Cats are usually very picky about food, but some smells from the kitchen are irresistibly attractive to them. Some foods that are completely safe for humans can cause digestive issues, internal organ damage, or even death in cats. Check which foods should never be in a cat's bowl.
Chocolate and caffeinated beverages
Cocoa beans contain the substance theobromine, which belongs to the methylxanthines. This stimulates the heart rate and acts as a diuretic. Even a very small amount can be dangerous for cats, especially in dark chocolate, as it contains more cocoa. Caffeine, found in coffee, energy drinks, tea, and some carbonated beverages, also belongs to the methylxanthines. Similar to theobromine, it affects the nervous system and heart.
The symptoms of poisoning include restlessness, muscle tremors, rapid heartbeat, cramps, vomiting, frequent urination, diarrhea, and in severe cases, death may occur.
Onion, shallot, leek, garlic, chives
Ingredients (fresh, cooked, or dried) can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Small amounts usually do not cause problems, but larger quantities can be fatal.
Raw meat, raw eggs, and bones
Similar to humans, consumption can cause poisoning from salmonella or E. coli. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Cats should not be fed raw bones, as they can injure their teeth, digestive tract, or choke. Raw eggs also contain the enzyme avidin, which can cause skin or coat problems.
Grapes and raisins
Ingestion of even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Early signs include hyperactivity and vomiting, followed later by fatigue, diarrhea, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and a reduced need to urinate. We recommend not leaving grapes and raisins in places accessible to cats.
Alcohol
Cats are very sensitive to alcohol. Even small amounts can cause disorientation, tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, liver and brain problems, and in severe cases, coma and death.
Raw dough with yeast
In a cat's stomach, fermentation can occur and produce alcohol. As the dough expands, it can cause stomach distension, pain, and bloating.
Avocado
The naturally occurring fungicide persin is toxic to cats. It can damage the lungs and heart, and due to its high fat content, it can also cause vomiting and digestive issues.
Milk and dairy products
Most adult cats have difficulty digesting lactose, which can cause them stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhea.
Sweetener xylitol
It is found in some sweets, such as chewing gum, candies, and also toothpaste. In cats, it causes severe hypoglycemia (sudden drop in blood sugar), which can lead to shaking, seizures, liver failure, and death.
Tomato and potato
Green parts of plants and unripe fruits contain solanine, which can confuse and intoxicate cats, leading to drooling, fatigue, digestive issues, or breathing difficulties.
Dog food
Cats require different nutrients than dogs, so long-term feeding of dog food to cats is not suitable. They need a lot of vitamin A, taurine, arachidonic acid, and more protein than what is found in dog food. A deficiency of taurine can lead to heart disease, vision problems, and dental issues.
Better to prevent than to cure
The metabolism of cats works differently, so foods that are completely safe for us are often not safe for them. Responsible cat ownership also includes feeding them appropriate food and preventing the ingestion of foods that could negatively affect our pet.
If you suspect that your cat has ingested something dangerous, call the veterinarian immediately.
Sources: https://www.metropolitan.si/
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