats in moderation, others pose significant health risks, ranging from digestive upset to severe poisoning.
To help you navigate the world of feline nutrition and make informed choices about what you share with your cat, we’ve created an extensive guide detailing human foods that are safe for cats and those that should absolutely be avoided.
What Human Food Can Cats Eat?
Fruits
While cats are obligate carnivores and don’t require fruits in their diet, certain fruits can be offered in small quantities as treats. Fruits are generally high in natural sugars, so moderation is key to prevent weight gain or potential issues like diabetes. Always wash fruits thoroughly, remove peels, seeds, and pits before offering them to your cat, as these parts can be difficult to digest or even toxic.
Apples
Apples are a good source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants for cats. They should be given in moderation and always prepared by removing the peel and seeds, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to cats.
Bananas
Bananas are packed with potassium and fiber, making them a nutritious treat for cats. However, their high sugar content means they should only be given sparingly, making up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily food intake.
Pears
Pears, similar to apples, offer vitamins and dietary fiber. Despite their sugar content, they can be a healthy treat in small portions. Always remove the peel and seeds, as pear seeds also contain cyanide, harmful to cats.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a superfood for cats too! Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, they help protect cells and can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Blueberries make excellent, healthy treats in moderation.
Strawberries
Strawberries, whether fresh, frozen, or pureed, are safe for cats. They are loaded with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, offering an immune system boost when given in small amounts.
Raspberries
Raspberries are a good source of dietary fiber and are lower in sugar compared to some other fruits. They also boast anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial, especially for older cats. While raspberries contain xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs, the levels are negligible in raspberries and safe for cats in small quantities.
Cranberries
Cranberries are another vitamin C-rich fruit, also providing magnesium and dietary fiber. You can offer a few cranberries raw or cooked, but avoid cranberry sauce or juice due to their high sugar content, which can upset your cat’s stomach.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a hydrating treat for cats, composed of over 90% water and containing vitamins A, B, and C, as well as potassium. Cats can also enjoy other melons like cantaloupe and honeydew in small amounts, always removing the rind and seeds.
Pineapple
Pineapple is packed with vitamins and minerals, beneficial for both the immune and digestive systems. However, due to its high sugar content, pineapple should be given in small portions, after removing the skin and hard core.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a safe and beneficial food for cats, especially cooked pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling!). Two or three spoonfuls can aid with digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation, after removing the skin and seeds.
Vegetables
Cats are obligate carnivores, primarily needing animal protein, but some vegetables can provide supplemental vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are also often lower in calories and fat, which can be good for overweight cats as occasional treats. Remember to offer vegetables in small amounts and ensure they are easy to digest.
Carrots
Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, beneficial for a cat’s eyes and coat. Cooked and peeled carrots are safe to feed in small amounts, reducing any choking hazard.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are low-calorie and hydrating, containing vitamins C and K, and magnesium. Peeled and thinly sliced cucumbers can be a refreshing snack, especially for overweight cats.
Celery
Celery provides vitamins, fiber, and has diuretic properties, potentially supporting kidney function. This crunchy vegetable, high in water content, can be a low-calorie treat for cats, especially those with weight management needs.
Green beans
Green beans are a source of iron and protein while being low in calories, making them a good option for overweight cats. Fresh, canned (sodium-free), or frozen green beans can be added to meals in small amounts.
Lettuce
Lettuce, especially darker leafy varieties, offers vitamins A and K, folate, and fiber. Its high water content can also encourage hydration in cats that don’t drink enough water. Wash lettuce thoroughly and offer it in small, manageable pieces.
Meat & Fish
Meat is the cornerstone of a cat’s diet, providing essential animal protein and amino acids. Cooked meat, served plain without sauces or seasonings, is generally safe and healthy for cats. Opt for boiled, grilled, or baked meat, avoiding fried options due to their high fat content. Ensure meat is thoroughly cooked to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
Meat
Any type of cooked meat, such as chicken, turkey, beef, or pork, is suitable for cats. Ensure it is boneless and skinless, and served plain.
Fish
Fish provides vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids crucial for feline health. Boiled fish, carefully deboned and cut into small pieces, is the best way to serve it. Choose fresh-caught fish over farm-raised when possible.
Shrimp
Shrimp is rich in phosphorus, calcium, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and coat condition. Cooked shrimp can be an occasional addition to a cat’s diet, but not a daily staple.
Bacon and Ham
Bacon and ham, due to their high fat and salt content, should be limited to very small, occasional treats. Ensure they are well-cooked and cut into tiny, kibble-sized pieces.
Eggs
Cooked eggs (scrambled or boiled) are an excellent protein source for cats. Never feed raw eggs due to the risk of Salmonella and E. coli.
Cereals and Grains
Cats don’t require carbohydrates, but whole grains can offer some vitamins, fiber, and iron. These should be given as occasional snacks, not dietary staples.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is high in dietary fiber and iron, which can be beneficial for a cat’s overall health. It can also be used topically for skin issues. Cooked oatmeal (plain, without sugar or flavorings) can be given in small amounts.
Rice
Cooked rice, particularly white rice, can be easily digestible and is sometimes recommended by vets for cats with digestive upset. It should be given in moderation as an occasional treat, offering minimal nutritional benefit for obligate carnivores.
Remember, most of these human foods should be treats, supplementing your cat’s primary diet of cat food. Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Introduce new foods gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions like vomiting or diarrhea. If your cat tolerates a new food well, you can slowly increase the portion size.
Always ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water, especially if they primarily eat dry food. Adequate hydration is crucial for preventing urinary tract issues.
Human Foods That Should Be Given With Caution
Avocado
While avocados are not definitively toxic to cats, the pit, skin, and leaves contain persin, which is toxic to some animals. Avocado flesh, though potentially safe in very small amounts, is high in fat and best avoided to be safe.
Peaches
Small amounts of peeled peach are generally safe, but the high sugar content can cause digestive upset. The peach pit is a choking hazard and contains cyanide, so it must be removed.
Potatoes
Cooked potatoes (boiled or baked, plain) are safe in moderation and provide vitamins B and C and potassium. Raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic to cats, so they must always be cooked and peeled. Avoid fried potatoes due to high fat content.
Spinach
Spinach contains calcium oxalates, which can contribute to urinary tract stone formation, especially in cats with pre-existing kidney or urinary issues. Healthy cats can have small amounts of spinach, but it should be avoided for cats with these conditions.
Broccoli
Broccoli is vitamin-rich but can cause constipation in cats. Offer small amounts of boiled, unseasoned broccoli occasionally.
Tomatoes
Ripe, peeled tomatoes are generally considered safe in small amounts. However, tomato leaves and stems, and unripe green tomatoes, contain solanine, which is toxic to cats.
Corn
Corn, while not toxic, offers minimal nutritional value for cats. Small amounts of cooked corn (plain, boiled) are unlikely to cause harm, but large quantities can lead to digestive issues.
Tuna Fish (Human Tuna)
Canned tuna in water, formulated for cats, is fine. Human tuna can be too high in unsaturated fats and sodium. A very small amount of human tuna (tablespoon-sized) can be an occasional treat, but regular consumption is not recommended.
Bread
Small amounts of plain bread are generally safe for cats, but offer no nutritional value and shouldn’t replace cat food.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is safe in very small amounts (teaspoon to tablespoon). It’s high in fat, which can contribute to obesity and diabetes, and can be a choking hazard due to its sticky texture. Some cats may also be allergic to peanuts.
What Can Cats Not Eat?
Certain human foods are dangerous and should never be given to cats. These foods can cause serious health issues, including poisoning, organ damage, and even death.
Fruits
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, causing kidney failure. While less definitively proven in cats, similar reactions have been reported, making it best to strictly avoid grapes and raisins for cats.
Oranges and Citrus Fruits
Orange seeds, leaves, stems, and peels contain oils that are toxic to cats. Other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruit are also acidic and can cause stomach upset. Most cats naturally dislike the smell of citrus, which is a protective factor.
Cherries
All parts of the cherry plant except the ripe fruit are toxic to cats, including pits, stems, and leaves.
Plums
Plum seeds, stems, and leaves contain cyanide and are toxic to cats, especially wilted plum plants, which have higher toxin concentrations.
Vegetables
Onions and Garlic
All members of the allium family (onions, garlic, chives, leeks) are poisonous to cats. Garlic is considered more toxic than onions. These can cause serious damage even in small quantities over time, or a larger single serving.
Mushrooms (Wild)
While store-bought mushrooms are generally safe in small amounts, wild mushrooms can be highly poisonous and potentially fatal to cats. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and skin discoloration.
Meat and Fish
Raw Meat, Fish, and Eggs
Raw meat, fish, and eggs can carry harmful bacteria and viruses like Salmonella and E. coli, posing a serious health risk. Raw meat can also be high in fat, potentially leading to pancreatitis.
Small Bones
Small cooked bones, especially from poultry and fish, can splinter and become lodged in a cat’s throat or digestive tract, causing serious injury.
Dairy Products
Milk
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant. As kittens transition to solid food, they lose the enzyme needed to digest lactose in milk and dairy products. Milk consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
Cheese
Cheese is lower in lactose than milk, and some cats may tolerate small amounts. However, large quantities can still cause digestive upset due to lactose and fat content.
Ice Cream
Ice cream contains both lactose and high sugar levels, making it likely to cause digestive issues like diarrhea and other GI problems.
Yogurt
While not scientifically proven, some believe small amounts of plain yogurt (with live cultures) might be safe and even beneficial due to probiotics. However, dairy sensitivities are common, and yogurt should be given cautiously, if at all.
Other Foods
Xylitol
Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free human foods, is highly toxic to dogs and while not definitively proven harmful to cats, it is best avoided due to potential risks.
Nuts
Nuts are not poisonous to cats, but their high fat content can cause digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis, especially with frequent or large consumption.
Popcorn (Flavored/Buttered)
Store-bought popcorn often contains unhealthy additives, preservatives, and high levels of salt and butter that can cause digestive issues and constipation. Air-popped, plain popcorn can be a choking hazard and offers no nutritional benefit.
Alcohol
Alcohol is extremely dangerous for cats, even in small amounts. It can cause digestive upset, disorientation, breathing problems, coma, and death.
Caffeine
Caffeine is toxic to cats and can cause hyperactivity, increased heart rate, breathing difficulties, tremors, and seizures. Coffee grounds and tea bags are particularly dangerous due to concentrated caffeine levels.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, both toxic to cats, causing heart problems, muscle tremors, and seizures. This applies to all types of chocolate, including dark and sugar-free varieties.
Raw Dough
Raw dough containing yeast is dangerous because the yeast produces carbon dioxide and alcohol in the cat’s stomach. This can lead to alcohol poisoning and the dough can expand in the stomach, causing a life-threatening blockage requiring surgery.
Pro Tip: If your cat has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian immediately. Pet insurance can help manage unexpected veterinary costs, ensuring your cat gets the necessary care in emergencies.
What Human Food Can Kittens Eat?
Kittens need to eat kitten-specific food or food labeled for all life stages to ensure they receive balanced nutrition for growth. While introducing some human foods can help prevent picky eating later in life, kitten food should be their primary source of nutrients.
Suitable human foods for kittens in very small amounts include:
- Scrambled eggs (cooked)
- Cooked meat and fish (plain, boneless)
- Salad greens (small pieces)
- Pumpkin puree (plain, cooked)
Introduce new foods slowly and one at a time, in quantities no larger than 10% of their daily calorie intake, to avoid digestive upset and nutritional imbalances.
Key Takeaways
- Many food groups contain items safe for cats in moderation, but also foods that are toxic and must be avoided.
- If you suspect your cat has eaten a poisonous food, seek veterinary advice immediately. Even small amounts can be harmful in some cases.
- Human foods should be occasional treats and should not make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories. Always prioritize a balanced cat food diet for your feline companion’s health and well-being.
