Safe People Food for Cats
June 16, 2016
There are plenty of human foods we can share with our canine companions, but what about our cats? Although, most felines are very picky about what they eat, there are some people foods that our furry pals may just consider the “cat’s meow.” Here are the top five safe people foods for cats.
1. Meat is a Sahweet Treat!
Cats are by-nature carnivores, so most lean cooked meats can be a healthy and delectable treat for your cat. Protein is essential for strong muscles including the heart, good vision and overall well being. Meat proteins can include cooked chicken, turkey, beef and even lean deli meats. Avoid raw meat as this can cause health issues.
2. Egg-citing Choice!
Cooked eggs is another good human protein for your feline friend. Most cats prefer them scrambled as it is easier for them to pick up and eat, but some may like them hardboiled. Just be sure the eggs are never feed raw as this can lead to Salmonella poisoning.
3. Gone Fishin’
Cats and fish go together like peanut butter and jelly. This seafood is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which is great for your cats eye health, coat and skin. Human grade fish for cats can included canned or cooked salmon, trout or other varieties. Just be sure to keep your sushi to yourself, as raw fish is not recommended for cats.
4. Just Veggin’
Although, it may not be common-place for cats to want to eat vegetables, some cats don’t mind them. Veggies are loaded with vitamins and will help aid your cat’s digestion and will also add some moisture content to their food. Safe vegetables to include in your cat’s diet are steamed broccoli and asparagus, mashed potatoes or raw cucumber. You can also try cantaloupe, although most cat’s don’t like the sweet stuff.
5. So Cheesy…
Small bits of cheese as a treat will give your cat a boost of calcium and protein. But watch the quantities, as the dairy in cheese can upset some cat’s stomachs, giving them gas and/or diarrhea.
What’s Not Good For Your Cat?
There are some food you should never feed your cat. These include:
- Dairy products such as ice cream and milk can cause diarrhea and gas.
- Alcohol can cause liver and brain damage.
- Chocolate has theobromine which can cause muscle tremors, heart arrhythmia, seizures and even death.
- Caffeine in any form can cause agitation, tremors, rapid breathing and heart palpations.
- Onion and garlic can cause stomach upset and can even lead to anemia if fed on a regular basis.
Share and Share Alike
It’s fun to share some special treats with our cats, but remember to do so sparingly. Even though these people foods are safe, some cats still cannot tolerate them which can lead to stomach upset. If you want to try people food with your feline, start off slowly and use on only special occasions or as a training tool.