When we think of cats and what they eat and drink, many of us associate them with things like milk and fish, maybe even raw meat. While these items are often depicted on TV and in movies as delicacies for cats, you may be shocked to learn they are on the do not eat list.
Here are 7 foods commonly associated with cats, but are things that should actually be avoided.
- Bones from fish, poultry, or other meats.
- Bones, especially ones that have been cooked and can splinter easily, should never be given to cats. They can cause an obstruction or laceration to the digestive system.
- Canned tuna.
- While tuna that is marked for cats is okay, tuna marked for human consumption should be avoided as a main meal or in large quantities because it lacks the proper levels of vitamins and minerals required for your cat. And that can lead to malnutrition.
- Dog food.
- Although not typically associated with cats, those with both cats and dogs may find one accidentally borrows the other’s food. This will not cause a problem. However, if fed dog food repeatedly, your cat may experience malnutrition or diseases affecting their heart.
- Fat trimmings.
- While cats may love getting the trimmings of fat from your hearty meal, be cognizant of portion size. Cats are quite small compared to us humans, so even if you think it isn’t much, that small bit of fat can disrupt their digestion, add significant calories to their day and lead to pancreatitis.
- Whether it is raw, canned or cooked, if cats are fed fish exclusively or in high amounts, this can result in a B vitamin deficiency leading to the loss of its appetite, seizures, and in severe circumstances can be fatal.
- Milk and dairy products.
- Although we may envision cats lazily drinking milk from a bowl and loving a luxurious life, milk and dairy products in high quantities can lead to digestive issues, including diarrhea.
- Raw meat.
- While some raw meat might be okay, there is no way to know before your cat eats it if it contains bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. Therefore, it is best to avoid raw meat and save your cat any vomiting or diarrhea.
