Cats are known to be curious and that curiosity often extends to the foods around them. While it may be tempting to share table scraps or leave certain foods within easy reach, some common human foods can be toxic to cats. Unfortunately, many of these foods are household staples and may even be hidden ingredients in prepared dishes, making accidental exposure easier than you might think.
Below are some of the foods that pose the greatest risk to cats, along with a few common foods that may not be toxic but can still cause digestive upset and other unpleasant reactions.
The OGs: Onion and Garlic
Onions and garlic, along with their botanical relatives shallots, scallions, chives, and leeks, can severely damage your cat’s red blood cells, causing anemia. Be aware that cooking spices like garlic powder and onion powder are more concentrated, making them even more dangerous. Cats who have consumed these foods often show lethargy, weakness, reduced appetite, pale gums, and orange to dark red urine.
Say “Naw” to Raw Eggs, Meat, and Bones
Just like for humans, consumption of raw eggs or raw meat can lead to Salmonella or E. coli poisoning in cats. Symptoms of the illness vary but can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Salmonella and E. coli can also be transmitted from humans, so be careful to properly wash your hands after cooking in addition to keeping your cat away from these raw foods. Raw eggs also contain an enzyme that can lead to skin and coat problems in cats. Raw bones are another no-go as they can cause choking, obstruction in the digestive tract, and/or teeth damage.
Paws Off the Chocolate!
The same part of chocolate that makes it poisonous for dogs (compounds called methylxanthines) is just as toxic for cats. Symptoms after consumption include vomiting and diarrhea, high body temperature, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rhythm, abdominal discomfort, increased thirst, and seizures.
Lemon Be Clear: No Citrus
The stems, leaves, seeds, and peels of citrus fruits (oranges, limes, grapefruits, lemon, etc.) all pose health concerns for cats. The citric acid and essential oils they contain can be irritating to your cat’s nervous system, leading to tremors, seizures, or death. If you use essential oil diffusors, choose oils and blends that do not contain citrus. Note that consuming a small amount of a citrus fruit’s flesh is less problematic, at most causing an upset stomach.
You Heard It Through the Grapevine: No Grapes or Raisins
While toxicity is not as common as some of the other foods discussed, feeding your cat grapes and raisins should be avoided. Some cats demonstrate restlessness, a reduced appetite, and vomiting after eating grapes and raisins, and there is some concern that they also negatively impact kidney health. While the exact compound hasn’t been identified yet, it appears that it’s something in the grape’s flesh that causes health issues for cats.
Water Is the Cat’s Meow—No Caffeine, Alcohol, or Cream
Cats do best with clean, fresh water, as proper hydration is essential for preventing urinary and kidney problems. While dairy products such as milk and cream are not toxic to cats, many cats have difficulty digesting lactose, which can lead to nausea and diarrhea. Caffeine and alcohol, however, should never be given to cats. Caffeine contains methylxanthines, the same toxic compounds found in chocolate, while alcohol can cause serious symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, disorientation, breathing difficulties, and even death.
Closing
In addition to keeping poisonous foods out of reach, it’s also important to keep toxic houseplants and flowers out of the home. Check out our other blog article on safe and toxic flora.
Always call your vet for guidance if you have concerns over something your cat consumed or potentially consumed. If it’s after hours, their answering machine message may include a local emergency number. Additionally, the ASPCA offers a 24/7 Poison Control number (888-426-4435), but note that a consultation fee may apply.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
