You’ve just prepared a delicious lunch for yourself, and as you sit down to eat, you notice your feline friend gazing at you with those big, pleading eyes.
It’s a familiar scene for many cat owners who find it hard to resist the urge to share a tasty morsel with their beloved pet.
After all, what could go wrong with a tiny treat? Well, the answer is quite a lot. Many human foods can be toxic to cats, posing serious health risks.
It’s crucial to be able to recognize the signs of food poisoning in cats so that you can act quickly and seek veterinary assistance when necessary.
Common symptoms of food poisoning in cats include: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Lethargy, Loss of appetite, Excessive salivation, Tremors or seizures, Difficulty breathing.
If you suspect your cat has consumed a toxic food or displays any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and potential treatment.
Read: What Human Food can Cats eat?
Which Human Foods are Toxic to Cats?
Cats have specific dietary requirements that differ from those of humans, and not all human foods are safe for feline consumption.
While it might seem like a loving gesture to share a bite with your cat, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers lurking in your meals. Some human foods can cause severe illness and even be fatal to cats.
Here are some of the most common hazards:
Onions, Garlic & Related Root Vegetables
Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or in powder form, contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts can be harmful, so it’s best to avoid these ingredients entirely.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which are toxic to cats. This substance is found in the highest concentration in dark and unsweetened chocolate.
Grapes and Raisins
The exact cause is still unknown, but grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Even a small number of grapes or raisins can be dangerous.
Alcohol
Cats are extremely sensitive to alcohol, and even a tiny amount can cause alcohol poisoning. Alcoholic beverages aren’t the only potential sources of alcohol poisoning in cats. Alcohol exposure can also occur from ingestion of hand sanitizer, mouthwash, fermenting fruits, and bread dough that contains yeast.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some baked goods. It can lead to a rapid release of insulin in a cat’s body, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening.
Dairy Products
While many people associate cats with a love of milk, most cats are lactose intolerant. Consuming milk and dairy products can lead to digestive issues like stomach upset, cramps, and gassiness.
Read: Can Cats Eat Cheese?
Raw Eggs and Raw Meat
Both raw eggs and raw meat may contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can cause food poisoning in cats.
Caffeine
Caffeine is found in various sources like coffee, tea, and energy drinks. It can cause increased heart rate, restlessness, tremors, and, in severe cases, death if ingested by cats.
High-Salt Foods
High-salt foods like chips, pretzels, and processed meats can lead to sodium ion poisoning, resulting in symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, seizures.
Remember that a loving and responsible pet owner knows that the best way to show affection is by prioritizing their cat’s health and safety. By making informed choices about what you feed your cat, you can continue to enjoy many happy and healthy moments together with your beloved feline companion.***